A good pair of binoculars is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. No matter what your activity is, this device can make it more enjoyable. However, if you think they’re expensive, you’re wrong. True, some of them can cost as much as the newest iPhone, but that’s not always the case. You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a good pair of binoculars. You might not believe us, but you’ll be surprised by how good the best binoculars under 100 actually are! Here, we’re going to show you all the best binoculars for cheap stuff lovers. Sure, there are a few compromises, but once you can overlook those things, these binoculars are easily the best binoculars for the money!
If you’re curious about other types of binoculars, feel free to read our list of the 13 best compact binoculars for hunting and the 13 best binoculars for bird watching!
How To Choose The Best Binoculars Under $100
When looking for the best binoculars for the money, there are some general information and features you should be on the lookout for, which include:
Magnification
Whether you’re looking for the best binoculars for hunting or the best binoculars for the money, looking for a big magnification is always important. However, you don’t want it to be too big, as it can lead to problems of image steadiness. Thankfully, there are many cheap binoculars out there that come with a magnification of 7x to 10x, which is enough for most people.
Objective size
The objective size indicates the diameter of the objective lens in mm. The larger the objective, the more detail you’ll be able to see. But, keep in mind that the downsides of larger lenses are that they tend to be heavier and cost more. A safe bet is to go with a 40 or 42mm objective. Not all the best binoculars for cheap binos enthusiasts out there have large lenses, but if you’re lucky enough, you might find them.
Field of view
The field of view is the widest dimension you can see and is measured in feet over 1000 yards. A higher number means you’ll be able to see a wider area. If you’re planning on using your binoculars in open areas, a higher field of view will be very useful as it makes it easier to aim and track a moving target.
Lens coating
Usually, binocular lenses are coated with materials to protect the glass or enhance the image. When looking for the best binoculars under 100, you’ll want a pair that has fully multi-coated lenses. If you look hard enough, you might even find some binoculars with specialized coatings such as a water-repellent or an anti-scratch coating.
Eye relief
If you wear glasses, eye relief plays a critical part in using your hunting binoculars. Eye relief is essentially the distance from the glass to your eye that provides a full image. With insufficient eye relief, you’ll only be able to see the center of the picture while the field is restricted. If you’re likely to wear glasses, then be sure to look for at least 14 to 15mm of eye relief.
How much does a good pair of binoculars cost?
No one can deny that expensive binoculars have more and better features than the more expensive ones. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you can have yourself a good pair of binoculars that costs you less than 100USD.
Eschenbach Arena F+ 10×25 Binoculars
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There are many reasons why people love the Eschenbach Arena F+ 10×25 Binoculars. Perhaps one of them is the fact that they fold up into a reasonably compact form when not in use, which means that you can easily put them in your pocket or backpack. Thanks to their BaK-4 prisms and multi-coated lenses, these binoculars are always ready to offer you sharp and clear images.
Speaking of which, there’s also the additional silvering of the prisms that helps to reduce harmful UV radiation. And because of the great eye relief and adjustable eyecups, you can keep using these binoculars while wearing your glasses. Developed in Germany, they come with a 5-year warranty that you can always claim if something happens to these binoculars.
What We Love
It’s a very popular option that offers decent image quality.
Pros
- BaK-4 prisms
- Multi-coated lenses
- Compact and portable
- Reduce harmful UV radiation
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- More expensive than some of the best binoculars under 100
Wingspan Optics FieldView 8×32 Compact Binoculars
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Don’t ever be fooled by the small size, ass the Wingspan Optics FieldView 8×32 Compact Binoculars are one of the best binoculars for the money on the market. With sharp focus and a decent field of view, this pair of binoculars is easily a favorite of many. The non-slip rubber body also makes this compact option highly preferred.
Furthermore, the BaK-4 prisms are of high quality and responsible for the binoculars’ sharp images and focus. Though they’re not waterproof (we wish they were), their fully multi-coated lenses offer amazing clarity. So, as long as it’s not raining hard, you won’t have a problem using this pair of amazing binos. Also included upon purchase is a tripod adapter, which is another plus.
What We Love
Despite the price, they have a solid body and outstanding optics.
Pros
- Compact design
- Non-slip rubber body
- BaK-4 prism
- Multi-coated lenses
- Come with a tripod adapter
Cons
- Not waterproof and fog-proof
Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15×70 Binoculars
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If you’re looking for the best binoculars for the money with more than 10x magnification and a large objective lens, maybe the Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15×70 Binoculars are for you. Aside from 15x magnification, they also come with a super large 70 objective lens. It offers maximum image brightness in long-range conditions and even in low-light situations.
For accurate color and perfect contrasts, they use BaK-4 prisms and multi-coated optics that’ll wow you whenever you use them. Weight-wise, they’re not the most lightweight options on the market right now. However, they do come with plenty of accessories, including a lens cap and tripod adapter.
What We Love
The obvious choice for those looking for the best binoculars under 100 for stargazing.
Pros
- Super large objective lens
- 15x magnification
- Work well in the dark
- BaK-4 prisms
- Multi-coated optics
Cons
- Heavier than most of the best binoculars for the money
Celestron Outland X 10×42 Binoculars
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Say hi to another pair of binoculars from Celestron. The Celestron Outland 10×42 Binoculars are one of the best binoculars for the money that offer exceptional performance. Although this device has a magnification of 10x and an objective lens of 42mm, it weighs only 2lbs. With a lightweight and ergonomic design, carrying them around is a breeze.
The amazing features don’t stop there. Even though they’re cheap, you can still depend on these binoculars when it’s raining out there. Besides being fully waterproof, they’re also fog-proof. Similar to other best binoculars under 100, the prism is made from high-quality BaK-4 glass and the lenses are multi-coated. For ultimate comfort, they come with tripod adapter threads and a comfortable neck strap.
What We Love
They meet the needs of every outdoor enthusiast.
Pros
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Multi-coated lenses
- BaK-4 glass
- Come with tripod adapter threads and neck strap
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Not super durable
Bushnell All-Purpose Binoculars
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Of course, there has to be a pair of binoculars from Bushnell on this list. Say hello to the Bushnell All-Purpose Binoculars. These best binoculars for the money of 10x magnification feature an attribute of higher-cost options that best binoculars under 100 don’t, like the nitrogen purged construction to make them anti-fog in damp conditions. As expected, these binoculars are also small and more than capable of providing bright images.
Other than that, these binoculars also have BaK-7 Porro prisms and a standard central focusing knob. Of course, they come with a long eye relief too, which promises comfortable viewing whether or not you’re wearing spectacles. While this device isn’t fully waterproof, these are still the best binoculars for cheap stuff enthusiasts.
What We Love
A great pick for those seeking all-purpose binoculars that perform better than other cheap options.
Pros
- Nitrogen-purged construction
- BaK-7 Porro prisms
- Compact design
- Long eye relief
- Come with a nylon shell case
Cons
- The body feels cheap
Bushnell Legacy WP Binoculars
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The Bushnell Legacy WP Binoculars are manufactured in 2 different variants. There’s the slightly cheaper 8x model with 42mm lenses and the more expensive one with 10x magnification and large 50mm lenses. Both models have the potential to make for a great experience, and both of them are also the best binoculars for the money.
Boasting a rubberized exterior, you won’t have to worry about them slipping out of your hands in wet conditions. It also helps to protect these binoculars against damage if you accidentally drop them. On top of that, they have good eye relief too, which means that they’re easy to use with glasses. All in all, we can say that they’re the best binoculars for cheap binos enthusiasts.
What We Love
They’re great all-around binoculars that perform well in all conditions.
Pros:
- 8x and 10x magnification
- Rubberized exterior for added protection
- Anti-slip
- Great eye relief
- Large lenses
Cons:
- Quite bulky and heavy
Bushnell Falcon 10×50 Wide Angle Binoculars
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We hope you’re not tired of Bushnell because here we have yet another best binoculars under 100 from that brand. The Bushnell Falcon 10×50 Wide Angle Binoculars come with large 50mm lenses and support 10x magnification that can create sharper images. They also come with a wide field of view, allowing you to see everything you want.
Apart from that, this model also has a short, 25-foot minimum focus distance. It means that this is a great pair for when you need to see something out in the yard from inside the house. Similar to some of the best binoculars for the money out there, these binoculars are both durable and rubberized. Cheap and long-lasting, no one has anything bad to say about this pair!
What We Love
Their field of view and close minimum distance justify themselves as the best binoculars under 100.
Pros:
- Close minimum distance
- Wide field of view
- Large lenses
- Durable and rubberized
- Adjustable eyecups
Cons:
- Poor eye relief
Wingspan Optics EagleScout 10×42 High Powered Binoculars
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The Wingspan Optics EagleScout 10×42 High Powered Binoculars are truly the best binoculars for the money that you shouldn’t overlook. First of all, they come with 10x magnification. That’s a feature that would make this model a good choice for most people since it’s quite rare to find that level of magnification at this price point.
However, that’s not all! These binoculars are also both waterproof and fog-proof, so it’s safe to use outdoors even when it’s raining. As you can see from the name, they boast large 42mm lenses too, which are capable of producing bright and clear images. Just like other best binoculars under 100, this pair is lightweight and compact.
What We Love
They’re a cheap pair of binoculars that have plenty of features from higher-end models.
Pros:
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Produce bright and clear images
- Lightweight and compact design
- Multi-coated lenses
- Lifetime warranty
- Anti-slip grip
Cons:
- Have some quality control problems
Nikon Trailblazer 8×25 ATB Waterproof Binoculars
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Yes, you can find dozens of options that are ridiculously even cheaper than the Nikon Trailblazer 8×25 ATB Waterproof Binoculars, but that doesn’t mean these binoculars aren’t worth your attention. At such a low price point, you’ll get a multipurpose pair of binoculars that can last for very long. Although they’re not the most compact options out there, they’re still quite lightweight and easy to carry around.
For optical performance, these binoculars effortlessly outperform most of the same category binoculars by their excellent image quality. They come with BaK-4 roof prisms, multi-coated optics, and a wide-angle viewing feature. Not to mention, the focus is sharp and the eyecups are adjustable. As the name suggests, this pair is also waterproof, so you can use it in any condition without any hassle.
What We Love
They’re capable of procuring high image quality and easier to use than some of the best binoculars for the money out there.
Pros:
- Multipurpose
- Lightweight
- BaK-4 roof prisms
- Multi-coated optics
- Waterproof
- Adjustable eyecups
Cons:
- Not for eyeglasses wearers
Celestron UpClose G2 16×32 Roof Binoculars
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While not quite as cheap as chips, the Celestron UpGlose G2 16×32 Roof Binoculars are still cheaper than some of the best binoculars under 100. Even though they’re super affordable, they still come with a powerful 16x magnification and dual-hinged foldable design that makes them very compact. On top of that, there’s also the aluminum build, multi-coated optics, and rubberized housing!
Perhaps what’s even more amazing is the fact that these best binoculars for the money are water-resistant! Yep, you read that right! Claimed as suitable for a wide range of uses, they’re also anti-slip. If you think you’ll only get the binoculars, you’re dead wrong. Once you purchase this device, you’ll also receive a soft carry case and a strap. Best of all, there’s also a limited lifetime warranty thrown in to seal the deal. With all the things you get at a very cheap price, what’s not to like?
What We Love
They’re a pair of water-resistant binoculars that are so cheap you’ll raise your eyebrows.
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Aluminum build
- Multi-coated optics
- Anti-slip
- Comes with a carry case and strap
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Not the best at light gathering
Bushnell H2O Waterproof Compact Roof Prism Binoculars
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If many affordable binoculars out there aren’t waterproof, that’s not the case for the Bushnell H2O Waterproof Compact Roof Prism Binoculars! These binoculars are the perfect option when you’re at the sea but want to keep your binos dry at all times. In case you’re wondering, yes, they’re waterproof thanks to the O-ring seals. Not only that, but they’re also fog-proof because they’re nitrogen-purged.
What’s more, you’ll get a large central focus knob and twist-up eyecups with high-quality BaK-4 prisms and multi-coated optics for optimum light transmission. As if those aren’t enough, you should know that these binoculars come with a limited lifetime guarantee as well. With so many things to offer, there’s no wonder why many consider them as the best binoculars for the money!
What We Love
The perfect choice for those that want a pair of waterproof binoculars for adventures on the high seas and in the great outdoors.
Pros:
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Compact design
- Multi-coated optics
- Twist-up eyecups
- Limited lifetime guarantee
- Large central focus knob
Cons:
- Cheap-looking neck cord and case
Nikon ACULON A30 10×25
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When Nikon releases a pair of binoculars, you know they won’t disappoint. One of them is the Nikon ACULON A30 10×25. Available in black, silver, or in some regions even camo design, these compact yet perfectly formed budget-priced binoculars are foldable so they’ll slip easily into your pocket. There’s also a centrally located focus knob that allows for easy and quick adjustment, while a dioptre control is available via the right eyepiece to allow your view to be fine-tuned.
As one of the best binoculars for the money, they also come with a 25mm objective lens that’s married to a 10x magnification that further ensures you nothing but a clear and bright view. On top of that, these lightweight binoculars also feature multi-coated lenses. For the entry-level cost, you won’t get features found on higher-end binos. If you’re prepared to make certain compromises at this price point, then these binoculars are a good choice.
What We Love
They’re lightweight, cheap, but still provide decent optical quality.
Pros:
- Manufactured by Nikon
- Cost less than 100USD
- Lightweight
- Compact and foldable
- Multi-coated lenses
- Rubber-coated grip
Cons:
- Not waterproof
Olympus TROOPER 8×40 DPS I Binoculars
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Another pair of best binoculars for cheap binos lovers that’s small and portable is none other than the Olympus TROOPER 8×40 DPS I Binoculars. These affordable binoculars come with traditional Porro prisms and extra-wide 65 degrees field of view that can help you discover mother nature in all her glory. Since they’re small, they’re also very lightweight so you can easily carry them around. Aside from that, they also have great eye relief, which is good news for people wearing glasses.
As one of the best binoculars for the money, these binoculars are very easy to operate. The focus can be adjusted via a central knob, while the surface of these binoculars is rubber-coated to improve grip. Another plus of this pair of amazing bino is that it’s multipurpose. You can use these binoculars for bird watching, sports viewing, and even astronomy.
What We Love
It’s a compact option that’s cheap and can last for a very long time.
Pros:
- Very durable construction
- Small and lightweight
- Wide field of view
- BaK-7 Porro prisms
- Good eye relief
- Rubber-coated body
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Not waterproof
