8X42 Binoculars vs 10X50 Monocular: Which to Carry?

Quick answer

Choose the 8X42 binoculars for two-eye viewing, steadier tracking, and all-weather durability; choose the 10X50 monocular when you want more magnification and a smaller one-hand optic for hunting or quick glassing.

Magnification and field of view: reach vs. context

The 10X50 monocular pulls distant subjects closer than the 8X42 binoculars, but that extra reach comes with a narrower view. The monocular's 211 ft field at 1,000 yards is the only field-of-view figure supplied; the binocular's field is not listed, so judge it by the 8x magnification and 42 mm objective rather than a number.

For scanning open ground, the binocular's lower magnification and two-eye view make it easier to pick up movement and keep both eyes relaxed. For picking a single animal or object out of cover at longer distance, the monocular's 10x reach is the advantage.

Eye relief and close focus: glasses and near work

The 8X42 binoculars list 17.5 mm of eye relief, which generally gives glasses wearers room to keep spectacles on. The monocular's eye relief is not supplied, so if you wear glasses, test it or plan to use it without them.

The binoculars also list a 25-foot close focusing distance, useful for watching birds or insects at moderate range. No close-focus figure is supplied for the monocular, so do not assume it will focus at short distances.

Weight and carry: two hands vs. one

The binoculars weigh 27 ounces, while the monocular is listed at 1 pound and measures about 2.09 by 2.95 by 5.31 inches. The monocular is the lighter, more compact option for a pocket or small pouch, and it can be used one-handed.

The binocular's weight is the price of a two-eye view and a larger body. For long hikes, that difference matters; for long glassing sessions, the binocular's stability usually matters more.

Weather sealing: what is and is not stated

The 8X42 binoculars are described as waterproof and fogproof, with a rubberized, abrasion-resistant finish. That makes them the safer choice for wet, dusty, or rough field conditions.

The monocular's listing does not state waterproof or fogproof sealing. Treat it as a fair-weather or protected-carry optic unless the manufacturer confirms otherwise.

Optical construction: BAK4 prisms and coatings

The 8X42 binoculars use BAK4 prisms with fully coated lenses, a combination that supports bright, sharp viewing in a porro-prism body. The monocular uses FMC multilayer and MC coating on a 50 mm objective, which helps light transmission but does not by itself guarantee the same image character.

Do not read too much into the labels: prism type and coatings are only part of the story. The practical difference is that the binocular is built around two matched optical paths, while the monocular is a single path you hold to one eye.

Key trade-offs at a glance

• Optical reach vs. field of view: The 10X50 monocular gives more magnification for distant subjects; the 8X42 binoculars give a steadier two-eye view for scanning. Choose reach only if you routinely glass far targets. If most of your viewing is under 100 yards, the binocular's wider context usually wins.
• Eye relief and glasses: The binoculars list 17.5 mm eye relief; the monocular does not list a figure. If you wear glasses, the binoculars are the lower-risk choice. Test any monocular with your glasses before relying on it for a hunt.
• Weather sealing: The binoculars are stated waterproof and fogproof; the monocular's sealing is not stated. For rain, dust, or river bottoms, pick the sealed binoculars. If you cannot confirm sealing, carry the monocular in a dry bag.
• Weight and carry style: The monocular is 1 lb and pocketable; the binoculars are 27 oz and need a harness or strap. Choose the monocular for long hikes where every ounce counts. Weigh your total kit, not just the optic, before deciding.

Product facts

• 8X42 Black HD Binoculars for Adults, BAK4 Prism FMC Lens, Military Army Zoom Optics, Waterproof, Fogproof: 8x magnification, 42 mm objective, 5.25 mm exit pupil, 17.5 mm eye relief, 25 ft close focus, 27 oz, BAK4 prism, waterproof and fogproof. Generous eye relief and weather sealing make these binoculars comfortable for glasses wearers and dependable in wet or dusty conditions.

  

• 10X50 Monocular Telescope: 10x magnification, 50 mm objective, 211 ft field at 1,000 yards, FMC multilayer and MC coating, 1 lb, 2.09 x 2.95 x 5.31 in. The higher magnification and compact one-hand body suit quick, distant glassing, but the listing does not state weather sealing or eye relief.

  

Which should you carry?

Best for

• Birders and general outdoor users who want a relaxed two-eye view and weather sealing
• Glasses wearers who need generous eye relief and a close-focus option

Not for

• Hunters who need maximum reach in a one-hand, pocketable optic
• Anyone who prioritizes the lightest possible carry over two-eye viewing