Today is another interesting comparison of the Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 vs 10×42 & 12×42 binoculars models. I was asked by readers on which one they should choose. So, I decided to do my research and gather many users’ reviews of these models for you to make your own decision.
Nikon is an Asian corporation that has been in existence for the past 100 years now. With their headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. Nikon specializes in imaging and optical products and they are well-respected brands.
Infant, in the binoculars world you can’t mention the top five affordable binoculars that offer good quality viewing without mentioning Nikon binoculars.
In this comparison, you looking at one of the Nikon quality binos series. The famous Nikon Monarch. The monarchs are of three series. The Nikon Monarch 3, 5 and 7. The Nikon Monarch 3 came first followed by the Nikon Monarch 5 and then the Monarch 7. With the latest series been an upgraded version of the former. Check out my recent Comparison of the Vortex Viper HD 10×42 vs Nikon Monarch 7 binoculars.
The Monarch 5 models were formerly called MonarchATB III binoculars. The Monarch 5 series is loved by many because it offers a rear combination of price and quality for many outdoor activities. whether is bird watching, hunting or nature observation, you will find these all-terrain binoculars come very handy.
Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 vs 10×42 & 12×42 Binoculars Models – Specs Compared
Optical Performance
Looking at the optical performances of these three Nikon Monarch 5 models, each one has its ups and downside. The step-up in magnification is one of them. You can choose which magnification you want and is between 8x, 10x and the 12x.
One of the obvious differences between them is the field of view. The field of view for the 8×42, 10×42 and 12×42 is obviously noticeable. Their field of views is; 330ft, 288ft, and 262ft at 1000yds respectively.
The smallest magnification has the widest field of view. This is not surprising because higher magnification binoculars usually come with a compromise in the field of view.
So, if you are a birder you might prefer the 8x model because of its wider field of view to enable you to see smaller birds as well. However, if it’s for other activities you might prefer a higher magnifying power. But it is worth keeping in mind that higher magnification will also magnify your handshakes which might cause unsteady images. But you can correct this by using a tripod or any mounting equipment.
The other obvious difference is the eye relief. The eye relief for the 8x,10x and 12x models are 19.6m, 18.4 and 15.4m respectively. It is very clear that the 8x magnification has the most generous eye relief. Even though they can all accommodate eyeglasses wears the longer the eye relief the better is it always.
As you can see, from the table of features and specification above, what you gain on with 12×42 Nikon Monarch 5, you lose in exit pupil size, the field of view and relative brightness.
All Nikon Monarch 5 binoculars are built with Nikon’s premium Extra-Low Dispersion glass for a sharper, clearer and good field of view. The lenses are fully multi-coated to provide better light transmission.
They are also 100% waterproof, fog-proof and have shockproof. With their rugged rubber-armored coating for durability, they can withstand all the bumps and bruises of riding around in your vehicle and carrying them through all kinds of outdoor terrain.
Price
Price-wise, there isn’t much price difference between the Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 and the 10×42 models. About $10 precisely. At the time of writing this comparison, the Nikon Monarch 5 8 x42 was at about $260 and the Nikon Monarch 5 10×42 was $270.
In the case of the Nikon Monarch 5 12×42 binoculars, the price difference is not also too wide. It stands at a price of around $280.With just $20 between it the 8×42 and $10 difference with the 10×42 model.
As you can see the Nikon Monarch 5 binoculars are made to be affordable yet provide quality viewing for the outdoor enthusiasts. Even though these prices might have changed by the time you are reading this review, I bet they won’t vary that much.
Weight and Dimensions
The Nikon Monarch 5 12×42 binoculars weigh 612.4g which is slightly higher than the Monarch 5 8×42 and 10×42 binoculars and with them weighing 590.0 g and 601 g respectively.
The 8×42 is the lightest and but the difference isn’t that much.
Surprisingly, dimensions-wise, they are the same. With all having the same dimensions at 14.5 x 13.0 x 5.3 cm.
Body Construction/chassis
The Nikon Monarch 5 binoculars have Lightweight bodies which use fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate resin.
This makes these perhaps the lightest 42mm binoculars without yielding quality in their construction or optics at these price points. Their durable rubber-armored coatings make them comfortable to hold and rugged enough to stand any condition.
Also, Read The Nikon Monarch 5 vs Vortex Diamondback Binoculars Comparison.
Final Verdict
If you are really looking for decent binoculars with a quality optical performance at a great price, then these Nikon Monarch 5 8×42, 10×42 and 12×42 binoculars models are worth considering.
Maybe you want to take them with you for wildlife observation/Safari, bird watching, hunting or general nature observation.
The Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 and 10×42 binoculars make the perfect choice for those who want something lightweight and handheld. You can carry them around viewing. With their wider field of view and longer eye relief, They make for all-purpose usage as well.
With the 12×42 binoculars, you have to compromise the field of view for higher magnification. You will probably need to mount them on a mounting device to help make them more stable in order to get clear images.
In a Nutshell, the Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 and 10×42 binoculars are the more popular among users.