Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Review – Our Honest Take!

best affordable binoculars for birding

The Vortex Diamondback binoculars models are some of the most popular binoculars among outdoor adventurers. There is no doubt that Vortex Diamondback 10×42 binoculars are truly amazing gadgets. Today, we will be looking at an in-depth Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Review.

It is not only the birdwatchers who appreciate the unique ability to see with these devices, but hunters and other avid outdoorsmen and women will enjoy using them as well.

Vortex Optics Diamondback Roof Prism Binoculars 10x42

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For the last couple of years, Diamondback binoculars have defied its price and overall performance ratio in the world of optics. It has indeed proved to be an astoundingly efficient and high performing optical system.

Recent models of Vortex Diamondback 10×42 binoculars are enhanced, dielectric and multicoated lenses that give stunning views and impressive low light performance.

Besides the performance, they are waterproof and at the same time adaptable with a tripod. Besides being a hit in independent online forums, the  Vortex Diamondback 10×42 binoculars have a 4.9-star rating on the Vortex website. Here you will find many positive reviews on how reliable the gadget is and some cons as well.

Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Review Specifications

  • Magnification: 10x
  • Objective lens diameter: 42mm
  • Prism system: Roof
  • Exit Pupil: 5.25 mm
  • Field of view angle: 6.6 degrees
  • Field of view: 330 ft. at 1000 yds.
  • Eye relief: 16 mm
  • Binocular Focus system: Center focus
  • Coating of optical: fully multi-coated
  • Close focus: 6.7 ft.
  • Level of water resistance: waterproof
  • Dimension: 5.8″ x 5.1″
  • Weight: 21.4 oz
  • Eyecup types: twisted-up
  • Adaptable Tripod: Yes
  • Waterproof and Fog proof: Yes

Optical Performance

Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 are roof prism binoculars. They have phase correction which eliminates interference between different light phases reflected in the prism.

What does this mean actually? Because of fuzziness, there is a higher resolution and crisper contrast on every image. The Vortex Diamond binoculars feature 42mm  diameter objective lenses which are fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission thereby providing fantastic resolution, clarity and desirable contrast.

You might also want to  check out the:

Vortex Diamondback 10×50  Binoculars Review

Vortex Diamondback 10×42  vs 10×50 Comparison Here

When you are using this binocular, you will always enjoy a close focus distance of a mere 6 feet. This offers you the full freedom to get up close and personal even when you are already near your subject.

This model has a wide field of view of 330 ft at 1000yrds. Giving you the ability to scan your surroundings with ease. For sure, this is the best you will find at the price range.

When it comes to eye relief, Diamondback binoculars are quite comfortable to use at 16 mm. Therefore, whether you have eyeglasses or not, you will always enjoy using them without eye fatigue.

With clear markings that help you find and set the right distance correctly, the eyecups are of down variety. Moreover, if you want to make up for a difference in your eyes, the easy to use locking diopter adjustment is there to make it possible.

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Vortex Optics Diamondback Roof Prism Binoculars 10x42
  • 10x magnification and 42mm objective lenses, these Diamondback binoculars are the workhorse of...
  • Dielectric, fully multi-coated lenses transmit more light and clearer, brighter images. A field...

These  Diamondback models are designed with a center focus knob that is enabled in such a way to move smoothly and efficiently. The focus knob is well-sized such that you don’t need gloves and can control it easily.

It gives you enough resistance that keeps you from bumping it out of focus, but it still rotates easily and smoothly. Whether you want to use these binoculars at night or day time, they are perfect in light transmission.

The Vortex Diamondback 10×42 binoculars are O-ring sealed and argon gas purged to keep them weatherproof across a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions.

Whether you are going hunting. bird watching, hiking, wildlife spotting or any of your favorite outdoor adventures, these will be a great companion to take along. Weighing only 21.4 oz, you won’t have much difficulty handling them.

Features

Twist-up eyes cups. This is wider than the average IPD range for a custom fit for any user. This is crucial more so to people wearing glasses. You can easily adjust up and down to spot that works for you. This ensures you have a better comfort when using them for extended periods.

Vortex Optics Diamondback Roof Prism Binoculars 10x42

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Fully multi-coated lenses. The optics of the Vortex Diamondback are multi-coated and the prism inside is phase corrected. These processes are done to ensure that the image is as good as possible. The coating present protect the lenses from glare. Sun is not an issue with the Diamondback.

Waterproof and fog proof protection. In most cases, outdoor situations include rain and the evenings in the forest can get foggy. Regardless of the weather conditions, you will always be in operation if you choose these binoculars. The wildlife is not afraid of the weather. And with such a feature you don’t have to be either.

Neck strap and attractive case to carry your binoculars. When you purchase these binoculars, it comes along with some accessories which include lens cover. Lens cover protects the lenses from raindrops.

Center focus. Center focus helps in adjusting the focus for both barrels at the same time. When the binoculars are set correctly, you will have sharper images. If you have used it in the past you can attest that indeed it is quite easy to get it done.

Body Constructions

The Vortex Diamondbacks are sleek, have short hinge design and have a durable aluminum body with rubber armor and thumb indents which leave more room for your hands creating an easier, secure and non-slip grip.

Pros

  • Waterproof and Fog proof
  • Easy focusing
  • Comfortable viewing
  • Good value for the money
  • Great optics quality for the price range

Cons

  • The edges of the visual field are not as crisp as the center
  • Chromatic aberrations are slightly noticeable

Final Verdict

As for now, Vortex Diamondback 10×42 binoculars are the best to buy on a budget. With a budget of about $230, you would get a pair for yourself. The only drawback is the glass quality. The glass quality isn’t on the high-end. But at this price the quality is great. If you need superior glass, then you might want to invest money into getting a mid-priced pair.

Worthy binoculars can change how you experience the natural world. Truly, if you love great outdoors adventures, Vortex Diamondback is something you must have.

Hope you found this Vortex Diamondback 10×42 review useful. Let’s hear your opinion in the comment box below!

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