Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 Binoculars: A Comprehensive Review
Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 Binoculars:
A Comprehensive Review
Introduction
The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 binoculars are a popular choice among birdwatchers,
nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers seeking a balance of performance,
durability, and affordability. This review delves into the key features, optical
performance, build quality, and overall value of this widely acclaimed optical
instrument, providing a detailed analysis to help potential buyers make an informed
decision.
Key Features and Specifications
The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 binoculars are designed with several key features
that contribute to their optical performance and user experience. The 'ED' in the name
signifies Extra-Low Dispersion glass, which is crucial for minimising chromatic
aberration, a common optical defect that appears as colour fringing around bright
objects. This results in sharper images with truer colours.
Magnification and Objective Lens: These binoculars offer 8x magnification, meaning
objects appear eight times closer than they do to the naked eye. The 42mm objective
lenses are large enough to gather ample light, ensuring bright images even in
challenging lighting conditions, such as dawn or dusk. This combination provides a
good balance between magnification for detailed viewing and a wide field of view for
tracking moving subjects.
Optics and Coatings: The Nature DX ED 8x42 features fully multi-coated optics, which
means multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings are applied to all air-to-glass surfaces.
This maximizes light transmission, resulting in brighter, higher-contrast images. The
prisms are made of BaK-4 glass, known for its high refractive index and producing
round exit pupils, which translates to a full, bright image without vignetting.
Field of View: With an angular field of view of 7.5° and a linear field of view of 393 feet
at 1000 yards (129 meters at 1000 meters), these binoculars offer a wide perspective,
making it easier to locate and follow subjects, especially fast-moving birds or wildlife.
Close Focus: A notable feature for nature observation is the close focus distance of just
6.5 feet (2 meters). This allows users to observe nearby subjects like insects,
butterflies, or plants with remarkable detail.
Eye Relief and Eyecups: The binoculars provide a generous eye relief of 17.5mm,
making them comfortable for eyeglass wearers. The twist-up eyecups with multiple
stops allow users to customise the eye relief for optimal viewing, whether wearing
glasses or not.
Construction and Durability: The Nature DX ED 8x42 boasts a robust construction.
They are waterproof and fog proof, thanks to nitrogen purging, which prevents internal
fogging in varying temperatures and humid conditions. The housing is typically
rubber-armoured, providing a secure grip and added protection against impacts.
Weight and Dimensions: Weighing approximately 24.9 ounces (705 grams) and
measuring around 5.6 inches (142mm) in height and 5.0 inches (128mm) in width,
these binoculars are relatively lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry
during extended outdoor activities.
Optical Performance
The optical performance of the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 binoculars is a significant
highlight, especially considering their price point. The Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass
plays a pivotal role in delivering sharp, high-contrast images with minimal chromatic
aberration. This means that users will experience true-to-life colours without distracting
colour fringing, which is particularly beneficial for birdwatching and observing fine
details in nature.
The fully multi-coated optics ensure maximum light transmission through the
binocular system. This results in bright and clear images, even in low-light conditions
such as dawn, dusk, or heavily shaded areas. The 42mm objective lenses, combined
with the 8x magnification, strike an excellent balance, providing sufficient light-
gathering capability for a bright view without making the binoculars overly bulky or
heavy.
Users consistently report a wide and immersive field of view, which is crucial for
tracking moving subjects and quickly scanning landscapes. The generous eye relief
and comfortable twist-up eyecups contribute to a pleasant viewing experience, even
for extended periods. The close focus capability is also highly praised, allowing for
detailed observation of nearby flora and fauna.
While the Nature DX ED 8x42 excels in many areas, some expert reviews note that while
the edge-to-edge sharpness is generally good for its class, there might be a slight fall-
off in sharpness at the extreme edges of the field of view compared to much higher-
priced binoculars. However, for most practical applications, this is a minor
consideration and does not detract significantly from the overall viewing experience.
Build Quality and User Experience
The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 binoculars are built to withstand the rigours of
outdoor use. The robust construction, often featuring a rubber-armoured housing,
provides a secure and comfortable grip while offering protection against accidental
bumps and drops. This tactile outer layer also makes the binoculars less prone to
slipping, even in wet conditions.
One of the most critical aspects of their durability is their waterproof and fog proof
design. Nitrogen purging prevents internal fogging of the lenses, which can occur due
to rapid temperature changes or high humidity. This ensures clear views in a variety of
weather conditions, from misty mornings to sudden downpours, making them reliable
companions for any outdoor adventure.
User experience is generally positive, with many reviewers highlighting the
comfortable ergonomics and intuitive controls. The large, textured focus wheel is easy
to manipulate, even with gloves, allowing for smooth and precise adjustments. The
twist-up eyecups with multiple click-stops are praised for their ability to accommodate
both eyeglass and non-eyeglass wearers, providing optimal eye relief and a full field of
view.
The lightweight and compact design further enhance the user experience, making
these binoculars easy to carry around the neck or in a backpack for extended periods
without causing fatigue. The included accessories, such as a carrying case, neck strap,
and lens caps, add to the overall value and convenience.
While generally well-regarded for their build, some users have noted that the included
neck strap, while functional, could be more padded for increased comfort during
prolonged use. However, this is a minor point and can be easily remedied with an
aftermarket strap if desired.
Comparative Analysis and Value
The Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 binoculars stand out in the crowded mid-range
binocular market due to their exceptional value proposition. While they may not
compete directly with high-end binoculars from brands like Swarovski or Leica in
terms of ultimate optical perfection, they offer a performance level that often rivals or
exceeds binoculars in a higher price bracket.
Compared to other binoculars in its price range, the inclusion of ED glass is a
significant differentiator. Many competitors at a similar price point do not feature ED
glass, meaning the Nature DX ED 8x42 provides superior chromatic aberration
correction and colour fidelity. This makes a noticeable difference in image quality,
especially when viewing subjects against bright backgrounds or in challenging lighting
conditions.
User reviews and expert opinions frequently highlight the Nature DX ED 8x42 as a
'best-in-class' option for its price. For instance, in a review by All About Birds, the
Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 was rated as a "Solid Choice" among affordable full-size
8x42 binoculars, praising its good, colourful image and lightweight design [1]. Best
Binoculars Reviews also commends its overall build quality for the price range,
compact dimensions, and fully multi-coated optics with BaK-4 prisms [2].
Some comparisons have been drawn with models like the Nikon Monarch M5 ED 8x42.
While the Monarch M5 might offer slightly better edge-to-edge sharpness or a more
robust feel to some users, the Nature DX ED often holds its own, particularly in terms of
central image clarity and colour reproduction, often at a more attractive price point.
BirdForum users have even stated a preference for the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42
over the Nikon ProStaff 7S 8x42 due to its larger field of view, despite both being
excellent values [3].
For birdwatchers, hikers, and general outdoor enthusiasts on a budget, the Nature DX
ED 8x42 provides an excellent balance of optical performance, durable construction,
and user-friendly features. It punches above its weight, delivering clear, bright, and
colour-accurate views that are typically found in higher-end models. The robust
waterproofing and fog proofing further enhance its appeal for outdoor use, making it a
reliable tool in various environments.
In summary, the Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 offers compelling value, making it an
ideal choice for those seeking high-quality optical performance without a premium
price tag. Its combination of ED glass, fully multi-coated optics, and durable
construction positions it as a strong contender in the mid-range binocular market.
Summary
Optical Excellence: Features Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass to minimise
chromatic aberration, delivering sharp images with true-to-life colours.
Bright and Clear Views: Fully multi-coated optics and BaK-4 prisms ensure
maximum light transmission for bright, high-contrast images, even in low light.
Ideal Magnification: 8x magnification and 42mm objective lenses provide a
balanced view, suitable for both detailed observation and wide-field scanning.
Wide Field of View: A 7.5° angular field of view (393 ft at 1000 yards) makes it
easy to locate and track moving subjects.
Exceptional Close Focus: Ability to focus on subjects as close as 6.5 feet (2
meters), perfect for observing insects, plants, and other nearby details.
Comfortable for All Users: Generous 17.5mm eye relief and multi-stop twist-up
eyecups accommodate eyeglass wearers and ensure comfortable viewing.
Built for the Outdoors: Nitrogen-purged and rubber-armoured for 100%
waterproof and fog-proof performance, ensuring durability in various weather conditions
conditions.
Lightweight and Portable: Weighing approximately 24.9 ounces (705 grams),
These binoculars are easy to carry during extended outdoor activities.
Excellent Value: Offers performance comparable to more expensive models,
making it a strong contender in the mid-range binocular market.
Versatile Use: Ideal for birdwatching, nature observation, hiking, and sporting
events, and general outdoor use.
References
[1] The Cornell Lab Review: Affordable Full-Size 8x42 Binoculars. All About Birds.
Available at: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/the-cornell-lab-review-affordable-
full-size-8x42-binoculars/
[2] Celestron Nature DX 8x42 Binoculars Review. Best Binoculars Reviews. Available at:
https://www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/Celestron8x42NatureDX-119.htm
[3] Celestron Nature DX ED 8x42 - BirdForum. BirdForum. Available at:
https://www.birdforum.net/threads/celestron-nature-dx-ed-8x42.404386/