What does 10x50 mean in binoculars?
Best Beginners Guide

If you enjoy being outdoors or going to see the games, you might need a set of good binoculars. With so many options to choose from, let us give you a little insight into 10x50 binoculars!

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David A. Swanson

October 19, 2021


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INTRODUCTION

Certainly, there is nothing therapeutic than being around nature so if you’re an avid hiker, bird watcher, or just enjoy being outdoors, you’ve got to have a good set of binoculars. But how could one buy binoculars if they know nothing about them? Well, worry not! We’re here to help you understand their specifications and pick the best binoculars with this beginner’s guide! 

When looking at binoculars, you will notice two numbers separated by an ‘x.’ The first number on the binoculars refers to the magnification power while the second number refers to the size of the objective lens in millimeters. This means that using 10x50 binoculars will display an object 10 times larger than that of the human eye. 

THE NUMBERS ON BINOCULARS

There are various kind of binoculars designed and intended for different uses. Choosing the right kind of binocular depends entirely on what a person wants to see, under what conditions and how far away the object is. 

You’ll routinely notice multiple different numbers on binoculars. The two most commonly sought are the size of the magnification power and the size of the objective lens.

The magnification is always displayed first. It is expressed in relation to the size that an object would be seen with the naked eye so whether it is 10x50, 15x20, 20x80 or so on forth, the 10, 15, 20 would represent the magnification. 

PRO-TIP

It is important to consider that magnification is about keeping the object close to your eyes when you observe through the binoculars.

The other commonly used number on binoculars is the size of the objective lens. It is measured in millimeters (mm) and represents the size of the lens positioned at the far end of the binoculars. For instance, in 10x50 binoculars, 50 is the size of the objective lens. 

The size of the objective lens controls the amount of light that is taken is; which ultimately impacts that one can see and when. Normally, the larger the objective lens is, the better the binoculars will be in lower light settings. 

WARNING!

The larger the objective lens is, the bigger and heavier the binoculars will be and consequently, will be less versatile.

WHY SHOULD YOU GET 10x50 BINOCULARS?

The 10x50 binoculars are arguably considered ideal for beginners and experts alike. They have a range of suitable uses and are great for various outdoor activities such as bird-watching, hunting, and even astronomy.  But why should you specifically get 10x50 binoculars? The answer to your question is given below:

  • 10x50 binoculars allow you to see an object that is far away and provide you with a better image. While you may be able to see something with your naked eye, you may not be able to see it clearly. A binocular lens with this magnification and the size of the objective lens will focus your vision to allow you to see as far as 12 miles away whereas, the human eye can only see up to three miles away on a clear day.
  • One great benefit of 10x50 binoculars is that they brighten an image seen through the lens. Larger lenses will feature a large light transmission. 
  • When using 10x50 binoculars, you can make out details on the object that you aim to see. You may be able to point out a bird with your naked eyes but these binoculars help you see individual feathers and colors you may not have noticed otherwise. 

KEY FEATURES OF 10x50 BINOCULARS

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MAGNIFICATION

You can find the magnification of binoculars by looking at the first number. In the case of 10x50 binoculars, the 10x refers to the magnification. This means that 10x50 binoculars will display an object 10 times bigger than the human eye.

PRO-TIP

The exit/pupil ratio of binoculars refers to how much light is filtered through the lens. To find this out, take the magnification of a lens and divide it by the size of the objective lens. 

LENS SIZE

10x50 binoculars feature the objective lens size of 50mm. This size of the lens allows them to filter in more light to produce brighter objects using the binoculars. Normally, a lens is measured in millimeters and can range from 30mm to 80mm and higher. 

EYEPIECE

The eyepiece is an important part of binoculars and it should be comfortable on your face. This is because you will be looking through them for long periods of time. In the case of 10x50 binoculars, you can customize your eyepiece to be larger or to fit over your eyeglasses. 

TYPES OF 10x50 BINOCULARS

PORRO PRISM

Porro prism binoculars are the most common types of binoculars. These come with a Porro prism inside of them which allows more light to filter through the glass for a brighter image. These kinds of binoculars stand out because they enhance the object and are mostly used by nature photographers. 

ROOF PRISM

Roof prism binoculars aren’t as wide or robust as Porro binoculars because the glass is side by side instead of askew like in Porro prism. The glass in Roof prism binoculars is designed to make these binoculars tougher and more dependable. However, Roof prism binoculars are generally more expensive than their counterpart. 

WHAT ARE THE BEST 10x50 BINOCULARS?

Binoculars are a very useful tool for observing. They’re generally very easy to use, most require no setup, and rarely ever require any maintenance.

They’re also quite affordable and ideal for those who’re looking to pick up a new hobby without investing too much. But what are the best 10x50 binoculars on the market?

If we were to recommend you a pair, we’d suggest you to either look at the following options available for great prices on Amazon:

Celestron Outland X

Grab these 10x50 binoculars that include multi-coated optics help obtain high resolution and high contrast views that will give you enhanced color fidelity, crisp and detailed views, and dependable performance!

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Nikon 7245 Action

Check out these 10x50 binoculars for waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance.

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SkyGenius 10x50 Binoculars with Low Light Night Vision

This pair of professional 10x50 binoculars with quality optics is a must-have. Check it out!

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Maven C3 ED Binocular

Ensure a great time outdoors with these 10x50 binoculars that produce exceptionally clear, bright, and high-contrast images!

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These 10x50 binoculars options are completely waterproof, fog-proof, and scratch-resistant with fully multi-coated optics with tack-sharp edge-to-edge clarity, generous depth of field, and superior low-light performance. 

Owners report a fantastic crisp, detailed views regardless of whether they’re being used for hiking, hunting, bird watching, or astronomy. 

The rubber coating on these binoculars makes them well-protected and durable while also ensuring that they fit comfortably in your hand. Additionally, they come with instant customizations and adjustments that can help you focus and provide you with eye relief whenever needed.  

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

"I never take pictures. Skies are much larger in reminiscences and my friends are much better-looking. Photos crop reality into little squares; instead, I have very good binoculars." - Nell Zink

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN BINOCULAR LENSES?

You can use a soft or microfiber cloth to wipe away any smudges or smears to clean the binocular lenses. Alternatively, you could use a towel but be careful as to not scratch the glass.

WHAT IS THE EXIT/PUPIL RATIO AND HOW DO I FIND IT?

The exit/pupil ratio determines how light is filtered through the lens. We get a measurement of this ratio by dividing the magnification number by the size of the objective lens. For instance, when using a 10x50 in a lens, we get an exit pupil ratio of 5.0. Since it refers to image brightness, a larger number would ensure a brighter image. 

CONCLUSION

While buying any piece of equipment, it is important to consider many factors. But hopefully, you now have some insight into buying binoculars. 

For 10x50 binoculars, you are getting a fair-powered pair that are equally not too big in size with dependable performance. So you’ll be able to carry these around with you while getting a clear, steady, and enhanced image. This makes them an ideal option for daytime hobbyists!

These binoculars with help you look at the stars in the sky and on the ground, you would be able to see beautiful birds and sports games in amazing detail. If you wish to learn more about other hobbies you could pick, check out our blogpost on whether D rawing is an expensive hobby!

David A. Swanson Picture

By David A. Swanson

Bird Watching USA

My name is David and I'm the the founder of Bird Watching USA! I started Bird Watching with My father-in-law many years ago, and I've become an addict to watching these beautiful creatures. I've learnt so much over about bird watching over the years that I want to share with the world everything I know about them!

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David A. Swanson Picture

David A. Swanson

Bird Watching USA

My name is David and I'm the the founder of Bird Watching USA! I started Bird Watching with My father-in-law many years ago, and I've become an addict to watching these beautiful creatures. I've learnt so much over about bird watching over the years that I want to share with the world everything I know about them!

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