10 Best Vanguard Binoculars Compared & Reviewed 

 

Best Vanguard Binoculars Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide

 

Going to a concert to see your favorite artist, watching wildlife or your favorite birds in their natural habitat: all these activities have one thing in common – the best Vanguard binoculars can help you enjoy them more. After conducting thorough market research, we have concluded that one item that you should focus on (pun intended) is the Vanguard Endeavor ED IV SK-15. This model allows for vivid detail and incredible image quality. Thanks to the HOYA ED glass, you will enjoy a true-color viewing experience. The maximum magnification rate is 10x, and the objective lens diameter measures 42mm, providing a wide field of view of 340 feet at 1000 yards. The ergonomic open-bridge design ensures an easy and comfortable grip in all weather conditions. The product is also 100% fog proof. If these Vanguard binoculars are not available for purchase right away, you could consider the Vanguard Endeavor ED Glass 10×42 as a reliable alternative.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Vanguard Binoculars (Updated Reviews) in 2024

 

 

Are you looking for some affordable Vanguard binoculars that will do the trick on your next outdoor adventure? Showcased below you can find some of the most critically-acclaimed models from the brand, along with their most interesting features so that you can easily pick the right pair for you.

 

 

1. Vanguard Endeavor ED IV SK-15

 

This product comes with an ergonomic design that ensures easy grabbing and a comfortable grip. It is made of durable materials and is resistant to scratches and shocks, providing the same quality image for a long time. The SK-15 prisms ensure vivid details and stunning image quality, while the premium HOYA ED glass offers a true-color viewing experience.

These binoculars feature a magnesium housing that is engineered to offer increased protection and performance. It is 100% fog-proof and waterproof, helping you clearly see birds or wildlife in all weather conditions.

The 10x magnification rate is perfect for concerts or observing wildlife in its natural habitat. The product is delivered with all accessories, including lens protections, a carrying bag with an adjustable strap and multiple pockets, and a cleaning cloth. It is easy to use and lightweight, meaning it won’t cause hand fatigue when operated for many hours.

 

Pros

The product provides a 10x magnification rate with an objective lens diameter of 42mm and a field of view of 340 feet at 1000 yards, enough for most outdoor activities such as hunting or birdwatching.

These Vanguard 10×42 binoculars feature a magnesium shell that is designed for improved protection and performance, absorbing shocks and keeping dirt and debris away.

They are delivered with all necessary accessories, including an adjustable strap to easily carry them around your neck when traveling or switching observing locations.

The advanced multi-guard coatings provide impressive light transmission even in low-light conditions.

 

Cons

Although these Vanguard Endeavor binoculars are a great choice for concert viewing, turkey hunting or watching wildlife, using them in cold temperatures won’t deliver a superior image quality. They do get a little foggy on the sides and it can take a while until you learn how to properly use the focus.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

2. Vanguard Endeavor ED Glass 10×42

 

This item is available in four different sizes and magnification rates, depending on your preferences. The 10×42 is one of the most popular choices, helping you magnify objects up to ten times without losing image clarity.

The ED glass reduces color dispersion, providing high-resolution colors and improved clarity. The twist-out eyecups with long eye relief protect the lenses against scratching and dust whenever you’re not using the binoculars.

The advanced lens coatings are designed to offer enhanced light transmission even when there isn’t too much light outside, making these binoculars the perfect choice for birdwatching first thing in the morning.

The product is waterproof and fog proof, meaning you can use it almost all year-round without worrying about damaging the lenses. Also, the robust and ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, preventing your hands from slipping even when they’re sweaty. These binoculars are delivered in a protective bag and also come with a wide shoulder strap.

 

Pros

They represent a great choice for a wide array of outdoor and indoor activities, from concert viewing to observing wildlife in its natural habitat, hunting or birdwatching.

They offer great image clarity and a 10x magnification rate, while the special ED glass reduces color dispersion to deliver vivid colors.

The item is lightweight and, thanks to the ergonomic design, won’t cause hand fatigue even when you’re carrying it for many hours.

It is also 100% fog-proof and waterproof, allowing you to easily see images in all weather conditions, almost all-year-round.

 

Cons

You might experience some chromatic aberration in the form of a halo of various colors (purple, green or red), depending on which part of the lenses you are watching and the lighting conditions outside.

We don’t recommend using a tripod with these binoculars as you won’t get a clear and steady view of the objects either.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

3. Vanguard 10×42 with ED Glass

 

Featuring a 10x magnification rate, this pair of binoculars is suitable for a wide array of outdoor activities, from birdwatching to concerts and hunting.

They are lightweight and sturdy at the same time, preventing hand fatigue even when holding them in your hands for many hours.

The housing will absorb shocks and prevent scratches or damage even if you drop it on the floor multiple times. They are also comfortable and easy to use once you know how to focus them properly. When looking through these binoculars, the images will appear clear and the colors vivid.

What we also liked is that you can operate the device even in low-light conditions without sacrificing image quality. And, thanks to the fog proof and waterproof design, you can wake up early in the morning to watch your favorite birds or animals, no matter the weather outside.

 

Pros

If you’re looking for an item that is sturdy, reliable, and easy to use even if you’re a newbie, don’t look for more Vanguard binoculars reviews, as this is the right item for you.

The compact and robust design makes it easy to handle and won’t cause hand fatigue even when operating it for the entire day.

The lenses feature multiple coatings to give them 100% waterproof and fog proof properties, making the device suitable for hunting or birdwatching all-year-round.

Similar to other Vanguard items, this one too comes with a protective bag and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

 

Cons

Focusing the item could take a while until you learn your way around it.

This item is not highly compatible with tripods as the latter will be hard to mount and adjust. Moreover, the binoculars only provide a 10x magnification rate which doesn’t justify the use of a tripod instead of your hands.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

4. Vanguard Spirit ED 1042

 

Lightweight and durable at the same time, the new Vanguard 10×42 Spirit ED features a strong magnesium chassis that makes it reliable and resistant to shocks. The protective rubber armoring ensures a comfortable grip and prevent hands from slipping even when they’re sweaty or it’s hot outside. It will also prevent hand fatigue so you can easily operate the product using just one hand, for many hours.

The wide 60-degree apparent viewing angle allows you to see objects from afar, even if we’re talking about moving targets like birds and animals. As a result, the binoculars represent a great choice for professional or newbie hunters and birdwatchers.

The two-stage twist-up eyecups will protect the lenses from scratches and dirt when you’re not using them. Along with the protective eyecups, you will also receive a wide, adjustable shoulder strap, and a protective bag for your item.

The extra low-dispersion (ED) glass will reduce spherical and chromatic aberration, improving contrast, color rendition, and light transmission.

 

Pros

One of the great features of this product is that it allows you to mount a tripod with the help of an optional adapter, allowing you to enjoy your birdwatching sessions without constantly carrying the binoculars in your hands.

It is nitrogen-filled, providing a 100% waterproof and fog proof design in all weather conditions, meaning you can use it early in the morning for watching wildlife or the habits of your favorite birds.

The protective rubber armoring provides a comfortable and slip-resistant grip, minimizing the risk of dropping the device and damaging the lenses.

It is delivered with all the necessary accessories, including a shoulder strap and wiping cloth.

 

Cons

Chromatic aberration cannot be eliminated entirely, and you may experience halos of violet or blue in different lighting conditions. This will prevent you from clearly seeing some elements, which is especially frustrating if you’re using the binoculars for hunting purposes.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

5. Vanguard Endeavor ED II

 

The second generation of the Endeavour ED is available in three styles, 10×42, 8×32, and 8×42, depending on your preferences and the types of outdoor activities you are conducting. The 10×42 option offers a magnification rate of 10x, which makes the binoculars suitable for birdwatching, concerts, and hunting.

The open-bridge design reduces weight and offers a more comfortable grip, eliminating hand fatigue. Thus, you can even operate the binoculars using just one hand, which is extremely convenient in the wild.

The advanced lens coating provides improved light transmission, even in low-light conditions, making the device suitable for birdwatching or hunting early in the morning or at dawn.

Similar to other products from the same brand, the Endeavour ED II is 100% fog proof and waterproof, which makes it a great addition to your outdoor gear all-year-round. Moreover, the HOYA extra-low dispersion glass (ED) will eliminate chromatic aberration, ensuring a clearer image, high contrast, and true colors.

 

Pros

The product is made of high-quality materials that ensure a sturdy, durable, yet lightweight design. Also, the open-bridge design reduces weight, allowing you to easily operate the device with just one hand without putting extra pressure on your wrists.

The advanced multi-guard coatings provide higher light transmission, which ultimately translates into high-quality images and high contrast, even in low-light conditions like before sunrise or at dusk.

The binoculars are perfect for your daily outdoor trips, birdwatching experiences, concerts, and even hunting games.

The item is delivered with all necessary accessories, including a neck strap, lens and eyepiece cap, lens cloth, and a carrying bag to protect it from scratches, dust, debris, and water.

 

Cons

Professionals might argue that chromatic aberrations are not eliminated but poorly compensated, even in the center.

The bag doesn’t seem to protect the binoculars too much because of the cheap and thin padding.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

6. Vanguard Spirit XF Black

 

Expect outstanding image quality as the Vanguard 10×42 Spirit XF binoculars outshine other optics in the same price range. They come with user-friendly features and provide edge-to-edge clarity, aiming to correct and even eliminate chromatic aberrations.

The high-contrast images and outstanding color reproduction ensure an enjoyable experience, whether you’re watching your favorite animals in their natural habitats or searching for new species of birds.

Completely waterproof and fog proof, the product is specifically designed for outdoor adventures and challenging weather conditions, all year-round.

The texture rubber armor and the open-bridge body are great elements that help reduce the total weight of the product, making it lightweight, easy to handle with just one hand, and hard to drop and damage. Overall, the item is compact and won’t cause hand fatigue, even when using it for a prolonged time.

Unlike other binoculars in the same class, these seem significantly easier to adjust and focus until you get the clear image that you’re looking for.

 

Pros

What more can you expect from an item that is 100% waterproof and fog proof? Outstanding image clarity in all weather conditions, making it a trustworthy partner for all your outdoor adventures throughout the year.

It provides high-contrast images and excellent color reproduction, great features that you will truly get to appreciate if you’re a birdwatching aficionado.

The item is lightweight and comes with a compact design, making it great for operating using just one hand, without causing joint pains or fatigue after hours.

It is delivered together with a protective case, protective lens eyecaps, and other accessories that will help you look after it and prolong its lifespan.

 

Cons

Although this is a great product to use outdoors, the eyepiece covers seem rather flimsy and may break, especially if you drop the item on the floor or don’t take good care of it when transporting and handling it.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

7. Vanguard Vesta Realtree Edge Camo

 

The first thing that you will notice in this pair of binoculars from Vanguard is the cool camo print, perfect for undercover missions.

The real-tree print features shades of beige, brown, and green that will integrate with the rest of the environment, making the devices almost impossible to detect.

Add your favorite camouflage print jacket and pants and you’re ready to go turkey hunting, deer hunting or blending in to see your favorite birds closer. After all, this pair of binoculars is marketed for all purposes, including hunting, birding, nature observation, and travel.

All lenses are made of optical-quality glass to provide a clear image as close to reality as possible, without chromatic aberrations.

The product is waterproof and fog proof, making it a great investment for all-year-round trips, no matter if it’s rainy or shiny.

We also liked the lightweight design and the additional neck strap that helps you easily carry the binoculars whenever you’re not using them.

 

Pros

Have we mentioned the cool print that will make you invisible? Just use the rest of your camouflage-print gear and you’re ready to go hunting or birdwatching like a true pro.

The lightweight yet durable design features a no-slip rubber armoring that also ensures comfortable wear and reduces hand fatigue when operating the binoculars for many hours.

The images delivered are of high-quality and with extraordinary colors, as close to reality as possible.

It comes with an included soft pouch and neck strap for protection and easy carrying.

 

Cons

Unlike many other similar products that come with a full set of accessories, this product lacks protective eyecaps which prevent the lenses from scratches, water, dust, and debris. In time, lenses will deteriorate, causing you to have problems seeing through them.

Getting this item to focus properly will take time, so we suggest that you start practicing before taking it with you on an outdoor adventure.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

8. Vanguard Endeavor ED IV 1042

 

This model debuts the SK15 Prisms that provide excellent image quality, light transmission, and colors for a wonderful viewing experience. Whether you’re out birdwatching, hunting or simply enjoying nature’s wonders, you can rest assured you will see the world in the brightest colors.

This pair of binoculars offers a 10x magnification rate, enough for most outdoor activities, including concert watching or hunting. It has been updated with powerful MultiGuard coatings that provide better light transmission in all lighting conditions, including on cloudy days or at dawn.

The magnesium construction of the housing is durable and lightweight at the same time, absorbing shocks without causing hand fatigue or wrist pain after long hours.

It is fog proof and waterproof, allowing you to see your favorite animals and birds almost all year-round, whether it’s in early spring or the foggy fall. It is delivered with a neck strap for comfortable carrying.

 

Pros

This product is a great accessory for your outdoor adventures, whether we’re talking about birdwatching, hunting or seeing your favorite artist on stage at a rock concert.

The sturdy construction absorbs shocks and prevents cracking or scratching, even when you don’t handle the binoculars too gently.

The item is lightweight and features a comfortable rubber coating that prevents slipping and allows your hands to rest properly.

The binoculars are designed to offer great image quality and bright colors in all lighting conditions and all types of weather.

 

Cons

The item doesn’t come with a protective bag or eyepiece cases, meaning you will have to find these on your own to prevent cracking, scratching, and dirt from getting in contact with the lenses.

It takes some time until you get this item to focus properly, so we suggest practicing a little before taking it on your outdoor adventures.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

9. Vanguard Orros 8320 Waterproof

 

One of the first features you will notice is the multi-coated lenses that ensure a crisp, clear viewing in all lighting conditions. This means that you will get to see the colorful feathers of your favorite birds or enjoy the chromatic show of fall in detail when using these binoculars.

Similar to other optical devices from the same brand, these are also 100% waterproof and fog proof, meaning they are reliable almost all-year-round, even when the hunting season begins.

They can magnify the image up to 8 times and the aperture is 32 mm, which means they gather a moderate amount of light. In other words, these binoculars are a great choice for birdwatching and even for hunting but not for stargazing.

The rubber armor is non-slip and provides a secure grip, even if your hands are sweaty. Overall, the lightweight design allows you to easily grab it using just one hand.

 

Pros

The product caters to the needs of bird enthusiasts as it offers a wide field of view, allowing you to easily identify targets, even if they are on the move.

The waterproof and fog proof design is suitable for a wide array of outdoor activities in almost all weather conditions. Don’t be afraid to go hunting on a rainy day.

The case is made of sturdy and durable materials that absorb shocks and prevent the lenses from getting scratched too easily.

Also, the multi-coated lenses deliver high-quality images and crisp and clear viewing without worrying too much about chromatic aberrations.

 

Cons

The protective case these binoculars come with doesn’t seem like it has enough padding, so we suggest looking for a different case if you want to prevent your device from being damaged when traveling or storing it.

Trying to make this device to focus will take some time and practice, especially if you’re a newbie.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

10. Vanguard Vesta 10×42 Waterproof/Fogproof

 

This all-purpose pair of binoculars is a great choice if you’re passionate about hunting, birding, nature observation or traveling in general. The ergonomic and durable body will perfectly fit in your hands. It is lightweight so it won’t cause hand fatigue or wrist pain even when operating it for many hours. Moreover, the durable housing that features a quality rubber armoring will prevent your hand from slipping.

The product is designed to absorb shocks and provide high-quality images at the same time. It comes with a 10x magnification rate and a 42mm lens diameter, while the eye relief counts for 17mm.

The twist-out eyecups ensure comfortable viewing, while the lenses are made of optical quality glass. The binoculars are fog proof and waterproof, making an excellent choice throughout the year, no matter the weather outside.

It is shipped with a protective soft pouch and a wide neck strap for comfortable carrying all day long.

 

Pros

These new Vesta binoculars feature a multi guard multi-coating technology that provides clarity, color fidelity, and crisp resolution, delivering high-quality images for you to enjoy.

The product is designed with durability and performance in mind, and the 10x magnification rate will help you easily see your favorite birds, animals or landscapes from afar.

The fog proof and waterproof design allows you to enjoy this pair of binoculars throughout the seasons, whether it’s a family holiday skiing or hiking in the summertime.

It comes with a soft pouch to protect it from scratches, bumps, dirt, dust, and water, as well as a neck strap to carry your binoculars with you or hang them anywhere you go.

 

Cons

This is an all-purpose optical device that doesn’t deliver impressive quality in any field. In other words, it is not specifically designed for birdwatchers, hunters or stargazers but people who enjoy a little bit of all outdoor activities.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Finding a good pair of Vanguard binoculars could prove a challenge, especially since the company produces a wide array of items, for all pockets and purposes. If you are having trouble identifying the right item for you, here are some features you might want to take into account.

 

 

The magnification rate

This is the most important feature of a pair of binoculars as it shows you how many times the image can be magnified. Most binoculars come with 7x-14x magnification rates, depending on their purposes.

If you’re looking for a product that will help you watch birds or assist you in your hunting, the best magnification rate is anywhere between 7x and 10x. For long-range shooting, you may want to opt for products with 10x-14x magnification.

However, keep in mind that the higher the magnification rate, the more complicated it will be to focus the binoculars and get a clear image. Professionals recommend using a tripod for devices with a magnification rate of 16x-18x or more.

 

Field of view

The magnification power has a direct effect on the field of view, so that the higher the magnification, the lower the field of view.

A narrow field of view will make it harder for you to locate moving or small objects from far away but you will be able to see objects clearly and in more detail once you identify them. On the other hand, binoculars with lower magnification rates such as 7x or 8x ensure a wider field of view, meaning you will easily identify objects and moving targets.

These binoculars can be used for birdwatching when you first want to find them but, once you have identified them, you might want to switch to a pair with a higher magnification rate and a narrower field of view that will help you see more details.

 

Materials used

Go through any Vanguard binoculars review on the web and you will see that most people appreciate the sturdiness of the materials used for manufacturing. You want your product to be sturdy and secure and absorb shocks. A good pair of binoculars won’t break, chip or scratch even when you drop it.

Look for items that come with a robust shape and can also be handled with just one hand. Rubber coatings are popular because they will provide a comfortable grip, preventing hand fatigue when operating the binoculars for many hours. Besides, they will absorb extra moisture and will prevent you from dropping the device, even if your palms get sweaty.

 

Accessories

Last but not least, consider the accessories that are shipped with your new product. Even some cheap Vanguard binoculars will come with a protective bag to keep them away from scratches and dirt whenever you’re not using them, as well as with an adjustable shoulder strap to help you easily carry the item outdoors.

Eyecaps are mandatory for protecting the lenses against scratches, while a cleaning cloth will help you clean dirt and keep the binoculars in perfect shape for your next adventure.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: Is Vanguard a good brand when it comes to binoculars?

With over 30 years of experience, Vanguard is a global company that specializes in designing and manufacturing sporting units, tripods, bags, and other accessories. The company creates high-quality and long-lasting products for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts, delivering great value for money.

According to their website, over 1000 employees create the products without requiring to outsource their services to third-party companies. This way, they can stay focused on the quality and innovation of each product they design and create.

This global brand has its headquarters in Myanmar, while the rest of the distribution, marketing, sales, and administrative branches are found in the U.S., Germany, Spain, Luxembourg, UK, and Japan.

The company strives to create and distribute all its products with minimum impact on the environment and has obtained many certificates in this area, including ISO 9001, 9002, and 14001.

Thus, if you’re looking for a quality yet affordable brand of binoculars, Vanguard is one of the decent choices on the market.

 

 

Q: Which is the best magnification for binoculars?

This question doesn’t have a simple answer, as it depends on what you want to see with your binoculars. Generally speaking, the higher the magnification rate, the lower the quality of the image the product will provide, and this is why you have to stick to the best ratio.

Keep in mind that binoculars are not as powerful as other magnifying products such as microscopes or telescopes, meaning they won’t provide the same image quality when their magnification rate exceeds 14-16x.

However, there is no need to search for a higher magnification rate as most outdoor activities that require the use of binoculars, such as hunting or birdwatching, can be performed with the help of an 8x, 10x or 12x pair of binoculars.

If you want to get more specific, you should know that 7x to 10x binoculars are perfect for hunting. For long-range shooting, you will need a higher magnification rate of about 12x or even 16x. If you’re looking for 18x+ magnification rates, you will also need a tripod to stabilize your binoculars as the image will be shaky.

 

Q: What should I look for when buying binoculars?

We have already mentioned some of the most important features to consider in our previous buying guide.

If you’re looking for a quick answer, here are the elements you should focus on: magnification rate, the field of view, materials used for manufacturing, quality of the glass for lenses, accessories, and size.

The size of the binoculars is proportional to the magnification rate, meaning the higher the magnification rate, the bigger and heavier your binoculars will be. If you’re looking for a pocket product that won’t cause you hand fatigue and can be easily carried around your neck throughout the day, you should consider opting for a pair of binoculars with an 8x-12x magnification rate.

The materials used to manufacture the device are important because they can absorb shocks and protect your lens from scratches, dirt, and debris, making the overall item last longer.

The lenses should be treated with special coatings to be 100% waterproof and fog proof so that you can see a clear image in all weather and temperature conditions.