Celestron
Celestron Nature DX 8x42
$179.95Cheaper
Best Binoculars · head-to-head
A sourced, side-by-side comparison. Celestron Nature DX 8x42 is cheaper at $179.95. Every spec and price links to its source.
Celestron
$179.95Cheaper
Athlon
$374.99
Released 2019
The Celestron Nature DX 8x42 wins 1 of the 1 specs we compare head to head; the other wins 0. The Celestron Nature DX 8x42 is the cheaper at $179.95. The Celestron Nature DX 8x42 both leads on specs and costs less — the straightforward pick.
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✓ marks the stronger figure where "more" — or "less", for price and weight — is unambiguously better.
| Spec | | |
|---|---|---|
| US price | $179.95 MSRP per celestron.com | $374.99 |
| Brand | Celestron | Athlon |
| Released | — | 2019 |
| Magnification | 8x | 8x |
| Objective lens (mm) | 42 | 42 |
| Field of view ft 1000yd | 388 | 426 |
| Eye relief (mm) | 17.5 | 17.2 |
| Weight (oz) | 22.2 | 23.3 |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes |
| Prism type | Roof | Roof |
| Release | — | 2019 |
Sources — Celestron Nature DX 8x42: celestron.com (verified 2026-06-15). Athlon Midas G2 UHD 8x42: athlonoptics.com (verified 2026-06-15).
Where the two actually differ on the specs we track (3 of 7). Matching specs are omitted.
Sourced tester consensus for each — the "what people who used it think" layer, not just specs.
Two whitelisted outlets (Switchback Travel and Field & Stream) reviewed the Celestron Nature DX 8x42 hands-on, and both rank it as a top budget/entry-level pick: tough, easy to use, and strong value with clear-enough images for the price. Both caution it won't satisfy serious or experienced users. Neither reported lab measurements for this model. (2 sourced reviews, 2 lab-tested.)
Praised: Excellent value at a budget entry-level price; Tough, durable build; Clear images / good resolution for the price.
Flagged: Comfort/ergonomics weak spots — 'not as comfortable to use' and flimsy eyecups; Limited for serious/experienced birders and specialized use.
No sourced tester review yet.