Nikon
Nikon Monarch M5 8x42
$339.95
Released 2021
Best Binoculars · head-to-head
Nikon Monarch M5 8x42 vs Celestron Nature DX 8x42
A sourced, side-by-side comparison. Celestron Nature DX 8x42 is cheaper at $179.95. Every spec and price links to its source.
Celestron
Celestron Nature DX 8x42
$179.95Cheaper
Which is better: the Nikon Monarch M5 8x42 or Celestron Nature DX 8x42?
On the specs we track, they're closely matched. The Celestron Nature DX 8x42 is the cheaper at $179.95.
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Full spec sheet
✓ marks the stronger figure where "more" — or "less", for price and weight — is unambiguously better.
| Spec | Nikon Monarch M5 8x42 | Celestron Nature DX 8x42 |
|---|---|---|
| US price | $339.95 | $179.95 MSRP per celestron.com |
| Brand | Nikon | Celestron |
| Released | 2021 | — |
| Magnification | 8x | 8x |
| Objective lens (mm) | 42 | 42 |
| Field of view ft 1000yd | 335 | 388 |
| Eye relief (mm) | 19.5 | 17.5 |
| Weight (oz) | 22.2 | 22.2 |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes |
| Prism type | Roof | Roof |
| Release | 2021 | — |
Sources — Nikon Monarch M5 8x42: nikonusa.com (verified 2026-06-15). Celestron Nature DX 8x42: celestron.com (verified 2026-06-15).
What's the difference between the Nikon Monarch M5 8x42 and Celestron Nature DX 8x42?
Where the two actually differ on the specs we track (2 of 7). Matching specs are omitted.
- Field of view ft 1000yd: Nikon Monarch M5 8x42 335 vs Celestron Nature DX 8x42 388
- Eye relief (mm): Nikon Monarch M5 8x42 19.5 vs Celestron Nature DX 8x42 17.5
What reviewers say
Sourced tester consensus for each — the "what people who used it think" layer, not just specs.
Nikon Monarch M5 8x42
Only one whitelisted tester, GearJunkie, published hands-on review prose for this exact model. GearJunkie field-tested the Monarch M5 8x42 (tracking hummingbirds in flight, plus rainy/windy beach conditions) and named it best for birdwatching, praising its lightweight waterproof/fogproof build, all-condition clarity, and secure rubber grip, while faulting only its average close-focus range. (1 sourced review, 1 lab-tested.)
Praised: Lightweight, durable, waterproof and fogproof build; Crisp, clear imagery in all lighting conditions; Rubber casing keeps a secure grip in rain and wind.
Flagged: Average close range of focus (the reviewer's only stated complaint).
Celestron Nature DX 8x42
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.