A household name in the sports optics industry worldwide, Bushnell makes some of the finest, highest-performing binoculars we know today. Its more than 60 years of experience earned its reputation as one of the leading manufacturers of binoculars.

The quality of the optics on the 10x50 binoculars really shines when using them for activities such as stargazing. The combination of the powerful magnification with the large lenses ensures that the viewable image is always clear.

Bushnell Corporation is an American firm that specializes in sporting optics and outdoor products. It is based in Overland Park, Kansas and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vista Outdoor.

For starters, Bushnell offers a wider range of options on the entry-level and mid-tier end of the spectrum, while Nikon is known for its high-end binoculars. But this doesn't mean you can't get a truly quality pair from either brand. It all comes down to what you're looking to use your binoculars for.

The quick list

• Best binoculars overall. Canon 10x42L IS WP binoculars.
• Best optical performance. Nikon Monarch HG 10x42.
• Best for affordable stargazing. Celestron Nature DX 12x56.
• Best binoculars under $300. Celestron TrailSeeker 8x42 binocular.
• Best budget binoculars. Celestron UpClose G2 10x50 Binocular.
• Best for moon views.

A 10x50 is an excellent tool for handheld use. Use it to stroll the skies--and also for general-purpose use like birdwatching, sports viewing, etc. A 20x50 will magnify more, so the moon and the like will look "bigger"--but it will also have a smaller field of view, a smaller exit pupil, and require a tripod.

What is better 10x42 or 12x50? The 10x42 is an extremely popular configuration – second in line to 8x42. It is more universal, thus suitable for beginners, as well as more experienced users, whereas the 12x50 is a configuration not as suitable for beginners.

Bushnell manufacture quality binoculars and optics and because of this, they're a widely-known and trusted name. Some of the best binoculars deals are Bushnell models and we've included something suitable for every viewing need and budget in the guide below.

Overall, the clarity of the Zeiss is really remarkable and only attainable with the most premium models of binoculars on the market today. A level of clarity that can only be found in the most premium models.

For starters, Bushnell offers a wider range of options on the entry-level and mid-tier end of the spectrum, while Nikon is known for its high-end binoculars. But this doesn't mean you can't get a truly quality pair from either brand. It all comes down to what you're looking to use your binoculars for.

Navy SEALs and professional mariners worldwide rely on Steiner's superior image quality and incredible reliability, with optics designed to deliver superb low light performance, with cool, comfortable daytime viewing…and built mil. spec.

The smaller exit pupil of the 12x50s is going to be more efficient under less dark skies, and the image scale will be 1.7 times larger, but you are giving up 1.6 degrees of FOV. On the other hand, the Scenix will be easier to hold stably than the 12x50s.