Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 Review

The Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 offers a near-perfect balance of optical performance and price, providing an experience that feels high-end yet falls squarely into the middle of the price range.

Performance Comparison

Clarity

Outside of the much more expensive and multi-thousand dollar binoculars we tested, the Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 provided decent clarity. We think this level of clarity would be great for beginner birders but would probably disappoint a pro.

We didn't notice much distortion or blurriness, though we did notice some color fringing when spotting birds where we noticed yellow hues on the bark of trees. We also noticed a slight haze near the bottom during our clarity tests. That said, we could usually easily pick out small distinguishing features of finches and chickadees at upwards of 30 feet.

We noticed the very edges of the image lose a bit of clarity, but this didn't impact our viewing experience too much. Additionally, when looking towards the sun (and “towards” is the operative word here, we feel obligated to state the obvious that one should never look directly into the sun, especially when using binoculars), the lens produced yellow glares on the edges of the image slightly and a subtle haze. Here again, however, we didn't feel that the glare or haze significantly impacted our experience using these binos.

Brightness

This is where the Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 truly shines (pun intended). These binoculars provided some of the most impressive brightness we've seen in this price range.

In our lighting tests, we measured the amount of transmitted light from a fixed and regulated light source and recorded 1163 Lux. Very few of the models we tested were able to transmit this level of light.

The Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 is also exceptionally good in low light. When using them in the dawn and dusk hours, only the much more expensive pairs we tested provided brighter images. Even with the sun barely peeking over the horizon, we were able to make out the different subtle blue tones on a Steller's jay.

Perhaps more noticeable is the Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42's relative performance in medium light, such as midday in a shaded forest. When comparing these to other binoculars in their price class, it felt like the images had the contrast cranked up a few notches in these situations. We were able to notice much more detail at these times thanks to the brighter image. Especially for bird watchers, this translates into a far more enjoyable experience.

Comfort

The Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 are fairly comfortable, especially for those with larger hands. However, those with smaller hands may prefer a smaller pair.

One thing that can make a pair of binos much more comfortable in hand is thumb indents. These little grooves in the bottom of the barrels can be the difference between an awkward beer-can-like grip and a comfortable, relaxed pinch. Perhaps there is some cost-prohibitive engineering hurdle to making these indents that we're unaware of because they seem to only be present in the most expensive binoculars on the market.

The Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 is a refreshing exception to this rule, as the binos sport ergonomic thumb grooves that make them very comfy to hold. That is complemented with a Goldilocks, not-too-sticky, not-too-slippery rubber coating that allows you to easily change hand position while focusing, yet provides a secure grip when needed. That said, these are a little heavy at 23.1 ounces — smaller hands, beware.

Field of View

Our field of view (FOV) test metric evaluates a realistic test scenario that includes observing a vertical board fence at a fixed distance and counting the maximum number of visible fence boards.

The Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 was one of our most impressive performers in this test metric. With this model, our team was able to clearly see 62.5 vertical fence boards, some of the best FOV in the lineup.

Ease of Adjustment

Everything about Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 is easy to adjust. The focus knob moves freely yet has just enough resistance to easily stop it at the desired point. The diopter knob is slightly stiffer but still relatively easy to adjust when needed, and that extra stiffness makes it less likely you'll accidentally throw the diopter out of whack during normal use.

Sure, some other models have slightly more creative diopter designs that are a bit more user-friendly, but overall, these binos are just fine.

Close Focus Range

We measured an impressive close focus range of just 5.5 feet, one of the best in the field. Sure, some pairs provide a slightly closer focus range, but 5.5 feet means you'll probably be able to get a butterfly in focus if you're lucky enough to have one land on your shoe, and it's hard to ask for much more than that.

Accessories

We usually avoid discussing accessories because they are typically just the standard neck strap and carrying case, neither of which tend to differentiate one pair from another. However, the Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 includes a soft case on a chest harness that places the case securely on your chest. Two more straps connect the binoculars to the case, so you can remove the binoculars and use them while the soft case remains securely attached to you.

The chest harness design may not be for everyone. However, hunters who spend time walking through thick brush from glassing location to glassing location or want to simplify the transition from binos in hand to safely stored without having to remove a shouldered firearm and heavy frame pack will get good use out of the chest harness.

Should You Buy the Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42?

The Vortex Diamondback offers incredible optical quality and brightness at a relatively reasonable price, making it one of the best values of all the many binoculars we've tested. We think most casual users will be thrilled with the quality of this pair — especially for the price.

What Other Binoculars Should You Consider?