Battle of the Mid-Sized Binoculars: Athlon Midas G2 8x42 vs Vortex 8x42 Diamondback HD
Athlon and Vortex are two well-known brands in the world of optics, particularly in the realm of binoculars. Both companies offer a wide range of high-quality products that cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and sports enthusiasts. In this article, we will be comparing two of their best mid-sized binoculars - the Athlon Midas G2 8x42 and the Vortex 8x42 Diamondback HD.
The Midas G2 8x42 is part of Athlon's Midas G2 series, which is known for its superior optics and rugged construction. It boasts ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) glass, which delivers exceptional color reproduction and reduces chromatic aberration. The lenses are also fully multi-coated, providing excellent light transmission and clarity. With a magnification of 8x and an objective lens diameter of 42mm, this binocular offers a wide field of view (426 feet at 1000 yards) and a close focus distance of 6 feet.
On the other hand, the Diamondback HD 8x42 is a popular choice among birders and hunters. It features HD (High Density) extra-low dispersion glass, which produces crisp, clear, and sharp images. The lenses are also fully multi-coated, ensuring maximum light transmission and excellent color fidelity. This binocular has a magnification of 8x and an objective lens diameter of 42mm, providing a generous field of view (393 feet at 1000 yards) and a close focus distance of 5 feet.
When it comes to construction, both binoculars are built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. The Midas G2 8x42 has a magnesium chassis, making it sturdy yet lightweight (24.2 ounces). It is also waterproof, fog proof, and nitrogen-purged to prevent internal fogging. On the other hand, the Diamondback HD 8x42 has a robust polycarbonate body and rubber armor, providing a comfortable and secure grip. It is also O-ring sealed and argon-purged, ensuring waterproof and fog-proof performance.
In terms of performance, the two binoculars are evenly matched. Both offer exceptional image quality and color accuracy, with minimal distortion even at the edges. The differences only become noticeable when comparing image sharpness and brightness. The Diamondback HD has a slight edge in these aspects, thanks to its HD glass and Phase Correction coatings on the prisms. However, the Midas G2 still holds its own and delivers impressive results.
The Athlon Midas G2 8x42 comes at a slightly lower price point compared to the Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42. However, it still offers excellent value for money, considering its features and performance. On the other hand, the Diamondback HD has a slight advantage in terms of warranty, with Vortex's renowned lifetime warranty.
In conclusion, both the Athlon Midas G2 8x42 and the Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 are exceptional mid-sized binoculars that offer outstanding optical performance and rugged construction. While the Diamondback HD has a slight edge in terms of sharpness and brightness, the Midas G2 is a strong contender with its impressive features and value for money. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and needs. Whichever you choose, both binoculars will undoubtedly provide you with a fantastic viewing experience.