Nikon Monarch 5 10x42 Review : Why It's Best?
Some few months ago I got an opportunity to test and compare my Nikon Monarch 5 10X42 to its Monarch 3 and Monarch 7 siblings. One of the things that stood out for me about these three Monarch models is their ergonomic design. And in true Nikon fashion, the three boast of high-quality glass lenses. So what differentiates the Nikon 5 from its siblings?
Well, a lot of things. For starters, unlike its counterparts, the Monarch 5 is an ideal binocular for hunting as well as bird watching. Also, being a mid-tier binocular, it is perfect for persons who are not ready to splurge large sums of money on a high-end optic. The Nikon Monarch 5 is available in two variants, the 8x42, and the 10x42. In this Nikon Monarch 5 review, I will be concentrating on the 10X42 variant .
Check here-Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Review
Binoculars Guru's Honest Nikon Monarch 5 10x42 Review
Ergonomic Design
As already stated, all Monarch binoculars boast of an ergonomic design that makes them easy to handle. However, compared to its counterparts the Monarch 5 is lighter and more compact. Weighing 669 grams the Monarch 7 is slightly heavier than the Monarch 5, which weighs 621 grams. In terms of portability, the Monarch 7 is the smallest of the three Monarchs while the Monarch 3 is the largest. Thus, with the Monarch 5 you get the perfect combination of weight and size. Furthermore, the Monarch 5 has a better eye relief compared to its pricier counterpart the Monarch 7.
Nikon’s High-Quality Lens
If you have ever used any optical instrument from Nikon, then you know that Nikon does not disappoint when it comes to image quality. The Monarch 5, which is less costly than its successor the Monarch 7, is fitted with extra low dispersion glass lenses. When I compared the Nikon 5’s image quality to that of the pricier Monarch 7, I found that there was very little difference. The images produced by my Nikon Monarch 5 10X42 were sharp, detailed and bright.
Light Transmission
All the Nikon binoculars review I read before buying my Nikon Monarch 5 10X42 hailed the Monarch 5 as being one of the best in its price range. One of the reasons why I believe it is one of the best is that it boasts of fully multicoated optics. In my experience, there are very few optics in the Monarch 5’s price segment that come with fully multicoated optics. Both the Monarch 5 and 7 have Dielectric coatings on their optics while the Monarch 3 has silver alloy coating. The Dielectric coating used on the Monarch 5 is of a superior quality compared to the silver coating used on the Monarch 3.
Construction
In regards to construction, all Monarch binoculars crafted from a lightweight polycarbonate material. Thus, do not expect much difference between the Monarch 3, 5 and 7 in regards to construction. My Monarch 5 is easy to hold, and its rubber armour offers sufficient grip. Also, since I spend long hours hunting, this binocular’s comfortable adjustable eye cups were a plus for me. As a mid-tier optic, the Monarch 5 has o-ring sealed lenses and nitrogen filled barrels making it waterproof and fog proof respectively.
Pros of Nikon Monarch 5 10x42
- Has a better field of view compared to other Nikon models such as the Nikon Acculon
- Is lightweight and compact
- Is an affordable pair of binoculars
- Produces razor sharp, bright and clear images
- Uses roof prism design
- Has an ergonomic design
Cons of Nikon Monarch 5 10x42
- Some people have complained of the eye cups being lose
- The carrying case does not have a neck strap
Features of Nikon Monarch 5 10x42
- 10X magnification
- 42 mm objective lens
- Fully multicoated optics
- Roof prism design
- Turn and slide rubber eyecups
- 288 ft field of view
- 21.9 Ounces weight
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does this binocular come with a carrying case?
Answer : Yes, however, this case does not come with a neck strap but with a waist loop
- What accessories are included with the binocular?
Answer : a carrying case, and lens covers
- Does this binocular come with a warranty?
Answer : Yes you get a Nikon 25 year warranty
Final Thoughts
As I finish my Nikon Monarch 5 10x42 review, I can honestly say that I have enjoyed using this binocular. With a close focus of 8.2 ft, this pair of binoculars is perfect for bird watching. Additionally, the Monarch 5 is almost at par with the Monarch 7 regarding performance but is less costly. So if you want a binocular that will not cost you much and whose performance and quality are top notch, the Monarch 5 10X42 is one I strongly recommend.
More Review: Nikon Monarch 7 8x42 Review
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Last update on 2024-10-29
Hi, it looks like a good review however in your column on Ergonomic Design you state the weight is 621 grams however in the features column you state 2.25 pounds.
jumping from Metric to Imperial measurements (which went out with or just after pounds shillings and pence for us in Australia) is bad enough but something is wrong as from my recollection 1kg is about 2.2 pounds so 621 grams is around 1 1/2 pounds Which one is correct ?
thanks for your valuable comments
I have been using Tasco World Class 10×42 binoculars for quite a few years. I was fairly satisfied with them but they suffered in low light and the clarity was good but not great. I finally decided on the Nikon M511 8X42 Monarch 5. I was absolutely amazed at the brightness and very sharp clarity. They will be my last pair because I simply cannot think there are better binoculars even the super high priced models. If I paid $2,500 dollars for a binocular,I’d be afraid to take them outside.
Thanks for your valuable feedback and comment!
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