Nikon Monarch 5 & 7 vs Prostaff 7s-10×42 Binoculars Detailed Comparison
If you are here to know the differences between Nikon Monarch Vs the Prostaff 7s Binoculars, I guess you are at the right place.
You might have lots of questions like which one has better optics quality and mechanics.
All the Prostaff 7s, Monarch 5 and Monarch 7 binoculars have similar specifications on paper, so it becomes confusing to decide amongst them.
Also, Prostaff 7s are more affordable ones than Monarch 5 and 7’s. So, Which one to Choose?
Here we will compare the Prostaff 7s 10×42 models with the 10×42 models of the Monarch 5 and Monarch 7.
First, Let’s dive into the specifications of all these binoculars;
Prostaff 7s, Monarch 5 and Monarch 7 specification table
Product | Price @ Opticsplanet |
|---|---|
Nikon Monarch M5 10x42 | |
Nikon Monarch M7 10x42 | |
Nikon Prostaff 7s 10x42 |
Nikon Monarch 5 vs Prostaff 7s 10x42 Binoculars-Detailed Comparison
Monarch 5 and Prostaff 7s 10×42 versions produce a 10X magnification with a 42mm objective lens fitted into the chassis of both binoculars.
Pricing & Features Comparison: Prostaff 7s vs Monarch 5
The Monarch 5 is priced at around $100 more premium than the Prostaff 7s binoculars.
So, first of all, when we checked out, the differences are not that much which makes it difficult to get to the conclusion, of which one is better at the price point.
The first difference comes from the use of Premium ED glass(extra-low Dispersion glass) in the Monarch 5 range rather than the standard glass in the Prostaff 7s series.
The premium ED glass provides better illumination and contrast with little chromatic aberration and colour fringing.
Field Of View: Monarch 5 Vs Prostaff 7s
The field of view of the monarch 5 10×42 is 288ft @1000 yards while the FOV of the Prostaff 7s model is 324ft @ 1000Yards. This means Monarch 5 would be a little less efficient for scanning moving targets.
Close Focus Difference
The close focus is 8.2ft for monarch 5 while the close focus of the Prostaff 7s model is 13.1 ft. So, for a bowhunter Monarch 5 would be a good choice.
Weight Difference
Monarch 5 10×42 weighs 21.9 oz, while the Prostaff 7s 10×42 weighs 22.7 ounces.
So, again the difference in weight is very and both can be considered lightweight binoculars in segments with 42mm lens size.
Eye relief & Exit Pupil: Prostaff 7s vs Monarch 5
Monarch 5 10×42 has an eye relief of 18.4 mm while the Prostaff 7s is equipped with an eye relief of 15.5mm.
For an eyeglass wearer, the monarch 5 would be more suitable for long glassing sessions while hunting and other outdoor activities. However, The Monarch took a bit of getting used to, but then worked fine.
The shorter eye relief of the Prostaff 7s felt more natural to me and was easier to draw up and focus on when I wanted to see something quick.
Both have the same exit pupil of 4.2 mm.
Construction & Design Differences: Monarch 5 Vs Prostaff 7s
when I opened both the boxes of Nikon monarch and Prostaff, I noticed the Monarch was a bit smaller and lighter. Monarch 5 weigh 21.9 oz, this 5.7”l x 5.1″w unit is pretty compact.
The Monarch easily fit into one of my jacket pockets and on long glassing sessions, I even forget that I am carrying these powerful binoculars. The Prostaff tipped the scales at 22.7 oz and measures 6.4”l x 5”w.
A bit heavier and longer, the Prostaff isn’t a whole lot wider than the Monarch.
Also, Both binoculars have multicoated phase-corrected prisms with fully multicoated glasses too.
Moreover, Monarch 5 and Prostaff 7s are waterproof, fog-proof and, shockproof. They are usable in harsh weather conditions with pretty ease.
Both models had very comfortable rubber eyepieces and they both came with a good protective case as well.
Both monarch and Prostaff have lens cover included with them. In Monarch 5 there are lens covers on all 4 lenses attached to the binoculars. However, In Prostaff you don’t get this convenience of attached lens covers. The Monarch lens covers are made of heavy-duty rubber, whereas the Prostaff seem to be created from thick plastic.
Let’s check the salient features of both binoculars at a glance from the data below:-
Monarch M5 10x42
Monarch 5
- Eco-glass optics that are free of lead and arsenic are used for all lenses and prisms
- Waterproof (up to 1m/3.3 ft. for 10 minutes) and fog-free with nitrogen gas
- Turn-and-slide rubber eyecups with multi-click facilitate easy positioning of eyes at the correct eyepoint
- The lightweight body uses fibreglass-reinforced polycarbonate resin
- Soft-to-the-touch neck strap
- Sophisticated rubber armoured exterior design provides shock resistance and a firm comfortable grip
- Locking diopter control maintains your personal setting
- Flip-down objective lens covers
- Nikon’s Legendary ED (Extra-low Dispersion)Glass Lenses
- Waterproof (up to 1m/3.3ft for 10 minutes) and nitrogen-purged for fog-free performance
- Extra-Low Dispersion Glass Elements;
- Lead- and Arsenic-Free Eco-Glass;
- Phase-Corrected Dielectric-Coated Prisms;
- Nitrogen Filled, Water and Fogproof, Closed-Bridge Configuration;\
- Long Eye Relief and Comfortable Exit Pupil;
- Large Center Focusing Knob;
Prostaff 7s 10x42
Prostaff 7s
- High-reflection mirror-coated prisms for bright images
- Turn-and-slide rubber eyecups with multi-click facilitate easy positioning of eyes at the correct eyepoint
- Waterproof (up to 1m/3.3 ft. for 10 minutes) and fog-free with nitrogen gas
- Eco-glass optics that are free of lead and arsenic are used for all lenses and prisms
- 42mm objective lenses improve light-gathering ability without adding excessive bulk or weight
- Roof prism light path ensures optical tubes remain thin for a compact form factor
- Phase-corrected prism coatings reduce internal interference to improve light transmission, contrast, and resolution
- Anti-reflection fully multi-coated optics maximize light transmission across the entire visible spectrum for accurate colour rendition and improved contrast and clarity
- A large slip center focus wheel allows for precise focus control, even while wearing gloves
- 15.5mm eye relief helps to reduce eye strain and improves viewing comfort
- Lightweight and durable fibreglass-reinforced polycarbonate chassis
- Nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed to be waterproof and submersible to 3.3′ (1m) for up to 10 minutes and resistant to internal fogging when moving through extreme temperature changes and environmental conditions
Nikon Monarch 7 vs Prostaff 7s 10×42 Binoculars-Detailed Comparison
Both the binoculars produce the same magnification i.e 10X with 42mm objective lenses.
The notable difference between them is the price point at which they are available at.
You will have to invest almost double in owning a Monarch 7 10×42 binoculars vs a Prostaff 7s 10×42 one.
So, Why is such a huge difference in prices between them?
Well, again the monarch 7 uses Nikon’s proprietary ED(extra-low Dispersion) glasses. This results in excellent clarity and brightness of the image produced.
I like the Monarch 7’s more for the detailed bird-watching expeditions as the ED premium glass prevents prismatic blurring at distance with lighter backgrounds.
The monarch 7 also has a wide field of view of 351 ft at 1000 yards while the Prostaff 7s field of view is 324ft.
So, on your next trophy hunt, Monarch 7 would be more efficient than the Prostaff 7s for scanning a large area quickly and following a moving target.
In Monarch 7 10×42, You get an eye relief of 16.4mm while Prostaff 7s ’s eye relief is 15.5mm. This means for an eyeglass wearer Monarch 7 is the more suitable option.
Monarch 7 weighs about 23.6 ounces which is slightly more than the Prostaff 7s, 22.7 ounces. The weight is almost comparable.
Also, most hunters wear a chest harness, so both can be carried with ease for long hunting sessions.
Both Monarch 7 and Prostaff employ fully Multilayer Coated lenses and Phase Correction Coated Roof Prisms. This results in less colour washing and improved contrast.
Also, both binoculars are waterproof, fog-proof and equipped with a rubber-armoured body for strengthened durability.
For your easy reference, I have dug up the features of monarch 7 from the Nikon site as below:-
Monarch 7 10x42
Monarch 7 Features:
- Extra-Low Dispersion Glass Elements;
- Lead- and Arsenic-Free Eco-Glass;
- Phase-Corrected Dielectric-Coated Prisms;
- Twist-Up Click-Stop Eyecups, Oil- and Water-Repellent Lens Coatings;
- Wide Immersive Observational Experience;
- Nitrogen Filled, Water and Fogproof;
- Closed-Bridge Configuration
- Sophisticated rubber armoured exterior design provides shock resistance and a firm comfortable grip
- Locking diopter control maintains your personal setting
- Oil/Water repellent coating – applied to both eyepiece and objective lens surfaces
- Nikon’s Legendary ED (Extra-low Dispersion)Glass Lenses
- Waterproof (up to 1m/3.3ft for 10 minutes) and nitrogen-purged for fog-free performance
Nikon Monarch vs Prostaff Binoculars: Conclusion
The decision to choose between Monarch and Prostaff 7S 10×42 binoculars is a difficult one. Ultimately it boils down to how much experience you have with binoculars.
Prostaff 7s 10×42 is a very capable binocular and is a good choice in it’s price range.
Some people don’t like to go with the Monarch’s because of the heavier weight and higher price of the Monarch.
The Prostaff line is designed for field use with hunters, but are also a smart choice for bird watching and sightseeing. They are very comfortable to hold and give decent views for astronomy as well.
Prostaff 7s is supposed to be a fantastic entry model that will certainly do everything you are looking for.
So, If you are beginner you can go with the Prostaff 7s. After gaining some experience, go with the higher-priced ones.
Coming again to the Monarch;
Prostaff 7s seems to be a very capable binocular at that price, but the wider view and better color and contrast of the Monarch 7 are worth the extra in my opinion. So, If you don’t want to compromise on image quality and contrast go with the Monarch 7 10×42.
Also, If you have deep pockets, simply go with the Monarch 7 10×42. You would be fully satisfied by the quality optics and premium ED glasses used in the binocular which produce bright and clean images.
All three binoculars are well built with a shockproof armoured body. They all have a fully multicoated lens and prisms.
Also, all three binoculars are backed by Nikon’s awesome warranty which gives great peace of mind.
If you are confused between Monarch 5 and 7 then read our comparison here: Monarch 5 vs Monarch 7
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Last update on 2024-12-18
