Overview of Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 binoculars
Zeiss is famous for high-end binoculars. However, if you want to enjoy premium-quality products at about $1000, the manufacturer has Zeiss Conquest HD 10×42 and Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 for you.
In this review article, we will primarily concentrate on the outstanding features of Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 and go through Zeiss Conquest HD 10×42. We also compare Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 with other 8×42 binoculars so that you can know about them better.
First of all, we will take a quick look at the parameter of Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 and Zeiss Conquest HD 10×42.
| Technical Data | Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 | Zeiss Conquest HD 10×42 |
| Magnification | 8x | 10x |
| Effective Objective Lens Diameter (mm) | 42 mm | 42 mm |
| Exit Pupil Diameter (mm) | 5.25 mm | 4.2 mm |
| Twilight Factors | 18.3 | 20.5 |
| Field of view | 384 ft/ 1000 yds | 345 ft/ 1000 yds |
| Shortest focusing distance (ft / m) (Close Focus) | 6.5 ft/ 2.5 m | 6.5 ft/ 2.5 m |
| Eye Relief | 18 mm | 17 mm |
| Prism System | Roof Prism | Roof Prism |
| Optical Quality | Prisms & Prism Coatings: reflective dielectric The lens coating: Multi-coated (MC) Optics. The glass type used: ED = Extra-low dispersion. Light transmission = 95 % |
Prisms & Prism Coatings: reflective dielectric The lens coating: Fully Multi-Coated (FMC) Optics The glass type used: ED = Extra-low dispersion. Light transmission = 95 % |
| Chassis Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Focusing | Centre Focusing (CF) | Centre Focusing (CF) |
| Diopter Adjustment | Standard Diopter Adjustment | Standard Diopter Adjustment |
| Weatherproofing | Waterproof and fog-proof | Waterproof and fog-proof |
| Gas Filled | Nitrogen | Nitrogen |
| Uses | Outdoor sportsBirdwatching Wildlife observationMarine useHunting | Outdoor sportsBirdwatching Wildlife observationMarine useHunting |
| Size | Armored Binoculars | Armored Binoculars |
| Brand | Zeiss | Zeiss |
As we can see, there are not too many differences between Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 and Zeiss Conquest HD 10×42, but the 10×42 model is somewhat better.
Now, we will proceed to the most crucial part – the special benefits and noticeable drawbacks of Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42.
Strong points
- They are lightweight and ergonomic.
This pair of binoculars just weigh approximately three pounds, so they are very easy to carry with you during your safari. The removable strap allows you to hang them around your neck without feeling anything.
When it comes to size, their dimensions are 4.7 x 4.7 x 6.5 inches. Thus, you can put them inside your backpacks with other items effortlessly. It will not take up too much space.
- They produce high-solution and vivid images
The binoculars feature high-quality Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glasses, so they bring about the razor-sharp and eye-opening pictures.
Moreover, you can use these binoculars under low light conditions since the optics system enhances light transmission up to 100%. This advantage helps Zeiss Conquest binoculars users observe and go hunt even in twilight (just before sunset), or in the dense and dark forest.
Besides, the field of view is also broad enough for you to capture all sights in front of your eyes. If you do not know, the spec “384 ft/ 1000 yds” is among the top FOVs in the compact Zeiss binoculars genre.
- They are weatherproof
The Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 are waterproof, fog-proof, and dust-resistant. Not only water but also micro particles like dust and snow can never get into the lenses.
Moreover, the glass and lenses are tightly sealed with O-rings and filled with pure nitrogen gas. You can freely use these binoculars in the rain, in dusty deserts, or damp and misty jungles.
In other words, you can always have a clear view via transparent glasses regardless of weather and conditions.
- They are perfect for glasses wearers
These binoculars have the eye relief of 18mm, which means that you can put your eyes as far as 18mm from the binoculars.
Hence, you can wear types of glasses such as prescription glasses, tinted sunglasses (on sunny days), and use the Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 at the same time.
- They are extremely durable
Nearly all parts of the binoculars (except for glasses, of course) are made of aluminum and stiff plastic, so their durability must be unquestionable.
As the rubber coating is also slip-proof, there is no need to worry that it will fall off.
Weak points and notes
- A little over-sensitive focus knob
The focus knob is somewhat too smooth, so you need to adjust it carefully and slowly. Or else, it affects your focus dramatically. Perhaps it is not a too big issue, but many users find it inconvenient.
- Unusual troubles for non-glasses wearers
The manufacturer designed their eyecups too short for most people who do not wear glasses. Therefore, with the provided eyecups, you may have to hold the binoculars a bit farther away from your eyes to view things clearly.
Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 vs. Vortex Viper HD 8×42
To help you know better about the position of Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 binoculars in the 8×42 HD binoculars segment, we will compare it with the famous Vortex Viper HD 8×42.
| Factors | Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 | Vortex Viper HD 8×42 |
| CLARITY | 10 | 9 |
| BRIGHTNESS | 10 | 9 |
| EASE OF ADJUSTMENT | 9 | 9 |
| CONSTRUCTION QUALITY | 10 | 9.5 |
| COMFORT | 9 | 10 |
| CLOSE FOCUS RANGE | 8 | 8 |
| FIELD OF VIEW | 10 | 9 |
| BRAND & WARRANTY | 10 | 8 |
| PRICE | 7 | 8.5 |
From the specs chart, we can see that the Zeiss product generally has many stronger points over the Vortex Viper.
The Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 binoculars are more robust and support gripping better. As it is mostly made of aluminum and hard plastic, the item will be safe from damage by dropping or rust. Additionally, the rubber-reinforced handles serve to enhance your grip.
Meanwhile, at half of the Zeiss product’s price, the Vortex Viper HD reproduces less brilliant images, apart from the narrower field of view.
Zeiss is a reputable brand for quality and warranty at the high price tier, so, in this aspect, they win Vortex. All binoculars in the Zeiss Conquest HD product line come with a lifetime guarantee with their producer’s faults.
Plus, you can experience a 5-year no-fault policy from the company. It allows you to repair or replace the damaged items without any hassle or fee, even if it is your fault.
And although the price of Zeiss Conquest 8×42 is twice as much as that of Vortex Viper, they share many other features such as weatherproofing and the ease of adjustment.
Generally, we can say that if you are searching for low-budget 8×42 binoculars, the Vortex Viper HD 8×42 is a better choice. But when you have much money to spend and love premium-quality product, you should go for Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 binoculars.
Final words
To sum up, the Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42 binoculars are suitable for sports watchers, naturalists, hunters, adventurers in all kinds of weather, climate, and light conditions.
Nonetheless, products of Zeiss are always pricey, so if you are just a hobbyist or a normal user, we recommend that you should pick cheaper pairs of binoculars.
If you still have any further questions about Zeiss Conquest HD 8×42, let’s comment below this post.
Thanks for reading!