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Celestron are probably best known in astronomy circles and in particular for their telescopes, which they fist began producing in 1960. Since then they grown to become one of the world's leading makers of telescopes and giant binoculars used mostly for activities like stargazing, viewing planets and the moon etc. and now enjoy a dominant brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, innovative technology at a very competitive price.
Celestron are also well known for producing value for money instruments can get the beginner and/or young astronomer started for under $150 with products like their TrailSeeker binoculars and a dual-purpose telescope geared for terrestrial and celestial viewing, that produces bright and clear images.
In the past Celestron mainly focused on entry level binoculars, but recently they have started producing much higher quality binoculars and now I would say that their brand would stand for quality at an affordable price. Celestron have been able to bring their knowledge of telescope optics to the field of binoculars, where they have combined superior optics, modern design and technology to produce affordable binoculars and spotting scopes not only for astronomy but for most terrestrial uses as well.
One of Celestron's higher-specification ranges, the Granite binoculars has seriously impressed me (Read my full reviews of the 8x42 and the 9x33 Granites that both scored an outstanding 82%) - thanks to the use of high end ED glass and quality coatings on their prisms and lenses produce an excellent quality image, that has been wrapped up in a modern open hinge design magnesium body that not only looks good, but is light and very comfortable to hold.
One of Celestron's latest ranges, the mid-level SkyMaster Pro's are based on, but certainly also a step-up from the entry-level, but very popular "standard" SkyMaster series.
Designed with astronomy in mind, both models within the SkyMaster Pro series also make very capable instruments for long-range terrestrial observation and highlights include an aluminium chassis, that is both water and fogproof.
Celestron SkyMaster Pro Binoculars have a fully multi-coated optical pathway and use Porro prisms made from BaK-4 glass
Both models have a single centrally located focus wheel and right eye diopter adjustment. This is interesting and certainly benefits those wanting to also use the binocular during the day and focus on nearer objects as many astro binoculars employ an individual eyepiece focus mechanism and thus have a diopter adjuster on each eyepiece and no central focus wheel.
Celestron SkyMaster Pro binoculars are also tripod mountable and in the case of the 15x70 model comes a very good quality metal adapter that includes a RSR (Reflex Sight Ready) rail attached to the top of it, whilst the 20x80 SkyMaster Pro has a permanent tripod mounting bar fixed to it with the RSR rail and thus does not require an adapter.
Current Models:
Celestron currently offers the SkyMaster Pro in either a very large 20x80 configuration or a 15x70 model that can actually be used from the hands for shorter periods:
Price Range & Where to Buy:
These Mid Range Astronomy Binoculars offer a good level of performance at what is a very reasonable price, for example, the the 15x70 versions costs approximately $160 / £130 / €120, which I feel offers exceptional value for money:
The top of the range Celestron Granite roof prism binoculars come in 8x42, 10x42, 10x50, 12x50, 9x33 and 7x33 configurations and feature extra low-dispersion (ED) glass which reduces color dispersion and helps prevent prevents chromatic aberration and therefore is able to produce a superior image with minimal (or none) color fringing, improved sharpness and clarity with exceptional light transmission and remarkable color resolution and contrast.
The open frame design looks great, provides you with excellent grip even with one hand and is comfortable to handle whilst also helps to reduce weight. On top of this the body is made of magnesium which is much lighter and stronger than the more commonly used aluminum.
All models have been Nitrogen-purged (meaning their internal air has been replaced with dry nitrogen gas) and sealed, which makes the Granite both waterproof and fogproof.
Top quality optics and coatings have been used throughout and this includes: Fully Multi-Coated Optics and BaK-4 Prisms that have phase correction and the very best dielectric high reflectivity coatings on them.
What's also cool is that you a Binocular Harness comes free with these. Something that I have hardly ever seen any other brand offer before and think is really a great idea.
Most models have a wide field of view in relation to their power and the 8x42 Granite boasts one that is 426ft wide at 1,000 yards which combined with a stunning view and all the other quality features and components helped them scoop the Best Birding Binocular for 2012 award.
Sizes Available:
Price Range
Depending on the model you choose, this mid-high level Celestron Granite binoculars are available for around $350 / £390:
The older, non-ED version of the TrailSeeker (see below) is one of Celestron's real success stories, combining a high level of performance with an affordable price tag. This balancing act is certainly not easy and thus going one step further and improving on an already winning formula often does not work.
However, with the inclusion of high-quality ED glass, I think in this case Celestron has managed to pull it off with their newer TrailSeeker ED range.
As well as the addition of extra low-dispersion (ED) glass, this newer series has had quite a big updating terms of the exterior. The design is much more modern looking, uses metal eyepiece housings and the focus wheel is far more stylish and less generic than that which was used on the original TrailSeeker.
Otherwise, the optics are the same as the Granite series, with many high-end features that include Dielectric Coatings on the Phase Corrected roof prisms.
As with the non-ED version, one of the real stars in this series is the Celestron 8x42 Trailseeker ED that has managed to maintain the incredibly wide field of view (426ft @ 1000 yds) to match that of the 8x42 Granite.
Sizes Available:
The Celestron Trailseeker ED binoculars are only currently available in the two most popular configurations
Price Range
Depending on where you see them and at the time of writing, these ED TrailSeeker's will set you back about $285 / £285 / €300, whilst the addition of ED glass has meant that they are now more expensive than the non-ED version, it is still less than the Granite ED's:
Whilst the Trailseeker series sits under the headlining Granite's and cost substantially less, they share many of the same high quality materials and optical coatings.
A visually obvious difference however is that they have a more traditional looking single hinge body shape, but Celestron have still used high spec magnesium alloy for it's frame material, which is not often seen on bins at this lower price.
One of the real highlights is that the Celestron 8x42 Trailseeker also has the same incredibly wide field of view (426ft @ 1000) as that of the Granite.
As you would expect they are fog and waterproof, but once again unlike many of their direct competitors, these have metal (rather than plastic) twist-up eyecups, which is another good indicator of quality.
Celestron have Fully Multi-Coated their optics and their roof prisms are made from BaK-4 glass, once again this is good, but what you should expect to find. However what is very surprising at this level is the prisms have been both phase corrected and dielectric coated, which is superb.
Once more and as with the Granite's, Celestron also include the same good quality binocular harness along with a soft carry case, neck strap and full lifetime guarantee.
Sizes Available:
Celestron Trailseeker binoculars come in four configurations, covering both the popular mid and full size markets:
Price Range
These mid priced bins cost between $195 and $240 / £170 and £200, depending on the model you select:
One of the newest ranges to the Celestron line-up, the Nature DX binoculars sit just above their older standard Nature series (see below) but are still primarily aimed at the novice to intermediate user and priced to appeal to those on a fairly tight budget. What is impressive however is that they still manage to pack in a good amount of higher quality features and optical components that should provide a more than decent view and which should match or better most in this price range.
All six models in the series are of a roof prism design, using very good quality BaK-4 glass. The optics are fully multi-coated and protected in a fully sealed and waterproof Polycarbonate body that is filled with nitrogen gas to prevent fogging of the lenses.
Sizes Available:
Price Range
Depending on the model you choose, these Celestron Nature DX binoculars are available for around $90 - $150 / £100 - £145:
Aimed at the more price conscious observer, the Celestron Nature Series binoculars don't come with all of the high end features of the Granite's (see above) which is expected, but they do still feature some high quality components and coatings still result in a pretty good pair of optics and all at a great price (Take a look at my full Celestron 8x42 Nature Binoculars Review).
The Celestron Nature Series Binoculars is pretty diverse with three Porro Prism Designs and two Roof Prisms and like Celestron's top of the range Granites, all the Nature Series binoculars apart from the 8x30 Porro Prism model have an open frame design that looks great, is comfortable to hold and gives you an excellent grip even with one hand.
Aluminium is used for the body which is lightweight and tough yet not as expensive as magnesium ones used in the Granite's. All Nature Series binoculars have been Nitrogen-purged (meaning their internal air has been replaced with dry nitrogen gas) and sealed, which makes them both waterproof and fogproof.
Twist up eyecups provide easy adjustment for your eyes and god quality optics and coatings have been used throughout and this includes: Fully Multi-Coated Optics and BaK-4 Prisms.
Sizes Available:
Related Articles
Price Range
Depending on the model, Celestron Nature binoculars are available for around $65 - $100 / £65 - £100:
The Celestron SkyMaster Series of large aperture binoculars combine high performance with incredible value for money and make ideal astronomical binoculars as well as for terrestrial (land) use, especially when long distance observation is needed.
Every SkyMaster binocular features high quality BAK-4 prisms and multi-coated optics for enhanced contrast.
Celestron has also designed and engineered the larger SkyMaster models to meet the special demands of extended astronomical or terrestrial viewing sessions with maximum stability and secure optical alignment, the 80mm and 100mm SkyMaster models feature enhanced structural reinforcement to the main binocular body.
The Celestron 80 and 100mm SkyMaster binoculars also come with an integral super rigid photo tripod adapter to enable easy attachment to tripods and other fixing devices.
Sizes Available:
Price & Where to Buy
Depending on the model you choose Celestron SkyMaster binoculars are available from about $70 - $350 (£60 - £350)
The Echelon series is similar to that of the SkyMaster's above in that they are larger (giant binoculars) designed for long range glassing as well as for astronomy or for use in poorer light conditions. Where they differ however is in their quality: whilst the SkyMaster focuses on value for money, the Echelon aims to be the very best:
Celestron Echelon binoculars are hand made in the USA, using the quality optics from Japan. This ensures a very high build quality and optical performance that combines to produce a superb all round binocular. And no I have not just copied the marketing hype, it is the conclusion I came to when I tested and reviewed the 20x70 Echelon.
Currently there are three models (se below) all of which use porro prisms made from BAK-4 glass and the optics are fully multi coated using Celestron's own XLT coating.
Unlike cheaper bins, with polycarbonate bodies, the chassis on every Echelon is made from Aluminium. They are fully waterproof and fogproof as well as being tripod adaptable.
Sizes Available:
Prices & Where to Buy
At the time of writing, Celestron Echelon binoculars cost between $750 & $850 depending on the model, but for current prices and comparisons in your country, please take a look at the link below:
There are currently four models within the Cavalry range. All use BAK-4 porro prisms and come with fully multi-coated optics and are designed to be especially rugged to withstand the extreme elements.
Aimed at users like the military, police, security forces, boaters and hunters, these will perform well when the going gets tough.
One of the most interesting models within this range is the Celestron Cavalry 7x50 Binocular that despite it's low cost still comes with a with Digital GPS, Compass and bubble meter as well as a Rangefinding Reticle and is for my money one of the best value for money marine binoculars currently on the market and is also ideal for many security and search and rescue applications.
Available Configurations:
Prices & Where to Buy
This is a low to mid priced range and depending on which model you select, prices ranges from about $80 to $200 / £100 to £200. For latest prices and to compare between retailers in a number of countries, take a look at the link below:
Whilst the LandScout series currently contains only four models all of which are of a porro prism design, but with the range of magnifications and objective lens sizes Celestron have ensured that most users needs will be catered for.
Whilst all models are what I would describe as low costing, they do seem to have the most important bases covered and an aspect that I do like is that they all come with Twist-up eyecups, which at this price level is most not usually the case on a porro prism bin.
Main Features
Current Configurations:
Prices & Where to Buy
The LandScout's are low costing binoculars, ranging in price from prices ranges from about $80 to $120 / £80 to £120. Follow the link below to check the current prices and compare between online retailers in a number of countries:
The Cometron series consists of a couple of very low costing astronomy binoculars.
Obviously at such a low price point (see where to buy below), you cannot expect to find the same level of components and coatings as that of Celestron's higher end astronomy binoculars like the Echelon and Skymaster's.
However as they use porro prisms, these don't require the expensive reflective coatings as roof prism binoculars and as such the quality is better than would you would typically find at this level and make a good low cost instrument for the young astronomer, those new to the hobby or in the case of the 7x50 Cometron, someone looking for a backup to use alongside their giant high powered astro binoculars or telescope.
Main Features
Current Configurations:
Related Articles:
Prices & Where to Buy
A much cheaper alternative to the high end Echelon range and less expensive than the Skymaster series, these will set you back around $35 to $90 / £45 to £60. To compare the latest prices in your country, follow the link below:
Celestron Binocular Harness StrapThese binocular suspenders from Celestron are both simple and uncomplicated, yet they do what they are designed to do and they do it very well. The Celestron Binocular Harness strap is an inexpensive option for those wanting to both free up their hands and take the weight off their shoulders when not actually glassing.
More Information: Read my in-depth and hands-on review of the Celestron Binocular Harness Strap which includes photos, fitting instructions, my experience after using them and where to buy.
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Below are links to a few of the full and in-depth reviews I have written on Celestron products: (View All Celestron Binoculars I have Reviewed)
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The 7x50 configuration, tough body designed to withstand the elements as well as it's bright image, wide field of view and of course the rangefinding reticle, digital GPS and compass mark these Celestron binoculars out as the ideal companion for boaters, security and military personnel as well as hunters and especially those involved in search and rescue operations.
Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Aimed at the more price conscious user, but who still want a high quality instrument, the Celestron Trailseeker binoculars come with an impressive array of features. A fully sealed Magnesium alloy body, with metal twist-up eye-cups protect high quality and fully multi-coated optics that include phase and dielectric coated BaK-4 prisms to offer a performance that easily surpasses their price tag and thus almost all of their direct competition. Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Low cost mid-sized binoculars that punch well above their price tag. The 10x32 Celestron Trailseeker binocular incorporates many high end features found on far more expensive products including a magnesium alloy chassis, fully multi-coated optics with phase corrected, dielectric coated BaK-4 roof prisms. Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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High quality, yet affordable binoculars that feature a very wide field of view, a lightweight yet tough water and fog proof open hinge design body. Excellent quality optics that includes the use of ED glass and phase correction coatings on the Bak-4 roof prisms. Price: (4/6) Mid-High Value Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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From the fully multi-coated optical pathway and the waterproof, nitrogen-purged chassis, to the included all-metal tripod adapter and the side-shield eyecups, there is no doubt that these Celestron SkyMaster Pro binoculars are far superior to most mid level astronomy and long distance viewing binoculars and whilst they are somewhat more expensive than the standard Celestron SkyMaster's, I do feel that they offer excellent value for money and that the improvements they have made are well worth it.
Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Priced to appeal to those on a fairly tight budget, yet they they still manage to pack in a good amount of higher specification components and features which include very good quality BaK-4 glass and fully multi-coated optics which are protected in a fully sealed and waterproof Polycarbonate body that is filled with nitrogen gas to prevent fogging of the lenses.
The result is a tough, well priced binocular that produces a more than decent view which is as good as or better than most in this price range. Price: (2/6) Low Cost Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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These low cost 50mm porro prism Celestron binoculars possess many components & features that are better than I would expect to see at this price point: This includes an aluminium housing that is fully fog & waterproof, twist-up eye cups, BaK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated optics. These all combine well to deliver a great value for money large aperture instrument that performs well in all weather conditions, but which excels in low light when compared to others in it's class. Price: (2/6) Low Cost Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Top of the line mid-sized binoculars from Celestron with that feature a lightweight open bridge magnesium body that protects high end optical components. These include fully multi-coated lenses, with ED glass elements and Bak-4 roof prisms with phase correction and very highly reflective dielectric mirror coatings that really do help produce a superior view.
Price: (4/6) Mid-High Value Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Related Celestron ArticlesThe Celestron Powerseeker Telescope
Whist the Celestron PowerSeeker telescopes open up the universe with high performance, enhanced brightness, and clarity from lenses that can triple viewing power.
Celestron SkyScout
One of their top innovations is the Celestron SkyScout, a handheld device that uses GPS technology with the convenience of point and click to identify thousands of stars, planets, constellations and more. All you have to do is Simply point the SkyScout at any star in the sky and click the "target" button. The SkyScout will tell you what object you are looking at.
Celestron are a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities in Torrance, California and have received numerous industry as well as consumer media accolades, due to their innovative products. These awards include product innovation from Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and the Reader's Digest.
They are also designers, manufacturers and importers of other high-quality optical products, including binoculars, spotting scopes, and microscopes in addition to their computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories. A Celestron spotting scope optimizes observation with magnification of 20x-60x, ergonomic features, variable zoom, and tripod options.
No-Fault Warranty on ALL Celestron Binoculars
Depending on the product, Celestron offer either a 2 year or a very comprehensive No fault Lifetime Warranty on their entire range of binoculars.
Most optical companies only offer such a comprehensive warranty on their top of the range binoculars, but the fact that Celestron have the same warranty for their entire range goes to show how much confidence they have in their products.
So what does this No fault Lifetime Warranty actually mean?
What it means is that regardless of how the binocular may have been damaged or rendered unusable (fully or partially), Celestron will repair or replace the product without any questions asked (there are a few restrictions) - This is Impressive
NOTE: This warranty is valid to U.S.A. and Canadian customers who have purchased this product from an Authorized Celestron Dealer in the U.S.A. or Canada. Warranty outside the U.S.A. and Canada is valid only to customers purchased from a Celestron Distributor or Authorized Celestron Dealer in the specific country and please contact them for any warranty service.
If you have questions about your Celestron product you can get hold of their Technical/Customer Support Department:
Telephone: 310-803-5955
Address:
Celestron, LLC.
2835 Columbia St
Torrance, CA 90503
USA
Price & Where to Buy
Price & Where to Buy
