Want to upgrade your binoculars option but stuck with choosing the right one that fulfills all your requirements but simultaneously doesn’t break your bank? Don’t worry because we are here to debrief you about Vortex Diamondback vs Viper, two sturdy binoculars offered by Vortex.
Vortex Optics is an American brand based in Middleton, Wisconsin, that has been in this business for over two decades. They specialize in several optical gadgets, from precise and sturdy riflescopes to red dots but are best known for their binoculars. By introducing nine different binocular lines in the market, Vortex has proved that it kept every consumer’s needs in its view.
Whether an adult or a child, a hunter or a nature lover, an amateur or a pro, whatever category you belong to, Vortex optics has something in its bag for you. Now I won’t keep you waiting for long and jump straight to our main topic, Vortex Viper vs Diamondback.
Contents
- 1 Key Takeaways
- 2 Vortex Diamondback vs Viper Binoculars, Which is Better?
- 3 Rundown of Vortex Diamondback Binoculars
- 4 Rundown of Vortex Viper Binoculars
- 5 Similarities Between Vortex Diamondback And Viper Binoculars
- 6 Battle Of Vortex Diamondback vs Viper Binoculars
- 7 Quick Summary
- 8 Vortex Diamondback vs Viper, Final Verdict
- 9 FAQs
Key Takeaways
- Diamondback excels in affordability without compromising performance, while Viper offers advanced features for a higher price.
- Viper boasts superior optical quality and build, making it ideal for enthusiasts, whereas Diamondback provides excellent value for budget-conscious users.
- Consider your budget and specific needs – Diamondback for a balanced choice, Viper for premium features and performance.
- In the Vortex Diamondback vs Viper debate, striking the right balance between cost and capabilities is crucial for choosing the perfect binoculars
Vortex Diamondback vs Viper Binoculars, Which is Better?
Undoubtedly, both units are robust, sturdy, and durable and can prove to be an acquaintance of yours in your next outdoor pursuit. But at this point, you would be asking yourself, “Are there any major specs that distinguish these two binoculars?”, “Are Viper binoculars worth the price,” “Do the features of Diamondback justify their price tag”? To answer these and other queries, we will look in every nook and cranny and leave no stone unturned to give you an unbiased comparison of Vortex Diamondback vs Viper.
But before that, let’s take a quick rundown on Vortex Diamondback and Viper’s features that make them stand out from the crowd.
Rundown of Vortex Diamondback Binoculars
The company has relaunched the Diamondback binoculars with an upgrade to the original Diamondbacks. The new models come with an HD tag, providing crisper and ultra-sharp imaging with edge-to-edge clarity. Another major upgrade is that Vortex has replaced nitrogen with argon purging, increasing its durability. Fully multi-coated lenses and phase-corrected Roof prisms add to the clarity and sharpness of the view while, at the same time, being responsible for providing aberration-free imaging.
Many binoculars of the Diamondback series come with IPD, enabling you to align your interpupillary distance with the binoculars and have adjustable eyecups that can be twisted up or down according to your comfort. With Vortex Diamondback binoculars in hand, you need not worry about drizzle or bad weather because they are waterproof, fog-proof, and scratch-resistant, making them durable.
This compact product comes with good quality rubber armoring that provides a non-slip grip and makes it shock-resistant. So whether you are going hiking on those magnanimous mountains or want to go hunting in those lush green meadows, Vortex Diamondback Binoculars would be an excellent option to take along with you.
Pros and Cons of Vortex Diamondback Binoculars
Rundown of Vortex Viper Binoculars
Vortex Viper HD series presents relatively pro-level, high-end binoculars. And oh, boy! They are premium pairs of binoculars that are a perfect fit for you. While talking about their construction and assembly, they come with extra-low dispersion (ED) glass and XR™ Fully Multi-Coated lenses that guarantee the absence of color fringing and ensure a view with good contrast and saturation in many lighting conditions, making it one of the best low light binoculars. Thus, they can be an excellent choice from sunrise to sundown. Moreover, the phase correction on prisms improves contrast and resolution. They also offer a wide field of view that lets you quickly spot whatever you are looking for.
The unit comes with adjustable eyecups that can be tuned for a comfortable view with or without glasses. Furthermore, being argon-purged and O-ring sealed, they are waterproof, fog-proof, and dust-free to withstand extreme weather conditions. Rugged rubber armoring adds to the durability of this model and makes it anti-skid and shock-resistant. So, Vortex Viper binoculars provide impressive specs that will leave you in awe.
Pros and Cons Of Vortex Viper Binoculars
Similarities Between Vortex Diamondback And Viper Binoculars
Before we jump straight into the combat of Vortex Diamondback vs Viper, let’s see some features that both have in common.
- Both come with an HD optical system.
- These binoculars come with adjustable eyecups that can be twisted up or down according to your comfort.
- Both Viper and Diamondback series offer binoculars equipped with phase-corrected Roof prisms that are more sleek, small, lightweight, and a bit more expensive than the Porro prisms. The phase-corrected roof prisms add to the optical quality by increasing the contrast and resolution of the images.
- Moreover, these binoculars’ prisms come with a dielectric coating that enhances the view’s clarity and brightness with accurate color reproduction.
- Both of them have a central focusing knob that can adjust both tubes at the same time.
- The Viper and Diamondback binoculars have O-ring seals that prolong the units’ lives by protecting the binoculars’ interior from dust, oil, and scratches.
- Both Vortex Viper and Diamondback binoculars are sturdy, robust, and durable.
- Vortex Viper and Diamondback are tripod adaptable, so you can easily mount them on a tripod for an enjoyable viewing experience without becoming tired.
- Both units are covered by a VIP warranty, which means that in the unlikely event that your binoculars are damaged or malfunctioning, Vortex will repair or, in some cases, even replace them without charging you even a penny.
Battle Of Vortex Diamondback vs Viper Binoculars
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room and have a discourse on Vortex Viper vs Diamondback, and for that, we are going to compare the two units based on six parameters:
- Versatility
- Optical Performance
- Durability
- Price
- Size and weight
- Design
Let’s board this train that will take you on a fantastic journey to find all the specs these units bring to the table.
Versatility
Better Option: Vortex Diamondback Binoculars Owing To an Extensive Line
Vortex Optics has introduced nine different options ranging from compact to full sizes in their Diamondback line, making it one of the most extensive series the manufacturers presented. Vortex Diamondback binoculars are available in 8X28, 10X28, 8X32, 10X32, 8X42, 10X42, 10X50, 12X50, and 15X56. Thus, they provide you with more diversified options, from compact to full-size, so you have a wide variety to choose from.
Meanwhile, four different size options are available in the Vortex Viper series to date. All of them are full-size options and are available in 8X42, 10X42, 10X50, and 12X50. Thus, the Viper series has limited options and doesn’t offer any small-size binocular options.
To make this comparison simpler and easy to understand for you, today, we are pitting Vortex Viper vs Diamondback binoculars based on their most popular units, 10X42.
Optical Performance
What’s the advantage of using a pair of binoculars that can’t even provide you with a good viewing experience? Or, more precisely, “Why did we get a pair of binoculars in the first place?” We get them to get the most out of the view and enhance the beauty of the action taking place at a distance.
Therefore the binoculars should have a splendid performance to provide excellent imaging. We will first look at different specifications that add to the binoculars’ performance, like lens coatings, low light performance, the field of view, eye relief, and close focus to get the complete essence of combat between the Vortex Diamondback vs Viper series.
Lens Coatings
Better Option: Viper Binoculars
Both binoculars have fully multi-coated lenses with several coatings with different refractive indices. Therefore they brighten the view and make the lens anti-reflective, minimizing the amount of reflected light to its lowest and ensuring impressive low-light performance.
But wait, in the Viper vs Diamondback, the Viper ones have a slight advantage as they have XR™ Fully Multi-Coated lenses. It means that there are proprietary Vortex multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass which considerably increase light transmission and add to the brightness of the view.
Low-Light Performance
Better Option: Viper Binoculars
How many of you would opt for a pair of binoculars that would give you a splendid view in broad daylight but a meager or poor viewing experience in low light? No one, Right? We all want a pair of binoculars that provide bright and sharp imaging from dusk to dawn. So low light performance is something we will consider while comparing Vortex Diamondback vs Viper.
The Viper series has a slight edge over their Diamondback counterparts, which undoubtedly provide decent imaging. But that’s the thing about comparison: we still have to choose better out of the best competing options. The Vortex Viper binoculars come equipped with Extra-low dispersion (ED) glass, which ensures the absence of color fringing or purple fringing, and ED glass is something Diamondbacks lack.
Moreover, the low-light-conquering XR anti-reflective coatings enable the Viper series to deliver brighter, crisper, and more explicit images with a stunning resolution, even in low light.
Field of View
Better Option: Viper Binoculars
The field of view is the width of the view you can see with your pair of binoculars without moving your head. A wide field of view (FOV) is recommended to get the whole essence of the match without worrying about missing any crucial moment.
Here the Viper series outweighs the equivalent varieties of Diamondback binoculars. For instance, Viper 10X42 binoculars provide a field of view of 341 feet at 1000 yards, while Diamondback 10X42 binoculars offer a field of view of 330 feet at 1000 yards.
Eye Relief
Better Option: Viper Binoculars
Eye relief is the optimum distance between your eyes and the eyepiece of the binoculars. If your eyes are within this distance, you can have a full view without any constraints. It plays a vital role in the case of eyeglass wearers.
Here Vortex Diamondback binoculars are at a competitive disadvantage as the Viper series offers longer eye relief. As in the case of Vortex Diamondback vs Viper 10X42 binoculars, the preceding one provides an eye relief of 15 mm while the succeeding one provides 17 mm eye relief.
Close Focus
Better Option: Viper Binoculars
Close focus is the closest distance a pair of binoculars can focus on expertly. Thus, the shorter the close focus will be, the more you can focus on the details that the naked eye otherwise can’t fully capture, like observing butterflies or insects on plants. And your boy, Viper binoculars, has a competitive advantage over Diamondback binoculars as all their models have a close focus greater than 5 feet. If we compare the Viper 10X42 with Diamondback 10X42 binoculars, the former has a close focus of 6 feet while the latter has a close focus of 5 feet.
Size And Weight
Better Option: Diamondback Binoculars
The size and weight of binoculars play a significant role as there is a lot of demand for compact and lightweight options that can easily be used when camping, hiking, biking, or hunting. So that’s another parameter we will compare Vortex Diamondback vs Viper.
All of the binoculars offered by the Viper line are full-size binoculars, and they weigh a bit more than their Diamondback counterparts. Viper 10X42 binoculars weigh 24.9 oz, while Diamondback 10X42 weigh about 21.3 oz. Thus based on being more compact and lighter in weight, the Diamondback series has a slight edge over the Viper series.
Durability
What’s the point of buying a pair of binoculars that can’t even survive a few falls or can’t handle a drizzle or rain? So durability is a feature we will keep in view while comparing Vortex Diamondback vs Viper.
Weather Resistance
An optical gadget should be waterproof and fog-proof so that its internal assembly can work correctly even if the binoculars come in contact with water by mistake. Both the Vortex Diamondback and Viper binoculars fulfill these demands. The only difference is that the Viper series always came with argon purging, which is the superior type of gas purging.
In contrast to the Diamondback, the original Diamondback binoculars came with nitrogen purging. Still, the new HD models come with Argon purging, making them waterproof and preventing internal fogging at various temperatures. Thus, this round ends up in a draw.
Chassis Material
Better Option: Viper Binoculars
When talking about durability, chassis material is the thing that differentiates the Viper and Diamondback series. In Diamondback models, magnesium is used in barrel formation due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, as it is lightweight but at the same time firm and robust. The binoculars with magnesium chassis make a great companion when you have to carry them for extended periods.
On the other hand, the framework of Vortex Viper binoculars is made of Polycarbonate, which ensures that it can easily absorb shock and can forbear temperature changes, thus negating any effect like expansion or contraction on alteration of temperature.
So no doubt, the magnesium chassis make the Diamondbacks lighter in weight, but the Polycarbonate chassis has better shock-absorbing properties, thus, making Viper binoculars more durable.
Design
Better Option: Viper Binoculars
After the latest upgrade, the Vortex Diamondback binoculars also come equipped with Armortech, a specification previously owned by the Viper series. The rubber armor adds an extra layer of protection that makes them shock-resistant and ensures they can survive a few falls. Both of the units are ergonomically designed for a more comfortable, firm, and secure grip, but for this particular parameter, Viper outshines the Diamondbacks.
Price
Better Option: Diamondback Binoculars
We are pitting Vortex Diamondback vs Viper for you. So when it comes to price, every one of us wants a pair of binoculars that provide an excellent viewing experience without ruining our pocket. Vortex Diamondback binoculars do that for you.
They care about your budget and won’t lighten your wallet. They are priced somewhat $250 to $300 less than their Viper counterparts. The Diamondback binoculars provide better bang for your buck, so if you are an outdoor enthusiast who wants a reasonably priced option for your next outdoor pursuit, you should surely opt for Diamondback binoculars.
Accessories
Vortex Diamondback and Viper binoculars are both an all-in-one package for you as these sturdy and splendid binoculars come with accessories so that you don’t have to spend separately on buying these.
They come with objective lens covers, a Rainguard eyepiece cover for the protection of your lens, and a comfortable neck strap that ensures that you can carry the unit for an extended time without worrying about neck strain. Vortex Diamondback binoculars have a custom-molded carrying case, while Vortex Viper binoculars come with a GlassPak case harness that makes the unit much more portable.
Quick Summary
Below, we have provided a quick summary of which binoculars have won in our Vortex Viper vs Diamondback combat in different categories.
- Versatility: Vortex Diamondback binoculars
- Optical Performance: Vortex Viper binoculars
- Durability: Vortex Viper binoculars
- Price: Vortex Diamondback binoculars
- Size: Vortex Diamondback binoculars
- Design: Vortex Viper binoculars
All in all, both the units have their perks and bring splendid features to the table, but which option you should opt for depends entirely on your preference. Both are versatile and multi-purpose binoculars that everyone can use, no matter if you love nature sightseeing, birdwatching, hiking, biking, or hunting. Viper binoculars have an edge based on performance, durability, and design, while Diamondback binoculars are lighter and won’t break the bank.
Vortex Diamondback vs Viper, Final Verdict
That was a cut-throat competition of Vortex Diamondback vs Viper binoculars, and we have reached the point where we have to give a final verdict based on all the specs and features both of these units have. Both binoculars provide an optical system with a wide array of features that are sure to please. After putting every puzzle piece in its place, we conclude that the decent and contemporary optical performance Vortex Diamondback HD binoculars provide in their compact, lightweight, and less-pricey options make them an overall good choice for every outdoor enthusiast.
There is no doubt that Vortex Viper HD binoculars offer superior optical performance, which gives them a slight edge over their Diamondback equivalents. Still, these specs come with a hefty price tag. But if the price isn’t a problem for you and you can’t endure even a bit of a bump in performance, you should go for the Viper series.
Happy birdwatching!
FAQs
Q. What is The Difference Between Vortex Diamondback And Viper?
Ans: No doubt that the Viper series is more expensive than the Diamondback series but they have an edge over their Diamondback counterparts based on their optical performance. The Vortex viper binoculars come equipped with Extra-low dispersion (ED) glass, which ensures the absence of color fringing or purple fringing, and ED glass is something diamondbacks lack. The low-light-conquering XR anti-reflective coatings enable the Viper series to deliver brighter, crisper, and more explicit images with a stunning resolution even in low light.
Q. Is Vortex Viper Better Than Diamondback?
Ans: Vortex Viper HD binoculars offer superior optical performance, which gives them an edge over their Diamondback equivalents, but these specs come along with a large price tag. But if the price isn’t a problem for you and you can’t endure even a bit of a bump when it comes to performance, you should go for the Viper series.
Q. Are Vortex Vipers worth the money?
Ans: The worth of Vortex Vipers depends on individual preferences, needs, and budget considerations. Vortex Vipers are generally well-regarded for their quality and features, making them a good investment for those seeking high-performance optics in their respective price range.
Q. Is Vortex Viper better than Strike Eagle?
Ans: The comparison between the Vortex Viper and Strike Eagle depends on specific needs. The Vortex Viper is known for its superior optics and image quality, making it suitable for precision shooting, while the Strike Eagle offers a versatile 1-6x zoom range, making it ideal for quick target acquisition in dynamic scenarios. Ultimately, the choice depends on the intended use and preferences of the user.
Q. Which is better Vortex Diamondback or Crossfire?
Ans: The choice between Vortex Diamondback and Crossfire depends on specific preferences and needs. The Diamondback series generally offers higher optical quality and additional features, making it suitable for more demanding users, while the Crossfire series provides a cost-effective option with solid performance for casual users.