The magnification power of a 12×50 is 12 times magnification (12 times larger than normal unaided vision). So the “zoom difference” would be an increase of 20% in the magnification from a 10×42 to a 12×50. The magnification power of a 12×50 is 12 times magnification (12 times larger than normal unaided vision).

A hand-lens, for example, might be labeled with 10x, meaning the lens magnifies the object to look ten times larger than the actual size. Compound microscopes use two or more lenses to magnify the specimen. The standard school microscope combines two lenses, the ocular and one objective lens, to magnify the object.

10X

Optical Differences More light means more information and thus if all else is equal, there is the potential for brighter, better quality views through 10×50 binoculars versus 10×42 binoculars. However just being able to capture more light does not automatically make for a brighter, better quality view.

As you might have become aware, the answer is not exact. It can see anything your eye can see, just 10x bigger or closer. Your eye can see a ship sail over the horizon at around 12 miles. So, your binoculars can also see 12 miles and will see the ship 10x larger, but that might not help you discern very much.

This binocular is very good for light duty observing, as long as you use it in daytime and don’t use it under severe weather conditions, you will be totally fine and satisfied with its performance. The vision is clear, the power is enough for long distance, you can see a pigeon’s eye at 200 yards.

7×50 binoculars will give you an exit pupil of 7mm, which is the largest you want to use. 10×50 binoculars have a 5mm exit pupil, which is even better. If you are over 40 years old, your maximum dilated pupil size at night will probably be closer to 5mm.

10X50 binoculars are better when you have to carry them around or keep them in your hands for long periods. On the other hand, 12X50 binoculars are suitable for dim light conditions, and they allow you to see further distant objects. 10X50 binoculars are better suited for traveling and outdoors.

For most situations, users should look for binoculars from 7x to 10x power. Theatergoers should choose something in the range of 3-5x, depending on your seats; sports fans will be happy with a 7x model; while big-game hunters would need 10x or higher for long-range observations.

Since eyeglasses hold binoculars away from the eyes and let in peripheral light anyway, retract the eyecups if you do wear glasses. Next, set the barrels of the binoculars to match the distance between your eyes. Looking through them, adjust the barrels until you have a solid image through both eyes.

30 to 160x