The annual Cyber Monday rush is here, and with it, a flood of binocular deals. But not all discounts are created equal. Many “sales” are misleading, with prices artificially inflated before the discount to make the offer seem more appealing. This article breaks down seven deals worth considering and seven to skip, helping you avoid overpaying for subpar optics.
The Truth About Cyber Monday Discounts
Many retailers hike prices in the weeks leading up to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, then apply a discount to create the illusion of a better deal. These fake discounts aren’t new: they’re a standard tactic used to drive sales. If you haven’t already decided on a pair of binoculars, resist the pressure to buy now; real savings will come again.
7 Binocular Deals Worth Buying Now
These binoculars represent genuine value and discounts:
- Occer 12×25: Currently $19.57 at Amazon (50% off from $38.99). These compact binoculars are ideal for casual use like dog walks or camping. They won’t win awards, but they’re functional and portable.
- Celestron Nature DX 12×56: Selling for $212.49 at Amazon (down from $289.95). A solid choice for stargazing or wildlife observation, offering good magnification and light-gathering ability.
- Celestron Nature DX ED 8×42: Available for $166.19 at Amazon (28% off from $229.95). The ED glass minimizes chromatic aberration, making these binoculars excellent for birdwatching.
- Celestron SkyMaster Pro 15×70: Now $194.97 at Amazon (25% off from $259.95). These are well-suited for lunar viewing, thanks to their high magnification and large objective lenses.
- Celestron SkyMaster 25×100: Listed for $379.99 at Amazon (27% off from $519.95). These offer detailed night-sky views, but require a tripod due to their high magnification.
- Celestron SkyMaster Pro 20×80: Selling for $289 at Amazon (17% off from $349.95). Another good option for stargazing, though a tripod is recommended to stabilize the 20x magnification.
- Canon 10x42L IS WP: Available for $1,239.95 at Newegg (over $300 off from $1,559). These image-stabilized binoculars provide excellent quality, especially for those seeking premium performance.
7 Deals That Aren’t Worth the Hype
These “deals” are either inflated or represent low-quality products:
- Nikon Monarch HG 10x42mm: Listed for $996.95 at Amazon, but the price was artificially increased in October. This isn’t a genuine discount.
- Bushnell H20 10×42: Marked down to $63.41 at Amazon, but these binoculars have never sold for the claimed original price of $119.99.
- Celestron Outland X 10×50: On sale for $102.58 at Amazon, but one expert reviewer called them “utterly rubbish.”
- Celestron Regal 10×42: Discounted to $304.95 at Amazon, but the typical retail price ranges from $280 to $340.
- Celestron Nature DX 8×42 (non-ED): Selling for $159.99 at Amazon, but this is only marginally better than prices seen throughout the year.
- Flyant 20×50: Listed for $27.33 at Google Shopping, but the quality is questionable, and the 20x magnification is likely overstated.
- Ultimate Optics 12×50: Marked down to $129.99 at Amazon, but this brand is new to the market, and more reviews are needed before making a purchase.
The Bottom Line
Don’t fall for misleading Cyber Monday hype. If you weren’t planning to buy binoculars, wait for better deals later in the year. There will be more sales — Boxing Day, Amazon Prime Day, and more. Take your time, research thoroughly, and choose the best pair for your needs, even if it means spending a little extra.
