Navigating Choices: A Comprehensive Comparison of Swarovski NL Pure 8x42 and 8x32 Binoculars

8x32 (Burnt Orange) vs 8x42 (Green)

Introduction:

Join me on this exploration as we delve into the world of Swarovski optics, specifically focusing on the NL Pure 8x42 and 8x32 binoculars. While personal preferences play a crucial role, the performance of these binoculars varies based on factors such as size, weight and low-light performance.

It's important to mention that Swarovski, known for providing top-tier optical solutions, has earned my endorsement through years of experimenting with different optics. I'd like to clarify that I am not sponsored by Swarovski, and both binoculars were purchased with my own funds for this review.

Now that we've covered that, let's delve into the details of these binoculars and determine which 8-power NL Pure model aligns with your needs!

Binocular Specifications:

For our comparison, I've selected the NL Pure 8x42 and pitted it against the NL Pure 8x32. These models cater to different preferences, with the 8x42 excelling in low-light conditions, while the 8x32 offers a more compact and portable alternative.

Pricing:

Firstly, let’s talk about pricing. The 42mm NL Pure binoculars come with a price tag of $3,449.00, reflecting their advanced features. In contrast, the 32mm NL Pure’s are more budget-friendly at $2,899.00, providing an attractive option for those conscious of their budget.

Physical Characteristics:

Now, let’s delve into the physical characteristics of each binocular:

NL Pure 8x42:

•  Length: 6.2 in

•  Width: 5.1 in

•  Height: 2.8 in

•  Weight: 29.5 oz

8x32 (Burnt Orange) side by side with 8x42 NL Pure binoculars.

NL Pure 8x32:

•  Length: 5.7 in

•  Width: 5.1 in

•  Height: 2.6 in

•  Weight: 22.8 oz

While both binoculars share the same width, the 8x32 is 8 percent shorter in length, 7 percent shorter in height, and 23 percent lighter than its 42mm counterpart. This distinction provides users with a trade-off between low-light performance and portability, allowing them to align their choice with their specific needs.

Optical Characteristics:

Both models feature 8x magnification, but the NL Pure 8x42 sports a 42mm objective lens diameter, while the NL Pure 8x32 comes in with a 32mm objective lens diameter. The 8x42 also boasts a larger exit pupil diameter of 5.3mm compared to the 8x32's 4mm exit pupil. Additionally, the field of view for the 8x42 is 477 ft/1000 yds, 9.1°, and for the 8x32, it's 450 ft/1000 yds, 8.5°. Thus, the 42mm objective provides 27 more feet of edge-to-edge clarity at 1000 yards.

Low Light Performance:

In low-light conditions, the larger lenses of the NL Pure 8x42 binoculars provide a brighter, better-quality view compared to the NL Pure 8x32. For overall low light performance, the exit pupil size is crucial, and more light is delivered to the eyes with the 8x42's larger exit pupil (5.3mm). The Twilight Factor, as per ISO 14132-1, is 18.3 for the 8x42 and 16.0 for the 8x32, indicating slightly better low-light performance overall for the former.

Twilight Factor and Low-Light Performance:

If you didn’t already know this, the Twilight Factor is a theoretical calculation obtained by multiplying the lens diameter by the magnification and taking the square root of the result. While a higher Twilight Factor suggests better detail visibility in low light, it's essential to note that a correspondingly large exit pupil is crucial for effective low-light use. Ideally, the exit pupil should be at least as large as the user's pupil. Binoculars with an exit pupil smaller than 4mm are unsuitable for low-light conditions, even if the Twilight Factor is high.

Optical Coatings and Light Transmission:

Both models feature Swarovski's renowned color fidelity, achieved through advanced optics coatings such as SWAROBRIGHT, SWAROTOP, and SWARODUR. These coatings contribute to a superior viewing experience by optimizing color fidelity, contrast, and resolution. While the NL Pure 8x32 has a slightly higher light transmission at 92% compared to the 91% of the 8x42, it's essential to note that light transmission is not the sole factor affecting image brightness and clarity. Other factors, such as magnification, field of view, and eye relief, also contribute to the overall image quality. Therefore, the 8x42 NL Pure binoculars offer brighter and clearer images due to factors like field of view, objective size, and eye relief.

Conclusion:

In my opinion, the NL Pure 8x42's larger objective lens diameter leads to sharper images and improved resolution, making it ideal for detailed observation in lower light conditions. As a hunter and observer of wildlife, I prefer the 8x42’s for their better performance during low light conditions and for its wider field of view.

With that being said, the NL Pure 8x32 binocular, despite a smaller objective lens, does still maintain excellent sharpness, that is suitable for users prioritizing portability without compromising clarity. I have tested both binoculars out in the field extensively and under normal lighting conditions you will not notice a difference between the two binoculars.

In my opinion, young adults with larger pupil sizes may perceive brighter images in low light conditions with both models. However, older individuals with potentially smaller pupils may find NL Pure 8x42 more beneficial, thanks to a larger overall exit pupil.

For me, the Swarovski NL Pure 8x42 and NL Pure 8x32 binoculars stand out as exceptional optical instruments, each catering to specific preferences and use cases. Whether choosing the 8x42 for enhanced low-light performance or the 8x32 for compact portability, you can expect a reliable and top-tier optical solution from Swarovski. The decision ultimately hinges on individual priorities, considering factors like size, weight, and specific use scenarios. If you are a hunter or nature observer who spends time during dawn and dusk observing wildlife then you will probably want to use the 8x42s. In contrast, if you are a birder or hiker wanting to observe wildlife during the day, but still want portability without sacrificing quality, then I would opt for the 8x32 binoculars.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, and now that we have gone over the major differences between these two 8 power binoculars, you should be able to make an educated decision and purchase that you will enjoy for many years to come. Thanks again for reading this article and I hope it helped broaden your understanding of optics and the specific characteristics that set them apart from each other and remember, “buy once cry once!”