Head-to-head · Best Binoculars

Athlon Optics Midas ED vs Nikon Monarch M7 10x42

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Athlon Optics Midas ED comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.4 vs 4.2). The gap is mostly about budget-conscious birders wanting premium CA control — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Binoculars

Athlon Optics Midas ED

4.4

The Athlon Optics Midas UHD 8x42 binoculars offer exceptional value for under $300, with reviewers praising their superior chromatic aberration control and lightweight magnesium construction. BirdForum users noted the binoculars outperform competitors like the Nikon M7 in glare reduction and CA control, while also having a compact, ergonomic design that won a Red Dot Award in 2016. The smooth focus wheel and well-designed eye cups enhance usability, though some reviewers noted a slightly smaller field of view compared to higher-end models. These binoculars are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and birders seeking premium performance without premium pricing.

Strengths

— Excellent CA correction performance, controlling chromatic aberration better than most binoculars in its price range
— Lightweight at 25 oz with a compact design suitable for outdoor sports and birding
— All-magnesium frame for strength and light weight

Watch-outs

— Slightly smaller field of view compared to some competitors like the Nikon M7 8x42
— Not the largest eye relief at 17.2mm

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Ranked #2 in Best Binoculars

Nikon Monarch M7 10x42

4.2

$472.1as of Jul 6

The Nikon Monarch M7 10x42 delivers exceptional optical quality with ED glass and advanced coatings that minimize distortion and chromatic aberration. Reviewers praised its clarity, ease of adjustment, and comfort for extended use, particularly for glasses wearers. While it offers bright, color-accurate views and excellent close focus, some reviewers noted average field of view performance and minor CA issues at the edges of the field. This binocular is ideal for general-purpose use including hiking, birding, and astronomy, though those seeking maximum optical performance might consider premium brands like Zeiss or Swarovski.

Strengths

— Excellent clarity and color accuracy with ED glass and high-reflective multilayer prism coating
— Great close-focus range and easy adjustments
— Lightweight design at 25.5 ounces with balanced weight distribution

Watch-outs

— Average field of view compared to premium models
— Chromatic aberration can be noticeable on high-contrast edges, especially farther from center of field of view

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How they stack up

Athlon Optics Midas ED

The Athlon Optics Midas ED excels in chromatic aberration correction and is more compact than the Nikon M7 10x42, but it doesn't match the Zeiss Victory SF's wide field of view or the Vortex Viper HD's low light fall-off. Compared to the Kowa Genesis, it offers better overall brightness and sharper central focus, though it lacks the unique warm color palette that some birders prefer.

Nikon Monarch M7 10x42

The Nikon Monarch M7 10x42 offers excellent optical clarity with ED glass and multilayer coatings, outperforming the Kowa Genesis in brightness and sharpness, though it falls short of the Zeiss Victory SF's wide field of view and the Vortex Viper HD's low light performance. Unlike the Athlon Optics Midas ED, it lacks the compact design and slightly better CA correction, but provides a more balanced overall package for general outdoor use.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Athlon Optics Midas ED	Nikon Monarch M7 10x42
Magnification	8x	10x
Objective Diameter	42mm	42mm
Weight	1.56 lb	1.59 lb
Eye Relief	17.2mm	17mm
Field Of View	426ft at 1,000 yards	362' at 1000 yards
Lens Material	Extra-Low Dispersion Glass	ED glass
Prism Type	roof-prism	Roof
Close Focus	6.5 ft	5 ft

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