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Best Nikon DSLR Cameras

Nikon is one of the best DSLR brands out there. With numerous excellent DSLR camera offerings, it can be tough to know which model to buy. This guide will tell you about some of the best Nikon cameras available so that you can make an informed choice when it’s time to pick up your new camera.

Two Nikon cameras, the D5 and D500 took top spots in the “Best Overall” category. You can read our reviews of them here and here

Model	Level	Price	Check Price
D810	Pro	$$$	click here
D750	Mid to Pro	$$$	click here
D7200	Mid	$$	click here
D5600	Entry to Mid	$$	click here
D3400	Entry	$	click here

For the Detail-Oriented: Nikon D810

The D810 is known for its incredible resolution and sharpness. This professional-level DSLR is essentially two previous models – the D800 and D00E – rolled into one super-camera.

Here are some of the key specs:

36.3MP Full-frame CMOS sensor
ISO 64-12,800
‘RAW Size S’ 9MP Raw mode
Expeed 4 engine
Max 5fps shooting in FX mode, 7fps in DX
3.2in 1,229k-dot RGBW LCD screen
91,000-pixel RGB metering sensor for advanced subject tracking and metering
Scene Recognition System (face detection in OVF mode)
51-point AF
1080p videos recorded at 60/50/30/25/24p

In addition to the great specs that make it beloved by landscape and wedding photographers alike, the D810 has a fantastic design. It’s much improved over the previous 800-series styles. In the design of both the body and the controls, it’s obvious that attention to detail played a role here, too.

The D810 is well suited to videographers, too. You can record 1080p videos uncompressed to an external device, compressed to an internal CF/SD card or both simultaneously. Additional video features, like stereo built-in mic and zebra stripes for checking exposure, are complemented by new tech like highlight-weighted metering.

For Those on the Move: Nikon D750

The D750 is less expensive than the D810 and offers some excellent features that make it ideal for active photographers. It doesn’t match the resolution of the D810, but at close to $1000 less, that’s to be expected.

Here are some of the key specs of the D750:

Full-frame CMOS sensor, 24.3MP
3.2-inch tilt-angle display, 1,229,000 dots
1080p video capture
6.5 fps continuous shooting
51-point Multi-CAM 3500FX II AF system (sensitive to -3EV)
91,000-pixel RGB metering sensor with face detection
Wi-Fi Built in
Highlight-weighted metering
Simultaneous internal recording and HDMI output

The D750 is lightweight and comfortable to use, and it features some of the same specs as the D810 – namely, the 51 point AF system and metering system, as well as the same video specification. However, it has faster continuous shooting than the 810, and it has a cool tilt-angle display.

The built in Wi-Fi is relevant to today’s photography needs, but with so many cameras still lacking that feature, this gives the D750 a leg up. In addition to being an excellent camera for photographers on the move, this is also a great choice for a next-level camera for those upgrading their entry-level DSLR. (Though you might also check out the D610 for something slightly less expensive but still worthwhile).

For the D750 Fan on a Budget: Nikon D7200

The D7200 still makes our list of top Nikon cameras, but we’ve gotta be honest – there isn’t too terribly much difference between it and the D750, assuming sensor doesn’t matter. There is a difference in price, and that can be a deciding factor for many shoppers.

Let’s look at the key specs for the D7200:

24.2MP CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter
Multi-CAM 3500DX II 51-point AF system
2,016-pixel RGB metering sensor
ISO 100-25,600,
6 fps continuous shooting
1/8000 sec maximum shutter speed
3.2″, 1.2M dot RGBW LCD display
1080/60p video (1.3x crop only) with clean output over HDMI and Flat Picture Control
Dual SD card slots
SnapBridge (Wi-Fi with NFC)

So, why might you choose the D7200 over the D750? Of course, price can be a huge factor. But the D7200 does have a few advantages in terms of specs over the D750. These include max ISO and faster shutter speed.

We’re also talking about different sensors (the D750 is full frame), so if you have gear already, you’ll want to stick to the sensor size that will work with your lenses. But if you’re making the leap to Nikon, you’ll have your decision-making work cut out for you.

For the New ‘Enthusiast’: Nikon D5600

Technically, Nikon considers the D5600 to be “Entry-Level,” but we respectfully disagree. This would be an excellent option for someone with some DSLR experience who wants a bit more in the way of options. Having said that, it is also well suited for a new DSLR convert who has a bit of money to spend.

Here are some of the key specs of the D5600:

24MP APS-C CMOS sensor
39 point AF sensor with 9 central cross-type points
2,016-pixel RGB sensor assists AF tracking and metering
Up to 5 fps continuous shooting
SnapBridge Bluetooth/Wi-Fi communication
1080/60p video capability
Time-lapse movie feature

The D5600 is one of Nikon’s most recent offerings. It replaces the D5500. While there aren’t huge changes from the D5500 to the D5600, there are enough that make this the best entry-level slash mid-level DSLR out there. The price is fantastic, and the addition of Nikon’s SnapBridge connectivity is welcome (it even works a bit better here than on the D500).

It isn’t super well suited to sports or wildlife, but it does have excellent image quality. We think this model is great for still shooters – it will give you crisp, detailed landscapes and low noise (up to ISO 6400). The video quality is in line with other models without 4K, so unless you’re expecting 4K, the video capability is great.

For the Newbie/Cost-Conscious: Nikon D3400

It’s true that we think Canon has the best entry-level DSLRs, but for a new DSLR user with a budget, the D3400 is a fantastic choice. The D3400 is well priced and is a perfect introduction to the Nikon family.

Here are some of the key specs:

24MP APS-C CMOS sensor
11-point phase detect AF system
Fixed 3″ 920k-dot LCD screen
5/fps burst shooting
1080p video capture
Bluetooth LE for image transfer

Overall, the D3400 is in line with what one would expect for an entry-level DSLR. The price really makes it appealing, and for shutterbugs interested in joining the Nikon club, this is the most affordable way to do that. The sensor, AF system, and video specs are good for this level, and the overall feel of the body is good. It’s a lightweight, easy to use model for a newcomer to Nikon.

Cameras

Review of the Best Pentax DSLR Cameras

Though lesser known that Nikon and Canon, Pentax holds its own when it comes to producing quality DSLR cameras. It has fewer camera options than the two big names, but that doesn’t mean they skimp on quality. Actually, Pentax’s lineup of DSLR cameras is pretty impressive.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at the current (RIP K-50) lineup of Pentax DSLR cameras.

Pentax K-S2

The K-S2 is one of the Pentax entry-level DSLRs, and it has some pretty impressive additions that make it hard to resist.

Here are some of the key specs:

20MP – APS-C CMOS Sensor
No Anti-aliasing (AA) filter
ISO 100 – 51200
Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
3″ Fully Articulated Screen
5.4 fps continuous shooting
1920 x 1080 video resolution
Weather Sealed Body

The image quality of the K-S2 is excellent, and the video function and features make it a bit more competitive compared to some of the other entry level DSLRs with similar pricing. The viewfinder and vari-angle LCD are other sweet perks of this camera, making it a worthy choice for a beginner.

It is a small camera, but we like the control layout overall. K-S2 also features built in Wi-Fi, making it the first Pentax DSLR to do so. The camera is responsive and quick, with nice quality and an appealing design. If you’re into options, you’re in luck. The K-S2 comes in colors other than black. Bottom line: If you are considering Pentax for your first DSLR, the K-S2 is a solid choice.

Pentax K-70

The other entry level option from Pentax is the K-70, which is slightly more expensive than the K-S2 and billed by some as a mid-range DSLR.

Let’s talk specs:

24MP – APS-C CMOS Sensor
No Anti-aliasing (AA) filter
ISO 100 – 102400
Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
3″ Fully Articulated Screen
6.0 fps continuous shooting
1920 x 1080 video resolution
Built-in Wi-Fi
Weather Sealed Body

The K-70 gives you great value for the money. It’s also set up with advanced weather sealing, and combined with its abilities makes it great for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s also dustproof and cold resistant. It is a very compact DSLR, so, again, it seems to be a smart choice for nature lovers.

In terms of performance, the K-70 has excellent image quality and great high ISO performance. It provides a ton of features, making it great for someone with at least some experience with DSLR. It does have built in Wi-Fi, though it is a little slow, and the battery life isn’t stellar. The articulated screen is a nice addition, and the new live view hybrid AF system elevates it a bit above many competitors.

Pentax K-3 II

We have to say it up front: one of the coolest things about the K-3 II is its ability to do astrophotography. The GPS and AstroTracer help you capture star trails quickly and easily. But there’s a lot of other things to love, too.

First, here are the key specs:

24.35 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
PRIME III Image Processor
Anti-Aliasing Filter Simulator
3.2″ 1.03m-Dot LCD Monitor
Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 30 fps
SAFOX11 27-Point AF, 25 Cross Sensors
ISO 100-51200, 8.3 fps Shooting
86k-Pixel RGB Exposure Metering
Built-In GPS, Compass, and AstroTracer
Shake Reduction & Pixel Shift Resolution

The K-3 II is a fairly complex DSLR – definitely not for beginners – but the additional features and functions make it an incredibly versatile mid-range camera. The body and monitor design highlight the fact that this is designed for serious photographers. There are no scene modes, and it’s completely weatherproofed.

Overall, this is an exciting offering by Pentax, especially given the price point and its ability to do neat things (we’re really very excited about the astrophotography). The K-3 II will make a great second DSLR for the enthusiast looking for more challenges and a broader range of options.

Pentax KP

The Pentax KP is very closely priced to the K-3 II. However, it has some significant differences that make it a very different option for photographers considering a new mid-range DSLR.

Here are a few of the specs:

24MP APS-C CMOS sensor with max ISO of 819,200
27-point AF sensor with 25 central cross-type points
86,000-pixel RGB metering sensor aids subject tracking and exposure
PRIME IV Processor
In-body ‘SR II’ 5-axis image stabilization
7 fps continuous shooting
Interchangeable grips
Electronic shutter up to 1/24,000 sec through the viewfinder
Wi-Fi communication

The differences in the KP are in the max ISO, the stabilizer, and built-in Wi-Fi, which the K-3 II lacks. The KP has the weatherproofing technology, too, but it is a bit lighter than the K-3 II. The KP has a more customizable interface and some other changes in design as well.

On its own, the KP has some great specs, and the image quality is excellent. It also features excellent ISO noise control and a tilt-angle screen. Overall, the KP has some outstanding qualities that make it a good pick for Pentax fans. It also has enough differences in design and functionality that it should be easy to decide between the KP and the K-3 II.

Pentax K-1

Pentax’s full frame option is the K-1 – a full frame sensor with image stabilization. It’s well designed with photographic capabilities in mind.

Some of the key specs of the K-1 include:

36.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor with no AA filter
5-axis image stabilization rated to 5 stops
33-point AF system with 25 cross-type
1/200 sec flash sync speed
14-bit Raw recording (DNG or PEF)
AA filter simulation
Multi-shot Pixel Shift Resolution mode
Built-in GPS with electro-magnetic compass and Astrotracer function
4.4 fps continuous shooting (6.5 fps in APS-C crop mode)
100% pentaprism viewfinder with 0.7x magnification
Built in Wi-Fi
1080/30p video

Like the K-3 II, the K-1 is set up for astrophotography. You can bet that with the rest of these specs that the images will be high quality. The all-weather body is another perk (though it is to be expected, given the weatherproofing on the other models). The viewfinder is bright and accurate, too.

While it’s a bit heavy, it is compact with great ergonomics. It’s comfortable to hold for long periods of time. The LCD monitor is truly remarkable, and it features a unique articulation mechanism. With 36 megapixels, it’s competitive alongside similarly priced models. There’s a lot to be excited about in the flagship K-1, and well-priced for a Pentax fan looking to take things to the next level.

Pentax 645Z

The medium format Pentax 645Z is a favorite among many professional photographers. In fact, it earned a spot on our DSLR guide as one of the best professional DSLR cameras.

Here are some key specs:

51MP – Medium format CMOS Sensor
No Anti-aliasing (AA) filter
ISO 100 – 204800
3.2″ Tilting Screen
Optical (pentaprism) viewfinder
3 fps continuous shooting
1920 x 1080 video resolution
No Optical low-pass (anti-aliasing) filter
1550g. 156 x 117 x 123 mm
Weather Sealed Body

There’s not a lot to say about this beast without a full review – it’s highly technical, and the price point makes it out of reach for many of Pentax’s primary consumers. However, if you are looking to add a professional grade camera to your bag, keep this one high on your list. There is a reason why the Pentax 645Z ranks so highly among pros.

Cameras

Nikon D610 Review

The Nikon D610 has been out for a few years now. It replaced the troubled D600, and as of today, there are no rumors about a replacement for the D610. That’s just as well, as the Nikon D610 is a great full frame DSLR at an affordable price point.

Here are some of the key features of the D610:

24.3MP Full-frame CMOS sensor (10.5MP DX-format crop mode)
ISO 100-6400 (expandable to ISO 50-25,600 equivalent)
Maximum 6 fps continuous shooting; quiet continuous mode shoots at 3 fps
39-point AF system with 9 cross-type AF points
Refined auto white balance system
Wireless flash control
3.2in 921k-dot LCD screen
Dual SD memory card slots
1080p30 full HD video
Uncompressed video recording via HDMI

The D610 shoots clear images within the native ISO range. It works well in both bright light and low light conditions. It is an affordable full frame, which means the AF system isn’t quite as high as some other full frame offerings and the shutter speed is a bit disappointing.

In terms of construction, the D610 is sturdy and weather sealed, making it a good choice for outdoorsy types who encounter the elements. It is comfortable and the control layout is intuitive and good for fast adjustments. It has great color depth and a fair dynamic range.

The number one most appealing thing about the D610 is the price. This is one of the most affordable options for photographers who want to get into a full frame DSLR without paying a lot. Many of the features of the D610 match full frame DSLRs that are quite a bit more. There isn’t too much to even miss.

The only drawbacks to the D610 are a bit nit-picky but worth noting. There could be more customization options, particularly on the ‘OK’ button. Compared to competitors, the AF coverage is a bit small. The AF is slow in live mode. If you can live with those, there aren’t many reasons to consider more expensive full frame models.

Telescopes

TwinStar Silver 80mm iOptron Telescope Review

It may look similar to the NexStar 4 SE, but the iOptron might just be the most user-friendly telescope on your list. Apart from being hands-free in most respects, the 80mm iOptron, in particular, is a similarly advanced telescope with a unique way of looking at the stars. While some astronomers might enjoy the classical method of hand-held maneuvering, the iOptron circumvents the trouble and time this process might take you.

The stars aren’t going anywhere, but nobody wants to take too much time to see them.

Mount

The iOptron mount utilizes an equatorial mount, a rare but flexible mounting system. It is different from other mounts, like the altazimuth, in that it accounts for the Earth’s spin. You won’t notice it when you’re standing on solid ground, but our planet rotates on an axis. This rotation provides viewing problems for amateur astronomers who are searching for objects in the sky. No object will always be in the same position twice.

The iOptron’s equatorial mount compensates for this problem and provides a range of viewing anywhere above the horizon. That’s right, anywhere. Most telescopes with altazimuth mounts can only move along the horizontal and vertical axis and take the time to get to their desired position.

A computerized GPS system eliminates the need for manual maneuvering of the telescope. All you have to do is tell the telescope where you want to look (according to its 80,000 object database), and it will move in that direction.

Price

For being very user-friendly while sporting two state-of-the-art systems, the 80mm iOptron is a little less than five-hundred dollars. It’s almost unbelievable to think that you can have this type of telescope, with its ease of assembly, for that price.

Optics

It comes equipped with a 25mm and a 10mm (1.25″ diameter) interchangeable eyepieces for increased or lesser magnification. The iOptron would be nothing without its light gathering power. With a focal length to aperture ratio of (f/5), the iOptron is one of the fastest snapshooters among modern telescopes, ensuring that you receive the best quality view in the shortest amount of time.

Overall

It was difficult for us to find much to slander in the iOptron. While it is almost ready to go right out of the box, its computer systems will take some getting used. It is still a complex machine to operate and requires some careful read through of the instructions.

8 AA batteries power the mount as opposed to a dedicated plug-in source, enabling you to take it beyond the confines of your home. This just means that you will have to gauge the power carefully and always carry spares, lest they die on you right when night falls.

Telescopes

Celestron Advanced VX 8″ EdgeHD Telescope Review

It would be fitting that one of the crown jewels of Celestron’s stock would be the 8″ Advanced VX telescope. This machine tops our list as the most expensive telescope for valid reasons, not the least of which is its power to look deep into space and still capture high-quality moments with its ultra-fast f/ratio.

Why the steep price?

At nearly two-thousand dollars, it can be hard to reason with someone why you would need this telescope, but Celestron makes a very tempting offer. It may not be marketed as for beginners, but with the proper instruction and focus, anyone can become acquainted with its mechanics.

The Celestron’s optics and systems require an extraordinary amount of power, the equivalent of a car battery. It might be difficult to find a sufficient source of energy (though that’s not to say there are none). Celestron, therefore, offers a bundle that includes a 12-volt power supply. A 12-volt equivalent and an adapter will be needed if you plan to substitute your own.

A 2-year warranty is included on the telescope in the case of any unfortunate accidents. While this telescope is not as large nor as heavy as the LightBridge, its various parts are incredibly intricate and valuable. It probably doesn’t need to be said twice, but you should handle each piece with extreme caution and reference.

Optics

A standard VX comes equipped with a 40mm eyepiece, allowing for 51x magnification, but the highest magnification the VX can go is 480x. This optic grants the VX astrophotography capabilities, but the quality will depend on how far you want to magnify the image.

The eyepieces are also interchangeable with 20mm and 25mm pieces. If you are unsatisfied with what you’re getting from the 40mm, feel free to change it out with a smaller or larger one, but a good idea would be to double check the eyepiece and the telescope are compatible.

Some users have reported the VX is ideal for planetary viewing but is still capable of searching deep space. A 9×50 finder scope comes with your purchase, an excellent tool for tracking even the dimmest of objects in the night sky.

Mount

Like the iOptron, the VX makes use of the extraordinary equatorial mount, allowing for a broader range of movement across the sky when compared to those with altazimuth mounts. Celestron’s version of the equatorial mount is different from the iOptron’s and allows for greater stability and vibration resistance when planted on the ground.

Overall

When you decide to buy the VX, you should also be considering why you’re deciding on this one as opposed to all others.

It may be because you want to get the most out of astrophotography with one of the best optical telescopes on the market. But two-thousand dollars is a deep investment. You want this telescope to last you a long time.

The VX is a worthwhile machine that will satisfy anyone from the beginner to the astro-enthusiast. The trick is to become experienced and knowledgeable about everything the VX offers to maximize its stargazing potential.

Gift Guides

Best Gifts for Boyfriends in 2018

Shopping for boyfriends is impossible, right? Not anymore! Here are ten unique gift ideas for the man in your life. We think these picks are great for any occasion – birthday presents, anniversary celebrations, Christmas, or even just because.

Here are our top picks for gifts for boyfriends.

Nintendo Switch

If you have the bucks to spare, the hottest item in the world of gaming right now would make an excellent gift for any guy. The Nintendo Switch offers at home and on-the-go playing, all in one device. With fun games and great quality, this pick is as much for you as for him. Plus, you’ll probably win GFOTY (Girlfriend of the Year) with this one.

Beer Cap Holder

For the beer snob connoisseur boyfriend, a place to collect caps is a fun and unique gift idea. Choose a shadowbox for him to throw them in, or pick up a cool Cap Map to show off all the unique beers he’s had the pleasure of meeting.

Yeti

Yetis are all the rage, and for good reason: they are amazing at keeping beverages as hot or as cold as you want them to be. Yeti coolers can break the bank, but Yeti tumblers and can coolers are much more affordable, and make excellent gifts.

Binoculars

A pair of Upland Optics binoculars makes a fantastic gift for the boyfriend who hunts. These are built tough, offer great clarity, and are designed specifically for hunters. If your guy has an old pair in his truck that only work with one eye – these will be perfect for him.

Optics

Of course, we’re a bit biased, but we think that optics in general make great gifts. If your boyfriend is interested in stargazing, consider a telescope. If he’s into hunting, he might love a new scope or rangefinder.

Tools

Tools are always a good idea. If your man is still building his selection of tools, consider adding to his collection with a nice tool set. Or, give him an always-popular Leatherm an. You might have to do a little research and/or some stealthy investigating to find out what he needs or what he wants.

Sheets

Do guys ever buy things like bedding unless they absolutely have to? We don’t think so. That’s why treating your boyfriend to a luxurious sheet set is a unique way to help him feel really pampered.

Bluetooth Speakers

If your boyfriend loves music, he’ll love new Bluetooth speakers. We like this one from JBL – it’s a great all-purpose, all-weather option that doesn’t break the bank.

Bartender Kit

For a budding home bartender, a mixology kit is a must-have for full effect. This is a great gift option because there are so many different options for kits depending on your budget. You can add a bottle or two of your guy’s favorite booze, or even a drink recipe book.

Fancy Body Care

High-end body and face care or shaving stuff feels like a splurge, which is why it makes a great gift for any guy. Jack Black is a great brand for men’s facial care. Or, if you’ve got a beardy guy, a nice shaving set or beard lube makes an excellent gift.

Gift Guides

Best Gifts for Dads in 2018

If your dad has it all (and not just all the dad jokes), chances are shopping for him is the worst. Guys are just hard to shop for in general, but something about shopping for dads is extra daunting.

No matter the reason – birthdays, Father’s Day, or retirement – or the variety of dad you have – fitness buff, golfer, or hunter – we have some ideas for the perfect gift.

Tech

Many dads like to keep up with the latest and greatest in tech, so this category can often be a safe bet. Here are a few tech gifts that any dad will love.

Kindle eReader

For the dads who love to read, a Kindle is an excellent choice. The updated Kindle Paperwhite has high resolution, long battery life, and no glare in the sunlight. Pair with an Amazon gift card for a fantastic gift that’ll keep dad busy for hours.

Portable Speaker

This highly-rated, waterproof Bluetooth speaker makes a great gift for the musically inclined dad (i.e. the one who sings off key all the time). This one is a top pick because it’s so durable, and the sound quality is great. The waterproof design means he can also tote it into the shower.

Portable Cell Phone Charger

Is his cell phone constantly dying? Does he forget to charge it all of the time? A portable USB charger is just the thing. It charges phones and other devices quickly, and the charger itself is small and functional.

Fitness

For the sporty dad, there are a ton of options that will work great for his busy lifestyle.

Fitbit

Fitbits make really awesome gifts, and it’s a great one for your dad to help him stay healthy. The price of Fitbits is currently really reasonable, and it’s a functional, fun gift he will appreciate.

Rangefinder

If your dad is a golf fanatic, he’ll love this rangefinder. In fact, rangefinders make fantastic gifts for all kinds of dads. Check out our guide to the best ones here.

Training Basketball

This smart basketball pairs with an iOS or Android app and actually helps you become a better basketball player. This would make a fantastic gift for the dad who is always trying to dunk better.

Outdoors

Leatherman

Knives make good gifts for any occasion, and Leathermans are always a great idea. We think this Skeletool is skele-cool, and we bet your dad will, too.

Binoculars

We might say it a lot, but binoculars are a fantastic gift for anyone. This is because so many hunters, birders, and nature enthusiasts don’t upgrade their old, ineffective binoculars. Thus, they have no idea how amazing a good pair of binoculars can be. Our guide features different types and price points, so you can find some that fit your budget and your dad’s specific needs.

Pampering

No matter how manly your dad might be, any guy can stand to get pampered just a little. Here are some ideas that will help him relax.

Foot Massager

This rolling foot massager helps with a number of foot issues, and it’s both affordable and durable. Or, for even more relaxation and comfort, this electric massager can give him next-level foot pampering.

Pillow Massager

If foot care isn’t his thing, this heated pillow massager is a great way to say, “take care of yourself, dad.” He can use it for a number of purposes and take it anywhere.

Shaving Kit

Shaving kits make such great gifts because most men don’t buy them for themselves. Kits like this one are practical (a man’s gotta shave) but also feels indulgent.

Miscellaneous

Looking for some funny, inexpensive gifts? Try these:

Binoculars

Bushnell’s New Engage Line of Binoculars and Scopes

Bushnell Engage Binoculars

Bushnell’s new lineup of Engage Binoculars is shaking things up in the world of optics.

The Engage binoculars feature multicoated glass with Bushnell’s new EXO Barrier protective coating. These are designed to withstand pretty much everything. This Bushnell exclusive coating repels water, debris, oil, and fog.

The Bushnell Engage binoculars come in four configurations:

8 x 42 mm

FOV 142m
eye relief 19mm

10 x 42 mm

FOV 113m
eye relief 18mm

10 x 50 mm

FOV 113m
eye relief 15mm

12 x 50 mm

FOV 93m
eye relief 15mm

The rugged nature of these doesn’t do anything to skimp on image quality, though. The ED Prime Glass feature and dielectric prism coating produce high reflectivity, great color, amazing resolution, and fantastic details. Each configuration offers twist up eyecups and a locking diopter.

These work well in low light conditions, thanks to a host of other features that enable the best brightness and details available.

One of the best features of this new line is its affordability. The Engage line of optics drives home Bushnell’s commitment to making high-quality optics that everyone can afford.

Bushnell Engage Riflescopes

The Engage lineup also includes new riflescopes. Like the binoculars, these feature the exclusive EXO Barrier protective coating. This slick coating repels everything from oil and water to dirt and debris.

The riflescopes come in nine configurations: Bushnell riflescope

2-7x 36mm
3-9x 40mm
3-9x 50mm
4-12x 40mm
6-18x 50mm
5-10x 44mm
3-12x 42mm
4-16x 44mm
6-24x 50mm

These scopes feature:

EXO Barrier
Waterproof construction
Fully multi-coated optics
Ultra-wide band coating
Side focus parallax adjustment
Tool-less Zero Reset (on some models)
Locking Turrets

Engage riflescopes include Bushnell’s new Deploy MOA reticle. This gives shooters 1-MOA windage and elevation hashmarks and can reach both short and mid-range targets.

Like the binoculars, the Engage riflescopes are affordable, yet high on quality. Find out more on Bushnell’s website.

Telescopes

Celestron NexStar 4 SE Review

After the 90 GT, we wondered what sort of telescope Celestron would produce next. It would probably be something straight out of the pages of a science fiction book if it were anything more advanced than the 90 GT. Indeed, Celestron seems to be moving in the direction of hands-free telescope movement, in particular with the development of the NexStar 4 SE.

At first glance, it looks like there’s a telephone connecting the telescope to the motorized altazimuth mount and tripod, but this is a next generation object tracking system. Many of the features common across Celestron products also appear in the 4 SE.

Price

Where you end up purchasing the 4 SE will depend, but one thing that reviewers can’t deny is the unbeatable price. The 4 SE isn’t universally known as an entry-level/beginner telescope, but its hands-free control system makes it pretty easy to use.

The telescope’s small body means its optics can’t see the furthest distances into space, but that doesn’t mean that they sky isn’t full of objects within viewing distances. In addition to purchasing the 4 SE, you receive a 40,000 object database. These objects may not all be visible each night, but each night will yield a different sight.

Features

In addition to the control system, many features such as SkyAlign allow the user to line up three, bright celestial objects in the sky for viewing. The StarPointer finder scope will help you lock on and stay in view of whatever object(s) you want to track.

A new feature that the 4 SE sports is the StarBright XLT system. We mentioned that the 4 SE’s size limits its viewing range. To complement this, the StarBright system maximizes light transmitted from objects to the telescope. A 102mm aperture is the stock opening for light to travel through. This is such a small opening that you can understand why the StarBright system would need to be utilized.

You can also engage in light astrophotography with the 4 SE. It is not a dedicated astrophotography telescope. The pictures you take and what you’ll be able to view will be limited.

Assembly

If you’re looking at purchasing this telescope after handing your Vixen Space Eye off to your kids, you’re in the right direction. Most 4 SE users have raved about the telescopes portability and weight, making it easy to transport beyond the confines of your home and the surrounding area. Don’t get too over-confident, however, just like the 90 GT, it is quickly moved and if not rooted properly, can tip over with not too much force.

Overall

For the price, the 4 SE comes equipped with a majority of the features that appear individually in other telescopes. Don’t forget about its small but worthwhile ability to engage in astrophotography. It’s no surprise that the 4 SE is one of the best all around telescopes out there.

A major gripe is going to be the viewing range, but that shouldn’t limit your search for new objects in each night sky. With the 40,000 object database courtesy of Celestron, who knows what you will find in the last frontier!

Telescopes

Meade Instruments LightBridge 12-Inch Truss Tube Dobsonian Telescope Review

You haven’t seen any telescope until you see the LightBridge 12-Inch Truss Tube. At first glance, one might think this telescope belongs out in the desert with a giant radar dish attached to it. For what it’s worth, the LightBridge is unlike any telescope on our list. The price is steep, and not meant for amateurs or beginners. Professional astronomers or stargazers with deep pockets will take one look at the LightBridge and say, “mine.”

Parts and Assembly

At about one-thousand dollars, the LightBridge is no toy to be handled lightly. It will most likely be delivered in two different shipments, due to its size. The LightBridge sports a 12-inch aperture, for which it is named, as there are similar LightBridge’s with larger and smaller aperture.

The first thing that will catch your eye about the LightBridge is its design, called a Dobsonian truss tube and named after John Dobson, the man who championed their design. What’s the difference between a truss tube and a conventional telescope mounted on a tripod? The difference is the light gathering power and the sophisticated optics which provide the bulk of the cost of the telescope.

The LightBridge, while still capable of viewing objects that others can do with ease, is a far ranging step above standard telescopes because of its focus on light gathering.

Power

This telescope’s primary requires lots of power to operate and magnify, hence why it even has a cooling fan at the base. If you’re planning on bringing this telescope with you beyond the confines of your home, be sure to bring an adequate power supply because the LightBride has unmatched light gathering potential.

As with all telescopes, the ability to see far away objects depends on your telescope’s ability to gather light. The LightBride’s 12-inch aperture has a 1524mm focal length, among the largest of amateur telescopes available for purchase.

Handling

The LightBridge is going to be the most complicated telescope to maneuver on our list. Apart from weighing in, when fully assembled, at close to forty pounds, it is still mounted on an altazimuth axis. This mount allows for movement on the vertical and horizontal axis, but only by hand. It does come with a red dot finder located near the eyepiece to help you in your search for objects.

However, many customers have praised the LightBridge’s portability, with many loading it into the back of their cars (it folds nicely) and taking it away from centers of light pollution. For being a giant telescope worth nearly a grand, Meade Instruments took the time to ensure that the LightBridge would be fully accessible.

Overall

One question you’ll be asking yourself, is the LightBridge worth the nearly thousand dollars required to obtain it? As we mentioned before, this is no beginner’s telescope that comes after the Vixen Space Eye. If you have a deep pocket, the LightBridge is an ideal and portable telescope whose range extends far beyond most the telescopes on our list.

Keep in mind that range and quality of view do not always match up well with each other on standard telescopes. However, the LightBridge is engineered to amplify range and quality to their utmost capacity with some of the most powerful optics available to amateurs stargazers.