7 Best Rangefinder Binoculars of 2023 [Vortex, Leica & More]

Last Updated on March 20, 2023

 

You’ve heard the phrase, “a jack of all trades is a master of none.” What if I told you that’s not the complete saying? It’s actually, “a jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.” Hunters say the same thing about the best rangefinder binoculars of 2023.

With the ability to spot wild game and range it via a precise laser beam, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this combo. So while some of the lower-end products on this list don’t use the best glass, doing two things at once is better than one.

With a simple press of a button from your binocular housing, you’ll be able to range an animal quickly. And if you want even more capabilities, a set of binos with a built-in ballistics calculator will take into account your gun and ammo for a deadly accurate shot.

Because this is a best-of list, you’ll see the biggest names in the industry, including Leica, Swarovski, Vortex, Nikon, Bushnell, and ATN. We want to act as a compass to push you towards the best option for sale within your budget while hopefully lasting a lifetime.

So no matter what you hunt, whether whitetail deer from a treestand with a bow or elk from long range with a rifle, rangefinder binoculars will help direct your projectile of choice into a perfect broadside shot.

Table of Contents: Best Rangefinder Binoculars of 2023 [Show/Hide]

• Entry-Level: Bushnell Fusion X 10×42
• Best for the Money: Nikon Laserforce 10×42
• Entry-Level Ballistics: Vortex Fury 5000 HD AB
• Long-Range Leicas: Leica Geovid 3200.com 10×42
• Best Compact Option: Leica Geovid Pro 10×32
• Best Optical Quality: Swarovski EL Range 10×42
• Day/Night Rangefinder Binos: ATN BinoX 4K 4-16x65mm
• Rangefinding Bino Features Explained
• Technical Factors to Consider
• Practical Factors to Consider
• Final Thoughts: Best Rangefinder Binoculars of 202
• More Hunting Gear & Resources

Best Entry-Level LRF Binos
Bushnell Fusion X 10×42

Weight: 2.1875 lb
Magnification: 10x
Objective Lens: 42mm
Field of View: 305 feet
Eye Relief: 16mm
Max. Laser Rangefinder Distance: 1,760 yards

We’re sure you’ve heard of the Bushnell name regarding optics. They’ve helped regular folks like you, and I get our hands on quality optics since 1948. And while those old binoculars didn’t have the built-in rangefinder combo, they were helpful.

Nowadays, Bushnell’s hoping to get you into some advanced electronics for a budget price. Considering the following features, you might be hard-pressed to say no.

• Angle Range Compensation (ARC) makes up and downhill shots more accurate
• ActivSync Reticle automatically adjusts from red to black based on the background
• IPX7 waterproofing: full submersion of bino in 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes
• Bow and Rifle modes for accuracy no matter how you shoot
• EXO Barrier lens protection keeps dust, fog, and water from clouding your vision

Of course, these features don’t tell the whole story. But, the glass Bushnell uses in this rangefinder binos provides a decent viewing experience for the money. You’re not getting the best overall glass here, but when coupled with the rangefinder, the experience is excellent nonetheless.

Another slight knock against the Bushnell relates to size and weight. They’re a bit bulky and heavy, but if you value carrying one piece of equipment over two, we could see how the weight might not matter.

Great Rangefinding Glass for the Money
Nikon Laserforce 10×42

Weight: 1.95 lb
Magnification: 10x
Objective Lens: 42mm
Field of View: 320 feet
Eye Relief: 15.5
Max. Laser Rangefinder Distance: 1,900 yards

If you’ve got the spare change lying around to move up to our next pick, you’re getting one of the best deals in all the rangefinder binocular market. With solid optical performance and fast ranging, the Nikon Laserforce works well.

Because this article focuses on rangefinding and binocular features, it’s vital to look at the features that make this Nikon set great for its price tag.

You’ll get:

• An easy-to-see OLED rangefinder display
• ID (Incline/Decline) tech predicts bullet drop at nearly 90 degree angles
• Fully multi-coated lenses, prisms, and ED glass for clear visuals
• Magnesium alloy construction provides ruggedness
• Nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed for fog and waterproofing

Alongside the excellent build quality of this binocular rangefinder combo, they can range up to an impressive 1,900 yards out. The Laserforce provides that distance information rapidly, so you can plan where you need to go or if you’re close enough to pull the trigger.

For our money, these Nikon Laserforce binos give hunters the best value on the market. Like most rangefinding binoculars, glass quality isn’t always on par with standalone binos, but we think this combo works well enough to garner serious attention from rifle and bowhunters alike.

Stellar Entry-Level Ballistics
Vortex Fury HD AB

Weight: 2.02 lb
Magnification: 10x
Objective Lens: 42mm
Field of View: 321.6 feet
Eye Relief: 16mm
Max. Laser Rangefinder Distance: 5,000 yards

The Vortex Fury HD 500 AB (short for Applied Ballistics) is a triple threat from one of the best optics manufacturers in the industry.

As you’ve seen, optical quality in these entry-level sets isn’t always as good as you’d find in comparably priced standalone units. Still, with the added rangefinder and onboard ballistics computer, you get advanced capabilities wrapped up into a single piece of kit.

Let’s discuss some basic features and then get into what Applied Ballistics technology can do for you.

• Good glass featuring fully multi-coated lenses for a clean image
• Dielectric prism coatings for accurate color representation
• Horizontal Component Distance (HCD) helps you take the best shot at an angle
• Rugged construction and nitrogen purging for fog and waterproofing
• Built-in Applied Ballistics Elite for long-range shooting

When using the Fury HD’s onboard ballistics computer, you’re giving yourself an opportunity for the best possible shot. The binos find range, measure angle, and then the user-supplied ballistic information to eliminate guesstimates about how you should shoot.

You can also pair it with a Kestrel for wind detection, and the built-in compass points you in the right direction. Also, sync it to a Garmin and drop pins on a map to locate wounded game or plot a course for your next shot opportunity.

For competitive target shooters and long-range rifle hunters, the ability to do all this from a single piece of hardware will help save time and eliminate missed opportunities resulting from guesswork.

And if you’re a bowhunter who doesn’t need the AB tech, give the Fury HD 5000 non-AB a look.

Long-Range High-End Leicas
Leica Geovid 3200.COM 10×42

Weight: 2.15 lb
Magnification: 10x
Objective Lens: 42mm
Field of View: 342 feet
Eye Relief: 16mm
Max. Laser Rangefinder Distance: 3,200 yards
Additional Styles: 8×42, 8×56

Hunters regularly choose between Swarovski, Leica, and Zeiss when selecting an “alpha-level” pair of binoculars. That choice becomes clearer, however, when studying laser rangefinders because Leica invented the technology.

That expertise becomes apparent as soon as you use the Leica Geovid 3200.com. With 3,200 yards of high-speed rangefinding capabilities (.3 secs) and top-notch optical quality, no elk, deer, or antelope will escape your ability to properly spot and range them.

Using the rangefinder is a dream, too, because it’s situated between the two barrels. So instead of adding clunky barrel protrusions, Leica streamlined the rangefinder experience and made the binos feel comfortable to hold and use.

Let’s take a look at what else this pair delivers.

• Ergonomic grip increases visibility and comfort
• Bluetooth pairing to cellular phone
• On-board Applied Ballistics Elite
• Waterproof to 16 feet
• 91% light transmission for dawn and dusk hunting

Like the Vortex Fury 5000, Leica uses Applied Ballistics Elite, so long-range target shooters and game hunters get the most advanced ballistic software available to help them take any uncertainty out of their shooting.

Plus, with the ability to connect to BaseMaps, Google Maps, and Garmin, hunters can easily range targets and find the fastest way to get where they need to go.

When tying it all together, the Geovid 3200.COM is truly alpha-level glass; if you want a more compact size, keep reading.

Best Compact Rangefinding Binos
Leica Geovid Pro 10×32

Weight: 1.91 lb
Magnification: 10x
Objective Lens: 32mm
Field of View: 345 feet
Eye Relief: 16mm
Max. Laser Rangefinder Distance: 2,500 yards
Additional Styles: 8×32

Brand new from Leica, hunters looking for the best performance possible in a lightweight and compact device should look no further than the Geovid Pro 10×32 rangefinding binoculars.

As the first compact LRF rangefinder bino, we’re impressed with the tech Leica was able to stuff into this device. Despite its relatively small size and low weight, the Geovid Pro represents the cutting edge of hunting tech.

Let’s take a look at why I’m confident you’ll feel the same way about this rangefinder binocular as I do.

• New and improved Bluetooth connects to Garmin watches, Kestrels, and more
• ProTrack technology guides hunters to locations without cell service
• On-board Applied Ballistics Elite
• Built-in air pressure, temperature, and angle sensors
• GPS mapping integration with BaseMap, Google Maps and Garmin

Ultimately, Leica is the pioneer in combo binos. And because of their size, hunters of all stripes will significantly benefit by adding them to their packs.

For the ultra-lightweight bowhunter who needs extremely fast rangefinding and crystal clear glass, look no further. And if you’re a long-range rifle hunter on the hillside shopping for mountain goats, the 2,500 feet of range and mapping capabilities ensure you fill your tag.

Just like these binos are good for glassing and rangefinding, we think they’re great for all hunters — especially those who dabble in both bow and rifle hunting. Of course, the price could scare you off, but this is a lifetime investment.

Best Overall Optical Quality
Swarovski EL Range 10×42

Weight: 2.07 lb
Magnification: 8x
Objective Lens: 42
Field of View: 359 feet
Eye Relief: 19mm
Max. Laser Rangefinder Distance: 2,200 yards
Additional Styles: 8×42

Now that we’ve talked about one brand of alpha rangefinder binoculars, it makes sense to talk about another. If you prefer Swarovski glass and want a laser rangefinder built-in, turn your attention to the Swarovski EL Range 10×42.

Long regarded as the pinnacle of glass makers by hunters, birders, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, Swarovski has an incredible reputation. Now, paired with a rangefinder, exceptional optical quality becomes even more helpful.

Let’s look at some other qualities that make these truly world-class products.

• Tracking assistant helps users point out a location and get to it
• Swarovision Technology delivers premium optical performance
• EL Range TA Configuration App provides ballistic data
• Angle compensation for the perfect shot
• Submersible in up to 13 feet of water without damage

Swarovski and Leica have a serious battle on their hands. But, it comes down to what you want out of your purchase. Of course, you’ll get world-class optical performance from both pairs, but to us, it comes down to the rangefinding capabilities and what your eyes prefer.

Choosing either Leica we’ve reviewed will give you better rangefinder performance and longer range. Plus, if you need a more compact bino like the Leica Geovid Pro 10×32, you can track your movements on the app phone without cell service.

It comes down to what you value most. If you’ve been considering Swarovski glass for a long time but want to add a rangefinder to increase its capabilities, you can’t go wrong with the EL Range 10×42.

Digital Day or Night LRF Binos
ATN BinoX 4K 4-16x65mm

Weight: 2.5 lb
Magnification: 4x
Zoom: 16x
Objective Lens: 65mm
Field of View: 220 feet
Eye Relief: 10-30mm
Max. Laser Rangefinder Distance: 1,000 yards

And now for something completely different. All of the previous rangefinder binoculars on this list use traditional roof prisms and glass to magnify an image. But, with the ATN BinoX 4K, hunters who peer through the ocular lens will see a digital image.

When using these binoculars, think about them as if they’re an extremely high-tech camera. With that line of thinking, you’ll better understand how to use them. Let’s see what these things can do.

• 1080p video recording
• Night vision via IR illuminator and lens
• Laser rangefinder gives quick and accurate readings
• Pairs with ATN scopes and ballistics tech for accurate shots
• Infrared helps locate hidden animals

Ultimately, the BinoX 4K is a super high-tech rangefinder bino combo at a reasonable price. Plus, with a base magnification of 4x and zoom to 16x, you’ll spot deer, elk, moose, and whatever else you hunt at long range. With night vision, seeing coyotes at night is a breeze, too.

Ultimately, these binos represent a digital shift in the world of hunting. They create a fabric of interconnectedness between devices to help hunters find more success in the field and capture photos and videos of their hunts to share with friends and family.

With that shift, you might expect a huge price tag, but the ATNs are some of the most reasonably priced rangefinder binoculars on this list.

Rangefinding Binoculars Explained

Rangefinders utilize complex technology to help hunters spot and range game, so let’s discuss some of the basics you can expect to come across in your research.

How Does a Rangefinder Work?

Rangefinders measure distance by shooting a laser beam at a target, then measuring the time it takes for that beam to reflect back to the sensor.

The computer then takes that time and calculates the distance, in meters or feet, depending on the shooter’s preference.

Maximum Distance Readings

One thing you’ll notice when reading this article is the maximum ranges. One thing to keep in mind is that these distances are off of reflective surfaces. Remember, a rangefinder works by reflecting a laser back to itself.

So, objects with higher reflective qualities enable the laser to work at greater distances. When ranging prey like deer, the effective range of the laser shrinks. For reference, you will want a distance of at least 800 yards.

Angle Compensation

Taking a shot at an animal is rarely a straight line. Sometimes you’ll be shooting up a hill; other times, you’ll shoot from a treestand. These differences dictate where you should aim and at what yardage.

Your line of sight is a much different distance than the actual horizontal difference the projectile will cover, so angle compensation helps you find the correct distance to shoot at to make the most accurate shot.

Ballistics Tools

Now that we’ve covered a bit of angle compensation, products like the Fury HD 5000 with AB or Leica Geovid 3200.com include even more technical know-how to help you make accurate shots.

These rangefinder binos utilize ballistic databases, elemental instruments, and more to help you compensate for the type of gun and ammo you’re using.

When you plug all these factors into your rangefinder, it’ll calculate the variables in a split second to give you the best opportunity to nail your target or wild game.

Tracking

One of the coolest features of rangefinder binos that can pair with a map system is tracking capabilities. Users can simply range a distant target, whether an animal or rock, off in the distance and plot a point to it on their cell phone.

This ability provides hunters the know-how to get where they need to without losing their bearings. Plus, they can share this information and let others know where the game is.

Technical Considerations

 

Because rangefinding binos perform at least two different jobs, it’s vital to talk about the binocular aspect. This will be a brief rundown, and if you want more information, please check out the technical considerations of our Best Binoculars for Hunting post.

Magnification

When shopping for binos, you’ll see their style listed as 8×32, 10×42, or even 15×50. The first number represents the magnification that that particular model gives you. For instance, with the 8x binos, you’ll see an image as if it’s eight times closer to you than with the naked eye.

Just beware of using high magnification binos if you intend on hiking a lot because more magnification equals more image shakiness if your hand is uneasy.

Objective Lenses

The second number in a 10×42 style of binoculars is the objective lens measured in millimeters.
This measurement tells you how big the glass is on the end of the binoculars. With a larger-sized piece of glass, the binos will weigh more.

But, with more glass, you get more light-gathering capabilities. So, you’ll be able to see better at dawn and dusk.

Field of Vision (FOV)

FOV is a measurement of how many yards across you can see at 1,000 yards. With more magnification, you get less FOV. If you’re hunting open spaces and value the ability to see more of the field at a wide-angle, a set of lower magnification binos might be for you.

Eye Relief

This is the maximum distance, measured in millimeters, between your eye and the lens you look through, at which you can still see a good image. For glasses wearers, it’s essential to look for binoculars with at least 16mm of eye relief.

Coatings

Quality glass needs quality coatings to ensure the most light transmission. As with all things optical, light plays the most critical role. So, you need glass that lets the most light get through the lens and into your eye.

Coatings facilitate this process by allowing the light to pass through the glass and not scatter.

Exit Pupil

The exit pupil is a beam of light you’ll see coming through the ocular lenses on your binoculars when you hold them away from your face and point them at a light source. You can expect a dimmer image with a smaller light beam or exit pupil.

If you want a brighter image, look for a larger exit pupil. You can find this number by dividing the objective size by the magnification. So, in the case of an 8×42 set of binos, you get a 42/8=5.25mm exit pupil.

But, it isn’t always that easy. For example, some glass transmits light better than others, so even a pair of rangefinder binos with a smaller exit pupil will appear brighter than those with lesser glass.

Practical Considerations

When it comes to hunting gear, it’s crucial to think about some basic factors about the physical object itself. That’s why we wanted to examine a few simple yet important factors when choosing your next set of optics.

Size

Size is a pretty self-explanatory factor at play when choosing a new instrument. But, some devices are much longer or wider than you might imagine. For example, the ATN BinoX 4K 4-16x65mm is longer and larger than a number of options we discussed.

In short, make sure you’re choosing a rangefinder binocular that fits your pack, has good ergonomics, and is so valuable you’ll never want to leave it at home.

Weight

Combo binos weigh more than their standalone brethren. That’s because manufacturers pack complex optical instruments into the barrels of these devices. As a result, you’ll often notice a bump or lump that wouldn’t otherwise be there.

Just know, those bumps make the gear weigh more. If you want a compact and lightweight option, check out Leica’s Geovid Pro 10×32.

Waterproofing & Ruggedness

All the options on our list were created to work in the field with hunters. So, you can expect rubberized body coatings and waterproof and fog-proof lenses — even some pairs like the Swarovski EL Range can be submerged in over 10 feet of water.

Your gear must stand up to the rigors of the outdoors, so we made sure every product mentioned won’t let you down in the heat of the moment.

Warranty

Because you’re shelling out a good amount of coin for one of these hunting tools, check the warranty information. Vortex offers an incredible no-questions-asked plan that’ll replace your binos even if you screw ’em up yourself.

On the other hand, Leica offers a 30-year manufacturer warranty and a 10-year Passport Protection Plan that’ll fix a damaged pair of binos no matter what.

Just be sure you feel comfortable with whichever company you choose to go into business with. This purchase should hopefully last the rest of your life or at least become a serious hand-me-down tool for your kid, so be mindful of how your manufacturer intends to help you should things go awry.

Rangefinder Binos Will Up Your Optics Game in 2023

 

If you were looking for the best laser rangefinder binoculars for hunting or target shooting of 2023, we hope our comprehensive guide pointed you in the right direction. Combo options with built-in rangefinders and ballistics calculators give hunters their best shot opportunities.

Because what good is taking a shot at a deer if you don’t know how far away it is? Taking the math out of it and allowing hunters to beam precise lasers at their prey will enable them to live in the moment and shoot with confidence.

Whether you prefer Leica, Swarovski, Vortex, Bushnell, or any other brand, these binoculars with rangefinder options for sale deliver incredible value for serious hunters who want to make the most of their time in the field for the 2023 season and beyond.

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