Athlon Cronus binos

[douglasfir]

Looking for thoughts on the Athlon Cronus binoculars in 10x42. Anything better options in the sub-$500 range? I saw some comments about less than optimal low light performance, but is it really lower performance in low light than other binos in this price range? I've also read negative comments about the diopter.

 

[Spiral Horn]

In its price range the Athlon Cronus G2 10x42 performs very well overall. But would advise not to go looking for near-alpha performance in a ~$500 binocular. I use this as the glass that is always in the truck just in case something comes up. I use it from time to time and find the optics acceptable. A few pros and cons:

Pro
- Very good optics for the price - sharp resolution
- Low light performance is fine
- Well priced
- Durable housing

Cons
- Optically, some visible CA and pincushion distortion at edge, but fine center field
- Spring-loaded diopter feels cheap and fragile, often moves when stored
- Skin is fairly hard and feels cold in cold weather

Another option in this range is the GPO Passion ED 10x42, $529 on Amazon

 

[BigredRusch]

I was in Cabela's recently and they had the Cronus UHD G2 10x42 and the Midas UHD G2 10x42. I have been curious about the Cronus as well due to eye relief, other specs, and potential to punch above their price point, so I did a small head-to-head in the store.

I found that the Cronus had sever rolling ball effect while panning in the store (couple hundred yards) the Midas UHD was much more comfortable to look through and left me much more impressed. I don't care how good the resolution in the center of the image is, the Cronus were unusable for me.

My conclusion is that if I was looking into Vortex diamondbacks, I would get the Midas instead. If I was looking into the Cronus, I would probably get the Vortex Vipers instead. I could never live with the rolling ball on the Cronus. I was dizzy inside of 15 seconds.