Nikon Monarch HG vs Swarovski EL 10x42

[Echo]

Hi there,

I currently have Nikon Monarch HG 10x42. They are great glass but I often consider upgrading to alpha glass and wonder how much better it truly is. So, my question is whether anyone’s directly compared the Monarch HG to the Swarovski EL swarovision?

If so, are the ELs much better or only incrementally better?

 

[Tahoe1305]

biggest difference is edge to edge clarity. That in theory makes FOV better. I’ve compared and don’t think center resolution is much if any better.

The color on swaros is a tad different/better as well but that’s more a personal preference.

They are an upgrade. Problem is used HGs have fallen off a bit in value. $1k more or nearly 3x the cost may be a rough proposition.

 

[Echo]

biggest difference is edge to edge clarity. That in theory makes FOV better. I’ve compared and don’t think center resolution is much if any better.

The color on swaros is a tad different/better as well but that’s more a personal preference.

They are an upgrade. Problem is used HGs have fallen off a bit in value. $1k more or nearly 3x the cost may be a rough proposition.

Thanks, Tahoe. Once again, I appreciate your optics feedback!

 

[TTT]

It’s an upgrade to Swaro EL, though with some caveats.
1. Monarch HG is not quite the Nikon EDG or original HG, which are very close to the EL. Edge sharpness isn’t quite there, as well as chromatic aberration.
In hunting aplication, these differences may not be that significant to many people.
2. Light transmission - EL is better than Monarch HG in challenging light at dawn.
3. Build & Ergonomics - I prefer Swarovski. It feels more robust than the Monarch HG, though I like the focuser on Monarch HG a bit better.
4. Customer service - No experience with Nikon bino. OK with camera lens. Swarovski has been great, even with used equipment.
5. Cost - Big jump from Monarch to Swaroski EL, but with better resale value.

 

[OldPete]

I can not speak to the Swaros but I recently picked up a pair of the Monarch HGs. Previously I had the Vortex Vipers HDs. I was absolutely blown away with the difference between the two. The more vivid color contrast, brighter image, better edge to edge clarity, far better low light performance, improved ergos, lighter weight, almost everything about it blew the vipers out of the water. Even my wife who has much less of a trained eye saw the stark differences. I really didn't have any complaints with the vipers before but now I couldn't imagine going back to them.

 

[Archer2]

Hi there,

I currently have Nikon Monarch HG 10x42. They are great glass but I often consider upgrading to alpha glass and wonder how much better it truly is. So, my question is whether anyone’s directly compared the Monarch HG to the Swarovski EL swarovision?

If so, are the ELs much better or only incrementally better?

Just go straight to the Swaro NL’s and you won’t have to worry about how it compares to the Nikon because you will have the best glass available! I do not regret buying my NL’s at all. Completely worth it

 

[Echo]

Just go straight to the Swaro NL’s and you won’t have to worry about how it compares to the Nikon because you will have the best glass available! I do not regret buying my NL’s at all. Completely worth it

True….from everything I’ve read, the NL’s are the best of the best.