Who Makes the Best 12 Power Binocular?

Binoculars Featured in The Video

Zeiss SFL 12x50

For the last five years or so, if you were looking for 12-power binoculars of the highest quality, there has been only one (green) choice. Its blend of optical quality and packability has been unmatched. However, as of today, there is some serious competition.

The Zeiss SFL was already one of our favorite binoculars ever. However, it has only been offered in an 8x40 and 10x40. While those make excellent chest-carry binoculars, they’ve never quite felt like they could be an all-purpose, singular optic for hunters.

Now, though, Zeiss has taken aim at the top-tier category and unleashed what we consider a beast of an optic at a crazy price point. The SFL 12x50 will certainly fill the void left by the discontinuation of the EL 12x50 and does so for nearly $1000 less.

Learn More About Zeiss SFL 12x50

Swarovski EL 12x50

"The Swarovski EL binoculars combine maximum functionality, innovation and design.

When 10x is too wide and 15x is too long, a 12x binocular made with the clearest, most spectacular glass on the planet is the perfect bridge between magnification and FOV. 

It's a long-time go-to for most of us here at the shop. If your budget allows for only one piece of high-quality glass look no further, the EL 12x50 Binoculars are absolutely perfect in every dimension." - Us in 2021

While they're no longer available retail, we often have a pair available in our Used Optics collection

Vortex Razor UHD

One of the most popular 12x50 binoculars available today. They're decent, they're affordable, and they're warrantied for life.