Magnification: 15X
Power Variability: Fixed
Objective Diameter: 70 mm
Close Focus Distance: 43 ft
Dimensions: 10.98 x 8.5 x 3.27 in
Weight: 48 oz
Field of View: 231 ft/1000 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 18 mm/4.7 mm
Optics Coatings: Multi-coated
Glass: BaK-4
Prism System: Porro
Focus System: Center
Waterproof/Fog-proof: Yes
Eye cups: Fold-down
Tripod adaptable: Yes
Rangefinder: No
Best Uses: For the Range, Bird Watching, Wildlife Observation, Astronomical Use
Celestron SkyMaster 15X70 Review
Here you have a giant optic with a weeny price. It can't get more extreme than this. If you want that high power with as much light-gathering capabilities as possible, the Celestron SkyMaster can dish it. But, this isn't your hunting and on-the-go bino. No, it's much more than that.
These binoculars are good for both terrestrial and astronomical use. If the moon and stars are within your limits then you definitely know that deer and birds will be too, if you're in a stationary position with the bino mounted to a tripod. Of course this binocular comes tripod ready. A tripod adapter is even thrown in for free within the included accessories. You're going to need it to steady your image to get any use out of these binoculars.
Optically, you have multi-coated lenses, BaK-4 prisms, and a field of view of 231 feet. The field of view may be on the narrower end of the spectrum, but that's what you should expect with a high-powered and larger aperture optic.
This Porro prism binocular is outfitted with a durable rubber armor across the barrels where the bridge meets. The center focus wheel allows for quick and easy focusing with ultra-sharp focus across the entire field of view.
However, despite its popularity status, there are legitimate issues to raise. Some defective products have caused buyers to complain about poor focusing issues, poor collimation, and chromatic aberration. While these are valid concerns, other issues were not, as it was evident it was due to user error. Overall, the buyers who were happy with their buy were those who expected the heifer weight, large size, and decent optics for the price.
Pros:
- Price
- High powered 15X
- Large apertures 50 mm
- Quality build
- Long eye relief
Cons:
- Defective binoculars
Celestron SkyMaster 15X70 Q&A:
Can you use the15x70 Skymaster binoculars with glasses?
You can! The binoculars have long eye relief of 18 mm which is plenty enough for glasses-wearers to use. Simply fold down the rubber eyecups that extend past the eyepieces and you have more than forgiving room to glass comfortably.
Why choose the SkyMaster 15x70 over a telescope?
It's not necessarily about magnification when it comes to choosing a high-powered binocular over a telescope or spotting scope. It's about convenience in the sense of portability, quick set-up, and fast pack-up. Being able to observe at low magnifications (for an astronomical optic) does provide enjoyment for recreational star watchers as well as being able to use it for terrestrial use too.
What are all the Models in the SkyMaster series?
There's quite the variety in the SkyMaster series. In addition to this 15x70 model, there is also the 12x60, 20x80, 25x70, and 25x100 models. You also have the SkyMaster DX models and two zoom binoculars in the series as well.
Why choose the 15x70 over the larger models?
It's really about personal preference, but one such preference is for the larger exit pupil. You can have really large objective lenses to gather as much light as possible, but without an adequate size exit pupil, that light will be lost to the eyes. The 15x70 offers an exit pupil of 4.7 mm and the 12x60 model offers a 5 mm exit pupil. Additionally, you also tack on size and weight the larger you go.
While models that sport higher magnification and larger objective lenses may be able to see further, this might not meet the needs for those who want to use a high-powered binocular for terrestrial viewing such as hunting, for the range, birdwatching, or wildlife observation without all the heft, bulk, and time-consuming set-up for a larger optic.
Can Celestron's 15x70 SkyMaster binoculars be used for hunting?
Optically, there's no reason why you couldn't use them for hunting. Not only will you be able to spot game and count points, but you'll probably be up-close and personal with facial features and embedded ticks in the fur. However, its sheer size and weight alone make it impractical for a hunter who is on the go. Tripod setup can be time-consuming and cumbersome to deal with when you're making shots on the fly. The SkyMaster DX series are far better options for hunting purposes.
What are the Included Accessories with the 15x70 SkyMaster's?
With the purchase of the Celestron binocular, you'll also receive a carrying case, tripod adapter, and neck strap; rain guard, lens caps, and lens cleaning cloth.
What is the optical quality like on Celestron's 15x70 SkyMaster Binoculars?
This binocular doesn't sport any objective lens coatings or any additional specialized coatings. You may experience poor image quality on the outer 25 percent of the edges of the field of view. You will also have to use a tripod to acquire steady images.
Noteworthy Features:
- High-power and large apertures for maximum ranging
- Low price for giant binoculars
- Great for both terrestrial and astronomical use
- Includes tripod adapter for mounting
- Comes with Celestron's Limited Lifetime Warranty
Our Verdict on the Celestron SkyMaster 15x70 Binoculars
To glass it up, the Celestron SkyMaster 15x70 binoculars show the world how it can be done for an extremely low price. It wasn't too long ago that the least expensive giant binoculars cost more than twice the price of this SkyMaster. However, it's not your on-the-go binocular as it requires a tripod for effective use.
As a comparison, the Celestron Outland 10x42 model is more price attractive, and it is a "Choice" product for hundreds of buyers in the market.
But, if you like the high-powered specs of the SkyMaster and you crave high-end quality, you may as well check out the Zeiss Conquest HD 15X56.
Celestron absolutely leads the pack when it comes to giant optics in the low price class. You can't get bigger than this without bigger price tags. With a SkyMaster in hand, you'll have both eyes on your target. The sky isn't the limit, go beyond!
Further Reading
