Laynie Hasan.

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Outdoor & Travel Comparisons · Reviewed September 25, 2026

Nikon PROSTAFF P3 vs Celestron Nature DX 8x42 Binoculars

Both are waterproof, nitrogen-filled 8x42 roof-prism binoculars. Nikon is lighter and provides 20.2 mm of eye relief; Celestron focuses much closer, offers a slightly wider view and documents phase-coated BaK-4 prisms.

Best for

Birders, travelers and event viewers choosing a full-size 8x42 binocular by field of view, eyeglass clearance and close-focus needs.

Probably not for

Astronomical observing that needs a tripod-mounted large aperture, compact pocket carry, image stabilization or claims about optical quality without controlled observation.

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Nikon PROSTAFF P3 8x42 Binocular

Nikon specifies 8x magnification, 42 mm objectives and a 377-foot field of view at 1,000 yards for the PROSTAFF P3 8x42. It provides a 9.8-foot close-focus distance, 20.2 mm of eye relief and a 5.3 mm exit pupil. The roof-prism body weighs 20.3 ounces and measures about 5.9 by 5.1 inches. Nikon describes it as waterproof to 3.3 feet and nitrogen-filled for fog resistance, with a rubber-armored exterior.

Pros

  • At 20.3 ounces, it is lighter than the 22.2-ounce Celestron.
  • The published 20.2 mm eye relief gives more clearance than Celestron lists, which can help some eyeglass wearers.

Cons

  • Its 9.8-foot close-focus distance is substantially longer than the Nature DX 6.5-foot figure.
  • The 377-foot field of view is slightly narrower than the Celestron 388-foot specification.

Who it’s for: Choose it when lower weight and longer published eye relief matter more than close focus. Skip it when nearby butterflies, plants or feeders are the main subjects.

Check Nikon PROSTAFF P3 8x42 Binocular on Amazon

Celestron Nature DX 8x42 Roof Binoculars

Celestron model 71332 combines 8x magnification and 42 mm objectives with a 7.4-degree angular field, equivalent to 388 feet at 1,000 yards. It focuses as close as 6.5 feet and provides 17.5 mm of eye relief. Celestron lists fully multi-coated optics, phase-coated BaK-4 roof prisms, a 5.25 mm exit pupil, nitrogen filling and waterproof construction. The binocular weighs 22.2 ounces and uses twist-up eyecups with multiple stops.

Pros

  • The 6.5-foot close focus is useful for nearby birds, insects and museum or garden details.
  • Its 388-foot field of view is slightly wider, and the manufacturer specifies fully multi-coated optics plus phase-coated BaK-4 prisms.

Cons

  • The 22.2-ounce body is almost two ounces heavier than Nikon lists.
  • Its 17.5 mm eye relief provides less published clearance than the Nikon, so eyeglass fit deserves careful checking.

Who it’s for: Choose it for closer focusing, a slightly wider view and documented prism coatings. Skip it when the lighter carry or maximum eyeglass clearance is more important.

Check Celestron Nature DX 8x42 Roof Binoculars on Amazon

Eight-power magnification is the common starting point

Both binoculars enlarge the subject eight times and use 42 mm front lenses. Eight power is generally easier to hold steady than a higher magnification in the same style of handheld binocular, while the 42 mm objectives preserve a full-size light-gathering area. The matching 8x42 labels make this a like-for-like comparison, but they do not make the optical systems identical.

Exit pupil is almost the same: Nikon lists 5.3 mm and Celestron 5.25 mm. Those calculated figures follow from the common magnification and objective size. They do not independently establish brightness, contrast or color quality. Coatings, internal baffling, alignment, viewing conditions and a user's eyes all affect the view.

Field of view and close focus favor the Nature DX on paper

At 1,000 yards, Nikon publishes a 377-foot field and Celestron publishes 388 feet. The difference is modest, but a wider field can make it easier to find and follow a moving bird. Close focus separates the models more clearly: 9.8 feet for Nikon versus 6.5 feet for Celestron.

A close-focus number matters for feeders, butterflies, insects and nearby interpretive displays. It matters much less when every subject is across a lake or stadium. Measure the typical viewing distance rather than treating the smallest number as a universal win.

Eyeglasses and carrying weight create the counter-tradeoff

Nikon publishes 20.2 mm of eye relief, while Celestron lists 17.5 mm. More eye relief can help a viewer see the full field while wearing glasses, but face shape, frames and eyecup position still matter. Both use adjustable eyecups, and both should be set so the eye sits at the correct distance without blackouts.

Nikon is also lighter at 20.3 ounces compared with Celestron's 22.2 ounces. A 1.9-ounce gap is not dramatic in a short session, yet it can be noticeable during hours on a neck strap. A supportive harness may matter more than the difference for long outings.

Waterproof does not mean maintenance-free

Both manufacturers describe these models as waterproof and nitrogen-filled, which supports use in damp outdoor conditions and helps resist internal fogging. Nikon specifically states waterproofing down to 3.3 feet. Neither model should be treated as a diving optic, and neither claim prevents salt, grit, fingerprints or impact damage.

Choose Nikon for the lighter body and longer eye relief. Choose Celestron for close focus, slightly wider field and its stated phase-coated BaK-4 system. Confirm the exact 8x42 listing because 10x42, 8x32 and Nature DX ED versions have different specifications. Carry lens-cleaning tools made for coated optics and consult the manufacturer before rinsing or storing a wet binocular.

Official sources and further reading

Sources reviewed on September 25, 2026. Prices, availability and terms can change; recheck before buying.

Related reading

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