Swarovski EL vs Zeiss SFL

[Finnman]

Has anyone compared the optical quality between these two? I can get 10x42 EL or 10x50 SFL for the same price. I've read a lot of pro's and con's of each. I guess I'll let my eyes decide. Just wondering if anyone has looked through both?

 

[Chrstn]

Both are excellent optics, but the 10×50 Zeiss SFL 10x50 will give you a brighter image and better low-light performance because of the larger 50 mm objectives and bigger exit pupil. The 10×42 Swarovski EL 10x42 will be easier to hold, a bit sharper edge-to-edge with flat-field optics, and more comfortable for all-day use
10x50 (SFL): brighter, better in dawn/dusk light, slightly deeper image
10x42 (EL): superb sharpness and contrast, lighter and easier to use all day

 

[Finnman]

Went and looked through both yesterday. Yea Zeiss was a bit more bright. Decided to go with EL's because of a little better clarity. Plus maybe resale value may be a little better should the need arise. They had 15 percent off which helped make my decision. Price was 1699.00 plus tax. So hopefully this will be my last binocular purchase. 10x42.

 

[brymoore]

Military discount?

 

[Finnman]

Nope. Retail price.

 

[Spiral Horn]

Both are excellent optics, but the 10×50 Zeiss SFL 10x50 will give you a brighter image and better low-light performance because of the larger 50 mm objectives and bigger exit pupil. The 10×42 Swarovski EL 10x42 will be easier to hold, a bit sharper edge-to-edge with flat-field optics, and more comfortable for all-day use
10x50 (SFL): brighter, better in dawn/dusk light, slightly deeper image
10x42 (EL): superb sharpness and contrast, lighter and easier to use all day

Agree with much here - but most end up just comparing spec sheets rather than actual field use. I just don't agree with the notion that the 10x42 EL will be easier for all day use than the 10x50 SFL. Personally, I've always wanted to fall in love with the EL-series but they just don't work for me. The size and weight are nearly identical but the ergonomics, focuser, etc of the SFL just feel better to me. While they both have field flatteners the SFL incorporates just the slightest bit of edge distortion - this is intentional in the design and more in line with the way the human eye actually sees - the EL's completely flat-field while novel and impressive at first-glace, contributes to eye fatigue in long glassing sessions - and can generate globe or rolling-ball effect when panning.

So, for general glassing, especially in extended sessions like on a sheep hunt I'd prefer the sharp, bright and easier overall view and handling of the SFL. However, if primarily and truly using the bino mounted on a tripod the EL's features have advantages here.

My 2 cents

 

[Nunjagottam]

Check out Kahles. I've had a pair of their 10x42 for almost 20yr. Beat the dogshit out if them on a chest harness before cases became a thing. Sent them off to be refurbished. Clear as a bell. I was told they are a poor man's Swarovski. I own Leica geovids and just this year picked up a real set of Swarovski with range finder. The Kahles are right on par with both. They're my everyday pickup truck glasses.

 

[Bill Zent]

My Dad's cousin was a night time lookout on a WWll sub and they used 10x50 glass. Fifteen minutes above and then below in a dark room until he went back topside.
The 10x50's are excellent for late evenings etc, but I prefer the 10x42's around my neck when hunting.