Test of the ZEISS Conquest HDX 10x32 Binoculars: Top-of-the-range Optics for Nature Lovers
The ZEISS Conquest HDX 10x32 Binoculars from the renowned German brand ZEISS are designed for nature lovers, whether forbirdwatching, hiking, hunting or even night-time surveillance.
Tested over three days in the forest and mountains, these binoculars impressed us with their clarity and versatility. If you're looking for top-of-the-range binoculars for exploring wildlife or landscapes, this model could well become your best ally!
Unpacking and first impressions
Opening the box of the ZEISS Conquest HDX 10x32 Binoculars reveals a neatly packed contents: the binoculars, a hard carrying case, a comfortable neoprene strap, a cleaning cloth and protective lens caps. The elegant, modern design is immediately apparent.
Their matte black finish, enhanced by a non-slip rubber coating, inspires confidence. Weighing just 620 g, they are surprisingly light for a lens of this quality, and are easy to hold, even for long viewing sessions. The perceived quality is worthy of ZEISS, a brand renowned for its expertise in precision optics.
Optical quality
The optical quality of the ZEISS Conquest HDX 10x32 Binoculars is simply outstanding. With 10x magnification and a lens diameter of 32 mm, they offer exceptional clarity, even at long distances.
On a morning hike, we were able to spot a golden eagle at over 200 meters with impressive sharpness, every detail of its plumage perfectly visible. Light transmission reaches 90%, thanks to the ZEISS T* multi-coating and HD lens system, ensuring optimum brightness even at the end of the day or under overcast skies. The 118 m to 1000 m field of view is ideal for tracking birds in flight or exploring vast mountain landscapes.
These binoculars excel atbirdwatching and nightwatch, delivering vivid, color-fringe-free images.
Ease of use
ZEISS Conquest HDX 10x32 binoculars are extremely comfortable to use. Their ergonomics have been designed for long observation sessions, whether hiking or stationary wildlife observation. The focusing wheel is smooth and precise, allowing quick adjustment even when wearing gloves - a plus for hunters or hikers in cool conditions.
The adjustable eyecups fit perfectly, whether you wear glasses or not, and the 16 mm eye relief ensures comfortable vision. During a 4-hour outing in the forest, we didn't feel any eyestrain, proof of their careful design for prolonged use.
Sturdiness and practicality
The ZEISS Conquest HDX 10x32 Binoculars are a model of robustness. Their lightweight yet sturdy magnesium housing is covered with a rubber coating that protects them from shocks and ensures a perfect grip, even in the rain.
They are waterproof (up to 400 mbar) and nitrogen-filled to prevent fogging, making them ideal for use in wet or changing conditions, such as hiking in a spring shower. The LotuTec® coating on the lenses repels water and dirt, making them easy to care for. Compact (132 mm long) and supplied with a practical case, they slip easily into a backpack, ready to accompany you wherever you go.
Technical specifications
| Magnification | 10x |
|---|---|
| Lens diameter | 32 mm |
| Maximum viewing distance | 1000 m |
| Field of view (at 1000 m) | 118 m |
| Minimum focusing distance | 1,5 m |
| Weight | 620 g |
| Dimensions | 132 x 115 mm |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Warranty | 10 years |
Comparison with other models
Compared with the Swarovski EL Range 10x32, available from Swarovski Optik, the ZEISS Conquest HDX 10x32 Binoculars are lightweight and ergonomically optimized for extended use. Swarovski EL Range binoculars feature a built-in rangefinder, ideal for hunting, but ZEISS binoculars offer a slightly wider field of view (118 m vs. 112 m), perfect forbirdwatching. Both models share exceptional optical quality, but the Conquest HDX stand out for their price, and their compact design, which makes them more practical for long hikes.
Highlights
- Exceptional optical clarity, ideal for spotting details at long distances.
- 90% light transmission, perfect for low-light ornight-time observation.
- Compact, lightweight design (620 g), easy to carry when hiking.
- Meticulous ergonomics, with a precise thumbwheel and comfortable eyelets for extended use.
- Rugged sturdiness, with waterproofing and LotuTec® treatment for all-weather use.
Points to note
- The 32 mm lens diameter is slightly smaller than that of the 10x42 models, but still sufficient for most daytime uses.
- A weight of 620 g, which may seem a little heavier than ultra-compact models, but this guarantees solid, durable construction.
Verdict
The ZEISS Conquest HDX 10x32 Binoculars are a real gem for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're an ornithologist looking to observe birds in flight, a hunter on the prowl or a hiker amazed by the scenery, this model is sure to please. Their optical quality, comfort and sturdiness make them a must-have choice, with value for money that will appeal to amateurs and experts alike. A must-have for exploring nature in 2025!
