When I began researching the Zeiss Terra ED 8×42 binoculars, I was expecting to find something special about them. I knew the Zeiss name stood for excellent German quality, so I figured this would be on display with these “entry level” optics as well.
I was kinda disappointed.
That said, if you know you really want a pair of Zeiss binoculars and just can’t afford any of the models in their other lines, you can click (tap) the link below to see what is available at Amazon.
If you need to know more about the Terra model before making a purchase, read on.
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What Are the Significant Features of the Terra ED 8×42 Binoculars?
The Terra ED 8×42 has all the features you would expect from a maker such as Zeiss at this price point.
You get the high quality glass with all the coatings and so on that manufacturers are able to give it these days. With a good build, you will see objects clearly and with correct coloration. Some users report that they can even use them after sunset without any significant loss of quality.
For the technically minded, the Terra uses the Schmidt-Pechan prism system to invert and flip the image in a small amount of space. Basically, this means that your roof style binoculars can be smaller than they would be otherwise and still show you the image captured by the lenses in the proper, expected orientation. You won’t see your target upside down or backwards.
Other roof prism binoculars use the Abbe-Koenig system which is no better or worse, just different.
Being a little smaller and made of lightweight materials, these binoculars weigh just a fraction over 25 ounces. If you wear them around your neck, you shouldn’t get pains or strains from using them for extended periods of time.
They are nitrogen-filled, so they are both waterproof and fogproof. Dropping them in a puddle or getting caught in bad weather shouldn’t be a problem.
The field of view is pretty good at 375 feet at 1000 yards distance (also 125 meters at 1000 meters). You should be able to zero in on your target bird or deer or moose quite easily.
Eye relief is a generous 18 millimeters, so wearing your glasses while peering through the lenses won’t be a problem.
The close focus distance is 5.25 feet (1.6 meters). That should give you a good view of things like butterflies and insects – or even a bird, if you sit really still.
The diopter, which lets you adjust for different left and right eye strengths, allows 3 clicks in either direction. That should be plenty for all but those with huge eye differences.
You have a choice of more than just the common black finish for your Terras. You can also get them in Cool Gray, Deep Blue, or Lost Camo Editions.
Here is someone who has put the pocket version of these binoculars through some rather severe (and strange) tests. Apparently the Terras survived.
Is There Any Reason Not to Get the Terra?
Even though Zeiss is a German manufacturer, they opted to have the Terra line built in China. This is one of the factors that reduces their cost, compared to other Zeiss lines.
And even though Zeiss has quality standards for the Terra line, it seems that individual build quality can be hit or miss. Some owners have reported misaligned glasses and other defects. Note that Zeiss will replace all such problem binoculars for you.
While the focus wheel works just fine, some users have found it to be a bit too touchy, losing precise focus too easily. Others didn’t care for the wide spacing of the grip lines on the wheel itself.
The Terra comes with a “soft case” which is really no more than a bag, according to some users. If you want a harder, sturdier case (and you probably do), you will either have to purchase one separately or go with a different set of binoculars.
For another brief description and opinion, check out this video from Hayneedle.
What’s the Verdict on the Zeiss Terra ED 8×42?
By this time you might be turned off from getting the Terras, but you really shouldn’t be. It’s not that these are bad binoculars. They are good, but that’s all they are. There’s nothing really special about them.
Apparently Zeiss just wanted everyone to be able to purchase binoculars with the Zeiss logo on them without having to take out a loan or a second mortgage. If that’s the case, then I think they succeeded. Whether that is enough incentive for you to make such a purchase is your call.
For the price you’ll likely pay for them, you might be able to find a better pair that really does stand out from the crowd made by a different manufacturer.
It’s worth noting that there are a total of 6 models in the Terra ED line. Beside the 8×42, you can get the 10×42, 8×32, 10×32, and two compact versions, the 8×25 and 10×25. You should be able to find them all at Amazon here.
If you really want a good set of 8×42 binoculars but have decided, for whatever reason, that the Terra ED 8×42 just isn’t for you, then take a look at this overview of several 8×42 binoculars.
I think you’ll eventually find a pair that pleases you and your budget.
Or, even better, look at the latest (as of 2022) Zeiss has to offer in their SFL 8×40 and 10×40 binoculars.
