Athlon is an optics dealer that aims to compete with high-quality binocular brands but with tempting prices. An American company, Athlon focuses on products for outdoor enthusiasts, as most of their products hold up well against the elements. They don’t sell a lot of different kinds of binoculars, so they have concentrated their efforts on crafting a few select styles with varying magnifications. It’s clear that Athlon makes products meant for people who want a pair of lightweight, quality-driven, and robust binoculars.
The company sells many items, but we have our eye on the Athlon Optics Neos G2 HD 10×42. We will review this model to give you an idea of its performance, features, quality, and customer service. Stick around, and we’ll get into it in just a moment!
Athlon Neos G2 HD 10×42 Binoculars – A Quick Look
Specifications
Brand:
Athlon
Model:
Neos G2 HD 10×42
Materials:
Rubber and magnesium
Magnification:
10X
Objective lens diameter:
42 mm
Weight:
1.3 lbs.
Made in:
China
Waterproof?:
Yes
Pros
Lightweight and compact
Excellent glass clarity and color accuracy
Fair price
Great warranty
Cons
Fixed magnification
Athlon Neos G2 HD 10×42 Binoculars – The Details
Visuals
The optical performance of the Neos G2 is remarkably good for its price point. With Athlon’s BAK4 prism design, you’ll be able to maximize the light that passes through your binoculars, an ideal trait for low-light situations.
Plus, the Athlon G2 10x42s are compatible with glasses, as their eye relief is quite long at 14.1 mm. There isn’t else to say about these except that they are super clear and have great color accuracy!
Build Quality
The Neos G2 line does not compromise on its construction. A rubber-armored finish and lightweight but durable magnesium combine for a tough design. These binoculars will hold up quite well against drops or bangs (although you should always be careful!) and are even fully waterproof. That means you won’t be restricted to sunny weather, and you can have the peace of mind that your gear will stay functional, whether you drop it in the lake or get caught in a rainstorm.
Portability
Coming in at just 1.3 pounds, the Athlon Neos G2 10×42 is a perfect sightseeing item to bring on the trail while you’re birding or hunting. This model has a sleek design and can even fit in a jacket pocket, making it quick and easy to pull out if you see something intriguing. Additionally, Athlon has thrown in a case and carrying strap for ease of use. Pretty standard these days, but it’s always nice to have!
Warranty
We’re glad to say this pair of Athlon binoculars has a lifetime warranty! Compared to other competitors, this is one of the brand’s strong points. Other companies such as Barska only have a 21-day return policy, whereas Athlon is dedicated to ensuring you get what you need.
A Few Minor Issues
Although the G2s are an overall winner so far, we should mention a few drawbacks.
First, advertising itself with an American flag on the front of the box is a bit misleading. These binoculars are made in China, which is a bit disappointing compared to Barska, which makes its products in the U.S.A. Nikon also produces theirs in Japan, a hotspot for manufacturing some of the best optics equipment in the world.
Secondly, this particular model has a fixed magnification. As many subjects will vary in distance, this can be a huge problem. In this case, hunters may have more benefits as they just need to scout an area rather than frame their subject perfectly.
FAQ of the Athlon Neos G2 HD 10×42 Binoculars
Where are these made/assembled?
Athlon products are generally made in China. However, they have a single item that’s made in Japan. As we mentioned earlier, the Neos G2s are made in China.
What’s included in the box?
Along with your fresh pair of the Athlon Neos G2 HD 10×42, the other accessories include a neck strap, carrying case, and lens/eyepiece covers.
Are these good for stargazing?
We think there are better options for stargazers. With objects in the night sky, you’ll certainly want a tripod to keep things steady. On the other hand, this model, unfortunately, does not accommodate these criteria.
What the Users Say
We’ve looked at multiple platforms where buyers have left their thoughts on the Neos G2 HD 10×42 binoculars. So far, the reviews of other users have been overwhelmingly positive.
One area we’ve noticed people saying good things about is the quality of the glass. Buyers mention that the visual performance is sharp, color accurate, and crystal-clear. They also said that the warranty was a huge factor in their purchase decision.
The only major complaints were that the included eyecups were a bit loose, and there was a bit of glare in some situations.
A few others have noted that they are directly competing against Vortex (a very high-quality optics brand), but the views are mixed.
Athlon doesn’t have a huge variety of styles for their binoculars, but this might have to be a good decision on their part. They focus heavily on their limited number of products, keeping prices low. Their Neos G2 line is one of the best choices out there for outdoors-people, as it has the optical clarity and quality construction that we can appreciate out in nature.
Take a look for yourself; these binoculars could help you spot more than you thought!
Robert’s obsession with all things optical started early in life, when his optician father would bring home prototypes for Robert to play with. Nowadays, Robert is dedicated to helping others find the right optics for their needs. His hobbies include astronomy, astrophysics, and model building. Originally from Newark, NJ, he resides in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where the nighttime skies are filled with glittering stars.
