Welcome to my Vortex vs. Leupold review!
Although these two brands are high-quality and reliable optics manufacturers, my review will tell you that the choice of which one is right will depend on each individual user.
The reason is that both brands are clearly waaay above the passing mark.
Some people find it hard to choose between the two. Among others, my type falls more strongly towards Leupold.
Curious? Read on!
Contents
Leupold vs Vortex: What Do They Offer?
Whether you’re an experienced or a fledgling hunter, it’s always a good idea to broaden your sights on other brands.
Leupold
Leupold scopes have been around for nearly a century and are extremely reliable.
They are known for their rifle scope lines, such as Leupold VX .308 scopes, FX, VX Freedom, VX-R, Mark, Competition, and UltimateSlam lines.
Leupold rifle scopes come with a full lifetime warranty, so rest assured, you’re covered on that front.
But keep in mind that if the company considers the Leupold scope has been misused or modified in any way, they will invalidate the warranty.
Leupold rifle scopes and optics have been around for many years. They are the trusted manufacturer for several American law enforcement and army branches.
Friends of mine who took Leupold scopes to war swear by its effectiveness!
The company is also known for manufacturing binoculars and other optics. Many American consumers are loyal to the brand because of this.
Vortex Optics
In comparison, as a company, Vortex is newer than Leupold, but that doesn’t mean they don’t make top-quality scopes.
Their most popular and sophisticated rifle scope series are the Vortex Razor Gen II, Viper, Strike Eagle, and Diamondback lines.
Vortex is well known for its customer relations. They offer a VIP lifetime warranty for all of their products, so you can return any scope in any condition.
So, which one makes the process of fixing issues the easiest? Vortex will either repair it or send back a new model.
Talk about premium Vortex warranty value, right?!
Besides Vortex scopes, Vortex Optics also makes wildlife-watching binoculars and law enforcement equipment.
I’ve started to see them on military rifle loadouts as well.
Vortex vs. Leupold: How Do I Choose?
Let’s compare 4 features between the two manufacturers seeing how they stack up against each other. I’ll focus on:
- Accuracy
- Reliability
- Look and Feel
- Price
Each brand performs well, but let’s see how their strengths and weaknesses come into play.
1. Accuracy
Hunters always want a clear view of the target wherever they may be, and I have to be honest, BOTH COMPANIES deliver well on this front.
The rifle scopes you get from these optics manufacturers offer extreme clarity with decent eye relief and a full field of view.
Where they differ is in their reticle post. Of course, depending on the type of scope, there will be different reticles.
The Diamondback line, for example, offers 3 dot options for its vertical reticle post, meaning you can get a clearer, sharper aim on your target, even in low lighting.
For most Leupold rifle scopes, you will get a simpler Duplex reticle, which is ideal for close-range shooting and short-distance hunting.
In terms of innovation and ease of accuracy, Vortex wins out in this round.
You can still be sure of an accurate shot, even in low-light environments. The several dot options give Vortex scopes an upper hand.
In my experience, having multiple dot options makes all the difference.
Winner: Vortex
2. Reliability
Both Vortex and Leupold scopes have wide-ranging abilities, and again, it does depend on the situation you need to use them.
However, in terms of reliability, the main difference between Vortex vs Leupold is that Leupold manufactures most, if not all, of its products in the US.
On the other hand, Vortex Optics often outsources its products from China, but that doesn’t affect the actual scope’s performance.
Both companies make their scopes with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy or other extremely durable materials and are made to be fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof.
You can bet on them being reliable while you’re out in the field.
I’ve taken both brands on particularly taxing hunts; they have been through dirt, water drops, and bumps.
Yet, they still feel brand new at the end of the day!
The two brands also often use multi-coating on their glass, providing clarity of view and protecting your view from sun glare.
Because of this, my images have been crystal clear each time, kind of like watching a movie in HD!
In truth, there is no standout feature that makes one or the other brand better than the other in terms of reliability.
It will mainly depend on which manufacturer you are more comfortable.
In terms of quality and standard in build, both scopes come up to par with each other.
Something to note, though, are their warranty policies.
If you’re having difficulty choosing reliability in performance, maybe reliability in customer service would give Vortex an upper hand.
Winner: Both
3. Look and Feel
Nowadays, top-quality scopes tend to look the same, with similar sleek designs and coated matte finishes.
Of course, both brands make their products in line with these qualities.
You’re going to want a LIGHTWEIGHT scope that’s easy to take with you on hunting trips and sturdy enough to hold up in outdoor environments.
Also, a matte black coating is important on a scope to make it inconspicuous and prevent any sun glare.
Since most scopes look similar, I advise testing for tactile, audible, and textured turrets often found in high-end quality scopes.
This is to see how the scope handles and makes adjustments.
Doing so will help you see what kinds of features the scope offers and how they are useful to you.
I think practical experience is the deciding factor when choosing scopes.
In my experience, both Leupold and Vortex were easy enough to bring around, and their adjustments both helped with my accuracy!
In terms of the look and feel, there is no definite brand that outshines the other.
Again, as I mentioned, most top-quality scopes look really similar, so it’s best to go and personally check the features for yourself.
Winner: Both
4. Price
Although Leupold is the better-known company, it’s also the more expensive option.
Usually, younger hunters opt for Vortex scopes and equipment because they are in a better price range and offer many of the same features as Leupold.
True enough, I, myself, saved quite a sum after choosing Vortex!
To put things into perspective, 2 similar scopes from both companies would likely have at least a $30 difference in price.
If you’re trying to save up, any amount makes a BIG difference.
Often, if people have money to spend, people will buy a Leupold scope because of its well-established reputation as a company.
However, this doesn’t mean that because Vortex scopes are cheaper, they are of lower quality!
You actually aren’t paying for the build quality with these products.
You’re paying for glass clarity more often than not, and both manufacturers offer clear, high-quality glass in all of their scope series.
Vortex scopes win this round simply because we are talking about price, which is a relatively large factor when buying or investing in anything.
Not to mention, Vortex’s lifetime warranty is an excellent money-saving deal.
Knowing the difference in the price range between Vortex and Leupold scopes can help you save a few bucks, especially if the ones you buy come in bulk.
Winner: Vortex
See our list of the best, affordable AR-15 scopes under 200 to learn more!
5. Warranty
Leupold has a full lifetime warranty with no proof of ownership required, which is nice! Not to mention that the repairs and replacements are FREE!
The only condition is that the scope cannot be modified or altered; otherwise, the warranty is invalid, which is totally reasonable.
Yes, painting your scope will void the warranty.
Meanwhile, Vortex’s warranty is called the VIP warranty, which is also an unlimited lifetime warranty. No receipts. No proof of purchase. No charge!
In my experience, both warranty processes have gone smoothly, so there isn’t much to complain about.
That being said, I can’t say one warranty is better than the other.
Winner: Both
A Closer Look at Vortex Scopes vs. Leupold Scopes
Here, I compare specific products at different price points to better understand how their product lines match up.
1. Entry-Level Scopes
Vortex and Leupold offer many high-quality entry-level scopes. This is good news for newer hunters or those who need good optics but are on a budget.
Let’s compare these entry-level scopes.
Vortex – Diamondback HP
One of the most popular models for entry-level Vortex scopes is the Vortex Diamondback HP, but I’ll focus on the 4-16x42mm version.
Features to note of the Vortex Diamondback 4-16x42mm:
- Multilayer-coated optics improve light transmission and minimize light reflection
- The second focal plane reticle stays the same size as the reticle for more accuracy even when using magnification
- Waterproofed interior sealed with an O ring
- Fog-proof and shockproof
- ¼ MOA adjustment with 15 MOA full rotation
- Parallax setting of 20 yards to infinity — basically has no parallax
- 4-inch eye relief for faster target acquisition
- Medium range magnification from 3x-12x
Some of the biggest selling points of this Vortex scope are the reticle plane and parallax adjustment.
Often, novice shooters have difficulty with the first focal plane reticle size affecting their shooting precision, so having a second focal plane is a big help.
Also, Vortex’s decision to eliminate parallax on a lower-end scope is a FANTASTIC feature because the target is clearer than before.
That means no warping of the target or difference in view through the scope, giving you a precise sight of your target!
I find it absolutely necessary during serious hunts!
It isn’t overly complicated and meets most hunters’ needs, and is easy to use, making it an excellent option for beginner sharpshooters.
SIDE NOTE: For another great entry-level option, I also highly recommend the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 LPVO.
Leupold – Rifleman 3-9×40
One of Leupold’s most popular models in their entry-level line is the Leupold Rifleman scope.
There are different models of Leupold Rifleman scope, but the one I’ll discuss is the Rifleman 3-9x40mm model.
Here are some of the features of the Rifleman 3-9x40mm:
- Uses a proprietary Leupold reticle, the Ballistics Aiming System
- Inner optics are nitrogen-filled, fog-proof and waterproof
- 4.2-inch maximum eye relief
- ½ MOA adjustment
- Includes 4-layer multicoated optics for better light transmission and lower light reflection
- No parallax at 150 yards
- Fixed focal plane glass construction
- Magnification range of 3x-9x
The Leupold Ballistics Aiming System is Leupold’s own reticle.
It provides several different possibilities for long-range shots and offset shots by calculating the windage.
This reticle also has power selector settings that can match your rifle’s ballistics, resulting in fewer calculations for you.
It’s been a huge time-saver for me!
The Leupold Rifleman is extremely well-built. Rest assured, you get a highly durable rifle scope that meets any marksman’s standards.
Bottom Line
Performance-wise, there isn’t too much of a difference between these two. However, if I had to choose, I would go with the Vortex Diamondback HP.
The second focal plane reticle makes a HUGE DIFFERENCE in ease of use, making it a great value for both novice and experienced shooters.
For more about scopes, you can read my guide on the best 1000-yard scopes!
2. Mid-Range Scopes
Mid-range scopes may be similar to entry-level scopes in terms of performance and features.
But the materials used to build them are a cut above the ones used to build cheaper scopes.
Both Leupold and Vortex have many choices for mid-level product lines, so let’s find out which company does the better mid-range scope.
Vortex – Razor HD LH – 2-10×40
The Vortex Razor HD LH 2-10×40 is a powerful model, albeit already discontinued.
This scope gives you many excellent features and is one of the better scopes for a greater field of view.
I highly recommend it if you can find it through third-party resellers.
These are the features of the Vortex Razor HD LH:
- This product uses HSR-A or G4 BCD reticle
- 3.8-inch eye relief
- Parallax at 100 yards without adjustment
- ¼ MOA adjustment graduation
- Features an argon gas-filled tube making it waterproof and fog-proof
- Tube is constructed with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy
- Uses a multi-coated external lens providing greater light transmission and antireflective properties
- Magnification capabilities of 2x-10x
This is a well-thought-out rifle scope with some of the best optics on the market.
The only downside is that there is no confirmation from Vortex on whether or not they’ll ever release it again.
The minimum 2x magnification has an impressive 56.2 feet, while the 10x magnification is 10.8 feet,
These numbers gave me a spectacular field of view for my big-game hunting.
The aluminum alloy makes this Vortex scope incredibly lightweight, making it easy to travel with!
Expand your search for optics with this list I made of the best optics for your AR-15!
Leupold – VX-3i 3.5-10×50
Unfortunately, the VX-3i line has been discontinued by Leupold Optics.
The Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×50 is a strong contender in the battle of mid-range scopes. This scope finds its advantage in its top-notch construction.
Features of the Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×50:
- ¼ MOA finger turn adjustments
- Has Argon and Krypton-filled internal chamber — no thermal shock and fog-proof glass
- Ballistic Aiming System reticle or Duplex reticle is available
- 1-inch main tube made of aircraft-grade aluminum
- Uses Twilight Max light management system — high definition images even in low light
- 4.4-inch eye relief
- Magnification 3.5x-10x
All of Leupold VX-3i’s features work together to create a clear and accurate target image.
It’s incredibly heavy-duty, has aircraft-grade aluminum, and has excellent glass clarity.
If you can find it through online or retail sources, I recommend scooping it up right away!
If you use custom ballistics, the Leupold Ballistics Aiming System is a suitable reticle for you because it will eliminate any extra calculations you might have to do.
Bottom Line
The mid-range winner would have to be the Leupold VX-3i because its features work together to create such a well-developed scope.
If you prefer a larger field of view, the Vortex scope would be a better choice, but in terms of features, build, and reticles, you might prefer Leupold VX-3i as superior.
It’s really up to your personal preference.
I recommend finding a friend who owns one of these and testing them yourself before buying.
3. Top-Tier Scopes
Let’s take a look at some top-tier scopes Vortex and Leupold have to offer.
These product lines are aimed at precision shooters. These are more expensive, but there is a marked difference in image definition.
Vortex – Viper PST GEN II 5-25×50
For high-end Vortex scopes, I have the Vortex Viper PST GEN II 5-25×50. This scope was MADE for long-range shooting.
Features of the Viper PST GEN II 5-25×50:
- Glass etched, illuminated reticle provides sharpness in low lighting conditions.
- XD and XR lens and extra-low dispersion glass, and proprietary anti-reflective coatings
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Argon-filled, Waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof
- Uses zero stop turrets — sight range does not go below zero
- ERB-4 reticle uses MOA or MRAD subtension lines
This is a relatively small and lightweight scope, but it delivers on a large account with its depth and field of view.
This includes a generous 4.8 feet maximum magnification and is best for long-range shooters.
I‘ve fired it a few times and grown more impressed with each use!
Leupold – VX-5HD 3-15×44
The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 is a serious scope that holds lots of features for mid to long-range shooters.
Features of the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44:
- Fog-proof, thermal shockproof, waterproof; Argon and Krypton-filled
- Quick zero with the CDS-ZL2 turret reset and zero locks.
- Fiber optic fire dot illumination
- Motion sensor technology automatically deactivates and re-illuminates scope
- 15x magnification with 7.9ft view
- 3.7- inch eye relief
- Proprietary glass coating gives excellent light transmission.
The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 is a beautifully designed scope that is incredibly functional.
Dot illumination gives accurate shots, and motion sensor technology saves time and effort while waiting for your shot.
When every shot counts, I find that the VX-5’s features can make all the difference.
Bottom Line
Although the Vortex Viper is an amazing scope, the Leupold VX-5HD is simply the better choice in this category.
Its functions were made with user experience in mind, and they work effectively in the field.
I can attest to the differences between the two.
Vortex vs. Leupold: Which One Makes Better Rifle Scopes?
Although both companies make excellent scopes and have their strengths and weaknesses, the Vortex vs. Leupold debate winner has to be Leupold scopes.
Vortex won out on more categories than Leupold, but it comes down to which product features are more effective and work better instead of as separate parts.
As Leupold has managed to show, their scopes are a little more well-rounded and better thought out than Vortex.
If you don’t have the budget for Leupold scopes, Vortex scopes offer exceptional performance too.
And let’s not forget, you save more with Vortex Optics and get premium, top-notch warranty deals!
FINAL TIP: If you’re interested to learn more about more optics brands, you can take a look at my Guide on Rifle Scope Manufacturers to help you out.
