5 Best Monoculars (Reviews Updated 2024)

Monoculars are a popular choice for people who want to observe distant objects with one eye instead of two. They are compact, lightweight, and easy to carry.

These features make them ideal for travelers, hikers, and bird watchers.

When shopping for a monocular, consider the magnification power and objective lens diameter.

Higher magnification can help see distant objects more clearly, while a larger objective lens allows more light into the monocular, improving clarity and brightness.

Also, check for durability features like waterproof and fog-proof capabilities, especially if you plan to use them outdoors frequently.

Pay attention to the field of view, measured in feet at 1,000 yards. A wider field of view is beneficial for tracking moving objects like birds or wildlife.

Comfort is also important; ensure the monocular is easy to hold and has user-friendly focus adjustments.

Considering these factors can help you choose a monocular that best suits your needs and preferences.

Best Monoculars

Here is our list of the best monoculars. These picks offer great options for bird watching, hiking, or viewing distant objects with clarity.

Want to learn more?

Here are our monocular reviews.

1. Vortex Solo Monocular 10×36

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a compact and durable monocular with great optics.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight, easy to carry
• Rubber armored for non-slip grip
• Waterproof and fogproof

Cons

• Lanyard quality could be better
• 10x magnification might be hard to stabilize for some
• Only suitable for one-eye viewing

This monocular is compact, making it a convenient addition to your gear. The rubber armor ensures you have a firm grip, even in wet conditions.

Its waterproof and fogproof features mean it’ll withstand harsh environments.

The 10x magnification offers clear and crisp images, great for spotting details from afar. The added utility clip makes it easy to attach to various surfaces.

Anyone can use it comfortably thanks to the adjustable eyecup, even if you wear glasses.

Despite its many features, there are a few downsides. The lanyard might not withstand rugged use.

The 10x magnification can be difficult to keep steady without a tripod. Additionally, it’s only for one-eye viewing, which some might find limiting.

2. Vortex Optics Solo R/T 8×36 Monocular

This monocular offers impressive optics and durability, making it worth considering.

Pros

• Crisp, clear optics
• Durable and non-slip grip
• Waterproof and fogproof

Cons

• Requires battery
• Limited only to manual focus
• Weight may be slightly heavy for some users

If you need a powerful tool for observation, this monocular stands out. The 8x magnification and 36mm objective lens ensure a clear view.

Its multi-coated lenses make it excellent in low-light situations. Also, the rubber armor provides a non-slip grip, boosting durability.

The large focus wheel and reticle focus allow precise adjustments. You might appreciate the utility clip for quick access in the field.

3. TASCO Essentials 10×25 Monocular

Great choice for casual outdoor use or kids’ adventures due to its durability and affordability.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Affordable pricing
• Durable rubber armor

Cons

• Limited field of view
• Basic build quality
• Not suitable for professional use

This monocular by TASCO is perfect for casual activities like wildlife spotting or carrying in your pocket for quick use.

Its compact size and light weight make it easy to transport and handle. The tough rubber armor ensures it can withstand rough handling, making it ideal for kids or casual outings.

The affordable price point is a major selling feature, offering decent optical performance without breaking the bank.

The included hand strap and carrying pouch add to its convenience. While it’s not the highest quality optic on the market, it does its job well for its price range.

Keep in mind, this monocular has a smaller field of view and may not perform as well in more professional or demanding situations. The build quality is basic, so manage your expectations accordingly. For simple, everyday use, it’s a solid option.

4. Aurosports 12×55 Monocular

This monocular is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking clarity and stability in their viewing experience.

Pros

• High magnification for detailed views
• Clear images with advanced lens coating
• Includes phone adapter and tripod for steady shots

Cons

• Tripod may feel a bit flimsy
• Fixed focus type limits adjustability
• Some slight color distortion

Designed for simplicity and performance, the Aurosports 12×55 Monocular is perfect for outdoor activities.

The 12x magnification brings distant objects closer, making it ideal for bird watching and hiking.

The large 55mm objective lens and FMC coating ensure high-contrast images. You’ll enjoy vibrant colors and sharp details, even in lower light conditions.

Included in the package is a phone adapter and tripod. This setup makes it easy to capture and share your adventures without worrying about shaky hands.

5. Meonddizio 80X100 Monocular

This monocular offers excellent optical performance and portability, making it a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pros

• High magnification for detailed viewing.
• Excellent light transmittance for bright images.
• Comes with useful accessories such as a tripod and smartphone holder.

Cons

• Some users may find it challenging to achieve the claimed magnification.
• The included accessories may not suit all users.
• Lens caps can be prone to loss if not fastened properly.

This monocular boasts 80x magnification, perfect for detailed observations. Its 100mm objective lens ensures sharp and bright images. BAK-4 prisms enhance clarity and color accuracy.

Lightweight and portable, it’s easy to carry for activities like hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting.

The ergonomic design fits comfortably in your hand. It’s well-suited for a variety of outdoor adventures.

The package includes essential accessories, including a tripod and smartphone holder. This adds convenience and versatility. Easily attach your phone to capture stunning shots of distant objects.

Monocular Buying Guide

Here’s everything you need to know about buying monoculars.

Optics Quality

Look for high-quality lenses and coatings.

Fully multi-coated lenses offer clearer and brighter images. Also, check for BaK-4 prisms which enhance clarity and sharpness.

Magnification and Objective Lens Size

Higher magnification isn’t always better. A 6x to 8x magnification strikes a balance between detail and stability.

The objective lens size affects light-gathering ability. For a brighter view, consider lenses over 30mm.

Portability and Weight

Choose a lightweight design for ease of carrying.

Compact monoculars are ideal for travel or hiking. Heavier models can be cumbersome during long use.

Durability

Look for weather-resistant features.

Waterproof and fog-proof models are ideal for outdoor use. Check for robust materials to withstand impacts.

Field of View

Field of view (FOV) is crucial for spotting and tracking. A wider FOV helps scan large areas easily.

300 feet at 1000 yards is a good standard for monoculars.

Eye Relief

If you wear glasses, consider long eye relief. Eye relief over 14mm allows comfortable use without removing glasses.

Focus Mechanism

Ensure the focus mechanism is user-friendly.

Single-handed focusing can be a useful feature.

Price and Warranty

Set a budget but remember quality often comes at a price. Look for a reasonable warranty to protect your investment.

Additional Features

Extra features like night vision or rangefinding can be beneficial. However, they may increase the cost.