11 Best Monoculars [2023 Reviews]
The human eye is quite powerful but at times some objects are just too far away. Such situations may require a third eye, and a monocular seems to fit the job description perfectly.
These units act as hand telescopes, so they will bring objects that are several meters away closer to you with a simple turn of the focus dial. Through this, you will have a clearer and precise look at the object under view.
There are so many options out there, but this article provides you with the top best monocular that will allow you to see distant objects.
11 Best Monoculars
#1 ROXANT Grip Scope High Definition Monocular
This monocular has an ergonomic design, which allows you to use it in a wide range of situations. With a magnification of 6x, this device will provide you with panoramic views when handling outdoor activities such as hiking, hunting, bird watching, target shooting, and any other activity that may require a closer view of the object in question. The molded grip provides you with comfort, and will also ensure that there is good contact between your fingers and the monocular. As such, the chances of you dropping the monocular accidentally will be very low.
Plus, the device is lightweight and allows you to view for long hours without getting tired. The manufacturers have used premium quality optical glass in designing this monocular, so it will provide you with crystal clear views. Besides, the lens is made of BAK-4 prism, a high-density glass that will provide you with edge-to-edge sharpness and exceptional light transmission. These features will offer you superior views that will make your outdoor sessions memorable.
What’s more, this device has a retractable eyecup, which you can use depending on the condition of your eyes. Moreover, you can use it with your glasses on or off. This product comes with other accessories that will enhance your viewing experience. For starters, the cleaning clothe will help you wipe off fingerprints and dust from the lenses, while the carry pouch will protect the unit when it in transit.
Pros
- Compact and solid construction
- Comes with a neck strap
- Non-slip design
Cons
- The magnification is only 6x
#2 Opticron BGA WP 10×42 Monocular
The Opticron BGA monocular has a 10x magnification, making it one of the professional-grade monocular that you can consider purchasing. It can particularly help field specialists who spend most of their time outdoors studying the beauty of nature or just having fun. The roof prism design creates a clear path for the light to pass through, hence providing you with bright images. So the monocular will not only magnify the object under view but will also polish the image, providing you with a detailed view.
Also, the focus wheel is ribbed to enhance grip, thereby preventing unnecessary slippage when using the device. This is an all-purpose monocular, so you can take it just about anywhere. Furthermore, the lens provides you with a wide field of view, allowing you to see a large portion of the landscape. This monocular is built with premium quality materials and is also nitrogen-filled to improve its durability and functionality.
The monocular is easy to use since it has a large focus wheel that will allow you to zoom in and out with ease. It also has a waterproof construction, making this an ideal option for boat races and kayaking. When you buy this item, you will get a monocular strap and a soft case, both of which will assist you in keeping the device in good working condition.
Pros
- The eyecup has a convenient twist control function
- Hard-wearing
- Multi-coated lens system
Cons
- None
#3 Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Monocular
This monocular uses extra-low-dispersion (ED) prime glass that will provide you with clear images. Moreover, this type of glass can correct chromatic aberration, thereby giving you images that have a precise color layout. To add to this, it is fitted with BAK-4 prisms, which will boost the quality of the images. The optic system is multi-coated to make the lenses and the glasses more effective and durable. In addition, the housing is heavily built to offer maximum protection.
With the help of the MIL reticle, you will have an easy time making the scope adjustments when in the field. This device has a water-repellent coating, which will prevent moisture and rainwater from damaging the lenses. Additionally, the monocular is fog-proof, so you can use it even in the most inclement condition. This equipment will provide you with excellent optics provided that you apply the right settings.
This unit has Picatinny rail that you can use when mounting the monocular to hunting rifles. Through this, you will be able to mark and put a lock on the target for a clear shot. Since the monocular has a compact design, you can hold it with one hand as you scope the terrain. Besides the casing is rugged, so this device will fit into the palm of your hands easily without slipping. There is also a wrist strap, which can help you secure the molecular to your hand.
Pros
- Equipped with anti-reflective lenses
- Provides you with high-contrast images
- Has a carry clip
Cons
- Somewhat heavy
#4 Vortex Optics Solo Monocular
The monocular from vortex has a durable rubber armor, which shields the components from shock in case of impact. Despite being small, this monocular is very powerful and will provide you with high-quality images that will make your outings worthwhile. As a matter of fact, the magnification power is 10x, while the objective lens is 25mm. This combo will allow you to bring objects that are far away closer to you.
More to this, you can turn the focus wheel on either side depending on how far the object is from you. To view objects that are far away, consider turning the wheel in a clockwise direction. However, turning the wheel counter-clockwise will allow you to focus on objects that are much nearer. More on the focus wheel, it designed in such a way that you can turn it without losing your grip.
The seals are fitted with O-rings, which prevent water from flooding the inner compartments when using the monocular in wet conditions. Also, the unit is nitrogen purged, so you can use it in a wide range of environments. The casing has a diamond-checked grip, which maximizes contact, thus allowing you to hold the monocular even when your hands are wet. As if that is not enough, the lenses are coated to deliver bright images.
Pros
- Provides you with good light transmission
- High-resolution power
- Adjustable eyecup
Cons
- The eyecup twist control is too close to the focus wheel
#5 Gosky 12×55 High Definition Monocular
Birdwatching is fun, but the only problem is that you have to be a few meters away so that you don’t spook the birds. As such, you may miss out on some of the moments due to the distance. And that is where this monocular comes in, it is built with a powerful 12x magnification and a 55mm fully-multi coated (FMC) objective lens, which will allow more light into the monocular for enhanced viewing. Of course, the unit is not only meant for birdwatching, but it also has a versatile design, so you can use it in all your outdoor adventures.
That said, it can assist you when mountaineering, hunting, hiking, and other activities that may require the use of a monocular. This unit has a tripod mount, which will allow you to attach the monocular to a tripod stand. It is compatible with all standard size tripods, so you won’t have a hard time when mounting the device. The eyecup is adjustable, hence allowing you to use the monocular with your glasses on.
The casing has a solid framework and is also rubberized to provide you with a comfortable grip. Additionally, the focus wheel is conveniently placed at the top to facilitate easy scope adjustment. This monocular comes with a user manual that will help you tune the unit for optimum results. The digiscoping adapter allows you to connect your smartphone to the monocular, thereby allowing you to save all the memorable shots.
Pros
- Comes with a carrying bag
- Has lens protection covers
- Fog and dust-proof
Cons
- Attaching the digiscoping adaptor may not be as easy
#6 Vivreal Monocular Telescope
The high definition monocular from Vivreal has all the features that you may need to make your outdoor expeditions more fun. This monocular will bring objects 12x closer to you, allowing you to see what the eye cannot see. The focus wheel is easy to turn, so you can make the adjustments using just one hand. In addition, the light transmission is excellent, thus giving you access to crisp views.
This optical equipment only weighs 0.61lbs, so you can include it in your hiking gear without it weighing you down. The non-abrasive cleaning cloth will allow you to clean the objective for clearer images. More to this, the unit is nitrogen-filled to prevent fogging. It is also fitted with BAK-4 prism, which allows light to flow through the lenses smoothly. This product comes with a flexible tripod stand that will help you stabilize the monocular.
Alternatively, you can attach the device to your own tripod provided that it has 1/4″-20 threads. The body has a non-slip design, which will allow you to hold the monocular steadily as you view your scenes. When it comes to clarity, the lenses have a green film coating, which corrects all color distortions, herby allowing the device to deliver images that have perfectly blended colors.
Pros
- The smartphone holder is compatible with a wide range of phones
- Designed with a rubber armor
- Waterproof
Cons
- The carry bag can only accommodate the monocular, leaving the other accessories out
#7 Hawke Endurance ED Monocular
This monocular is equipped with an objective lens with extra-low dispersion. As such, it will ensure that light is dispersed correctly for maximum performance. To make it even better, the monocular is small and lightweight, making this an ideal companion for all outdoor adventures. The multi-coated optics will provide you with high-quality images that will leave you more than impressed.
The focus wheel is large, allowing you to make quick adjustments to the field of view. This device comes with a lanyard that you can fit into your wrist when using the monocular. Also, you will get two lens covers that will help you secure the eyepiece and the objective lens. The ocular cover works with the eyepiece, while the objective cover will shield the front lens from potential damage.
You can carry this monocular every time you are out exploring nature since it is lightweight. It can help you when site seeing, birdwatching, camping, etc. This monocular has an anti-fog design, which prevents the lens from getting foggy when the temperature drops to extreme levels. This feature can come in handy when working in high altitude areas where too much moisture can be an issue.
Pros
- Delivers high performance
- Shockproof
- Comes with an instruction manual
Cons
- The eye relief is too short compared to other models
#8 Celestron Nature 10×25 Monocular
If there one thing that Celestron takes seriously is the safety of their products. And this 10×25 monocular is no exception. It has a strong armor casing that protects the lenses from shock and other abrasive materials that may scratch the surface. The optic system has multiple coating films that improve light transmission throughout the unit. As such, the images that you will be getting will be of high quality, thus allowing you to see every aspect of the object that you are viewing.
The eyecup has a unique design, which will allow you to look through the monocular even when wearing glasses. Besides, the diopter dial enables you to zoom in or out on objects while using one hand. The focus wheel turns effortlessly, thereby allowing you to tune the scope according to your needs. This optic device can help you n different scenarios, especially when sporting, boating, hiking, and camping.
Furthermore, the body is conveniently rugged to match the structure of your fingers, so you will you won’t struggle when working with this device. This monocular is lightweight, compact, and portable. This allows you to carry it wherever the fun may take you. Moreover, this unit is built to withstand extreme weather conditions, so you can apply its use it extensively.
Pros
- A belt case is included in the package
- Rubberized for comfort and safety
- Ideal for damp environments
Cons
- Not tripod friendly
#9 Leica Monovid Monocular
Leica provides you with an 8 x 20 monocular that you can use in situations that require you to use a powerful lens. It has an elegant casing, which is designed to provide you with maximum comfort. The focus wheel is slightly beefed, making it easier to turn when adjusting the view. Moreover, this feature enhances the grip between your hand and the monocular, so it won’t slip off during usage. More to this, the nitrogen filling prevents mist from accumulating on the lenses.
This device is well designed and is also aesthetically pleasing. There is a Leica logo at the side, which will confirm the authenticity of the equipment. Also, it’s available in different colors, so you can go for the one that you like most. This monocular tightly sealed to prevent water and dust from damaging the lenses. The monocular can also come in handy when watching a performance from a distance in an opera or when birding.
The objective lens is only 20mm, but it delivers exceptional light dispersion, thus providing you with crystal clear views. What’s more, the housing is designed with high-quality aluminum, so you can have high expectations that this unit will deliver what it promises. This device comes with a carry case that you can easily slip into your backpack. The fun fact about this monocular is that it is handcrafted.
Pros
- Can easily fit into your pocket
- Convenient roof prism design
- The lenses have a macro-effect
Cons
- Does not have a neck strap
#10 Bestguarder Digital Night Vision Monocular
This monocular is designed with a ton of features, which will assist you in getting the high-quality service that you deserve when you are outdoors. The top feature is probably the night vision, which allows to scope even when it is dark. With the in-built 850Nm infrared illumination feature, the monocular will allow you to view up to 1150ft when in the dark. This feature can come in handy when you are on a night hunt. You can manually change the focus by turning the front lens.
The casing is PX4 rated waterproof, so it can withstand light showers. In as much as the unit has a lot of functions, it is easy to operate and the instruction manual in the package will make things even easier. More to this, the device has a camcorder function, which will allow you to take photos and record videos. However, you have to keep in mind that it can only take 5mp pictures. There is a function switch on the side that will help you change from picture to video mode and vice versa.
This unit has an integrated setting menu that supports up to seven languages. The monocular can be powered using a power bank or an external battery pack. The easy-to-use buttons will give you quick access to camcorder settings. This is one monocular that will help you up your viewing game. It can also be used by those in the security sector when running surveillance both in the day and at night.
Pros
- The camcorder is tripod mountable
- Multi-function
- Has a built-in screen
Cons
- The magnification can be improved
#11 BARSKA Blackhawk Waterproof Monocular
The monocular by Barska provides you with a 10x magnification and allows you to view objects that are far away. This unit is fitted with BK-7 prism, and the glasses are also multi-coated to enhance vision. The package is inclusive of a two lens covers, lens cloth, carrying case, and a wrist strap. Most of these accessories are included to help you with the maintenance.
This equipment has an objective lens that measures 40mm, so it will provide you with images that are bright and clear. The casing is built from a tough material that will provide the lenses with optimum protection in case the monocular falls. In addition, this unit can assist you in different conditions since it is sealed with O-rings.
The ergonomic features on the housing are excellent and will allow you to hold the monocular without worrying about it falling. You can make this monocular your favorite outdoor buddy when taking hikes, hunting, birding, and many other activities that deserve a clear view.
Pros
- The unit is water and dust-proof
- Rugged design
- Nitrogen purged
Cons
- The eye relief is poorly designed
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best BK-7 or BAK-4 prism?
When it comes to optical quality, BAK-4 prism is the winner due to its high density. However, if you want an affordable glass, you can go for the BK-7.
What makes a good monocular?
There are a couple of things that you need to consider before buying a monocular, but here are some of the basics. A good monocular should have a high magnification and a wide objective lens for maximum light transmission. Also, the focus wheel must be placed in such a way you can easily make adjustments with one hand. Lastly, the housing must be armored to offer protection to the lenses.
What do such figures 8×40 stand for in a monocular?
In a nutshell, the 8x stands for the magnification power, so the monocular will bring objects 8 times closer than they really are. The 40 stands for the objective lens, and is often in mm.
Final Verdict
This article has just broken down some of the basic features that you need to consider when shopping for a monocular.
It has even provided you with the top options that you can add to your list. As such, we hope that you will pick one of the products from our list.
The Team That Worked On This Review
Elena
Senior Editor
Eric
Web Researcher
Kathy
Writer
Albert
Writer
