How to Choose a Monocular You’ll Love

Last Updated on Mar 14 2024

Tired of big, bulky binos that easily bump around and break? You might want to consider purchasing a monocular.

Monoculars can provide you an excellent enhanced viewing experience just like binoculars. And it might actually be the better tool for the job in some situations. But what exactly is a monocular? And why should you choose one?

In this article, we’ll explore why you should choose a monocular, how they work, the best uses for having one, and how affordable they can be. Let’s get started!

What to Look for in a Monocular

Just like any other optic, monoculars come in different magnification powers and sizes. And you’ll usually find this information directly printed on the optic itself. These numbers provide the exact same information as those found on the side of binoculars. So, when determining the best monocular for you, take into account four different factors in order to get the right match.

1. Magnification

As with most optics, you’ll see a set of numbers on your monocular that designate its magnification strength, such as 8×25. The first number means you’ll achieve 8 times magnification; the second number means your objective lens is 25mm in diameter. Remember that more magnification isn’t always better. It will narrow your field of view and can make your image shakier.

On the other hand, larger lenses are most beneficial in low light scenarios, as they gather more light into your device. Because a monocular contains a single light path through its objective lens, it does limit image depth to a 2-dimensional field. But with the bright image quality, you can expect from a monocular, this usually isn’t a problem. Treated roof prisms and multi-coated objective lenses will also add to your image quality, so check the specifications on your model before you purchase.

It’s important to know just how much you’re going to want your objective target magnified. However, extremely high-powered monoculars might not be best for those on the go. That’s because the higher the magnification power, the more your vision will be impaired by the movement of the monocular. Even the slightest shake or twinge at high powers will cause shakiness or loss of target.

2. Lens & Prism Setup

Like binos, monoculars can have either Porro or Roof prisms. Those that come with Porro prisms will have better 3D sharpness at a reduced cost. Roof prisms will provide a brighter color image clarity but are more expensive. Also, you should pay attention to the lens coating that the manufacturer uses. Better quality coatings will produce better quality images. However, you’ll have to pay more for this premium option.

3. Eyepiece (Eye Relief)

Another thing you’ll need to definitely consider is the eyepiece itself. It’s not just a matter of putting it up to your face and seeing it if fits either. You’ll need to take into consideration the eye relief. This is a measure of how far away your eye can be from the lens in order for you to see properly. Now, this normally isn’t an issue, unless you’re wearing corrective lenses, that is. Then, you’ll need to find a monocular with a larger eye relief.

4. Close Focus Range

This range of a monocular is a measure of the closest distance a monocular needs to be in focus. Normally, the higher the magnification power, the more distance is needed to start acquiring a clear focus. For example, a 20x magnification power may need a 20-foot lead in order to start acquiring a good focus, whereas an 8x magnification monocular may only need 24 inches.

Best Overall Monocular

Wingspan Optics Titan 12X50 High Powered Monocular...

Best Night Vision Monocular

Bestguarder 6x50mm HD Digital Night Vision...

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Check Price

Best Overall Monocular

Wingspan Optics Titan 12X50 High Powered Monocular...

Check Price

Best Night Vision Monocular

Bestguarder 6x50mm HD Digital Night Vision...

Check Price

Best Uses for a Monocular

There are a bunch of great uses for monoculars. Here are a few of our favorites:

Hiking

Going hiking is a perfect way for a monocular to show off its benefits. The lightweight, compact nature of the optic makes it great when stowing along in a trail bag.

Birding

Birding is another great time to use a monocular. And that’s because it’s easier to find and acquire your target for quick spotting, not to mention that the focusing of the device is so much faster as well. It’s much easier to dial in one set of lenses than two.

Hunting

It’s great to have a monocular when hunting. Monoculars are much easier to carry out into wooded areas and acquire a target when out in the thick brush. Also, if you plan on doing any nighttime hunting for hog, vermin, or coyotes, you might want night vision. And night vision is awesome with monoculars.

Sporting Events and Concerts

If you’re sitting up in the nosebleeds, you’re probably not going to be able to properly see the action without a good pair of optics. But lugging around a set of binos can be pretty heavy throughout. And if you’re at a rowdy concert, you’ll probably want to be extra careful with your bino set as they tend to be much more expensive than a monocular.

Pros & Cons of a Monocular

How Much Do Monoculars Cost?

Depending on the prism options, coatings, and overall quality of your monocular, the price can range from relatively cheap to somewhat expensive. However, a monocular with all the same qualifications as a binocular sets will normally be much cheaper and around half the price.

Conclusion

Monocular can be some pretty awesome optics depending on the situation. They offer quick spotting capabilities, unparalleled portability, and even better night vision abilities. Plus, they’re a whole lot cheaper than a standard set of binos.

Just be sure to remember the criteria to follow when choosing one. And you’ll soon fall in love with your next optic — a monocular.