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Telescope Reviewer

by Telescope Reviewer Team Leave a Comment

10 Best Monoculars

Tower view monocular

If you are looking for a portable way to see things off in the distance, a monocular is a clear choice. Unlike heavy and bulky binoculars, monoculars are often small enough to fit in a pocket and weigh around a pound or less. We made a list of the best monoculars so you can find one to bring on your next hike or travel adventure.

Preview Product
VIVREAL Monocular Telescope - 12X42 High Power Monocular for Bird... VIVREAL Monocular Telescope - 12X42 High Power Monocular for Bird... Check Price
Wingspan Optics Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular. Bright and... Wingspan Optics Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular. Bright and... Check Price
Solomark Night Vision Monocular, Blue-Infrared Illuminator Allows... Solomark Night Vision Monocular, Blue-Infrared Illuminator Allows... Check Price
Xgazer Optics 8X42 Point View High Powered Monocular- Waterproof Bird... Xgazer Optics 8X42 Point View High Powered Monocular- Waterproof Bird... Check Price
Roxant Monocular Telescope - Wide View High Definition BAK4 Handheld... Roxant Monocular Telescope - Wide View High Definition BAK4 Handheld... Check Price
Bestguarder 6x50mm HD Digital Night Vision Monocular with 1.5 inch TFT... Bestguarder 6x50mm HD Digital Night Vision Monocular with 1.5 inch TFT... Check Price
Wingspan Optics Outdoorsman 8X42 Compact Wide View Monocular for... Wingspan Optics Outdoorsman 8X42 Compact Wide View Monocular for... Check Price
Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular Telescope with Smartphone Holder -... Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular Telescope with Smartphone Holder -... Check Price

Product FAQ

1. What Is the Difference Between A Monocular and Binocular?

A monocular allows you to see at a distance from one eye; a binocular allows you to see a distance from both eyes. While you can get better clarity in a binocular because you are using both eyes, binoculars tend to be heavy and aren’t exactly pocket-friendly. If you want something portable monoculars are a better option.

2. Zoom Vs Magnification?

Belgian monocular

Image by olafpictures via Pixabay

Monoculars do not generally have a zoom like you would see on a camera, rather, the lens is fixed at a magnification. The dial or wheel on the monocular can be used to focus the lens so you can see objects near and far. Zoom changes the angle of view through the lens or digitally.

3. Is a Monocular Useful for Astronomy?

While you can use a monocular to get a better view of stars and other heavenly bodies, they are not specifically designed to view the distance that a telescope would.

4. Are There Night Vision Monoculars?

There are monoculars that use battery-powered, infrared, night vision. We have included several in our 10 best monoculars list.

5. Can a Monocular Be Used for Photography and Recording?

Several monoculars included in our 10 best monoculars list have photography and video recording capability built-in, and others can be attached to a smartphone to use the photography and video recording capabilities of the phone.

How We Reviewed

Child wearing santa outfit looking at monocular view

Image by Myoda59 via Pixabay

In our review of the 10 best monoculars, we included a price range, where to buy, pros, and cons. We also provided the top features of each monocular on our best monocular list. We included features like durability, waterproofing, anti-fog, single-handed use, rubberized grip, magnification, distance, night vision, recording, and accessories included.

Overall Price Range

We found most of the monoculars we reviewed on our 10 best monoculars list were priced fairly low if they did not have night vision or recording. The monoculars that had infrared night vision were often higher priced than those without. Monoculars with photography and video recording capabilities were among the highest priced. These monoculars also had infrared night vision included. Other factors that affected the price were things like rubberized body for a more durable monocular and accessories included like smartphone holders.

What We Reviewed

  • Monocular Telescope, 12X50 High Power HD Monocular
  • Wingspan Optics Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular
  • Solomark Night Vision Monocular
  • Xgazer Optics 8X42 Point View High Powered Monocular
  • Monocular Telescope – 12×50 HD Monocular LONOVE Compact Monocular
  • Authentic ROXANT Grip Scope High Definition Wide View Monocular
  • Bestguarder 6x50mm HD Digital Night Vision Monocular
  • Wingspan Optics ProSpotter 10X42 Compact Monocular Scope
  • Firefield FF24066 Night Vision Monocular Nightfall 2 5×50
  • Gosky Titan 12X50 High Power Prism Monocular

Monocular Telescope, 12X50 High Power HD Monocular

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VIVREAL Monocular Telescope - 12X42 High Power Monocular for Bird...
VIVREAL Monocular Telescope - 12X42 High Power Monocular for Bird...
  • 12X50 HIGH POWER MAGNIFICATION - See things 12X closer and get Clearer and Brighter image with the generous,...
  • PLEANT AND CLEAR VIEW - Large BAK-4 prism inside and fully multi-coated lens coating, prevents moisture, dust, and...
  • SINGLE HAND FOCUS - Ergonomic design helps you focus on your target quickly and accurately with one hand. And the...
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Features

No-Slip

The Monocular Telescope by Vivreal has a no-slip grip so the monocular will not fall from your hand while moving or from moisture. The monocular’s focus can be adjusted with one hand using the wheel, so you have a hand free for anything else.

Smartphone Compatible

The Monocular Telescope by Vivreal can be used to magnify images for viewing on your smartphone using the quick alignment smartphone holder. See images from the monocular on your smartphone screen to take photos and video and easily watch hands-free with the tripod.

Focus Up to 1000 Yards

The Monocular Telescope by Vivreal has a 50mm lens to focus up to 1000 yards away with 12 times magnification.

Waterproof

The Monocular Telescope by Vivreal is waterproof with an IPX7 rating, and the nitrogen-filled design prevents fog. You can use this monocular in any weather without worry.

Lightweight

The Monocular Telescope by Vivreal is one of the lightest at 8 ounces. This makes it very portable and easy to hold for hours.

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Compatible with Smartphones
  • Focus with one hand

Cons

  • Included directions could be more clear
  • The lens can have a glare

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


Wingspan Optics Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular

Wingspan Optics Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular. Bright and...
Wingspan Optics Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular. Bright and...
  • 12X50 MAGNIFICATION - See things 12X closer and Get Clearer and Brighter range of view with 50mm lens - The most...
  • DURABLE EXTERNAL ARMOR - Provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection.
  • WATERPROOF AND FOG PROOF - Prevents moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the monocular - designed to inhibit...
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Features

Waterproof

The Wingspan Optics Monocular is waterproof and fog-resistant. The nitrogen-filled lens will not fog up, and you can easily use this monocular in humid and rainy weather without damaging it.

Focus Up to 1000 Yards

The Wingspan Optics Monocular allows users to see clearly up to 1000 yards and magnify 12 times with its 50mm lens.

Single-Handed Focus

The Wingspan Optics Monocular allows you to easily and safely use the monocular with one hand, and it has a non-slip grip so you won’t drop it while moving around.

Small and Portable

The Wingspan Optics Monocular is small and easy to carry with you; it includes a carrying case and a cleaning cloth. The monocular only weighs 11 ounces, so it won’t weigh your bags down and can be held without your hand getting fatigued.

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Case included
  • One-handed operation

Cons

  • Similar monoculars are priced lower
  • No night vision
  • Heavier than some competitors

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


Solomark Night Vision Monocular

Solomark Night Vision Monocular, Blue-Infrared Illuminator Allows...
Solomark Night Vision Monocular, Blue-Infrared Illuminator Allows...
  • A great gadget which enable you to observe target in complete darkness. Ideal for a wide variety of uses such as...
  • With multi-coated glass objectives, high sensitivity sensor, integrated color LCD-Screen and 3level IR LED illuminator....
  • Take photos and videos at any time, record more true-to-life details. Also it’s easy to display images and videos on...
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Features

Night Vision

The Solomark Night Vision Monocular has night vision capabilities of 100m to see and photograph in low light environments.

3 Times Zoom

The Solomark Night Vision Monocular allows zooming of up to 3 times for viewing and photos up to 100m away.

Camera

The Solomark Night Vision Monocular has a camera built into it to take photographs and record in 480P. The monocular includes a 4GB SD card and can be expanded up to 32GB.

Pros

  • Camera and video recording
  • Night vision up to 100m
  • Zoom 1 to 3 times

Cons

  • Requires 4xAA batteries
  • The camera is not high definition

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


Xgazer Optics 8X42 Point View High Powered Monocular

Xgazer Optics 8X42 Point View High Powered Monocular- Waterproof Bird...
Xgazer Optics 8X42 Point View High Powered Monocular- Waterproof Bird...
  • Treat yourself to a whole THE ULTIMATE VIEWING EXPERIENCE: new world or vibrant colors with the 8x42 fully multi coated...
  • ENJOY IMPECCABLE VISION & CLARITY: Finally, Xgazer helps you say goodbye to blurry images and dull sceneries and allows...
  • COMFORTABLE, HIGH DEFINITION VIEWING: The 18.6mm eye-relief with the twist-up eye cup makes this high-end Monocular set...
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Features

Clear 42mm Lens

You can see clearly with the Xgazer Optics Monocular up to 1000 yards with its 42mm 8 times magnifying lens.

Non-Slip

The Xgazer Optics Monocular helps you keep a firm grip with its non-slip design.

Large Objective

The oversized object lens provides great brightness and clarity on the Xgazer Optics Monocular.

Coatings

The Xgazer Optics Monocular is coated for glare protection and better viewing.

Lightweight

The Xgazer Optics Monocular is extremely portable, weighing only 11 ounces.

Pros

  • Multiple lens size options
  • Great glare protection
  • The large objective for better quality

Cons

  • Higher power lenses cost more
  • Heavier than similar competitors
  • Not waterproof

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


Monocular Telescope – 12×50 HD Monocular LONOVE Compact Monocular

No products found.

Features

1000 Yards Clearly

The LONOVE Compact Monocular provides a clear 12 times magnified image up to 1000 yards with the 50mm lens.

Smartphone Compatible

The LONOVE Compact Monocular includes the quick alignment smartphone holder to view a magnified image on your smartphone.

Waterproof

The LONOVE Compact Monocular is waterproof and fog proof for great vision in any weather.

Focus One-Handed

Easily focus the LONOVE Compact Monocular with one hand and never lose grip with non-slip design.

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Waterproof
  • Smartphone holder included

Cons

  • May not provide enough magnification for enthusiasts

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


Authentic ROXANT Grip Scope High Definition Wide View Monocular

Roxant Monocular Telescope - Wide View High Definition BAK4 Handheld...
Roxant Monocular Telescope - Wide View High Definition BAK4 Handheld...
  • SPECIAL FEATURE + ACCESSORIES + GREAT FATHERS DAY GIFTS - Retractable Eyecup For Use With Or Without Eyeglasses. Comes...
  • SEE IN HIGH DEFINITION - Don't be fooled by Copycats. If it doesn’t say ROXANT on the side it’s not a ROXANT Scope....
  • WIDE VIEW - Our Top of the Line Wide View Monocular Offers True 6 x 30 Viewing - Compact, Durable, High Quality...
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Features

See Distant Objects

The ROXANT Monocular allows you to see much further with its 30mm lens; it magnifies objects 6 times.

Wide View Lens

Don’t miss any of the action with the ROXANT Monocular wide view lens.

Non-Slip

The ROXANT Monocular is perfect for travel and sports because it has a non-slip grip and includes a strap and protective case.

Lightweight

The ROXANT Monocular is one of the lightest at under 8 ounces.

Pros

  • Non-slip grip
  • Includes a case, strap, and cleaning cloth
  • Wide view

Cons

  • More magnification in similarly priced monoculars
  • No dust caps included

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


Bestguarder 6x50mm HD Digital Night Vision Monocular

Bestguarder 6x50mm HD Digital Night Vision Monocular with 1.5 inch TFT...
Bestguarder 6x50mm HD Digital Night Vision Monocular with 1.5 inch TFT...
  • 1). outstanding optical clarity: 5Mega CMOS sensor; high performance digital night vision monocular with 6x...
  • 2). long viewing distance: built in 850Nm infrared illuminator for up to 1150 ft./350M viewing
  • 3). user friendly interface: built-in 1. 5” TFT screen with setting menu in seven languages, easy to use; 4 adjustable...
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Features

Zoom Up to 5x

The Bestguarder Monocular allows you to zoom up to 5 times for a clear view, photos, and video of distant objects.

Record HD Video

The Bestguarder Monocular records video in 720P with sound. The monocular can also take photographs in high resolution with vivid colors.

IR Night Vision

The Bestguarder Monocular comes equipped with infrared night vision, so you can see up to 350m in the darkness.

Waterproof

The Bestguarder Monocular has a sporty waterproof design and includes a strap and tripod.

Pros

  • Records in HD with sound
  • Takes high-resolution photos
  • IR night vision

Cons

  • Heavier than most competitors
  • Cannot mount to a helmet

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


Wingspan Optics ProSpotter 10X42 Compact Monocular Scope

Wingspan Optics Outdoorsman 8X42 Compact Wide View Monocular for...
Wingspan Optics Outdoorsman 8X42 Compact Wide View Monocular for...
  • EXPERIENCE THE CRISP, SHARP, VIBRANCE EVERY BIRD WATCHER DREAMS OF: Imagine viewing every bird in brilliant detail, as...
  • BEST WIDEVIEW MONOCULAR YOU’LL EVER NEED TO BUY: DROP PROOF, SLIP PROOF, DEBRIS PROOF, WATER PROOF, FOG PROOF, with a...
  • ADJUSTABLE EYE CUP MAKES WATCHING THROUGH YOUR GLASSES A BREEZE! EyeComfort adjustable eye cups allow you to easily, and...
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Features

View 1000 Yards

The Wingspan ProSpotter Monocular allows users to view 1000 yards away clearly with its 42mm lens and 10 times magnification.

Rugged Design

The Wingspan ProSpotter Monocular is one of the most durable monoculars we reviewed. It is dust-proof, waterproof, filled with nitrogen to prevent fog, and has a no-slip grip. The rubberized coating helps the Wingspan ProSpotter Monocular prevent damage from dropping.

One-Handed

The Wingspan ProSpotter Monocular can easily be used with one hand because it has a single wheel to adjust the focus that is extra large for easy movement with one finger. The Wingspan ProSpotter Monocular is extremely light at 11 ounces.

Includes case

The Wingspan ProSpotter Monocular includes a strap and case for portability.

Pros

  • Focus with one hand
  • Rugged design
  • Includes case

Cons

  • Tripod not included

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


Firefield FF24066 Night Vision Monocular Nightfall 2 5×50

Wingspan Optics Outdoorsman 8X42 Compact Wide View Monocular for...
Wingspan Optics Outdoorsman 8X42 Compact Wide View Monocular for...
  • EXPERIENCE THE CRISP, SHARP, VIBRANCE EVERY BIRD WATCHER DREAMS OF: Imagine viewing every bird in brilliant detail, as...
  • BEST WIDEVIEW MONOCULAR YOU’LL EVER NEED TO BUY: DROP PROOF, SLIP PROOF, DEBRIS PROOF, WATER PROOF, FOG PROOF, with a...
  • ADJUSTABLE EYE CUP MAKES WATCHING THROUGH YOUR GLASSES A BREEZE! EyeComfort adjustable eye cups allow you to easily, and...
Check Price

Features

Night Vision

The Firefield Monocular has infrared night vision to see at a distance in the dark.

Ergonomic

The Firefield Monocular has an ergonomic design that feels great even after long periods of use. The Firefield Monocular offers high durability with its rubberized design.

High Magnification

The Firefield Monocular offers 5 times magnification to see distant objects through its 50mm lens.

Lightweight

The Firefield Monocular is lightweight while offering night vision. The monocular is only 15 ounces, but many night vision monoculars are well over one pound.

Pros

  • IR night vision
  • Ergonomic
  • Durable rubber

Cons

  • Requires 2xAA batteries to use

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


Gosky Titan 12X50 High Power Prism Monocular

Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular Telescope with Smartphone Holder -...
Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular Telescope with Smartphone Holder -...
  • 12X50 High Power Magnification: 12x magnification, 18mm eyepiece and Light-Gathering 50mm objective lens, Gosky 12x50...
  • See True Colors: The BAK-4 prism and fully multi-coated (FMC) lens can increase light transmission and resolution,...
  • Portable and Lightweight: Perfect size and compact design for users to hold or focus with a single hand. The monocular...
Amazon Prime
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Features

Smartphone Holder

The Gosky Titan Monocular includes a phone holder and a quick alignment adapter to view the magnified images through your phone.

12 Times Magnification

The Gosky Titan Monocular has a 50mm lens that allows users to see 12 times magnified views up to 1000 yards.

Waterproof

The Gosky Titan Monocular is waterproof, dustproof, and fog-resistant. You can use this monocular in any weather conditions.

One-Handed

The focus can be operated with one hand, and the non-slip grip keeps the Gosky Titan Monocular firmly in your grasp.

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • One-handed focus
  • Smartphone holder included

Cons

  • No tripod included
  • Similar competitors sell for less

Where to Buy

This product is available on Amazon.


 

The Verdict

After reviewing each monocular on our 10 best monoculars list, we found the best monocular to be the Wingspan Optics ProSpotter 10X42 Compact Monocular Scope. This monocular has excellent durability, with a completely rubberized body to withstand drops. It is also waterproof, dustproof, and is filled with nitrogen to prevent fogging. It comes with a 30-day, no-hassle guarantee in case it doesn’t live up to your expectations and has a lifetime limited warranty.

The Best Monocular

While the Wingspan ProSpotter isn’t the most affordable monocular on our list, it is still very budget-friendly. The Wingspan ProSpotter will give you a clear image up to 1000 yards with its 42mm lens and magnifies 10 times. The Wingspan does not include a tripod, but it does come with a carrying case and neck strap. This monocular is great for enthusiasts and entry-level spotters alike.

 

 

Featured image by StockSnap via Pixabay.

 

Last update on 2023-03-28 at 00:02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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