10 Best Monoculars 2025 in the United States

The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 10x36 is a compact and lightweight option for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor viewing experience. With 10x magnification and a 36mm objective lens, it excels at providing clear, detailed images in various lighting conditions, thanks to its fully multi-coated lenses that improve light transmission. The rubber armor not only offers a non-slip grip but also adds to its durability against drops and impacts, making it a reliable companion for hiking, birdwatching, or sporting events.

One of the standout features is its waterproof and fogproof design, which ensures functionality in wet or humid environments, a significant advantage for outdoor enthusiasts. The adjustable eyecup is another plus, allowing users to easily customize their viewing experience whether they wear glasses or not.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the 10x magnification is ideal for most casual users, those seeking extreme long-range viewing might find it somewhat limited compared to higher-powered models. Additionally, being lightweight means it may not feel as robust as some bulkier options, although this is a common trade-off in compact designs. The monocular is highly portable, weighing only 9.7 ounces, which is a definite advantage for travelers. The included utility clip allows for convenient attachment to bags or clothing, enhancing its accessibility on the go.

The 16X52 Monocular Telescope offers a powerful 16x magnification and a large 52mm objective lens, making it ideal for outdoor activities like bird watching, hiking, and traveling. Its BAK4 prism and fully multi-coated lenses ensure high contrast and clear, bright images, even in low-light conditions.

The monocular is easy to use with one hand, which adds to its convenience during outdoor adventures. Additionally, it's built to be waterproof and fogproof, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. At 2.6 x 2.6 x 6.7 inches and weighing 0.35 ounces, it’s relatively compact and lightweight, which enhances its portability.

Some users might find the manual focus a bit tricky to adjust initially. Nevertheless, this monocular could be a great gift for outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy observing wildlife and scenery. Its robust construction and ease of use make it a reliable choice for a variety of outdoor activities.

The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 10x25 is a compact and lightweight option that offers 10x magnification with a 25mm objective lens. Its fully multi-coated lenses ensure enhanced light transmission and clear, crisp images, which is a significant advantage for those needing detailed views. The monocular is durable, featuring a fully rubber armored body for a non-slip grip, making it suitable for rugged outdoor use. It is also nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed, providing waterproof and fogproof performance in various environments—ideal for hiking, birdwatching, or other outdoor activities.

The adjustable eyecup is a thoughtful addition, allowing for comfortable use whether you wear glasses or not. One standout feature is the Vortex VIP Warranty, offering an unlimited, unconditional lifetime promise to repair or replace the monocular if it becomes damaged or defective, although it doesn’t cover loss or cosmetic damage. The fixed focus type may limit its flexibility for some users, and the 25mm objective lens, while sufficient for general use, might not perform as well in low-light conditions compared to larger lenses.

Weighing 5.6 ounces, it is lightweight, but some users might prefer an even lighter option for extensive travel. This monocular is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable and sturdy viewing device with clear optics and a robust warranty.