October 2021
Monoculars: Aggregated Ranking Report
This report contains an aggregate consensus of Monocular rankings posted by key online experts, as of October 2021.
At a glance - October 2021 Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Monocular |
Digital Camera World
|
OpticsMag
|
Best Binoculars Reviews
|
Expert World Travel
|
Range Expert
|
BestReviews
|
Optics Addict
|
World Birds
|
Globo Surfer
|
Target Tamers
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $190 |
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD
|
-
|
3
|
1
|
3
|
9
|
-
|
4
|
5
|
-
|
4
|
|
2
|
- | $499 |
Leica Monovid
|
7
|
8
|
-
|
7
|
12
|
-
|
1
|
7
|
-
|
5
|
|
3
|
- | $69 |
Vortex Optics Solo
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
2
|
5
|
2
|
-
|
3
|
4
|
6
|
|
4
|
- | $40 |
Roxant Grip Scope
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
4
|
3
|
-
|
3
|
2
|
|
5
|
- | $80 |
Gosky Titan
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
5
|
6
|
-
|
2
|
10
|
|
6
|
- | $200 |
Zeiss MiniQuick
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
11
|
-
|
12
|
|
7
|
- | $199 |
Opticron BGA WP
|
6
|
-
|
4
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | $149 |
Vortex Solo Tactical R/T
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
2
|
6
|
6
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $329 |
Bushnell Equinox Z2
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | Check price |
Wingspan Optics ProSpotter
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
11
|
- | $123 |
Gosky Skyhawk 12X55 HD
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
12
|
- | $90 |
Wingspan Optics Explorer
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
- | $370 |
Zeiss Conquest Mono
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
7
|
|
14
|
- | $299 |
Vortex Recce Pro HD
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
9
|
|
15
|
- | $105 |
Hawke Endurance ED Monocular
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
|
16
|
- | $30 |
Aurosports 10-30×40 Zoom
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
17
|
- | Check price |
Emarth 10-30X50 Zoom
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
18
|
- | $20 |
Roxant Ultra-Light Mini
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
|
19
|
- | $28 |
Barska Blackhawk
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
|
20
|
- | $599 |
Vortex Recon RT
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
|
21
|
+1 | $18 |
Carson CloseUp
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
11
|
|
22
|
-1 | $41 |
Celestron Nature 10x25
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
8
|
We ranked Bushnell Legend Ultra HD #1 in October 2021 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Bushnell Legend Ultra HD as #1.
OpticsMag
Premium Choice
|
Pros
Very impressive optics for the price
Both waterproof and fog proof
Twist-up eyecups are comfortable
|
Cons
Not the smallest or lightest monocular
|
Expert World Travel
|
Pros
High-end materials
Great image quality, even in low lighting
Versatile
Fogproof and waterproof
Waistbelt included
|
Cons
Eye caps doesn't always stay in place
Waistbelt designed for right-handed people
Slightly expensive
|
Range Expert
|
Pros
Product quality
Great climate protection
Picatinny rail for mounting accessories
A fantastic warranty
Reasonable pricing
|
Cons
An overly large carrying case that allows the product to bounce around a bit
Hard plastic lens caps which can cause creases in the rubber armor
|
World Birds
|
Pros
Low dispersing prime glass
6.5 feet of close focus
Great in low-light
Water and fog proof
A fully multi-coated lens with PC-3 prism
Excellent low light performance
Accessories available
Superb field of view
|
Cons
Not the longest eye relief
Somewhat higher price
|
Target Tamers
Best Monocular Under $200
|
Pros
Lightweight/compact
ED Prime glass
PC-3 Phase Coating
Ultra Wide Band Coating
RainGuard HD
|
Cons
Price
|
We ranked Leica Monovid #2 in October 2021 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Leica Monovid as #1.
Digital Camera World
The best monocular for birding… but it this top-quality model doesn't come cheap
|
Pros
Unbeatable build quality
Watertight to 4.8m
|
Cons
Very expensive
|
OpticsMag
Best Overall
|
Pros
Waterproof and fog proof
Excellent optics even at greater magnifications
Small enough to fit into your pocket
|
Cons
It’s an expensive product
|
Expert World Travel
|
Pros
Lightweight
Great close focus
Good eye relief
Coated lenses to reduce reflections
|
Cons
Not the best in low lighting
Very expensive
|
Range Expert
|
Pros
It can be used for many varied activities
The construction is refined
Comes with the close focus accessory lens and eyepiece cover
Comes with its own elegant leather case
Superb optical performance
|
Cons
It’s expensive, making it not for everyone’s budget
The front lens diameter may be limited for some viewing activities
|
World Birds
|
Pros
Best image quality you can get
8x magnification
12.7 twilight factor for better dim light performance
Best for everyday carry
AquaDura and HDC lens coatings
P40 phase correction prism
Ergonomic exterior
|
Cons
Higher price
Only one objective lens option
|
Target Tamers
Best for Surveillance
|
Pros
8x magnification
Extreme close focus
HDC/AquaDura coatings
Weatherproof
Aluminum housing
|
Cons
Price
|
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend Monoculars.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of Monoculars, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for October 2021 ranking
Digital Camera World
OpticsMag
Best Binoculars Reviews
Expert World Travel
Range Expert
BestReviews
Optics Addict
World Birds
Globo Surfer
Target Tamers
We ranked Vortex Optics Solo #3 in October 2021 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
OpticsMag
|
Pros
Rubber armored for superior grip and durability
Very wide field of view of 315 feet
Nitrogen purged waterproof and fog-proof
Excellent optical clarity
Small and lightweight
|
Cons
Close focus of 16.4 feet
Narrow focus ring interferes with the eyepiece
|
Expert World Travel
|
Pros
Fully multi-coated anti-reflective lenses
Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Rubber armor provides great grip
|
Cons
Included case is a little flimsy
Focal dial is sometimes stiff
|
Range Expert
|
Pros
Sturdy outdoor construction with rubber coating for a no-slip grip
Good image clarity and good resolution
Easily adjustable eyecup intermediate settings
VIP Unconditional Lifetime Warranty
Very good price
|
Cons
The lack of a lens cover
A short eye relief measurement of only 15 mm
Diminished viewing capacity at 16 feet or less
|
BestReviews
Best Bang for the Buck
|
Pros
This monocular is built around a 25mm lens and features 8x magnification. Body is fully rubberized, and the interior is filled with nitrogen and sealed with o-rings to prevent fogging. Weighs less than 6 ounces.
|
Cons
Field of view isn't very large.
|
World Birds
Best budget option
|
Pros
Best in class VIP warranty
Best budget option
Large 32mm objective lens
A lens with full multi-coating
Anti-glare protection
All optics are waterproof and fog proof
Great for camping and hiking
Anti-slip grip and rugged armor
|
Cons
Not best for eyeglasses wearers
|
Target Tamers
Best Monocular for Hunting
|
Pros
Price
Lightweight/compact
Fully multi-coated
Rubber armored
Weatherproof
|
Cons
Price
|
We ranked Roxant Grip Scope #4 in October 2021 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
OpticsMag
Best Value
|
Pros
We like the grip which is non-slip and comfortable
Retractable eyecups and good eye relief for glasses wearers
Easy to use with minimal wobble
|
Cons
Only offers up to 6x magnification
No lens caps included with the product
|
Range Expert
Great for Hunting
|
Pros
It has a good solid magnification ratio and lens diameter
The optical glass has a very low light dispersion
It offers a nice bright, clear picture with the wide view field
A comfort grip which is non-slip
Affordable for all
|
Cons
The magnification is somewhat low so you may not be able to see really distant targets.
Not great for detail viewing
|
BestReviews
|
Pros
Wide-view lens lets you take in panoramic landscapes at a glance. Molded, nonslip grip cuts down on shakiness. Comes with case and neck strap. 6x magnification, 30 mm lens.
|
Cons
Two-hand focus adjustment. Some customers say they want more magnification.
|
Target Tamers
Best Budget Monocular
|
Pros
Price
Compact
No-slip grip
BaK-4 glass
Retractable eyepiece
|
Cons
Focusing issues
|
We ranked Gosky Titan #5 in October 2021 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
OpticsMag
|
Pros
12x magnification is impressive for the price
Smartphone adapter for photos and videos
Solid build with rubber armor exterior
|
Cons
Optics aren’t comparable to top quality products
Included accessories are fairly cheap
|
Range Expert
|
Pros
Size and weight
Sharp images
A smartphone adapter
A reasonable price
It’s easy to use
|
Cons
The adapter becomes loose relatively quickly
Some iPhone users reported difficulties with the smartphone holder
|
BestReviews
|
Pros
Rugged exterior is waterproof, dustproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Excellent-quality optics, too. Owners give the company's customer service top marks.
|
Cons
Some users feel it's a bit bulky. Smartphone camera mount is of poor quality.
|
Target Tamers
Best to Use With Smartphone
|
Pros
Price
Smartphone capability
High power
BaK-4 glass
Weatherproof
|
Cons
Some quality control issues
|
We ranked Zeiss MiniQuick #6 in October 2021 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
A monocular the size of a fountain pen? Call James Bond!
|
Pros
Small and compact
Exceptionally well built
|
Cons
Costly
Only 5x magnification
|
Expert World Travel
|
Pros
Extremely lightweight
Tiny size makes extremely portable
Anti-reflective lens coating
|
Cons
Not fully waterproof or fogproof
Not the most powerful zoom
Expensive for specs
|
World Birds
|
Pros
Lightweight construction
Small and compact design
Better suited for bright conditions
Comes with a pretty good field of view
Carrying pouch available
Great for casual observers
5x magnification
|
Cons
Not very good low light performance
|
Target Tamers
Best Ultralight Monocular
|
Pros
Price
Smartphone capability
High power
BaK-4 glass
Weatherproof
|
Cons
Price
|
We ranked Opticron BGA WP #7 in October 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Opticron BGA WP as #1.
Digital Camera World
A great monocular overall, and like regular binoculars to use
|
Pros
Excellent optical performance
Waterproof to 3m
|
Cons
Expensive
Relatively large
|
Expert World Travel
|
Pros
Great close focus
Good eye relief
Coated 42mm lens for bright, sharp images
Weatherproof
Lightweight
30-year warranty
|
Cons
Could be more shock-resistant
Magnification could be a bit better
|
World Birds
Best price/value ratio
|
Pros
Best value/price ratio
Long 19mm eye relief
Wider field of view
Comfortable to carry all day long
Large 42mm objective lens for low light
Water and fog proof
Anti-glare optical performance
Multi-coated optics
|
Cons
Not the most rugged option
|
We ranked Vortex Solo Tactical R/T #8 in October 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
Range Expert
|
Pros
Terrific optics
Guaranteed durability
Wonderful quality of the image
The ample eye relief, coupled with the exit pupil measurement, provides it with optics that you would usually find in a pair of binoculars
VIP lifetime warranty
|
Cons
The absence of lens covers
Requires practice for full use of reticle range estimation
|
World Birds
|
Pros
Best in class VIP warranty
Fully multi-coated lenses
BaK4 prism with anti-reflection
Decent eye relief
A broad field of view
Fog and waterproof
Sharp reticle range
Excellent light transmission
|
Cons
Nothing noteworthy
|
We ranked Bushnell Equinox Z2 #9 in October 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Bushnell Equinox Z2 as #1.
Digital Camera World
This night vision equipped monocular makes light work of the dark
|
Pros
Night vision
Video capture with wifi
|
Cons
IR light saps battery
Not as comfortable
|
Expert World Travel
|
Pros
Infra-red illuminator allows night-time viewing
WiFi enables viewing and recording from smartphones
Records up to 1080p videos
|
Cons
Very heavy
Not very weatherproof
Slightly expensive
Extra functions drain batteries
|
BestReviews
Best of the Best
|
Pros
Includes a 50mm lens with 6x magnification. Built-in IR illuminator grants clear night vision up to 1,000 feet away. Able to capture 1080p video while streaming or recording to mobile devices.
|
Cons
Larger and less portable compared to other models. IR light saps battery life.
|
We ranked Wingspan Optics ProSpotter #10 in October 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Wingspan Optics ProSpotter as #1.
Range Expert
|
Pros
Reasonable price
Sleek resistant construction
Clear, bright views
Lifetime guarantee
One hand easy use
|
Cons
Limited detail viewing at 50 yards or more
Carrying Pouch could be a bit larger
|
We ranked Gosky Skyhawk 12X55 HD #11 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Gosky Skyhawk 12X55 HD as #1.
Digital Camera World
A great budget monocular that comes with a smartphone mount
|
Pros
Smartphone mount
Extensive waterproofing
|
Cons
Attachment slightly fiddly
Mount is flimsy
|
Expert World Travel
Best for Stargazing
|
Pros
Included smartphone mount for photography
Good for stargazing but versatile
Waterproof, dustproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Fantastic eye relief
Great value for money
|
Cons
Mount could be more robust
Smartphone use may require a tripod
|
We ranked Wingspan Optics Explorer #12 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Wingspan Optics Explorer as #1.
OpticsMag
Best Overall
|
Pros
Waterproof and fog-proof
Non-slip armor
Viewing range up to 1,000 yards
12x magnification
14mm eye relief works with glasses
|
Cons
Big and bulky compared to other models
|
Range Expert
Top of the List
|
Pros
Quick and easy identification of your target thanks to the wide view and zoom function
Extremely transportable with a loop for a wrist strap built-in
The attached lens cover ensures immediate protection
Efficient in the transmission of light in dim lighting situations
|
Cons
At 14 ounces it may seem heavy to some people
The tripod is easily tipped as a result of the weight
|
We ranked Zeiss Conquest Mono #13 in October 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
Optical excellence and compact dimensions make this monocular ideal for backpacking
|
Pros
Great optical performance
Top build quality
|
Cons
Quality costs
Not completely waterproof
|
World Birds
Best that money can get
|
Pros
Best in class Zeiss quality
Very lightweight
Clear and bright image
Various accessories available
More suitable for short-range
Ergonomic design
Quick to focus
|
Cons
Average eye relief
Somewhat higher price
|
Target Tamers
Best Under $500
|
Pros
Extremely compact
Extremely lightweight
Schmidt-Pechan prism
Extremely close focus distance
Wide field of view
|
Cons
Price
|
We ranked Vortex Recce Pro HD #14 in October 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
World Birds
|
Pros
Unbeatable VIP warranty
8x zoom with 400 feet FoV
HD fully multi-coated lens
Water and fog proof
ArmorTek layering for solid performance
Convenient to hold in one hand
Argon gas purged
|
Cons
Rather short eye relief
|
Target Tamers
Best Under $300
|
Pros
ED glass
XR coatings
Ranging reticle
Lightweight/compact
Weatherproof
|
Cons
Folding eyecups
|
We ranked Hawke Endurance ED Monocular #15 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
The best waterproof monocular for use on land or at sea
|
Pros
Waterproof
Fog-proof
|
Cons
Can be hard to find
|
World Birds
|
Pros
Good choice for low light scenarios
Stay-on lens covers
BaK4 prism for better light reflection
Fully multi-coated lens
Fog and shockproof
Extra-low dispersion
Compact design
|
Cons
Short close focus
Carrying case is not that durable
|
We ranked Aurosports 10-30×40 Zoom #16 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
OpticsMag
|
Pros
Priced affordably
Zooms from 10x-30x magnification
Super-wide field of view
Weighs less than six ounces
|
Cons
Difficult to get in focus
Doesn’t seem to live up to magnification claims
It’s big and bulky
|
BestReviews
|
Pros
Solid waterproof construction and 6x magnification. 1,000-foot range and video capabilities are ideal for watching nature and events at a distance.
|
Cons
Pricey. Night vision can be difficult to focus and isn't as reliable as others we considered. Larger and less portable than some competitors.
|
We ranked Emarth 10-30X50 Zoom #17 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
OpticsMag
|
Pros
Zooms from 10x-30x magnification
IPX-7 nitrogen-purged waterproof
Durable rubber armor exterior
|
Cons
It’s bulkier than other options
Weighs more than other models
Hazy image quality
|
Target Tamers
Best Zoom Monocular
|
Pros
Price
Zoom power
Good eye relief
Fully multi-coated
IPX7 rating
|
Cons
Narrow field of view
|
We ranked Roxant Ultra-Light Mini #18 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
Range Expert
Budget Buy
|
Pros
It is a compact and durable monocular
It is easy to operate and user-friendly
This tool produces clear and crisp images
The molded grip allows to hold it steady
It is ideal for outdoor activities, climbing, and hunting
|
Cons
You may find it too small to use effortlessly
|
We ranked Barska Blackhawk #19 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
OpticsMag
|
Pros
Nitrogen purged and sealed
Non-slip diamond pattern rubber exterior
|
Cons
Strong rubber smell makes it useless for hunting
The first one we received was broken
Noisy Velcro
Noticeable chromatic aberration
|
We ranked Vortex Recon RT #20 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
Expert World Travel
|
Pros
R/T reticle is great for tactical use
Large, coated objective lens for bright clear images
Ambidextrous, versatile clip
Weatherproof
Protective rubber and coatings
|
Cons
Narrow field of view
Very expensive
|
World Birds
|
Pros
Twilight factor of 27.4
Field of view of 215 feet per 1000 yards
Comes with several accessories
15x high magnification
55mm large objective lens
Excellent performance in dark conditions
ArmorTek coating
|
Cons
Not a lightweight option
High price tag
|
We ranked Carson CloseUp #21 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
Target Tamers
Best Compact Monocular
|
Pros
Price
Smartphone capability
High power
BaK-4 glass
Weatherproof
|
Cons
Quality control issues
|
We ranked Celestron Nature 10x25 #22 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Monoculars” rankings.
Target Tamers
Best Under $50
|
Pros
Price
High power
Pocket-sized/lightweight
Twist-up eyecups
Rubber-armored
|
Cons
Rigid focus ring
|