In this guide we’ll take a look at the best monoculars for bird watching.
We’ve compared clarity, portability, durability and cost
to give you our top recommendations.
What Is The Best Bird Watching Monocular?
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More Detailed Monocular Reviews
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Monocular
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Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Monocular Review
When you’re ready to splurge on a high-end monocular, Bushnell’s Legend Ultra is the best monocular for bird watching on the market!
Featuring HD clarity, a beautiful design and durability, this monocular will likely last forever.
With 10x magnification, fully multi-coated optics and 100% waterproof and fogproof construction, this is one of the few monoculars that has it all.
Great for glasses wearers, the eyecups are completely adjustable making for easy customization.
Bushnell includes a convenient carrying case with belt clip for easy toting of their monoculars.
Because this model is a bit more costly, it’s the best monocular for those serious about the hobby.
Pros
- Incredible HD Clarity
- Built to last
- 100% Waterproof
Cons
- Pricey
Vortex Optics Solo Monocular
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Vortex Optics Solo Monocular Review
The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular is slightly pricier than some competitor monoculars, but it’s a favorite for good reason. It’s a close runner up to the Bushnell for the best monocular for for birding at a high-end price point.
The monocular magnifies up to 10x and weighs only 9.9 ounces. The resolution is superb, and the lenses are fully coated.
If you wear glasses, the adjustable eyecups make customizing your monocular a breeze. And not to worry, the monocular is completely waterproof, fog-proof and shock proof.
Vortex keeps the user experience in mind, offering the best features and accessories with their monoculars to make bird watching enjoyable. The monocular comes with a multi-position utility clip, neck lanyard and convenient carrying case.
At a slightly more expensive price point, I recommend this model as the best monocular for birding for all skill levels.
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Small & lightweight
- Good value for money
Cons
- Carry case could be presented a little better
Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular
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Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular Review
The high-powered Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular provides a bright, clear image and is ideal for daytime use.
Features include single hand focus, and the monocular is waterproof and fogproof. Best of all, users can view birds up to 1,000 yards away.
The armor is rugged and durable, ensuring you’ll be using and enjoying your Explorer for years to come.
In addition to the monocular itself, the Explorer comes with a nylon mesh carrying case, along with eyepiece and lens covers, so your monocular will be safe and sound even when it’s not in use.
Wingspan also include a non-abrasive microfiber lens cleaning cloth with their monoculars to ensure you get the best views.
At such an inexpensive price point, Explorer is the best monocular for bird watching if you are on a budget.
Pros
- Very good magnification
- Bright & clear view
- Waterproof and fog-proof
Cons
- Clarity sometimes questioned
- Tripod could be sturdier
Wingspan Optics Outdoorsman Monocular
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Wingspan Optics Outdoorsman Monocular Review
Compact, waterproof, fogproof, and shock resistant, the Wingspan Optics Outdoorsman Monocular offers clear, vibrant views and magnifies up to 8x.
I love this lightweight model, which weighs in at 11.6 ounces. It’s durable and guaranteed for life. So if you want a high quality model that will last you a lifetime this is the best monocular for you.
The adjustable eyecups are ideal for birders who wear glasses, and the Tracker includes a convenient carrying case that easily attaches to a belt.
Wingspan Optics also include a tripod adaptor, lens cover, lens cleaning cloth, shoulder straps, and four eBooks with their monoculars.
Wingspan is so certain you’ll love their product that they include a 30-day money back guarantee.
If you are looking for the best monocular for birding that offers good value and will last a lifetime, then this might be just the model for you!
Pros
- Great wideview monocular
- Very durable
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons
- Quite large in size for a monocular
- Could be lighter
Choosing the Right Bird Watching Monocular
Bird watchers of all skill levels know the right tools are an essential part of birding.
If you spot a fellow birder out in the field, he or she will likely be toting binoculars and a field guide.
There are times, however, when carrying cumbersome bins isn’t practical.
Whether you’re running errands or enjoying a day out with family or friends, having the best monocular in tow will allow you to spot nearby birds without the burden of heavy equipment.
If you’re overwhelmed by the many options of monoculars on the market, you’re certainly not alone.
Read on to find out everything there is to know about the wonderful world of monoculars, and which type is right for you.
Types of Monoculars
There are two main types of monoculars: porro prism and roof prism. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each version.
Both types have their own unique inner geometry, as well as benefits and drawbacks.
Porro Prism
You’ll likely recall seeing traditional binoculars with this type of prism.
Monoculars and binoculars with porro prism are thinner at one end of the barrel and grow larger towards the opposite end. Light travels through only four reflections inside the prisms, allowing for a vibrant view.
Pros: The best monocular for the new birder, porro prism monoculars are typically much more affordable than their roof prism competitors. It’s easier for manufacturers to produce porro prism monoculars with good picture quality and brightness.
Cons: Porro prism monoculars are not as durable as the roof prism type. It is much more difficult to keep them adjusted. Additionally, many of these monoculars are not waterproof.
Roof Prism
This type of monocular has straight barrels and typically has a better quality of build.
The light must make its way through six reflections inside the prisms, so some light is lost.
Pros: Roof prism monoculars are generally more compact and lighter weight, and waterproofing is an easier process.
Cons: These monoculars tend to be more expensive, and they lose more light because of their additional reflections.
Magnification
When scoping out monoculars, take notice of the magnification options. The power typically ranges from 5x to 10x. You can choose between a fixed zoom or variable zoom.
If you opt for a variable zoom, you’ll have the ability to adjust the zoom with a built-in dial.
Higher magnification makes for clearer images while limiting field of view.
Lower magnification expands the field of view while sacrificing close-up details. This is important to consider when choosing a monocular for birding.
While shopping for a monocular, check the “exit pupil,” which determines the image’s size at the focusing point. The higher the exit pupil, the easier it is to keep your eye on an image.
Focal Features
Be sure to shop for a monocular with your preferred features in mind.
Many monoculars are waterproof, while some are not.
Decide if you are keen to have a rubberized body or coated lens.
For bird watching, close-up views are often a priority. Consider all of these factors before making a purchase.
When choosing the best monocular, it’s best to keep the following features in mind:
Optics
Because differences in birds can be subtle from a distance, the best monocular delivers great clarity and detail. I recommend 10x or 12x magnification for the best birding experience.
Portability
Bird watching is often a day long adventure, and heavy equipment can take away from the experience.
Opt for a monocular that’s lightweight and can easily be carried in your pocket or bag. If it’s weighing you down, you’ll be less likely to use it.
Durability
When choosing the best monocular, check out user reviews. Your ultimate choice should be a monocular that will last regardless of weather conditions.
Look for models that are waterproof, fogproof, dustproof and shock resistant.
Conclusion
The tips above can be applied to binoculars, as well as monoculars.
Before your next bird watching outing, I hope you’ll find the best monocular you’ll love.
Do your research and test out various options in person, if possible.
Just like with binoculars, one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to monoculars.
With the tips listed above, I’m sure you’ll find a model that meets your individual needs.