Today’s spotlight is on the best vortex monoculars. Over the past few years, the popularity of monoculars has tremendously grown and their demand has been on the rise. If you are a travel enthusiast who often engages in activities that only require you to briefly view targets at a distance, the best optic for you would be a monocular.
Unlike large-sized binoculars and telescopes that are heavy and difficult to carry around, monoculars are lightweight, portable, and ideal for travel. A good quality monocular can be easily slipped in the pocket and used to observe scenic nature views at only half or less the cost of regular binoculars.
Vortex monoculars are easy to use and preferably used for nature observation. Available in a wide range of sizes and prices, these one-handed optics are ideal for a wide range of outside activities.
Like any other Vortex optics, the market offers a multitude of monoculars to choose from. Whether you are buying your first monocular or looking for an upgrade, here are some of the best Vortex monoculars you can choose from.
#1) Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 10×25
If you are an outdoor fanatic, this 10×25 solo monocular is a great addition to your traveling gear. Weighing just 5.6oz, this monocular is lightweight, easy to pack and great for backpacking and traveling.
Its 10x magnification is ideal for viewing targets at both close and long-range while the 25mm objective lens delivers optimum light needed for bright and clear target views. Made with high-quality materials, this optic is extremely sturdy and durable. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best vortex monoculars.
Additionally, it features shock-absorbing rubber armor which not only enhances durability but also makes it slip-resistant even during wet weather. This lightweight optic has its lenses fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission resulting in the production of bright and crystal-clear image views.
Well, that’s not all. This monocular features an adjustable eyecup that allows for snug viewing with or without eyeglasses. It’s also nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed to prevent fogging under extreme temperature changes and deliver waterproof performance respectively. Simply slip this optic into your travel backpack or pockets and bring nature views closer to your eyes.
Key Features
- Lightweight, packable, and great for travel.
- Intuitive and easy-to-use focus dial.
- Extremely durable and shockproof.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- 10x magnification.
- Rubber armor that provides a secure, non-slip grip.
- Adjustable eyecup to accommodate eyeglass wearers.
- Perfect for backpacking, camping and hiking.
- Close focus: 16.4 feet.
#2) Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 10×36
Vortex is a big name in the world of optics and looking at the Vortex Solo Monocular 10×36, it easy to see why. Made to last for decades, this monocular is crafted from high-quality materials that are both sturdy and durable.
The 10x magnification brings far-away target views closer to the eye, while the 36mm objective lens ensures brilliant image views even under low light conditions.
Shock-absorbing rubber armor with a diamond-checkered grip enhances durability and also provides the user with a secure, non-slip grip even under wet weather conditions.
Its lightweight, compact and portable, ideal features for backpacking and travel. Compared with similar items, this 36mm solo monocular comes with a versatile, multi-position utility cup for quick and simple attachment on any equipment or clothing.
Furthermore, this monocular has fully multicoated lenses that enhance light transmission delivering bright and clear images full of color contrast. It’s also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance.
Overall, this scope is reasonably priced and always at hand for multiple outdoor activities. Your hunt for a monocular rich in features to elevate your hunting experience is over, as one of the best Vortex monoculars, the Solo 10X36 promises great functionality.
Key Features
- Extremely durable and sturdy.
- Reasonably affordable.
- Lightweight, compact and portable.
- Easy to use focus wheel.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Fully waterproof and fogproof.
- The diamond checkered grip provides an ergonomic, non-slip grip.
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor enhances durability.
- Adjustable eyecups.
- Versatile multi-position carry clip.
#3) Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 8×25
This is a decent low-light monocular equipped with a wide range of impressive features at a reasonably affordable price tag. As one of the best vortex monoculars, this monocular is ideal for beginners because it offers the best price/value ratio.
The 25mm objective lens allows you to see your targets clearly even under low light conditions, while the 8x magnification brings those far away targets close. Being lightweight, this quality monocular is portable and ideal for backing or any other outdoor activity that requires you to pack light.
The fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission by delivering bright and crisp clear target views. To enhance durability and ensure many years of use, this optic is made of high-quality materials and is fully rubber-armored to absorb shock while providing the user with an ergonomic, non-slip grip.
Additionally, it’s nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed to deliver reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance. Also included is an adjustable eyecup which allows for a snug view of targets with or without eyeglasses.
Key Features
- Great value at a budget-friendly price.
- Lightweight, small-sized and great travel.
- Intuitive and easy to use.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
- Fully waterproof and fogproof.
- Ergonomic, non-slip grip.
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor enhances durability.
- Adjustable eyecups.
- Easy to handle unit.
#4) Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 8×36
If you are always on the go and in need of a small and lightweight optic that you can easily slip in your pocket or travel backpack, Vortex Solo Monocular 8×36 is a great option for you.
Weighing less than 6 ounces, this optic proves to be the lightest and easiest to pack monocular. With Mother Nature always unpredictable, this monocular comes with O-ring seals to lock out moisture and any other debris.
Additionally, its body is nitrogen-filled to prevent internal fogging brought about by rapid changes in temperatures. The 8x magnification is quite stable at hand and does a tremendous job bringing those far-away targets close by.
Moreover, this monocular offers a wide field of view of 393 feet per 1000 yards and has its lenses fully coated to enhance light transmission. The eyecup is adjustable so all users with or without eyeglasses can enjoy comfortable target views and have shock-absorbing rubber armor which not only enhances durability but also provides a non-slip grip even under wet climates.
Durability, enhanced light transmission and excellent optical performance are just some of the facets that make this solo monocular one of the best vortex monoculars.
Key Features
- Wide field of view of 393 feet per 1000 yards.
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Budget-friendly.
- Fully waterproof, fogproof and dustproof.
- Lightweight and perfect for backpacking.
- Adjustable eyecups.
- Versatile, multi-position carry cup.
- Extremely durable and easy to handle.
- Ergonomic, non-slip grip.
- Ideal for backpacking, camping and hiking.
#5) Vortex Optics Solo R/T 8×36 Monocular
Owning a monocular doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. If you are in the market for a cheap but quality monocular, this Solo R/T 8×36 Monocular from the Vortex brand is your ideal choice.
Crafted from high-end materials, this optic is a heavy-weight performer at a lightweight and portable design. With 8x zoom power and a 36mm objective lens, this product makes a great choice for observing both close and long-range targets.
The lenses are fully multi-coated to enhance the light transmission needed to produce bright and clear image views. Moreover, a flared eyecup folds down to accommodate users who put on eyeglasses, block glare when viewing during broad daylight and protect the objective lens from mechanical damage.
And that’s not all. Like any other Vortex optic, this monocular is fully waterproof and fogproof. It is also equipped with shock-absorbing rubber armor which enhances durability whilst providing a secure non-slip grip.
Also included is a multi-purpose utility clip that you can easily attach to your clothes or belt for easy and convenient access while out in the field.
Key Features
- Impressive low-light performance.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Versatile, multi-purpose carry clip.
- Extremely durable and shockproof.
- Rubber armor that provides a non-slip grip.
- Lightweight, easy to handle, and carry.
- Fully multi-coated anti-reflective coatings.
- Large and smooth focus wheel.
- Flared eyecups accommodate users with eyeglasses.
- Suitable for a wide range of outdoor applications.
#6) Vortex Optics Recce Pro HD 8×32 Monocular
This is a high-end tactical monocular built from premium materials to ensure many years of use. Featuring an HD optical system and XR anti-reflective lens coating, this monocular generates superior edge-to-edge image clarity regardless of lighting conditions. Compared with other similar products, this monocular feature a mil-based reticle for quick range estimation and tactical applications.
It’s fully waterproof and fog proof to ensure reliable performance in any weather conditions and shock-absorbing rubber armor to enhance durability. Moreover, users with or without eyeglasses can comfortably use this monocular, thanks to the retractable eyecup that also blocks extraneous light during broad daylight.
Weighing less than 0.3 ounces, this optic is super lightweight, easy to pack, and ideal for a wide range of missions. Also included is a versatile utility clip and a MOLLE/PALS-compatible pouch for convenient transportation.
Key Features
- Built-in retractable eyecup.
- Generous and consistent eye relief.
- Sturdy and durable construction.
- Impressive low-light performance.
- HD optical system delivers high-end optical performance.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Shock-absorbing rubber also provides a snug, non-slip grip.
- Smooth one-handed operation.
- Multi-purpose carrying clip.
- Lightweight, packable and portable.
- Mil-dot reticle that’s ideal for tactical operation.
#7) Vortex Optics Recon R/T 15×50 Tactical Scope Monocular
This high-powered tactical scope monocular serves as a high-end monocular and a tactical scope as well. Presented in a lightweight and small size, this monocular is designed to be operated single-handedly while being carried as basic equipment which can also be utilized quickly.
Outfitted with a multi-purpose clip, this monocular can be easily attached to belts or any flat surface for quick and convenient access. The premium XD glass and XR lens coating enhance light transmission to deliver bright and clear target views.
Much like any Vortex optic, this easily handled R/T 15×50 delivers reliable performance in any climatic conditions thanks to the waterproof and fog-proof properties.
The monocular also features a flexible and retractable eyecup that ensures great and comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses. When fully extended, the eyecup blocks stray light and protects the objective lens from mechanical damage.
Key Features
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Lightweight, portable, and great for travel.
- Reliable performance in all climates.
- Comes with a multi-purpose carrying clip.
- High power magnification.
- Ambidextrous and anti-slip strap.
- Shock-absorbing rubber armor.
- Large 50mm objective lens.
- Ergonomic, non-slip rubber armor grip.
- Flared eyecups fold down for use with eyeglasses.
- Large and smooth focus wheel.
Best Vortex Monoculars Buying Guide & FAQs
Criteria for Choosing the Best Vortex Monoculars
When looking for the best Vortex monoculars, here are some of the key factors you should take into account in order to get the right product.
Magnification
Like any other optic, you’ll find that Vortex monoculars have different magnification power. While many people think that the higher the magnification the better the monocular, this is not always the case. The more powerful your lens is, the clearer your image views become.
Monoculars with the highest magnification power might not be the best for those on the go. This is because, at the highest magnification, images start to become impaired by the movement of the monocular even with the clearest lenses. A slight shake or twinge at a high magnification setting causes image shakiness or even loss of target.
Prism Setup
Just like binoculars, monoculars either have Porro or Roof prism design. Porro prism monoculars have better 3D sharpness and are more affordable than their roof prism counterparts. On the other hand, Roof prism monoculars provide brighter color image clarity even under low light conditions. However, they tend to be more expensive.
Eye Relief
The other important factor that shouldn’t be overlooked is the eyepiece of the monocular. You’ll need to look out for a monocular with an adjustable eyepiece as it offers generous eye relief. Eye relief refers to the distance between your eye and the lens of the monocular.
Normally, eye relief isn’t much of an issue unless you put on eyeglasses. To have a snug view of your target even with your eyeglasses on, you’ll need to find a monocular that offers large and consistent eye relief.
Close Focus Range
A close focus range in a monocular refers to the measure of the distance a monocular needs to be in focus. Generally, the higher the magnification power, the more distance is required to start acquiring a close focus.
For instance, a 20x magnification power might require 20 feet lead in order to start acquiring close focus while a monocular with 8x magnification will require just 24 inches. Most vortex monoculars have their close focus indicated.
Lens Coating
All monoculars have their lenses coated with coatings of some type. The type of lens coating used will have a direct impact on how effective your optic will be in enhancing light transmission. Better quality coatings produce better image quality regardless of the lighting conditions. However, you’ll be required to pay more for such high-end coating.
Durable Construction
A wide range of outdoor activities that require you to use a monocular requires you to move from one location to the other. Since you’ll be carrying the monocular in rough and uneven terrain especially when hiking or camping, chances are that you might occasionally bump or accidentally drop the optic along the way. This calls for a monocular that’s rugged and sturdily made to withstand shock and impact without sacrificing its performance.
All of the vortex monoculars listed above feature shock-absorbing rubber armor to enhance durability. To ensure reliable performance in all weather conditions, make sure that the monocular is fully waterproof and fogproof.
Portability
If you plan on engaging yourself in activities that regular movement from one location to another, go for a monocular that’s both lightweight and easy to carry around. A lightweight monocular is also easy to pack and ideal for traveling and backpacking.
Best Vortex Monoculars FAQs
Q: Which is Better, Binocular or Monocular?
This depends on the activity you intend to use the optics for. Both are available in different sizes and their prices also differ from one model to the other. For birding and landscape viewing, binoculars are the optics to go for. However, they are larger in size, more expensive, and heavyweight. On the other hand, monoculars are compact, lightweight, reasonably priced, and ideal for hunting and fishing.
Q: What is The Ideal Monocular Size?
Generally, size doesn’t matter so much when it comes to buying a monocular. Majorly, monoculars are small in size, lightweight and easy to fit inside your pocket or pack in a backpack.
Q: Which Is the Ideal Magnification for a Monocular?
Monoculars with high magnification power are great for viewing long-distance objects. For general purposes, monoculars with 8-10x magnification are good to go.
Conclusion
When exploring the outdoors, you should always have a quality optic at hand. Monoculars provide the best alternative to binoculars and spotting scopes. They are not only lightweight and compact, but packable and great for traveling.
Available in a wide range of sizes, monoculars are reasonably priced so many people can enjoy nature views without having to spend a fortune. We reviewed the best Vortex monoculars and you can trust these products to be quality and long-lasting.