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13 Best Monoculars for Bird Watching in 2023

Article By: Ava Olivia Published On: December 13, 2022 , Last updated on : November 12, 2023 | Reviewed by : Editorial Board
best monocular for bird watching

Monoculars are a must-have when you are out hiking, camping, or hunting. They let you spot the wildlife, and they are compact enough so that you can carry them in your pocket. Portability is one of the main reasons people prefer monocular devices over binoculars. Today, we will look at the best monocular for bird watching on the market.

Buying guide for the best monocular for bird watching

Since everyone has different requirements, there cannot be one best monocular for bird watching that will fit everyone. That is why you need to consider a couple of things when selecting the best monocular for bird watching for yourself.

Magnification

First and foremost, check the magnification quality of the monocular you have in mind. Even if the monocular has a high zoom magnification limit, if the image quality degrades when zooming in, then it will not suffice.

Durability

When selecting the best monocular for bird watching, you must keep the device’s durability in mind. That is because people buy monocular birdwatching devices for outdoor activities. As a result, the birding monocular you want to get needs to be resistant to the elements.

Lens Diameter

Last but not least, you need to check the objective lens diameter of the monocular you want. The bottom line is that the bigger the lens diameter, the better the view. However, bigger lenses make the monocular for bird watching heavier.

Adasion MW6 Monocular

Adasion MW6 Monocular

If you do not know your requirements, it is suggested to go for the safe option. The Adasion MW6 Monocular is an all-rounder and will cover all your basic birdwatching needs. It is the best monocular for bird watching.
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Gosky Piper Monocular

Gosky Piper Monocular

The Gosky Piper Monocular is perfect for those who prefer a monocular that is comfortable to hold and use. Additionally, it is a versatile monocular you can take with you when hiking, hunting, camping, etc.
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JLHT 40X60 Monocular

JLHT 40X60 Monocular

The JLHT 40X60 Monocular is a compact and light monocular that you can easily carry in your pocket. It is unique because it has a big lens diameter while being light simultaneously, which is a feat its competitors cannot achieve.
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Vortex Optics Solo Monocular

Vortex Optics Solo Monocular

The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular is lightweight and durable at the same time. It has a fully rubber-armored body that increases its durability and grip. As a result, have no doubt that it will stay firmly in your hand.
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Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular

Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular

The Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular is a reasonable budget monocular you can use with your smartphone. Additionally, it comes with a universal smartphone adapter, so it will be compatible with your phone.
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FEEMIC 8x42 Monocular

FEEMIC 8x42 Monocular

The FEEMIC 8×42 Monocular is another respectable budget monocular. If you compare using the price-features ratio, the FEEMIC 8×42 Monocular is easily the best monocular for bird watching that you can buy.
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Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular

Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular

The Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular works best when used during the day. If you plan to do all your bird watching during the daytime, this is the best monocular you can get. Additionally, it comes with a few handy accessories.
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PhysioPhyx 80x100 Monocular

PhysioPhyx 80x100 Monocular

Even if the PhysioPhyx 80×100 Monocular is a bit bulky, it has some of the most popular features on the market. So, if you can look past the bulkiness, this is one of the best birding monocular devices you can get.
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Pankoo 40X60 Monocular

Pankoo 40X60 Monocular

The PankooFamily 40X60 Monocular is super resistant to the elements. So, if you live in a humid or rainy place, the PankooFamily 40X60 Monocular is ideal. Additionally, it also produces a clear and sharp image.
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MD.LIFE 80x100 Monocular

MD.LIFE 80x100 Monocular

The MD.LIFE 80×100 Monocular is perfect if you want a monocular to use with your phone. That is because it comes with all the necessary accessories, and you can take pictures with one click of the phone adapter.
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COCOCAM 20X50 Monocular

COCOCAM 20X50 Monocular

If you are under a budget and still want a monocular to use with your phone, the COCOCAM 20X50 Monocular is perfect. Additionally, it has a convenient twist-up eyecup design that makes it easy to use and comfortable.
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Roxant Compact Monocular

Roxant Compact Monocular

The Roxant Compact Monocular is the best for you if you are on a rigorous budget. Even if it is the most affordable monocular on our list, it still has some of the best features you can expect from a budget device.
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CAMMOO 12×50 Monocular

CAMMOO 12×50 Monocular

If you want a monocular whose image quality does not degrade with zoom magnification, the CAMMOO 12×50 Monocular is the one to get. Additionally, it has excellent low-light vision, so you can also use it comfortably during cloudy weather.
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Best monocular for bird watching | Top 13 picks

There are many options of monoculars for bird watching available on the market. However, we understand that testing every monocular before settling on one is not feasible for everyone. As a result, we present some of the best monoculars for birding on the market.

List of the best monocular for bird watching

  1. Adasion MW6 Monocular
  2. Gosky Piper Monocular
  3. JLHT 40X60 Monocular
  4. Vortex Optics Solo Monocular
  5. Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular
  6. FEEMIC 8×42 Monocular
  7. Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular
  8. PhysioPhyx 80×100 Monocular
  9. Pankoo 40X60 Monocular
  10. LIFE 80×100 Monocular
  11. COCOCAM 20X50 Monocular
  12. Roxant Compact Monocular
  13. CAMMOO 12×50 Monocular

Adasion MW6 Monocular

Adasion MW6 MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 56 mm

Magnification: 12x

Weight: 15.8 ounces

If you are looking for an all-rounder that will cover all your basic birdwatching needs, the Adasion MW6 Monocular is the one to get. It also has all the essential accessories to use the monocular with your phone on a tripod. Additionally, it performs well even in low lights. Furthermore, the larger eyepiece lets you have a larger view of your target.

Pros:

  • Clear view even in low lights
  • Large eyepiece with a larger view
  • It comes with a compatible phone and tripod adapter
  • Is IPX7 waterproof, fog proof, shockproof, and dustproof

Cons:

  • The accessories could be more sturdy

The zoom magnification quality of the Adasion MW6 Monocular is decent. Additionally, the lens diameter is just right so that the monocular is not heavy and the image is clear. The Adasion MW6 Monocular will provide commendable service without putting a dent in your wallet.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 9/10
Material: 9/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 9/10
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Gosky Piper Monocular

Gosky Piper MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 55 mm

Magnification: 12x

Weight: 24.64 ounces

The Gosky Piper Monocular has a unique design with the addition of the twist-up eyecup. It provides superior comfort that other bird watching monoculars cannot offer. However, it does not come with a tripod out of the box. Even after that, it still holds up to the competition thanks to its exceptional build. Additionally, the smartphone adapter that comes out of the box has universal compatibility.

Pros:

  • BAK-4 prism provides a clear and sharp image
  • It comes with a smartphone adapter
  • Is IPX7 waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and fog proof

Cons:

  • It does not provide a tripod, unlike its competitors

The Gosky Piper Monocular will quickly become your favorite if you value comfort. Besides being comfortable, it is durable as well. You can take it during hiking, hunting, camping, traveling, and bird watching.

See our in hand review on Gosky Monocular 12×55 Review

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 9/10
Material: 9/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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JLHT 40X60 Monocular

JLHT 40X60 MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 60 mm

Magnification: 10x

Weight: 14 ounces

If you want a lightweight monocular that you can easily fit in your pocket when you are out and about, the JLHT 40X60 Monocular is the one to get. It stands out from the crowd because it has a big lens diameter while being lightweight at the same time. However, it sacrifices durability to bring these features to you at this price point.

Pros:

  • Very portable and lightweight
  • It comes with a handy tripod
  • Superior prism provides higher image quality

Cons:

  • It could be more durable

The JLHT 40X60 Monocular is lightweight and portable. However, it sacrifices durability to bring you a bigger lens while keeping the weight low. That said, you can still take it with you anywhere you go if you use it carefully.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 7/10
Material: 7/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 9/10
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Vortex Optics Solo Monocular

Vortex Optics Solo MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 36 mm

Magnification: 10x

Weight: 9.9 ounces

If you want a bird watching monocular that is both lightweight and durable simultaneously; then the Vortex Optics Solo Monocular is perfect for you. It has a fully rubber-armored body that ensures it remains intact even if you drop it mistakenly.

Pros:

  • Comfortable adjustable eyecup
  • Quick attachment system to your equipment
  • Nitrogen-purged waterproof and fog-proof body

Cons:

  • The focus wheel is hard to use

The 10x zoom magnification of the Vortex Optics Solo Monocular makes it the best monocular for bird watching you can get. The 36 mm objective lens diameter also ensures you get a clear image.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 9/10
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Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular

Gosky Titan 12X50 MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 50 mm

Magnification: 12x

Weight: 13.92 ounces

If you are under a budget, the Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular is the best monocular for bird watching that you can get. It has all the features of a quality monocular for birding. Additionally, it comes with a universal smartphone adapter to connect the monocular to your phone.

Pros:

  • BAK-4 prism delivers true colors and a vivid view
  • It comes with a universal smartphone adapter
  • IPX7 resistance able to withstand extreme weather

Cons:

  • It could be more ergonomic

Even if the Gosky Titan 12X50 Monocular is a budget device, it is still very durable thanks to the shock-absorbing rubber armor. However, the rubber armor makes the monocular bigger, which makes it uncomfortable to hold.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 9/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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FEEMIC 8x42 Monocular

FEEMIC 8x42 MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 42 mm

Magnification: 8x

Weight: 10.1 ounces

If even the Gosky Titan is out of your budget, the FEEMIC 8×42 Monocular is your only option. Even if it is very cheap and affordable, it still performs well. The built-in night vision design helps you see ideally, even in low lights.

Pros:

  • The large BAK-4 prism minimalizes distortion
  • Compact design that is easy to carry
  • Durable and dustproof lens

Cons:

  • The zoom magnification could be better

The FEEMIC 8×42 Monocular has rubber armor with strips. While the rubber armor keeps it durable, the stripes help you grip the birding monocular firmly. Compared with the price-features ratio, the FEEMIC 8×42 Monocular becomes the best monocular for bird watching.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 7/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular

Wingspan Optics Explorer MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 50 mm

Magnification: 12x

Weight: 11 ounces

The Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular is specially designed to provide power, distance, and clarity during the day. Additionally, it gives a bright and clear view even at the highest zoom magnification. If zoom quality is one of your main requirements, you can get the Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular.

Pros:

  • Has a durable external armor
  • One-hand usable design
  • Comfortable ergonomic design

Cons:

  • Not ideal for nighttime

The Wingspan Optics Explorer Monocular comes with eyepieces and lens protective covers. Additionally, they provide a microfiber lens cleaning cloth to keep your lens clean and help you see clearly, even in dusty situations.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 7/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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PhysioPhyx 80x100 Monocular

PhysioPhyx 80x100 MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 100 mm

Magnification: 80x

Weight: 16.64 ounces

The PhysioPhyx 80×100 Monocular is for people who want a powerful birdwatching monocular under a budget. If the bulkiness is not an issue for you, then this is the best monocular for bird watching that you can buy.

Pros:

  • People who need glasses can use them comfortably
  • Superior light transmission and brightness
  • It comes with a mobile phone bracket

Cons:

  • The phone bracket is not suitable for bigger phones

Besides bird watching, the versatility of the PhysioPhyx 80×100 Monocular also lets you use it for hunting, mountaineering, camping, sports, concerts, etc. Even if it is bulkier than its competitors, it is still a relatively light monocular for bird watching.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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Pankoo 40X60 Monocular

Pankoo 40X60 MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 60 mm

Magnification: 10x

Weight: 13.8 ounces

The PankooFamily 40X60 Monocular is perfect for you if you stay in a humid or rainy place. You can use it without it succumbing to the elements. In addition to being durable and weather resistant, it also provides a crisp and clear image.

Pros:

  • BAK 4 prism provides super clear and sharp images
  • Waterproof and antifogging feature
  • It comes with a phone adapter, tripod, and hand strap

Cons:

  • Hard to focus when used with a phone camera

Since the PankooFamily 40X60 Monocular has a manual focus system, it is hard to use it with your phone’s camera. However, if you have experience using monoculars, you can easily pull them off.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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MD.LIFE 80x100 Monocular

MD.LIFE 80x100 MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 100 mm

Magnification: 80x

Weight: 15.8 ounces

If you are more interested in taking pictures with your phone attached to the monocular than using it as a standalone device, the MD.LIFE 80×100 Monocular is perfect for you. It comes with all the required accessories to connect to your phone.

Pros:

  • A fully multi-coated lens produces high-quality images
  • It comes with a tripod and phone adapter
  • The phone adapter allows you to take pictures with one click

Cons:

  • The tripod connector is not durable

The MD.LIFE 80×100 Monocular is convenient enough to use with a single hand. Additionally, it has strips with increased friction to keep the device from slipping out of your hand. So, if you want to use it with your phone, this is the best monocular for bird watching that you can buy.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 7/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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COCOCAM 20X50 Monocular

COCOCAM 20X50 MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 50 mm

Magnification: 20x

Weight: 35.20 ounces

If you want a monocular to use with your phone that is affordable, the COCOCAM 20X50 Monocular is the one to get. It also comes with all the accessories you need to use the device with your phone conveniently. So, it is perfect for bird watching with your phone.

Pros:

  • IPX7 is waterproof, dustproof, and anti-slip
  • Convenient twist-up eyecup design
  • It comes with a durable metal tripod

Cons:

  • The zoom magnification quality could be better

The COCOCAM 20X50 Monocular can provide all these features at an affordable price because it cuts corners in durability. However, it has an anti-slip body that keeps it firmly in your hand, so you do not mistakenly drop it.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 7/10
Material: 7/10
Design: 8/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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Roxant Compact Monocular

Roxant Compact MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 30 mm

Magnification: 7x

Weight: 2.7 ounces

The Roxant Compact Monocular is the most affordable monocular on our list. However, it is one of the most well-performing monoculars thanks to its extraordinary features. As a result, it is among the best monoculars for bird watching on the market.

Pros:

  • It has a non-slip molded grip
  • Very compact and lightweight
  • It comes with a carry pouch, cleaning cloth, and wrist strap

Cons:

  • It could be more durable

Even if the Roxant Compact Monocular is not as durable as you would expect, you cannot complain at this price point. It provides better value than what you are paying for it. So, if you are under a rigorous budget, the Roxant Compact Monocular is perfect for you.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 7/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 9/10
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CAMMOO 12×50 Monocular

CAMMOO 12×50 MonocularObjective Lens Diameter: 50 mm

Magnification: 12x

Weight: 16 ounces

The CAMMOO 12×50 Monocular has a high zoom magnification range. At the same time, the image quality does not degrade with the zoom. As a result, the CAMMOO 12×50 Monocular is among the best monocular for bird watching.

Pros:

  • The clear image up to 1000 yards
  • Excellent low-light vision
  • It comes with a carrying case and phone adapter

Cons:

  • Not comfortable to hold in one hand

The CAMMOO 12×50 Monocular has a rubber-coated design. While this design makes it more durable, it does not help the ergonomics of the monocular. As a result, it is a bit uncomfortable to hold in one hand.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 8/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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End Note

Take your time and pick the best monocular for bird watching for yourself. Remember that your best birdwatching monocular devices will depend on your personal requirements. Lastly, monocular devices easily come on top of the competition between monocular vs binocular for birding. If you liked this list, check out the best Bluetooth microphones and the best waterproof cases for iPhone devices.

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