Although not as popular as telescopes and binoculars, monoculars are the hidden gems among viewing devices. The fact that they require only one eye makes them an excellent solution for people who don’t have two functioning eyes. Some people even prefer them over other viewing devices.
Today, we will be reviewing one of the best monoculars on the market. It is made by Vortex Optics, a well-known American manufacturer of optical equipment. The Vortex Optics company has successfully been developing various visual equipment for almost 20 years, and are known for their excellent quality products. If you appreciate a good monocular, then this one is definitely for you.
Vortex Solo Monocular
This monocular is designed to bring nature closer. With a compact, robust design, it is convenient because of its size. This monocular is very useful for hunting, hiking, or for any outdoor activity where nature can be viewed.
Available in 4 options, your choice will depend on the magnification and the lens diameter that you require. The company has a reputation for producing some of the best optics on the market.
Who is this monocular for?
People who are looking for a quality optic will love this product. This product can be used by anyone who loves to get outdoors and into nature but doesn’t want to carry a bulky and weighty product around. If convenience is your thing, then these monoculars will be just the ticket. They are not very expensive and cost as much as some mid-priced binoculars but come without the weight of a hefty pair of binoculars.
What’s included?
The Vortex Solo Monocular of your choice comes with a short user manual with special instructions on how to use the focus wheel. Lens caps are not included but can be purchased, but are not recommended based on the shape of the lens. All products come with a useful lanyard. The two X36 magnification options include a utility clip. Everything is packed in a carrying case for ease of transportation.
Overview of features
Let’s take a look at this offering from Vortex and highlight some of the features. This product is available in two magnification options, with each offering two lens diameters. You can choose a magnification of 8 or 10 times magnification, and the lens diameter options are either 25mm or 36mm. These lightweight and robust optics offer fully multi-coated lenses that provide a clear and crisp image. Being armor rubbered, they are non-slip and durable, improving their longevity. These monoculars also provide waterproof and fog proof performance in any environment. Whether you do or don’t wear eyeglasses, the adjustable eyecup can be used to match your particular needs. This product is waterproof.
How to use it
There are no special instructions on how to use a monocular. The only moving part, apart from the eyecup, is the focus wheel which is used for focusing based on your distance from the object you are looking at. It is straightforward to use it. Turn it clockwise for more distant objects, and counter-clockwise for closer objects.
Pros
- High-quality and endurable
- Nice design and handy
- Waterproof and fog proof
Cons
- Focus adjuster is hard to use
Alternatives
If, for any reason, you don’t like this monocular, there are a few great alternatives on the market, for a similar price and similar quality.
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Monocular
This is an excellent monocular and delivers a very nice image with excellent magnification. It is waterproof and fog proof. It has 10x magnification and boasts a 42mm objective lens. The twist-up eyecup is very comfortable. This monocular comes with a carry clip for easy wearing, and it has a compact size that will easily fit in your hiking or hunting backpack.
Gosky Titan High Power Monocular
You might be interested in Gosky Titan monocular which also comes with a quick smartphone holder. You can attach it to a smartphone camera and take pictures of distant objects at ease. It has 12x magnification and a 50mm objective lens that will give you a wide field of view. It has rubber armor which absorbs shocks and will prevent accidental dropping as it will remain firmly in your hands. This monocular is waterproof, shockproof, and dust proof, making it ideal for any outdoor activity.
Conclusion
We have come to the end of our Vortex Solo Monocular review and we would like to end by saying you can’t go wrong if you decide to buy this monocular. It can be fascinating and exciting to watch distant objects, especially if you have never done that before.
If you are wondering if this device offers an excellent quality according to its price, you should know that it does. The monocular is reasonably affordable, and besides the superb image quality it offers, it is also very durable. So, if you have decided to buy a monocular, this one should be at the top of your list.