Best Monoculars For Birding - With 8x to 10x Magnification

The main consideration when selecting a monocular are the magnification level and objective lens diameter, which determine the optical capabilities of the monocular. The bigger the objective lens diameters, the better the image quality and the heavier the monocular may get. Waterproofing and night vision (thermal or infrared) are also important factors to consider when selecting a monocular.

The main consideration when selecting a monocular are the magnification level and objective lens diameter, which determine the optical capabilities of the monocular. The bigger the objective lens diameters, the better the image quality and the heavier the monocular may get. Waterproofing and night vision (thermal or infrared) are also important factors to consider when selecting a monocular.

Monoculars for birding require magnification of 10x for professionals and 8x for beginners. 10x is harder to stabilize by hand; hence, to keep the size smaller, choose an objective lens diameter of less than 50mm. A good 8x42 monocular weighs about 1.5 lbs. (0.7 kg), which is good for birding and on the heavy side for hiking.

Monoculars for birding require magnification of 10x for professionals and 8x for beginners. 10x is harder to stabilize by hand; hence, to keep the size smaller, choose an objective lens diameter of less than 50mm. A good 8x42 monocular weighs about 1.5 lbs. (0.7 kg), which is good for birding and on the heavy side for hiking. Read More

Monoculars with a magnification of 8x to 10x enable both portability and good magnification power for backpacking, hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing. Monoculars with 8x magnification are very popular; however, for safari trips, you should consider a 10x magnification monocular (though a stabilizing tripod may be required).

Monoculars with a magnification of 8x to 10x enable both portability and good magnification power for backpacking, hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing. Monoculars with 8x magnification are very popular; however, for safari trips, you should consider a 10x magnification monocular (though a stabilizing tripod may be required). Read Less