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  • 10 Best Monoculars UK 2024 | Gosky, Vortex and More 1
  • 10 Best Monoculars UK 2024 | Gosky, Vortex and More 2
  • 10 Best Monoculars UK 2024 | Gosky, Vortex and More 3
  • 10 Best Monoculars UK 2024 | Gosky, Vortex and More 4
  • 10 Best Monoculars UK 2024 | Gosky, Vortex and More 5

10 Best Monoculars UK 2024 | Gosky, Vortex and More

A compact and lightweight a monocular is a must-have viewing device for any outdoor enthusiast or adventurer's backpack. Perfect for spotting wildlife or admiring nature's landscapes, with a magnification equivalent to binoculars, monoculars are easier to use and ideal for people who struggle with twin eyepieces.


Whether you're an avid bird watcher, race-goer, or hiker, choosing a monocular with the right magnification is vital to ensure a pleasurable viewing experience. To help you find a suitable model, we've put together this buying guide along with our reviews of the 10 best monoculars in the UK, available online from Amazon and Decathlon.

Last updated 27/03/2024

Quick List - Top Monoculars

1

ARPBEST

25X50 High Definition Monocular Telescope
25X50 High Definition Monocular Telescope

The Ultimate Compact High Definition Monocular for All Occasions

2

Gosky

12x55 High Definition Monocular
12x55 High Definition Monocular

Crystal Clear Vision in All Weather Conditions Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts

3

Hawke

Endurance ED 8x25 Monocular
Endurance ED 8x25 Monocular

Effortless Close and Long Range Focussing Ideal for Birdwatching

4

Vortex Optics

Solo Outdoor Optic Monocular
Solo Outdoor Optic Monocular

Reliable Optic Device for Sighting Nature at Dawn and Dusk

5

Aurosports

10-30x40 Zoom Monocular
10-30x40 Zoom Monocular

See for Miles With This Multi Magnification Monocular

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Monocular in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Choose 8x Magnification for Beginners, or 10x for a More Detailed Image
  2. Opt for an Objective Lens Size of at Least 30 mm for Viewing at Dawn and Dusk
  3. Select a Wide Field of Vision for Sporting Events, and Close Focus for Reading Signage
  4. Pick a Waterproof and Fog Proof Monocular With a Multi-Coated Lens
  5. Consider Additional Features Like Camera and Tripod Mounts 
1

Choose 8x Magnification if You’re New to Birdwatching, or 10x for a More Detailed Image

Choose 8x Magnification if You’re New to Birdwatching, or 10x for a More Detailed Image

If you're new to bird-watching, going sailing, or just starting out, choose a monocular with a maximum of 8 x magnification. This level is simple and easy to use, and will provide a decent level of magnification for spying on wildlife and scoping the landscape. It'll also allow you to maintain a stable hand, which is vital if you're looking to the horizon on a boat.


For those more experienced, looking for a detailed, close-up image, go for a monocular with at lease 10x magnification. Just be aware that, with higher magnification, you may find maintaining and keeping the image still harder, as even the slightest hand movements can distort the picture.

2

Seek Out an Objective Lens Size of at Least 30 mm for Viewing at Dawn and Dusk

Seek Out an Objective Lens Size of at Least 30 mm for Viewing at Dawn and Dusk

Ranging from 20 to 55 mm, the size of the objective lens will determine the brightness and sharpness of the image. The bigger the lens, the better the image quality will be. However, the downside is that larger monoculars are bulkier to carry.


Opt for an objective lens size of at least 30 mm if you are heading out at dawn or dusk, as it will capture more light, generating a clearer image of the birds and animals you may be out spotting. For star-gazing at night, choose a 42 mm lens or bigger to get the best views of the constellations.


Binoculars are another great option for bird watching in the UK!

3

Opt For a Wide Field of Vision for Sporting Events, and Close Focus for Reading Signage

Opt For a Wide Field of Vision for Sporting Events, and Close Focus for Reading Signage

The field of vision tends to be calculated in feet per 1000 yards, giving you an indication of the amount of landscape you will see. Bear in mind, the higher the magnification, the narrower the field of vision becomes. So, if you are heading to the races, choose a monocular with low magnification and a wide field of vision. This will enable you to spot and follow the fast-moving horses.


If you are wanting a monocular to help you read signage, or admire the detail in works of art and nearby objects, pick one with a 'close focus'. This is the minimum distance at which a monocular can focus on an object, which is perfect also for marvelling at birds perched only a few metres away.

4

Pick a Waterproof and Fog Proof Monocular With a Multi-Coated Lens to Enjoy Viewing in All Weather Conditions

Pick a Waterproof and Fog Proof Monocular With a Multi-Coated Lens to Enjoy Viewing in All Weather Conditions

With the unpredictability of the British weather, and to ensure performance longevity, you will want a water-resistant monocular at the very least. We recommend investing in a monocular with 'o-rings' for full water-proofing, especially if there is a possibility of it being submerged in water for a period of time.


Although more expensive, a fog-proof monocular with nitrogen-filled optics will expel all moist air and prevent internal fogging in cold air, which is perfect if you are out exploring in humid or damp environments.  


On the other hand, if you're heading to sunnier climes or using your monocular in direct sunlight, choose one with a fully-multi coated lens (FMC). It'll prevent the sun's rays from ruining those stunning landscapes, providing the optimum in anti-glare for the clearest of views.


Make sure you enjoy your wildlife spotting experience in any weather with a waterproof jacket .

5

Consider Additional Features Like Camera and Tripod Mounts to Capture Unique Wildlife Scenes

Consider Additional Features Like Camera and Tripod Mounts to Capture Unique Wildlife Scenes
Monoculars come with some great additions that can enhance your viewing experience. To help you decide, here are some of the most useful functions to look out for.

  • Extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses: ED lenses create a brighter, sharper image with richer colours. It also prevents red or purple fringing, which is perfect for watching wildlife. It's a bit expensive, but well worth the price!

  • Eye relief / twisted eye cup: If you wear glasses, this is an important factor to consider. The eye relief is the distance that your eye can be from the eyepiece and still see the entire field of view, so we recommend one with at least a 14 mm. Twisted eye cups will also make viewing more comfortable for all users.

  • Fixed focus: Perfect for children or beginners, a fixed focus enables you to point and shoot without having to adjust the focus, making it easier and simpler to use.

  • Night vision: This will let you watch and record the activities of nocturnal animals with electronic amplification and infra-red illumination.

  • Tripod mount: Ideal for hands-free viewing and a steady image, consider a tripod mount for stargazing or for longer wildlife viewing sessions.

  • Smartphone / camera mount: This is perfect for capturing unique wildlife moments and stunning landscapes to share with friends and family. 

Check out our favourite backpacks for carrying all your spotting equipment!

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Monoculars in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

ARPBEST

25X50 High Definition Monocular Telescope

ARPBEST 25X50 High Definition Monocular Telescope 1

The Ultimate Compact High Definition Monocular for All Occasions

2

Gosky

12x55 High Definition Monocular

Gosky 12x55 High Definition Monocular  1

Crystal Clear Vision in All Weather Conditions Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts

3

Hawke

Endurance ED 8x25 Monocular

Hawke Endurance ED 8x25 Monocular 1

Effortless Close and Long Range Focussing Ideal for Birdwatching

4

Vortex Optics

Solo Outdoor Optic Monocular

Vortex Optics Solo Outdoor Optic Monocular 1

Reliable Optic Device for Sighting Nature at Dawn and Dusk

5

Aurosports

10-30x40 Zoom Monocular

Aurosports 10-30x40 Zoom Monocular 1

See for Miles With This Multi Magnification Monocular

6

Celestron

UpClose MonocularG2 10 x 25

Celestron UpClose Monocular 1

Great Value Monocular That’s Ergonomically Designed

7

Wingspan Optics

Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular

Wingspan Optics Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular 1

Powerful Monocular for Viewing Faraway Landscapes

8

Yiruhe

Yiruhe Monocular

Yiruhe Yiruhe Monocular 1

A Wide Field of Vision for Viewing Sporting Events

9

Quecha

Children's Non-Adjustable Hiking MonocularMH M100

Quecha Children's Non-Adjustable Hiking Monocular 1

Get the Kids Involved With This Fixed Focus Monocular

10

Nightfox

Cub Digital Night Vision Monocular

Nightfox Cub Digital Night Vision Monocular 1

Explore and Record After Dark With This Night Vision Monocular

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

ARPBEST
25X50 High Definition Monocular Telescope

25X50 High Definition Monocular Telescope 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£55.23
Mid
Reference price
£55.23
Mid

The Ultimate Compact High Definition Monocular for All Occasions

Perfect for all sight-seeing activities, this lightweight and compact monocular is incredibly practical and user-friendly. Easy to handle, this pocket-sized monocular, with its grippy rubber armour, is fully waterproof with an o-ring sealed lens!


With clear vision up to 1000 yards, the 5 - 25 x high power zoom magnification provides sharp, high-definition images. It even comes with multiple accessories, including a smartphone holder so you can share your adventures with friends and family, and a large tripod for longer wildlife-watching sessions.

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Gosky
12x55 High Definition Monocular

12x55 High Definition Monocular  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£78.74
Mid
Reference price
£78.74
Mid

Crystal Clear Vision in All Weather Conditions Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts

With a light-gathering 55 mm objective wide lens, Gosky's monocular will give you the best views and sightings in all weather conditions. Plus, you can explore the wilderness safe in the knowledge that the nitrogen-filled, fully multi-coated lens won't fog up or let the sun's rays interrupt your viewing.  


This monocular has a long eye relief and a twist-up eye cup, ideal for glasses wearers, with the added comfort of a hand strap to hold it steady. It also comes with a smartphone mount and two lens caps, just in case you misplace one!

No.3

Hawke
Endurance ED 8x25 Monocular

Endurance ED 8x25 Monocular 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£79.00
Mid
Reference price
£79.00
Mid

Effortless Close and Long Range Focussing Ideal for Birdwatching

This monocular is perfect for avid travelling birdwatchers. The ED lens will provide sharp, detailed images, enabling you to admire the beautiful colours of the birds up close within 2 meters, or soaring the skies using the 8 x magnification. 


Ideal for most weather conditions, this lightweight monocular features a magnesium alloy housing, high outer grip and twist-up eyecups. It's also shockproof and waterproof, ready to combat the elements when sighting rare birds!

No.4

Vortex Optics
Solo Outdoor Optic Monocular

Solo Outdoor Optic Monocular 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£104.99
High Mid
Reference price
£104.99
High Mid

Reliable Optic Device for Sighting Nature at Dawn and Dusk

Never miss a piece of nature's action with this monocular! You can carry it around your neck or clip it to your backpack for instant access. It's easy to handle with a non-slip grip, and delivers bright images thanks to a fully multi-coated lens - great for capturing colourful scenery and wildlife!


Boasting waterproof o-ring seals, a nitrogen-purged lens and rubber armour, this durable monocular is a reliable performer in all environments and temperatures. Best of all, it has impressive external protection, perfect for long weekend hikes over rocky and uneven terrain near rivers and lakes.

No.5

Aurosports
10-30x40 Zoom Monocular

10-30x40 Zoom Monocular 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£24.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£24.99
Low Mid

See for Miles With This Multi Magnification Monocular

Bring faraway scenes closer with this high-powered monocular by simply adjusting the level of zoom, depending on the distance and your requirements. The large 40 mm objective lens means that even with 30 x magnification, your field of vision will still be wide enough to enjoy landscapes in all their glory.


The adjustable eyecup makes it comfy to use for those with or without glasses, and is easy to focus, making it suitable for kids and adults alike. Made for any weather or environment, this is a top pick for your next sight-seeing adventure.

No.6

Celestron
UpClose MonocularG2 10 x 25

UpClose Monocular 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£19.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£19.99
Low Mid

Great Value Monocular That’s Ergonomically Designed

This monocular from the award-winning Celestron has been designed to provide the best images, even in the most demanding of situations. The fully-coated, multi 25 mm lens offers the highest level of contrast for clear and sharp images, which is ideal for a range of outdoor sight-seeing activities.


The aluminium body is covered in rubber, with ergonomic thumb indents and finger ridges, making it more robust and easier to grip. However, this monocular is only water-resistant. So, you should avoid submerging it in water or using in heavy rain.

No.7

Wingspan Optics
Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular

Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£102.52
High Mid
Reference price
£102.52
High Mid

Powerful Monocular for Viewing Faraway Landscapes

Great for any weather or environment, this monocular comes encased in a rugged, non-slip armour. It produces a bright and clear view, and is ergonomically designed for single-hand focus, allowing you to target objects quickly and easily.


If you're planning on travelling, this monocular may be the one for you. Not only is it lightweight and compact, it comes with a nylon mesh carrying case to keep it safe, with eyepiece and lens covers to protect them from getting scratched. Though, with such a high magnification, it's probably best suited to more experienced users.

No.8

Yiruhe
Yiruhe Monocular

Yiruhe Monocular 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£55.99
Mid
Reference price
£55.99
Mid

A Wide Field of Vision for Viewing Sporting Events

With a 369 ft / 1000 yards FOV, 12 x magnification and a 50 mm objective lens, this monocular will provide great vision from the sidelines. Take it along to the next stadium match and you'll never miss a goal again! 


With a high waterproof rating and anti-fog protection, this monocular can cope in practically any outdoor environment. The high-quality optics produce bright vivid images, also making it a great choice for the avid bird watcher or star gazer. Just be aware that some reviewers have mentioned that the included accessories are of poor quality.

No.9

Quecha
Children's Non-Adjustable Hiking MonocularMH M100

Reference price
£11.99
Low
Reference price
£11.99
Low

Get the Kids Involved With This Fixed Focus Monocular

Designed and developed to be used on family hiking expeditions, this monocular is particularly lightweight at 78 g. The fix focus system means no adjustment is necessary, making it simple and easy enough for children to use.


The monocular has a silicone coating, which is easy to grip and provides decent resistance against impact, extending it's overal longevity. We think it's great for observing nature and wildlife at short and medium distances. However, you may want a slightly more advanced monocular for anything further afield.

No.10

Nightfox
Cub Digital Night Vision Monocular

Cub Digital Night Vision Monocular 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£139.99
High
Reference price
£139.99
High

Explore and Record After Dark With This Night Vision Monocular

Head out into the dark and discover the goings-on of nocturnal animals with this digital night vision monocular. You can even enjoy a viewing range of 165 yards in the dead of night with infrared technology, and record all the footage you capture as video at the same time!


Pocket-sized, the Nightfox Cub has an internal rechargeable battery that lasts for about 4 hours with constant use. Unfortunately, the quality of the resolution is quite poor, but for an entry-level night vision monocular, it's more than adequate.

Written and researched by Amanda Norman

Top 5 Monoculars

No. 1: ARPBEST25X50 High Definition Monocular Telescope

No. 2: Gosky12x55 High Definition Monocular

No. 3: HawkeEndurance ED 8x25 Monocular

No. 4: Vortex OpticsSolo Outdoor Optic Monocular

No. 5: Aurosports10-30x40 Zoom Monocular

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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