Monocular vs Binoculars: Which is best for you?

For most dedicated birdwatchers, binoculars remain the more natural choice for extended viewing with a more immersive experience. That can lead to people overlooking the humble monocular, but a monocular has some genuine advantages over binoculars.

A monocular is a compact optical device with a single optical barrel, designed to provide magnified viewing through one eye. It performs many of the same basic viewing functions as binoculars, but removes the second optical barrel to create a smaller and lighter device

In summary, a monocular: 

• is significantly smaller and lighter to carry everyday
• can be easier to use
• is easier to attach to a support for added stability
• is significantly cheaper than the equivalent binocular

As a result, a monocular can provide an excellent option for casual wildlife watching, sporting events, travel, and smartphone digiscoping. Even if you're an avid birdwatcher, a monocular can complement a pair of binoculars.

So which is right for you?

In this article we share the reasons why you may prefer a monocular by comparing the VEO HD2 10x42 binoculars with the VEO HD2 10x42 monocular.  The key optical specification of each is almost identical (such as HOYA ED glass and Multiguard-7 coatings), and so the key differences are in the other features and use of each model.

Monoculars vs Binoculars at a glance

Here we summarise the key differences between binoculars and monoculars:

If you'd like more information, simply read on.

Reason 1: Monoculars are smaller

Even folded, a pair of binoculars is bulkier and it's unlikely you'll be able to slip a pair of binoculars into even the largest pocket, let alone taking it out. 

At around half the size, monoculars are much more streamlined and are easier to keep to hand as you travel, whether in a jacket pocket, an everyday bag or the glove compartment of your car, making them easier to keep to hand for those unexpected sightings.

Reason 2: Monoculars are lighter

As monoculars only have one barrel and no need for the associated connections, they are generally around half the weight of a pair of binoculars.  For example, the VEO HD2 10x42 monocular weighs 385g or 54% less than the equivalent binoculars. This makes them more portable, but also makes them easier to use over extended periods. 

Reason 3: Monoculars can be operated with one hand

To ensure the best optical performance, binoculars need to be set up for both eyes. You normally focus one eye using the central focus wheel, then use the dioptre adjustment to compensate for any difference between your eyes. Once set correctly, everyday focusing is done with the central focus wheel. Once set correctly, the dioptre normally needs little attention, and a lockable design further reduces the risk of accidental movement.

The need for the dioptre also makes it harder to share a pair of binoculars as the dioptre may need to be reset every time you share your binoculars for the optimum use. A monocular can just be passed over and refocussed, making it a better tool for a family, couple or even a group. 

As a monocular is easy to use with one hand it leaves the other hand free, for example to use a walking stick, carry a bag or hold a child's hand. 

Reason 4: Monoculars attach direct to a support

If you're planning to use your optics in one place over extended periods, or need stability for digiscoping, then we'd always recommend using a tripod, monopod or hide clamp.

All Vanguard monoculars include a 1/4" thread on the base so they can be easily attached  directly onto a suitable monopod, or to any quick release plate.

To do the same with a pair of binoculars would require an adaptor like the BA-185 Arca.  It's not expensive, but it is another cost, and it's something that's easy to forget or lose, which can take away from the enjoyment of your trip.

Reason 5: Monoculars can be easier to digiscope with

Digiscoping is a great way to capture a sighting without the need for a separate camera and expensive lens. You can use either system to digiscope with using an adaptor like the VEO PA-62,  but the lighter and more compact design with the simpler focus control makes it easier to digiscope with a monocular, especially if you're not using a support.  

Reason 6: Monoculars allows your cash to go further

As you're removing a barrel, you're reducing the materials and complexity from the design.  This can deliver significant savings compared to the equivalent pair of binoculars, and allows your budget to go further, or choose a monocular with a better optical performance or more added value features.

Monoculars from Vanguard

At Vanguard we offer a choice of two monoculars:

The VESTA 8320M is our starter model with 8x magnification and a 32mm objective lens.  Weighing just 260g and measuring just 127 x 47 x 70mm, it's also our most portable.

The VEO HD2 1042M introduces HOYA Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass in a model with 10x magnification and a 42mm objective lens. The 10x magnification gets you closer to the action, while the HOYA Extra-Low Dispersion glass helps minimise chromatic aberration and colour fringing, improving colour resolution and contrast.

Both models include a wrist strap, carry case, thread for a 1/4" screw to attach to a monopod, a digiscope adaptor and a Bluetooth remote control for iOS and Android.

In Summary

Whether a monocular or a pair of binoculars is better generally depends on use, and here we summarise our recommendations based on some common examples:

In essence the winner is: 

Maximum optical performance? Binoculars. If optical performance and immersive use is your overriding priority, then we would recommend binoculars as your best option. 

Maximum portability? Monoculars. If having a solution to keep easily to hand at any time, then we would recommend a monocular, delivering magnification in a package that is small enough to keep with you. 

That said, it doesn't have to be an either/or decision. A monocular can complement your binoculars by being close to hand everyday, with the binoculars ready for the more intensive and better planned trips. 

Frequently asked questions

Here we list some of the questions that we get asked:

I have one eye stronger than the other, which should I use?

Very few people have eyes that have identical focus and a dioptre on a pair of binoculars can normally address this, but it has a limit and depends on the level of difference between each eye. If the optical performance and immersive use is the key benefit then it's worth seeing if there are binoculars that work for you. The best way to do is to visit a local dealer and try out some binoculars for yourself. If the binoculars aren't suitable, or you're looking for a more casual and portable solution, then a monocular may be best for you.

Why do I keep getting dark edges when I look through?

All binoculars and monoculars are designed to have a space between your eye and the eyepiece, and this can vary by person. Dark edges or a restricted view is generally created by the distance not being quite right. To address this binoculars and monoculars use adjustable twist-out eyecups that allow you to position your eye at the correct distance from the eyepiece. 

Can I use a monocular with glasses?

Yes you can use either a binocular or monocular with glasses. As the glasses create a distance between the eye and the eyepiece, you would not normally need to extend the eyecup(s) out at all.

Is 8x or 10x better for a monocular?

This comes down to personal preference. 10x magnification will get you that bit closer to your subject, but will also emphasise any movement while you are observing. 8x magnification won't get you quite so close, but gives you a slightly wider field of view so it's a little easier to find your subject and movements won't be quite so noticeable.

Are monoculars good for birdwatching?

Monoculars are good for birdwatching and are easy to keep to hand for everyday use, where the equivalent binoculars will offer a more immersive experience, but you're less likely to have them to hand on your morning dog walk. So it depends on use and there is a good argument to have both for birdwatching as they cover different uses (everyday vs planned trips), if budget allows.

OTHER BLOGS YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN:

• Choose the right harness for your trip
• Is this the ultimate birdwatching tripod?
• A guide to Digiscoping
• Which series of VEO Binoculars is right for you?

Article Updated: August 2026