Binoculars Vs Monocular – Which Should You Choose?

Undecided if you want to buy binoculars or monocular? Want to find out which is better for your needs. Read on to find out!


Before we get into specs and features, here’s a quick guide to what the difference is between binoculars and monocular and what they can be used for.


Monocular have one lens and one eye piece, meaning you only use them with one eye. Monoculars are good for long distance viewing, but they are less common than binoculars.



Binoculars have two lenses attached to two eyepieces and you use them with both eyes. They are more common and are thus available in a larger variety of sizes, styles and price ranges.

Things to consider:

·       Comfort

Binoculars are more comfortable for extended periods of use because most people find it easier to observe objects with both eyes at the same time.

The risk of headaches and eye fatigue is also less likely with binoculars than it is with monoculars.

·       Weight

If you want to find something super lightweight and compact that can easily fit in your purse, you might be better off with a pair of monocular.

Monocular are typically lighter and smaller than binoculars, which makes them easier to carry. Heavy duty binoculars might give you a better viewing experience, but they tend to be bulkier and more annoying to transport.

·       Convenience

When it comes to convenience, the humble monocular beats binoculars. Not only are most monocular small enough to carry in a purse or pocket, but they can be comfortably worn around your neck.

Binoculars can also be hung around the neck or carried around in a small bag, but some models are bigger than others.

·       Eyesight

If both your eyes have different vision needs, or if you have limited eyesight in one of your eyes, then you may find using a monocular works better for you because you can concentrate on your stronger eye.

Most decent binoculars will have a dioptre adjustment feature which allows you to adjust both binocular barrels individually so you can customise the binoculars to give you the best image possibly, but binoculars do require both eyes to be engaged.

·       Field Of Vision

If you want to observe a larger area or track moving objects, you’ll need a pair of binoculars.

Binoculars have a wider field of vision, they are much better adept to follow moving objects, and you can watch a whole area rather than just one thing.


So Which To Go For?

Binoculars and monoculars are good for different things. If you want a larger field of vision, you want greater magnification and sharper visuals, and if you’re interested in astronomy or wildlife observation then binoculars will be a better choice.

If, however, you’re looking for something that is light, convenient, easy to carry, great for focusing on one object and something that can double as a magnifying glass, then you may want to invest in some monoculars.

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