What is a monocular used for?

Anything you'd use binoculars for, but in a smaller, lighter format. Hiking, birding, spotting, and even surveillance.

Are monoculars better than binoculars?

Not necessarily. Binoculars offer depth perception and wider fields of view. Monoculars win on weight, size, and cost.

What is a good magnification for a monocular?

8x to 12x is ideal for handheld use. Higher magnification often requires a tripod.

Can I use a monocular with glasses?

Yes—look for long eye relief (14mm+) and twist-up eyecups.

Do monoculars work with smartphones?

Some do! Models with phone adapters let you take zoomed photos or videos through the lens.

Best Lists Archives - PointOptics

The 5 Best Monoculars

August 4, 2025July 29, 2025 by Willem Grobler

Whether you’re birding in the backcountry, scanning a ridgeline, or need a compact spotting solution for your bug-out bag, monoculars … Read more

The 5 Best Sniper Scopes

August 9, 2025July 25, 2025 by Willem Grobler

When long-range precision matters most, a top-tier sniper scope isn’t just an accessory; it’s your lifeline to accuracy. Whether you’re … Read more

Defensive Light: How to Choose and Use a Self-Defense Flashlight

September 16, 2024July 29, 2024 by Willem Grobler

In the United States, a burglary occurs every 30 seconds, and many of these intrusions happen at night when homeowners … Read more

The Best Thermal Monocular Under $1000

July 25, 2025July 3, 2024 by Willem Grobler

Best Overall Under $1000 RIX POCKET K2 Thermal Monocular The RIX Pocket K2 is the best thermal monocular under $1000. … Read more

The 9 Best UV Flashlights

September 20, 2023April 29, 2023 by Jason Miller

Unlike a regular flashlight, the role of a UV flashlight isn’t so much to provide you with light in the … Read more

The 5 Best Holographic Sights

July 16, 2024April 22, 2023 by David Harris

So, you have a great hunting weapon and are looking for a new scope or sight? You might need to … Read more

The 7 Best 1000 Lumen Flashlights

March 25, 2024April 14, 2023 by David Harris

Lighting is one of the fastest-evolving technologies in recent years. For decades incandescent lighting was the staple choice for mobile … Read more

The 5 Best Night Vision Scopes

March 25, 2024April 14, 2023 by David Harris

Night vision scopes may come in all shapes and sizes, but the technology used to power them typically falls into … Read more

Best Night Vision Monoculars - Pointoptics

The 7 Best Night Vision Monoculars

July 25, 2025April 5, 2023 by Bryn De Kocks

Night vision monoculars are relatively new and versatile, with applications across various sporting activities, hunting, and general fun! With several … Read more

Best Super Bright Flashlights

September 20, 2023April 5, 2022 by Triston Brooks

When you think about the evolution of technology, your mind probably doesn’t go directly to flashlights. However, how lighting technology … Read more

The 10 Best Golf Rangefinders

October 11, 2021September 1, 2021 by Triston Brooks

When it comes to golf rangefinders, you will see two distinct types available on the market; GPS and laser rangefinders. … Read more

Carl Zeiss Victory Rangefinder Binoculars

The 10 Best Rangefinder Binoculars

September 1, 2021August 31, 2021 by Jason Miller

Over the years binoculars have gone mostly unchanged. Aside from some small enhancements to the optic coatings and general materials … Read more