Rely on rugged, dependable performance for any terrain. When you need a compact optic that can keep up, the vortex 8×36 monocular is a serious contender. It’s built tough for your backpack or glove box, ready for anything from birding to backcountry scouting. You get a bright, clear view without the bulk of binoculars, which is a huge plus.
We took this little powerhouse through its paces so you know exactly what your getting. From dawn hikes to spotting wildlife at dusk, here’s how it held up in real-world conditions and whether it’s the right tool for your adventures.
Product Comparison Table: 9 Best Vortex 8×36 Monocular
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 8×36 – Utility Clip, Adjustable…
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9.9 |
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Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 10×36 – Utility Clip, Adjustable…
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9.6 |
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Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 8×25 – Adjustable Eyecup, Fully…
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9.4 |
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Compact High Power Monocular Telescope, 8X Magnification Portable Single…
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9.1 |
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40X60 Monocular Telescope, High Power Monocular for Adults with…
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8.8 |
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Vortex Optics Solo R/T 8×36 Monocular – MRAD Based…
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8.6 |
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AMITHER 8×42 High Powered Monocular Telescope for Adults -…
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8.3 |
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Olimt 8×32 Monocular Telescope Mini Pocket Monocular Compact Monoculars…
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8.1 |
Read Review |
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10×36 Monocular Telescope, Compact Handheld Mini Pocket Small Portable…
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7.8 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 9 Vortex 8×36 Monocular
Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 8×36 – Utility Clip, Adjustable Eyecup, Fully Multi-Coated Lenses, Rubber Armor, Non-Slip Grip, Fogproof, Waterproof – Unlimited, Unconditional Warranty
The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 8×36 is a compact, go-anywhere optic designed for clarity and durability. With its 8x magnification and 36mm objective lens, it packs a powerful view into a very small, lightweight package. The fully multi-coated lenses are key here; they increase light transmission and resolution to give you clear, crisp images, even in lower light conditions.
It’s a straightforward tool that brings distant details right to your eye without the bulk of binoculars.
Built to handle real-world use, the Solo is fully covered in rubber armor. This gives you a secure, non-slip grip whether your hands are wet, cold, or just in a hurry. The armor also acts as a protective barrier against bumps and drops, making this monocular suprisingly tough for its size. You won’t need to baby it.
For reliability in all weather, the unit is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed. This makes it both waterproof and fogproof, so you can confidently use it in rain, snow, or humid environments without the lenses fogging up internally.
Comfort is considered with the adjustable eyecup. You can twist it up for comfortable viewing if you wear eyeglasses, or down for optimal eye placement if you don’t. This simple feature means you get a full field of view without straining.
Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 10×36 – Utility Clip, Adjustable Eyecup, Fully Multi-Coated Lenses, Rubber Armor, Non-Slip Grip, Fogproof, Waterproof – Unlimited, Unconditional Warranty
The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 10×36 is a compact, single-eye optic designed to be your go-anywhere tool for getting a closer look. It packs 10x magnification and a 36mm objective lens into a surprisingly small and lightweight package. This combination gives you a powerful yet portable viewing experience, perfect for slipping into a pocket when your headed out on a hike, to a sporting event, or just for backyard birdwatching. At the heart of the Solo are its fully multi-coated lenses.
These specialized coatings are crucial—they increase light transmission and enhance resolution, which means your veiwing brighter, clearer, and crisper images. Whether the light is low at dawn or harsh at midday, these lenses work to deliver a sharp picture. The adjustable eyecup is a key feature for comfort, letting you quickly set the right eye relief whether you wear glasses or not, so you can get a full field of view without any hassle. Durability is built right in.
The monocular is fully encased in rubber armor. This serves two main purposes: it provides a secure, non-slip grip in all conditions, and it acts as a protective shield against bumps and drops. More than just tough on the outside, the Solo is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed. This makes it both waterproof and fogproof, ensuring reliable performance in rain, humidity, or sudden temperature changes. You can trust it in challenging environments.
Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 8×25 – Adjustable Eyecup, Fully Multi-Coated Lenses, Rubber Armor, Non-Slip Grip, Fogproof, Waterproof – Unlimited, Unconditional Warranty
The Vortex Optics Solo Monocular 8×25 is a compact, single-eye optic designed to be your go-anywhere tool for getting a closer look. With its 8x magnification and 25mm objective lens, it packs a surprising amount of viewing power into a very small and lightweight package. This makes it incredibly easy to slip into a jacket pocket or backpack, ensuring its ready when you are, without being a burden.
Clarity is key in any optic, and the Solo is built to deliver.
Its lenses are fully multi-coated. This specialized coating increases light transmission and reduces glare, which gives you brighter, sharper images with better resolution. Whether your observing birds in low light or checking out details on a distant landmark, the view is meant to be crisp and clear.
Durability and reliability are central to this monoculars design. The entire body is covered in a rubber armor.
This serves two critical purposes: it provides a secure, non-slip grip in all weather conditions, and it protects the monocular from the bumps and knocks of everyday use. Furthermore, the unit is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed. This process removes internal moisture and seals the optics, making the Solo both waterproof and fogproof.
Compact High Power Monocular Telescope, 8X Magnification Portable Single Tube for Hiking, Bird Watching, Stargazing, and Outdoor Adventures
The Compact High Power Monocular Telescope is your go-to tool for bringing the distant world into clear view. Its designed for anyone who loves to be outside, whether your hiking a mountain trail, watching birds in the backyard, or simply taking in a panoramic view.
At its core, this monocular features 8x magnification. That means it brings objects eight times closer to you then they appear to the naked eye.
The optics are multi-coated and use a BAK-4 prism, which is a technical way of saying you get crisp, bright images with minimal distortion. Colors look true, and details stay sharp, whether your observing a hawk in a tree or the craters on the moon during an evening outing.
One of its best features is how easy it is to take with you. The compact, single-tube design fits easily in your pocket or clips to a backpack. Its lightweight, so you’ll hardly notice it’s there until you need it.
The body has a rubberized armor that provides a comfortable, anti-slip grip. This makes it easy to hold steady, even if your hands are cold or a bit wet from the outdoors.
Focusing is intuitive and fast. With a simple turn of the central wheel using one hand, you can quickly adjust from viewing a nearby flower to a far-off ridge line. This quick-focus system is perfect for tracking moving subjects, like wildlife or athletes during a game.
40X60 Monocular Telescope, High Power Monocular for Adults with Phone Adapter& Tripod& Hand Strap, Low Night Vision Monocular, Equipped with BAK4 Prism for Bird Watching and Traveling Concert
The 40X60 Monocular Telescope is designed for anyone who wants a powerful, portable optic for a wide range of outdoor and event use. It combines high-power magnification with a suite of practical accessories, making it a versatile tool for adults whether your interest is birdwatching, travel, or enjoying a concert from the back row.
At its core, this monocular offers 12X magnification with a large 60mm objective lens. This combination is key.
The 12X power brings distant subjects remarkably close, while the large lens gathers ample light to ensure your view is bright and clear. This is especially helpful in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk when wildlife is most active.
The wider field of view it provides means you can track moving subjects, like birds in flight or players on a field, more easily than with many higher-powered, narrower scopes.
Image quality is further enhanced by the internal BAK4 prism and fully multi-coated optics. These features work together to maximize light transmission and minimize distortion.
Vortex Optics Solo R/T 8×36 Monocular – MRAD Based Ranging Reticle, Utility Clip, Adjustable Eyecup, Rubber Armor, Non-Slip Grip, Fogproof, Waterproof – Unlimited, Unconditional Warranty
The Vortex Optics Solo R/T 8×36 Monocular is a precision observation tool designed for clarity, durability, and quick field use. With its 8x magnification and 36mm objective lens, it packs serious performance into a lightweight and compact body that’s easy to carry all day. Whether your tracking game, estimating distances, or just scouting terrain, this monocular gives you a detailed, close-up view without the bulk of binoculars. Its optical performance is a key highlight.
The fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coatings maximize light transmission. This means you get a bright, clear image even in those tricky low-light hours at dawn or dusk. The flared eyecup helps block out stray light to keep you focused, and it conveniently folds down if you wear eyeglasses. A large, easy-to-turn focus wheel lets you quickly sharpen the image, while a separate smaller dial focuses the built-in reticle to match your vision.
This dual-focus system is crucial for making accurate range estimations using the MRAD-based ranging reticle in the lens. Durability and field readiness are built right in. The body is covered in a textured rubber armor. This provides a secure, non-slip grip in all weather conditions and adds a layer of protection against bumps. Its O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged construction makes it both waterproof and fogproof, so internal optics stay dry and clear no matter the environment.
AMITHER 8×42 High Powered Monocular Telescope for Adults – High Definition Optics, Compact and Portable, Single-Hand Focus, Wide Field of View for Bird Watching, Hiking, Sports & Concerts
The AMITHER 8×42 High Powered Monocular Telescope is designed to bring distant details into sharp, accessible view. At its core, this device combines 8x magnification with a 42mm objective lens, a pairing that delivers both power and excellent light gathering. The result is a wide field of view—specifically 363 feet at 1000 yards—that lets you observe expansive scenes without constantly panning around.
Whether a bird flitting through dense foliage or a player moving accross a distant field, keeping track is intuitive and fluid.
Its performance is rooted in its high definition optics. The fully multi-coated lenses are key here; they significantly enhance light transmission and reduce glare. This means images appear bright and crisp with accurate color, even in the dim light of dawn or dusk.
For activities like bird watching or twilight hiking, where lighting conditions are often less than ideal, this optical clarity ensures you won’t miss subtle details.
Portability was a major focus in the design. The monocular is compact and lightweight, easily fitting into a jacket pocket or attaching to a backpack strap. Its ergonomic shape feels natural in your hand, encouraging you to take it on every outing without a second thought.
Olimt 8×32 Monocular Telescope Mini Pocket Monocular Compact Monoculars for Adults
The Olimt 8×32 Monocular Telescope is a powerful optical tool designed to fit in your pocket. It combines high-end performance with a rugged, portable build, making it a versatile companion for a wide range of activities. Whether your into birdwatching, hiking, hunting, or enjoying a sporting event, this monocular aims to deliver clarity and convenience without the bulk of binoculars. At its core, the monocular features a sophisticated optical system.
It uses fully multi-coated extra-low dispersion lenses along with BAK-4 prisms that have special phase and dielectric coatings. This technical combination works to produce images that are exceptionally bright and clear, with high color accuracy and minimal distortion. The result is a viewing experience that rivals more expensive models, giving you excellent value for the performance you recieve. The 8x magnification is a key feature.
It provides a strong zoom to bring distant subjects closer, while remaining stable enough for comfortable handheld use. You won’t experience the excessive shaking that higher magnifications often cause. Paired with this is a broad field of view, measuring 396 feet at 1000 yards. This wide perspective makes it easier to track moving objects, like wildlife during a hike or birds in flight, ensuring you don’t miss a moment. Design and durability are major strengths.
10×36 Monocular Telescope, Compact Handheld Mini Pocket Small Portable Size ED Lens Fully Multi-Coated HD BAK-4 Prism Optics Professional Waterproof Fogproof for Adults Hiking Bird Watching Travel
The 10×36 Monocular Telescope is designed for clarity and portability. This compact handheld device offers 10x magnification paired with a 36mm objective lens, balancing power with a stable, bright image. Its core strength lies in the premium optics. The inclusion of an Extra-low Dispersion (ED) lens significantly reduces color fringing, while the fully multi-coated BAK-4 prism ensures maximum light transmission.
The result is high-definition viewing with rich color reproduction and minimal distortion, making distant subjects appear sharp and vivid. Ergonomics were a key consideration in its design. The body features a non-slip grip and a large, easy-to-turn focus knob, allowing for quick adjustments with one hand. Measuring just 4.84 x 1.57 inches and weighing only 8.64 ounces, it’s truly pocket-sized. Yet, its form is substantial enough for a secure, comfortable hold.
A included hand strap and protective pouch make it simple to carry on all your adventures, from a mountain hike to a stadium seat. Durability is built-in for the real world. The monocular is nitrogen-purged and sealed with O-rings, making it both waterproof and fogproof. It can withstand immersion and perform reliably in humid conditions like boating or rainy hikes. The rugged aluminum alloy body adds shockproof and dustproof qualities, ensuring it can handle the knocks of outdoor use.
Vortex 8×36 Monocular Buying Guide
The Vortex 8×36 monocular offers a balance of a wide field of view and portability. It’s a great tool for anyone who wants a capable optic without the bulk of binoculars. But is it the right choice for your needs? Let’s look at the key factors to consider.
Magnification and Field of View
With 8x magnification, this monocular brings distant objects much closer. The real star here is the 36mm objective lens. It gathers ample light for a bright image and, combined with the 8x power, provides a notably wide view. This means you can scan a meadow for wildlife or follow a bird in flight without that “looking through a straw” feeling. It’s a forgiving optic for those who aren’t used to holding things perfectly steady.
Size and Everyday Use
Will you actually carry it? This is where the Vortex 8×36 shines. It’s compact enough to slip into a jacket pocket or a small backpack pouch. Compare this to full-size binoculars, and the advantage is clear. You’re far more likely to have it on hand for spontaneous moments—whether that’s checking a trail marker, observing a perched hawk, or getting a better look at a concert stage from the cheap seats. Its one-handed operation adds to the convenience.
Optical Quality and Durability
A monocular is useless if the image is fuzzy or the unit fogs up. Look for fully multi-coated lenses, which reduce glare and increase light transmission for a sharper, brighter picture. The Vortex is built to be tough, with a rubber armor for a secure grip and protection against bumps. It should also be waterproof and fog-proof (nitrogen purged), so a sudden rain shower or a shift from a cold car to warm air won’t ruin your view or the device itself. This reliability is crucial for outdoor use.
Your Intended Activities
Finally, match the tool to the task. The 8×36 configuration is a fantastic all-rounder. It’s excellent for general nature observation, hiking, and sporting events. If your primary use is in very low light (like dawn wildlife viewing), you might want a larger objective lens. But for most daytime and twilight scenarios, this model hits a sweet spot. Consider what you’ll use it for most often—that will tell you if this versatile monocular is your best pick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vortex 8×36 Monocular
What does 8×36 mean?
The first number (8x) is teh magnification. Things look eight times closer. The second number (36) is the diameter of the front lens in millimeters. A bigger lens lets in more light for a brighter view.
Is it good for low light?
Yes, the 36mm objective lens is a good size for gathering light. It works well at dawn or dusk. It’s not a night vision device, but it performs better in dim conditions than a monocular with a smaller lens.
Can I use it with glasses?
Absolutely. It has long eye relief. This means you can hold it the right distance from your eye even with glasses on. You won’t miss the full picture. The twist-up eyecup is also ajustable for comfort.
How durable is it?
It’s very tough. It’s built with a rubber armor for a secure grip and shock protection. It’s also waterproof and fogproof. You can use it in the rain without worry.
What’s it best used for?
It’s a great all-around optic. People use it for birdwatching, hiking, or sporting events. Its one-handed design makes it easy to carry and quick to bring up to your eye for a look.
Does it come with a warranty?
Vortex offers their VIP Warranty. It’s a full lifetime warranty that is very strong. It covers repairs for any damage, even if it’s your fault. No receipt is needed, which is fantastic.
Is the image clear and sharp?
The optics are fully multi-coated. This reduces glare and gives you a bright, clear view. The image is sharp from the center to the edge, which really helps for longer viewing sessions.
Bottom Line
The ideal Vortex 8×36 for your needs is among these. Each model offers a reliable, bright view in a compact package. Think about where you’ll use it most. Is it for quick wildlife spotting on a hike, or for a long day at the stadium? Your main priority will point you to the right choice. Consider your budget, too. You get great value at every level with this brand.
No matter which you pick, a Vortex 8×36 monocular is a fantastic tool to have on hand. It slips easily into a pocket, ready for any moment that calls for a closer look. The optics are sharp and the build is tough, so you can trust it on all your adventures. Make your choice, and get ready to see things in a whole new way.