Monoculars and binoculars are very similar optical instruments. In simple terms, in binoculars, two monoculars are connected by a central bridge. Therefore, the main difference between these devices is that we look through binoculars with two eyes and a monocular with one. The same difference determines the areas of use of these gadgets. Active users of both types of devices are tourists, hunters, and fishermen. Who, besides them, is better acquainted with all the subtleties and nuances of operating monoculars and binoculars? Like a monocular, small binoculars can be freely held with one hand, but you will watch what is happening with two eyes. To use a monocular or binoculars for hunting, everyone decides for himself, focusing primarily on personal preferences and not purely technical capabilities.
What are Binoculars?
Since their invention, binoculars have become an indispensable tool for the military and sailors. In those distant years, this optical device was insanely expensive, so only very wealthy people could afford to have it. In our time, the design of binoculars gradually absorbs the latest technical achievements of our civilization; therefore, genuinely high-quality, modern binoculars do not become much cheaper. However, technological advances have made it possible to make the production of binoculars more massive and, therefore, a more affordable tool for the fisherman, hunter, and just an ordinary lover of communication with nature. Most of us have been familiar with this optical device since childhood, without even realizing that we are getting acquainted with just one set in the assortment of binoculars. There are quite a few varieties of binoculars in nature. Still, in general, if you try to systematize the existing types and their suitability for use in hunting, the situation is as follows:
Standard binoculars that do not have any specific specialization. Such binoculars can be used for observing sports competitions and wildlife. These are pretty simple, without unnecessary "bells and whistles" optical devices. It is recommended to purchase binoculars of this type for novice users to evaluate the convenience, advantages, and disadvantages of binoculars in general to determine the essential qualities. This is the starting point in choosing the necessary functions for an excellent binocular used for hunting. After working with standard binoculars for some time, you can approach the choice of a more complex model with greater responsibility and understanding.
Military binoculars are the most common type of binoculars. Its reliability is ensured thanks to a durable case and components that withstand quite strong shocks and drops. This device often has the necessary moisture resistance, equipped with high-quality optics. Military binoculars are usually fitted with a built-in compass and a night vision device.
Night vision binoculars - specialized binoculars of this type are widely used by hunters and the military. Most binoculars are built on maximizing the amount of light collected. Some binoculars work by converting infrared light (thermal radiation) into an image. These binoculars can be used for night hunting.
Waterproof binoculars - a device of this type best suits nature observation, hiking, fishing, or hunting on land and water (sea or river). The case of such binoculars is sealed; the design eliminates the possibility of fogging or moisture getting inside.
Zoom binoculars - the main advantage of such binoculars in comparison with others is the ability to view the observed object in varying degrees of magnification. The degree of increase is usually indicated on the label. The value of this indicator can range from 8 to 30. These binoculars are sometimes used in bird hunting.
Binocular Advantages
Let's look at the advantages that binoculars have over a monocular. First, it is the ability to observe distant objects with two eyes. As a rule, the binoculars are held with two hands, which significantly reduces parasitic vibrations due to, for example, hand tremors and reduces the likelihood of image tremors. Also, the binoculars have significantly greater optical capabilities, models with a magnification of 60x and a lens diameter of more than 100 mm. This is a powerful optic that can already be applied in astronomical observations. Also, the advantages of binoculars include a 3-dimensional image of the observed object, the ability to observe with two eyes, the stable position of the picture, and the presence of devices with a high level of magnification.
What are Monoculars?
The monocular is smaller and lighter than any binocular, so it's an excellent choice for long walks. Many monoculars weigh only 100-200 grams and fit easily into a jacket pocket. But this compactness has its drawbacks. First, due to their low aperture, most monoculars are suitable only for daytime observations and do not perform well in low cloud and twilight observations. A monocular can be compared to a portable spyglass or a low-power telescope.
On the other hand, this device should be held like binoculars, but observation is carried out with one eye, as in a telescope. The technical characteristics and design of the monocular are similar to the above observation devices, but their dimensions are much smaller. Binoculars with such measurements are not to be found. The monocular can easily fit in the glove compartment of a car, a pocket of clothes, and even a woman's purse. If you need to consider something, you will not waste time searching and unpacking the device, but you can see what you are interested in just a few moments.
Monocular Advantages
Compact dimensions are the main distinguishing feature and advantage over competitors, which has a monocular. Some models are no longer than the index finger, and their thickness is no more than a conventional handle. Almost any model can be placed in a pocket or a small hiking bag. An additional function of the described portable device can also be called its use as a magnifying glass (loupe). Among the advantages of a monocular is one can single out a smaller weight than binoculars; compact dimensions; lower cost; some models can be used as a magnifying glass; mobility in use; long service life; the ability to attach to a mobile phone camera, to a tactical mask or helmet. Besides the price, one of the main advantages of monoculars is the ability to solve almost all tasks that binoculars can do.
What Is The Difference?
One of the disadvantages of binoculars compared to a monocular is the increased weight and, in general, the price. Developers are struggling with the first, releasing a rich assortment of models with narrow applications—for example, hunting binoculars, theatrical, field, marine, and others. One is sure to be an excellent competitor to the monocular in one class. Practice shows that binoculars are a good solution for long-term observation of previously unknown large areas and complex landscapes. With its help, it is easier to detect not only large-sized animals but also smaller ones. There are many accessories for each of these devices - covers, mounts, cleaning agents, and accessories. Which of the devices is better can be found based on your individual preferences. The strength and tirelessness of your hands, the ability to carry a heavy load, and vision features (whether or not you wear glasses or contact lenses) are significant factors of choice.
Conclusion
What is better, binoculars or monoculars? It first depends on what is more critical: small weight dimensions or the quality of the transmitted image—our recommendation: is for hunting - definitely binoculars; for walking - a monocular. Listening to the opinion of people who use optics professionally, the conclusion suggests itself. Of course, the monocular wins for situations where mobility is essential, as well as the speed of response. Due to its small size, it can be in trousers, jackets, backpacks, or vests pocket. It doesn't take long to extract it. But in situations where the picture quality is more important to you for observations and broader optical capabilities, and you are ready to face higher costs and significant dimensions, it is better to purchase binoculars.