Test of the Vortex Solo 10x36 Monocular: An Ideal Companion for Outdoor Observation
The Vortex Solo 10x36 Monocular from Vortex is a must-have forbirdwatchers, hikers, hunters and nature watchers.
Compact and powerful, this monocular promises to bring you closer to wild beauty, whether you're in the forest, in the mountains or by the lake. We put it through its paces during a week-long getaway in the Alps, and were truly impressed by its versatility and optical quality!
Unpacking and first impressions
Opening the box of the Monoculaire Vortex Solo 10x36, we discover a well-thought-out set of contents for immediate use: the monocular, a practical strap, a soft case to protect it, and a cleaning cloth for the lenses.
From the first moment you hold it in your hand, you'll be seduced by its compact, elegant design, with a khaki and black finish that gives it a robust, discreet look, perfect for blending in with nature. Weighing just 275 g, it's incredibly light for a monocular in its class, and its non-slip rubber coating makes it pleasant to hold.
You can immediately feel the meticulous craftsmanship worthy of Vortex's reputation.
Optical quality
The Vortex Solo 10x36 Monocular excels in optical quality, an essential criterion forbirdwatchers and wildlife watchers. With 10x magnification and a 36 mm lens, it offers remarkable clarity and brightness, even in low-light conditions such as sunrise or twilight.
In our test, we were able to spot a chamois over 200 meters away in a dense forest, with sharp details on its coat and horns. The 108 m to 1000 m field of view is wide enough to track birds in flight, such as a golden eagle soaring over Alpine peaks. Multi-coated lenses and anti-reflective coating guarantee optimum light transmission, for contrasting, natural-looking images.
User comfort
In terms of comfort, the Monoculaire Vortex Solo 10x36 is a real pleasure to use, whether you're hiking for several hours or doing prolonged static observation. The focusing wheel, located on the eyepiece, is smooth and precise: a simple turn lets you switch from close-up to long-distance observation.
The TwistUp eyecups are a real plus for spectacle wearers, offering 15 mm of eye clearance for comfortable viewing. During our outing in the Alps, we used it for over two hours without experiencing any eye fatigue, an essential point for longbirdwatching sessions. Its integrated clip makes it easy to attach to a belt or bag, so it's always within reach.
Sturdiness and practicality
The Vortex Solo 10x36 Monocular is designed to cope with the most demanding conditions. It's waterproof and fogproof thanks to its nitrogen purge and O-rings, making it perfect for use in the rain or in damp environments, such as lakeside observing.
We tested it in a light shower, and it continued to deliver a perfectly clear, fog-free image. Its armored rubber shell protects it from shocks, and its compact size (just 12.5 x 6.6 cm) makes it an ideal travel companion. The supplied soft case is a welcome bonus for safe storage after a day's exploration.
Technical specifications
| Magnification | 10x |
|---|---|
| Objective lens diameter | 36 mm |
| Maximum viewing distance | Unspecified (ideal up to 1000 m) |
| Field of view | 108 m to 1000 m |
| Minimum focusing distance | 5 m |
| Weight | 275 g |
| Dimensions | 12.5 x 6.6 cm |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Comparison with other models
Compared with the Vortex Solo 10x25 Monocular, also available on binoculars.com, the Vortex Solo 10x36 Monocular stands out for its wider 36 mm objective, which captures more light and offers better low-light performance, ideal for twilight observations. The 10x25 model is even more compact, but the 10x36 strikes a perfect balance between portability and optical quality, making it a more versatile choice for hikers andbirdwatchers.
Highlights
- Outstanding optical quality with sharp, bright images, even in low light.
- Ultra-compact, lightweight design (275 g), perfect for long hikes.
- Rugged, waterproof and fogproof construction.
- A practical integrated clip for quick access in the wild.
- A lifetime warranty, proof of Vortex's confidence in the durability of its product.
Points to note
- The field of view of 108 m to 1000 m is slightly narrower than some competing models, but still more than sufficient for most nature observation purposes.
- The minimum focusing distance of 5 m may be a little long for observing very close details, but this does not affect medium- and long-distance observations.
Verdict
The Monoculaire Vortex Solo 10x36 is a real gem for nature lovers and enthusiasts ofbirdwatching, hiking or hunting. Its optical quality, robustness and practicality make it a reliable companion for all your outdoor adventures.
With excellent value for money and a lifetime warranty, it's an essential choice for exploring the world around you. Tested and approved by our team on May 15, 2025, this monocular will accompany you on all your explorations!
