So, you have decided to buy a monocular but you’re not sure which one to go for? There are various types of monoculars out there, which makes it harder for the buyer to choose the best option.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best ATN monoculars in 2022 and help you make the right decision.
Let’s get started:
Introduction to Monoculars
Said to be more effective than binoculars, monoculars tube like devices that magnify images and make it easier to view distant objects. They typically use an optical prism to show the image. The light passes through different prisms to clear the image.
Monoculars are only half as big as binoculars, hence the word ‘mono’ in the name, and are easy to use as you only require one hand to use a monocular. They serve a variety of purposes and are typically used by hikers, tourists, campers, wildlife spotters, and hunters. In addition, they are also used to view works of art, sporting events, and distant races. In simple words, they are used in situations where one needs to zoom in on any surface or action.
There are several things to consider when buying a monocular. The most important of these is the technology used to provide the image. For example, there are thermal monoculars that are best suited for hunters as they have the ability to highlight the prey by thermally tracking it down.
Another important feature is magnification that defines how far you can see. However, more is not always better as it can cause the image to shake. Ideally, you should be aware of how much you want your target magnified. ATN offers a wide magnification range typically between 3-20x, which allows the user to choose the option that fits them the best.
In addition, the lens and prism also need some attention. Make sure to go for a high-quality lens so you can see clearly. Also, check eye relief as it tells how far you will have to keep the lens from the eye in order to see properly. This isn’t usually an issue unless you wear corrective lenses or large glasses. In such a situation, look for monoculars with larger eye relief.
Now without much ado, let’s have a look at some of the best monoculars to choose from:
ATN ODIN LT and OTS-XL Thermal Monocular Series Review
ATN offers a number of monocular series; however, we are going to concentrate on the two most popular options: the ATN ODIN LT series and the OTS-XL Thermal Monocular series.
The ATN ODIN LT Series
The ATN ODIN LT Series is one of ATN’s most popular series best known for its durable products that are lightweight and very easy to handle. The scanners in this series come with the following features:
- Thermal
This impressive series offers a number of highly versatile thermal monoculars for the best observation experience. Moreover, it offers a black hot / white hot mode that makes it easy to identify the target.
- Handheld
This series offers handheld scanners that are ergonomically designed and put little to no pressure on the hand. The slim size allows them to fit perfectly in the hand. Plus, users can mount these devices to a headgear or helmet for viewing.
- Sensors
The series uses ATN’s latest Obsidian LT Core and Cutting-Edge sensors to produce sharp and high-quality images.
- Battery
This range supports not only single use batteries but also rechargeable batteries. This means you will be able to go on for hours without having to worry about running out of juice.
Factors such as magnification and eye relief change from product to product. We’ll highlight these and more later in this ATN monocular review.
The OTS-XL Thermal Monocular Series
The new OTS-XLT thermal monocular series from ATN has created a niche in no time thanks to some very impressive and unique features that make it a popular choice among hunters.
Here are some of the main features of the scanners in this series:
- Video Recording and Picture Capturing
This amazing feature allows the user to capture high quality photos and videos that can be used for a variety of purposes, including social media.
- Handheld
The devices in this range are a little heavier than the devices in The ATN ODIN LT Series; however, we still found them pretty lightweight as they are all under a pound. Plus, these can also be mounted to the helmet.
- Thermal
This series offers thermal capabilities, which makes it fun to hunt or go out at night. You will see more colors with this thermal scope, making the object easier to identify.
- Battery
The devices in this series use an advanced power source offering a run time of more than 10 hours, which we believe is enough.
The OTS-XL Thermal Monocular Series is one of ATN’s best and most popular series. The devices in this series are durable and for series players with several applications. We’ll highlight these and more later in this ATN monocular review.
Best ATN Monoculars in 2022
Now that you know about the two most popular ATN monocular series, let’s review some of the best options out there to choose from:
ATN OTS-XLT 160 2-8X
The ATN OTS-XLT 160 2-8X comes with some unique features. Here are the specifics of this monocular:
- Sensor: 160×120 px
- Lens: 19mm
- Field of View: 8.2×6.2
- Magnification: 2 – 8x
- Human Detection Range: 670
- Human Recognition Range: 335
- Human Identification Range: 170
- Pixels: 17-micron
- Internal Storage: 8 GB
- Color Modes: White Hot / Black Hot / Red Hot / Color
- Refresh Rate: 50 FPS
- Weight: 370 g
- Dimensions: 5.16″x2.8″x1.81″
The ATN OTS-XLT 160 2-8X is powerful yet affordable. It can be a great option for people who want to hunt or search at night as it comes with reliable thermal or nighttime vision and uses different settings to identify the target. Moreover, it can identify temperature spots and mark it for easy recognition.
The device has the ability to calculate the distance between the target and the observation position going up to 300 yards. Furthermore, it gives users the option to record and capture videos and bring content back to show to other people. This feature makes it a perfect option for influencers, police officers, and search parties.
Pros:
- The battery offers a runtime of about 10 hours
- Comes with a 2 year warranty
- Has an IP rating of 67
- Lightweight and easy to use
Cons:
- Does not offer Bluetooth feature
- The image may blue after a point
The ATN OTS-XLT 160 2-8X is one of ATN’s most popular options as it is fairly priced and rich with features. Consider this if you want to have fun on the field.
ATN OTS-XLT 160 2.5-10X
Ranked among the best monoculars UK, the ATN OTS-XLT 160 2.5-10X offers unmatched ease and great reliability.
Here are the specifics of this monocular:
- Sensor: 160×120 px
- Lens: 25mm
- Field of View: 6.5×4.9
- Magnification: 2.5 – 10x
- Human Detection Range: 850
- Human Recognition Range: 425
- Human Identification Range: 210
- Pixels: 17-micron
- Internal Storage: 8 GB
- Color Modes: White Hot / Black Hot / Red Hot / Color
- Refresh Rate: 50 FPS
- Weight: 370 g
- Dimensions: 5.16″x2.8″x1.81″
This thermal imaging monocular hits the ball out of the park.
Those looking for the best monoculars for bird watching, hunting, or officers can consider the ATN OTS-XLT 160 2.5-10X. Marketed as one of the best thermal imaging monoculars, the ATN OTS-XLT 160 2.5-10X might be a little expensive but it’s worth it.
It works in all weather conditions and is easy to use, despite being one of the heaviest on the list. The range is excellent, however, the 10x zoom feature may not work well as it starts to present a shaky image. On the plus side, the range finder does a very good job and the ability to detect objects from a large distance is unmatched. The rest of the features are the same as the first one but with a more generous range.
Pros:
- Has an IP rating of 67
- Comes with a 2 year warranty
- The range is impressive
- Easy to hold and use
Cons:
- The 10x zoom feature isn’t very impressive
- A little on the expensive side
Called the best monocular device by many, the ATN OTS-XLT 160 2.5-10X is made for people who are serious about the job.
ATN ODIN LT 320 2-4x
Belonging to the ATN ODIN LT Series, the ATN ODIN LT 320 2-4x is one of ATN’s most affordable monoculars.
Here are the specifics of this thermal monocular:
- Thermal Resolution: 320×240
- Eye Relief: 25mm
- Lens: 19mm
- Field of View: 11.6×8.7
- Magnification: 2-4x
- Human Detection Range: 535
- Human Recognition Range: 380
- Human Identification Range: 230
- Pixels: 12-micron
- Battery: 1x CR123A
- Color Modes: White hot/Black hot
- Refresh Rate: 60 FPS
- Weight: 285 g
- Dimensions: 5.16″x2.8″x1.81″
The device does not come with extra features but it gets the job done. The 2-4x model offers the lowest magnification with an impressive field of view. The device can be easily mounted to the head or helmet, which adds to the mobility. This is also why we think it is not only suitable for hunters but also for law enforcement officers.
The device makes it easy to even identify small creatures such as rabbits and squirrels. Another highlight is the interface that’s simple to manage. The range of magnification, however, isn’t as high as what some other models from ATN offer.
The battery lasts for 2.5 hours with the option to add a rechargeable battery that takes the runtime to up to five hours.
Pros:
- Very affordable unit
- Comes with a 3 year warranty
- Very easy to use
- Weather resistant hence suitable for use in extreme conditions
Cons:
- Does not offer features such as video recording
- The magnification range is low
The ATN ODIN LT 320 2-4x is a simple monocular best suited for new users who want to try using a monocular. Though mobile, we believe it is best suited for stationary use.
ATN ODIN LT 320 3-6x
The ATN ODIN LT 320 3-6x is a mid level unit that comes with more power and some great features.
Here are the specifics of this thermal monocular:
- Thermal Resolution: 320×240
- Eye Relief: 25mm
- Lens: 25mm
- Field of View: 8.8×6.6
- Magnification: 3-6x
- Human Detection Range: 910
- Human Recognition Range: 455
- Human Identification Range: 290
- Pixels: 12-micron
- Battery: 1x CR123A
- Color Modes: White hot/Black hot
- Refresh Rate: 60 FPS
- Weight: 285 g
- Dimensions: 5.16″x2.8″x1.81”
This mid level device from the series isn’t very different in terms of handling but it hits the bull’s eye when it comes to human detection range, human recognition range, and human identification range. Moreover, the magnification level is better, giving you access to a wider view.
Since the device is lightweight, it can be easily mounted to the headgear. You will get up to five hours of runtime with a rechargeable battery.
Pros:
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- Comes with a 3 year warranty
- The system is very easy to use
- Weather resistant hence suitable for use in extreme conditions
Cons:
- Does not offer features such as video recording
- Can take about a minute to adjust to weather conditions
The ATN ODIN LT 320 3-6x is another powerful device from ATM. One of the best monoculars out there, it is affordable with wide applications.
ATN ODIN LT 320 4-8x
Last from the ODIN LT series is the ATN ODIN LT 320 4-8x, the most expensive thermal monocular in this range.
Here are the specifics of this thermal monocular:
- Thermal Resolution: 320×240
- Eye Relief: 25mm
- Lens: 35mm
- Field of View: 6.3×4.7
- Magnification: 4-8x
- Human Detection Range: 1510
- Human Recognition Range: 680
- Human Identification Range: 340
- Pixels: 12-micron
- Battery: 1x CR123A
- Color Modes: White hot/Black hot
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Weight: 342 g
- Dimensions: 5.71″x2.8″x2.01″
The ATN ODIN LT 320 4-8x stands out due to its powerful range, incredible field of view, and wide range. The device presents clear images and makes it possible to even identify small animals from a distance. The device can recognize large animals from up to 300 yards and can prove to be a great nighttime hunting partner.
Despite being heavier than the other two models in this series, it’s still lightweight and can be mounted to the head. We loved how it offers stable images and offers excellent magnification range.
Pros:
- The range is very impressive
- Comes with a 3 year warranty
- The image doesn’t shake
- Weather resistant hence suitable for use in extreme conditions
Cons:
- Does not capture photos or videos
- A little on the expensive side
The ATN ODIN LT 320 4-8x lacks some features but we think it can still be a good pick for people who are only interested in having a good time and do not need add-ons such as video and photo capturing.
Conclusion
Stop searching for ‘monoculars best’ this monocular best series covers some of the best thermal monoculars out there. These were some of the best options out there, compare your favorites and pick one that suits you the best.
