TreeLineBackpacker

The Zero Tube 10×25 is a lightweight, highly portable monocular designed to take a beating, yet provide excellent viewing on the go. Basically, binoculars but small and packable. How does that translate in the field? My review:

First up, what’s the point of the Zero Tube? Essentially, it’s like having binoculars, except you’re missing one lens, and it is a small fraction of the size and weight. I’ve found I can tuck it into a small hip pocket or toss it into a backpack and still have a way to view find or spot birds. It does most of the work of a full sized set, without taking the large weight penalty of a full sized, or even compact, binocular. It still has the same focusing and adjustment features of normal binoculars as well.

The Zero tube is waterproof, fog proof, and designed to take scrapes and tumbles with a reinforced body and high quality reinforced lenses. The frame is rugged and impact resistant plastic with a rubbery textured grip along the outside. It includes a handy belt clip, lanyard strap, and a soft carry case to protect it from scuffs and scratches while packed away. It retails for $179 and weighs 205 grams. There is actually an 8×25 and 10×25 option available, along with multiple colors. I will dig into the versions a bit later.

Using the Zero Tube has been a real pleasure. I use mine (10×25 version) mostly for birding and really enjoy having them close when hiking. When I get the rare chance to spot those high elation warblers and such I can pull it out of a pocket quickly and easily and lock on to them with relative ease. When I’m out adventuring it is rare for me to just go birding. Generally speaking, I want to get some miles in. The Zero Tube allows me to bird on the fly, while staying agile. Viewing distance is great, allowing me to spot small birds at a relatively far distance (50 yards is possible in good lighting conditions for me). Detail and brightness are solid but not amazing (it is highly portable after all) and I’ve not had to worry about them getting knocked around. The Zero Tube is really small, so if fits in any bag really, yet has a nice feature set. They adjust and focus quickly and with little effort, yet stay locked in while in use. I generally use two hands to reduce the shakiness of the view finder, or lean up against a tree to stabalize the image a bit.

Durability and construction are both fantastic here. The casing feels rock solid with a stout construction that feels really great in the hand. I’ve yet to notice any scuffing of the lenses and the body is taking being knocked around inside my hiking pack just fine. I’ve even taken it out on the bike in a frame bag with no issues. The entire unit feels like a single, solid piece of material which is quite reassuring. I’ve had a few pairs of Nocs and they are all still going strong, so I don’t expect any different here.

8×25 or 10×25?

What is the difference here, in basic terms? 8×25 monoculars are a bit more stable, offer a wider field of view, with a brighter image and easier eye placement. The 10×25 variant provides a longer zoom but is more prone to shakiness, a narrower field of view, and reduced brightness. Most people prefer an 8×25, but I personally like the zoom of the 10×25. To each their own, but it is nice to have options.

Overall

I really appreciate the Zero Tube from Nocs. As I rarely head out just to spot critters and vistas, having a lightweight, portable option really opens up the possibilities for me. The stout construction allows me to just toss it in any backpack without having to worry about it. I have never have had it fog up or fill with water on me and the grip works great in the rain. They just, kind of work. They are lightweight, reasonably priced, and do a good enough job to spot and identify most animals at moderate ranges. I really have no complaints here which makes them easy to recommend.

Highly Recommended

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