General Observation
If you are considering a wide range of applications or buying a surprise present for someone, we recommend that you consider a binocular/monocular with a magnification between 7x and 10x.
A compact 8×21 or 10×25 will work well during the day, 7×30 or 10×32 are slightly larger and will have improved all round performance. If low light use is a factor, consider an optic with a larger front lens, for example 8×40, 10×42, 10×50, these models, or similar specifications are also excellent all-rounders.