I'm not SURE I had them at the same time. My reason? I didn't feel like I needed to as I had the Maven B.1, Leica Trinovid HD, and Tract Toric all 8X42s at the same time. Though a fine binocular for the money I felt the Toric though close was slightly behind the other two either optically, fit/finish, or function. So I let the Tract go. The Maven will prob be next, maybe the Trinovid HD as well! I'm THAT convinced of the attributes of the Monarch HG.
So next up I compare those from the two left above with the Monarch HG. I have no problem saying the Monarch HG is every bit as good as the Trinovid HD/Maven B.1 and imo a better overall birding binocular with emphasis on weight, stature, FOV, focus adjustment, and overall design. I have an FL 8X42 too.. I can tell you I'd rather have the Monarch HG than that FL based on optics ALONE. Seriously. I don't expect everyone to come around to my way of thinking and really aren't trying to get that to happen anyway. But I DO know which one I'd take to the woods!