If you’re into shooting or hunting, chances are you’ve come across the term LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic). Known for their true 1x capability and quick close-to-mid range adaptability, LPVOs have become a go-to option for many modern shooters.
Alongside LPVOs, there’s also the MPVO (Medium Power Variable Optic)—a category that bridges the gap between low-power optics and traditional high-power scopes. While MPVOs offer higher magnification in a compact design, LPVOs remain the more versatile choice for fast, dynamic shooting scenarios.
Key Characteristics: LPVO vs. MPVO
Magnification Ranges
LPVOs: Typically start at 1x and can go up to 10x. Common configurations include 1-6x, 1-8x, and 1-10x, and you can find these across many brands.
MPVOs: While, for MPVOs, there is no specified starting magnification. Now, we can find various kinds of MPVOs, they may start at 1.5x, 2.5x, 3x, etc. Besides, unlike LPVOs, they can go up to 9x, 12x, 14x, etc.
Effective Aiming Range
An LPVO combines speed at close quarters with dependable reach at distance. Depending on the model—such as a 1-6x or 1-10x LPVO—you can comfortably aim and engage targets out to about 600–800 yards at maximum magnification. This range covers most hunting, competition, and tactical needs while still keeping your setup compact and fast to handle.
For shooters who consistently push beyond 800 yards, MPVOs are sometimes used to extend effective range closer to 1000 yards. But for the majority of real-world scenarios, an LPVO offers more than enough capability in a lighter, more versatile package.
What are the Pros and Cons of LPVO and MPVO?
S6 LPVO vs SOI MPVO
Let’s compare VictOptics popular S6 series LPVO with our new SOI series MPVO.
VictOptics S6 series has long been a favorite LPVO line, and for good reason. Take the OPSL-33 (1-6x LPVO) as an example: it delivers a wide field of view (109.2–18.2 ft @ 100 yards) and a true 1x zoom that allows both-eyes-open shooting—making it as fast as a red dot sight for close-range engagements. This speed and clarity make the S6 LPVO an ideal option for dynamic shooting and hunting in varied terrain.
Compared with the new SOI VIOC-01 (1.5-5x MPVO), the MPVO is indeed lightweight (225g) and compact, which may appeal to hunters seeking the lightest possible setup. However, its narrower field of view (84.9–25.5 ft @ 100 yards) limits situational awareness compared to the S6 LPVO.
When it comes to practical use, the S6 LPVO shines in real-world shooting distances. Most hunting and competition scenarios fall well within the 600–800 yard effective range of an LPVO. While MPVOs can stretch to 1000 yards and offer more detail for extreme long-range, that level of magnification is not always necessary—and often comes at the cost of field of view and speed.
In short, the S6 LPVO gives you the best of both worlds: speed at close range and dependable accuracy out to mid- to long-range, all in one versatile optic.
Beyond S6: Meet the S10 1-10x LPVO
The new S10 1-10x LPVO keeps everything you love about the S6—true 1x for both-eyes-open shooting and fast target acquisition at close range—while pushing the limits of what an LPVO can do.
With its extended 10x magnification, the S10 also brings in some of the advantages usually associated with MPVOs, such as improved target identification and better precision at longer distances. In other words, it gives you the speed of an LPVO with the extended reach of higher-power optics.
If you’re looking for a scope that bridges the gap between close and long-range shooting, the S10 1-10x is the perfect balance.
- Quick Target Acquisition: With a true 1x zoom, you can shoot with both eyes open, similar to using a red dot sight. This makes LPVOs perfect for close-range shooting.
- Lightweight and Compact: Ideal for long hunting trips where carrying weight matters.
- Higher Magnification: Provides better target identification and precision for long-range shooting.
- Versatility: Fits in between cumbersome high-power scopes and more compact LPVOs, offering a balance of power and convenience.
| Specification | OPSL39 | OPSL33 | VIOC-01 | VIOC-02 | VIOC-03 |
| Magnification | 1-10x | 1-6x | 1.5-5x | 2-7x | 3-9x |
| Field of View | 111-11.1 ft @ 100 yards | 109.2-18.2 feet@ 100 yards | 84.9-25.5 ft @ 100 yards | 63.7-18.2 ft @ 100 yards | 42.4-14.1 ft @ 100 yards |
| Length | 273 mm / 10.75 in | 249 mm / 9.8 in | 220 mm / 8.66 in | 234 mm / 9.21 in | 305 mm / 12 in |
| Weight | 597 g / 21.1 oz | 425 g / 15.0 oz | 225 g / 7.9 oz | 328 g / 11.6 oz | 447 g / 15.8 oz |
| Tube Dia | 30 mm | 30 mm | 25.4 mm / 1 in | 25.4 mm / 2 in | 25.4 mm / 3 in |
| Parallax Setting | 100 yards | 100 yards | 50 yards | 50 yards | 100 yards |
To sum up, an MPVO can be considered if your hunting style focuses primarily on long-range shots in wide-open terrain. An LPVO is the more versatile choice for hunters who need one optic to handle different ranges and environments—especially when speed and adaptability are critical.
LPVO vs. MPVO: Which to Choose?
Hunting Scenarios
Small Game Hunting
LPVOs excel in this area due to their ability to quickly acquire targets in close quarters. They offer a balanced functionality between a red dot and a scope, allowing for rapid transitions from close to mid-range targets.
Large Game Hunting
For hunting larger game like deer or elk, an MPVO is preferable due to its higher magnification, which is necessary for long-range shots in open fields or mountainous areas.
To sum up, if you prioritize long-range accuracy and will be hunting in open terrain where distance shots are common, a MPVO is better for you.
If you want one optic that adapts to different ranges and environments—especially when quick reaction and versatility are key—an LPVO is your most practical hunting companion.
VictOptics offers a wide range of variable scopes and red dot sights for your airsoft and air rifles.
No matter whether you are looking for LPVOs or MPVOs, you can find them on our website.
Get a Quote of LPVO & MPVO
Looking for the right optic? LPVOs deliver unmatched versatility for close to mid-range hunting, while MPVOs extend your reach for long shots.
Get a Quote today and gear up with the scope that matches your style.