This is definitely one of the products that brings the most unexpected performance compared to price (around $110). The Bushnell H2O 10×42 is usually known for its being waterproof, however, there are features behind that we think this is the real bargain. Nevertheless, there is no such thing as a perfect device. In this review, we’ll show what you could be pleased and not satisfied with this Bushnell binoculars.
Bushnell H2O 10×42 technical specifications
| Technical aspects | Bushnell H2O 10×42 | Bushnell H2O 8×42 |
| Magnification | 10x | 8x |
| Objective diameter | 42 mm | 42 mm |
| Field of view | 305 feet | 325 feet |
| Close focus distance | 12 feet | |
| Eye relief | 17 mm | 17 mm |
| Exit pupil | 4.2 mm | |
| Twilight factor | 20.5 | 27.56 |
| Weight | 25 oz | 25 oz |
| Dimension | 7 x 6 x 3 inch | |
| Prism glass type | BAK-4 prism | BAK-4 prism |
| Prism type | Roof prism | Roof prism |
| Lens coating | Multicoated | Multicoated |
| Glass type | HD | HD |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes |
| Nitrogen filled | Yes | Yes |
| Outer cover | Rubber | Rubber |
Above are data collected from Amazon. We would like to focus on the 10×42 model as our thought, it can be used for more various purposes. However, we’re sure that the 8×42 vs 10×42 comparison is helpful, wait to see! There are 2 versions for this Bushnell binoculars 10×42, porro prism vs roof prism. However, in this article we only discuss the roof prism one.
Bushnell H2O 10×42 features
Pros
Field of view
For a 10×42 binocular, the field of view of this Bushnell Binoculars is there to enjoy. In comparison, the Bushnell H2O field of view is better than Nikon Monarch ATB (288 ft for 10×42). For hunting and birding activities, we found no difficulties with this field of view
- For this characteristic, we rate 8/10
Optics quality
As for lights transferring, it’s an advantage of this binocular. In reality, the BAK-4 prism and multi coated lens cover did work well in our test. The viewing experience was bright, clear. We usually call it “crystal clear”, and yes, in this situation, it is. Therefore, optics quality, totally fine, cannot ask for more. As for porro prism, we believe that optics performance of this Bushnell H20 could be even better.
- For this characteristic, we rate 8/10
Image production
This is a big win to us. The HD glass of the Bushnell ensures a decent amount of contrast enough to enjoy birding or even hunting. Color fidelity is also a plus, natural and vivid enough. The BAK-4 prism, roof prism, lens cover not only bring brightness, but also absolutely sharp images.
What we found of this Bushnell H2O comparable to other expensive binos are the abilities to perfect the viewing experience. We were really surprised with the collimation of this Bushnell H20 10×42. It was well collimated, the focus speed was amazing, no problem at all.
Distortion, on the other hand, the 8×42 did better in battle of 8×42 vs 10×42. That’s why we want to show statistics of 8×42 vs 10×42, for your consideration. However, the performance of the Bushnell binoculars 10×42 was still completely acceptable.
Color aberration is also another point you will feel beneficial to own Bushnell H20 10×42. The performance is not perfect, however, there was very little color aberration.
- As a whole, for this characteristic, we rate 8.5/10
Low-light performance
All the good features above would be meaningless if this Bushnell H20 binoculars performs badly in low-light conditions. However, the Bushnell didn’t let us down. At least, in dawn time, we found that the brightness and contrast is just slightly not better. But it won’t disrupt your experience.
- For this characteristic, we rate 7.5/10
Eye relief
This Bushnell binoculars 10×42 shows the eye relief of 17 mm. In reality, it’s a good figure for eyeglasses wearers.
- For this characteristic, we rate 8/10
Outer cover
The outer cover of this Bushnell H20 is made of rubber. In our personal experience, the rubber is quite thick. It’s good enough for shock resistance, we’re very pleased with the durability. On the barrel, the Bushnell team has texturized the surface for anti-slippery. During wet conditions, we’re certain that it won’t easily drop out of your hand unless you throw it away.
- For this characteristic, we rate 8/10
Versatility of uses
For sure, birding, hunting, nature sightseeing, safari,… are the ideal uses of this Bushnell waterproof binoculars. Moreover, we did receive quite decent results for casual astronomy. By the time we tried stargazing, the image of Jupiter was so obvious to see, without any flaring. The magnification is there, the brightness and contrast is there, casually astronomy is there to enjoy. However, we think that this Bushnell H2O 10×42 won’t be too much fit for sports spectation. Anyway, that would be the following parts.
- For this characteristic, we rate 7/10
Waterproof
This Bushnell H2O 10×42 is promoted as “complete” waterproof binoculars by the Bushnell. But apparently, we won’t test such experiments like diving this into deep water for a while and take it out. However, this Bushnell waterproof binoculars could survive well after a rain by that time we used in South East Asia. So yes, we totally recommend Bushnell h20 binoculars as waterproof binoculars.
- For this characteristic, we rate 9/10
Cons
Dimension and weight
Let’s compare the Bushnell H20 binoculars to its direct alternative: the Nikon Monarch ATB 10×42.
The Nikon one is 5.7 x 5.1 (inch) in terms of size. 7 x 6 x 3 (inch) of the Bushnell is quite a significant gap. Even if we compare with Nikon Prostaff 3s (5.9 x 5.1 inch), this Bushnell 10×42 is still larger.
For weight, it’s the same result for this Bushnell 10×42. While the two Nikon weigh at 20-22 oz, the Bushnell is 25 oz.
For us, it’s fine to pack these Bushnell 10×42 in our luggages. We didn’t find problems holding them either. However, to make a precise decision, these statistics must be shown. And they show that this Bushnell binoculars 10×42 waterproof is not an ideal option IN THE MARKET in terms of size and dimension. For porro prism, we know that it’s even going to be larger and heavier. That’s why we pick roof though there are porro prism vs roof prism.
Moreover, size and dimension will be a criteria in our experience for sports spectation. The Bushnell H2O 10×42 performs well enough to enjoy any football match, horse riding battle,… But holding this Bushnell 10×42 in a crowded place might not be the best choice.
- For this characteristic, we rate 5/10
Close focus distance
The numerical figures state it so directly. 12 feet is not a good close focus distance in terms of actual use. You could hardly (or even can’t) enjoy flowers, insects watching with this Bushnell H2O 10×42.
- For this characteristic, we rate 3/10
Bushnell H2O 10×42 – the verdict
Compared to the price, this is a real profit that the Bushnell brings. This Bushnell H2O 10×42 brings you amazing performance rather than just being waterproof binoculars only. For more consideration, we think that the size and dimension is the most important concern. This criterion depends on each person’s physical balance.
However, in general for birding, hunting, situational astronomy, nature observation, we highly recommend it.