Leica Geovid HD-R vs. Geovid R | Optics Trade Debates

By Polona Kraner Dec 24, 2018

Hello and welcome to another episode of Optics Trade Debates. We continue with our focus on Leica laser rangefinding binoculars. Today, we’re here to compare two Geovid series, namely the differences between Geovid R and Geovid HD-R models.

Let’s start our product comparing by first stating a few basics about each series.

The story of Geovid products began in 1992 when Leica launched the original series as the very first laser rangefinding binoculars available on the civil market.

The current Geovid R form was created in 2005. A few years later, in 2009, they received an upgrade with a better quality lens and ‘HD’ was added to the Geovid R name.

Geovid R models can measure the angle and the equivalent horizontal range. At the time, this was quite a bit of a step up for this particular series. In the meantime, the Geovid HD-R series could already do that but it was not long before the R series received the upgrade.

The current Geovid R version was last updated in 2016. It can measure up to 1100 metres.

Leica Geovid HD-R was first introduced in 2015. The shape of this new release was previously used on the more advanced HD-B models in 2013.

Function-wise, the Geovid R and Geovid HD-R models are almost identical. Both can measure the distance and the equivalent horizontal range.

The first obvious difference between the two series is the form factor. The Geovid R models have a classic mono bridge design while the HD-R series sports an open bridge one.

Now let’s focus on the prisms. We can already see on the outside, based on the dissimilar shape, that the prisms used must be completely different. This is the second major difference between the two Leica series.

In the case of Geovid HD-R products, Perger-Porro prisms were used which explains the slightly bent shape that only adds to the ergonomic appeal of this series. The Perger-Porro prism system means an improved light transmission rate that stands at over 90%.

Thanks to this unique prism design, the optical performance of the HD-R series is better than the performance of Geovid R models. The field of view of the HD-R series is also bigger than it was before.

The fifth difference is in the range of detection. Leica Geovid R models’ range of detection is limited to 1200 yards (1100 m). Compare that to the HD-R series that can measure up to 2700 yards (2450 m), over two times more than the R series. The range of detection concerns only the linear distance, though.

It is important to point out that the equivalent horizontal range of all Geovid LRF products can be only calculated up to 1100 metres. So, bearing that in mind, strictly for the purpose of long-distance shooting, there is little difference between the two series.

The fifth, considerable change can be observed in the design of the eyepieces. The newer, twist-up eyepieces of HD-R series can be fixed in many more positions. On both models, the diopter setting is the same on both eyes.

Moving on to the sixth difference that has to do with lens coating. The well-known Leica AquaDura® lens coating on the external lens surfaces can be found only in the HD-R models.

While both series can give the user the angle data, another difference is that Geovid R is not capable of measuring the air pressure and temperature. Only the HD-R series has barometric and temperature sensors. The user can read the measurements and then complete ballistic calculations on their own.

Note that neither Geovid R nor HD-R have an integrated Advanced Ballistic Compensation (ABC®). Only Leica Geovid HD-B series uses this advanced technology.

Last but not least, there is an obvious difference in price. The Geovid R series can be purchased from 1.700 to 2.300 euros. The HD-B models are more expensive, the prices of those ranging from 2.000 to 2.900 euros.

Geovid R models are considered entry-level laser rangefinder binoculars, thanks to the affordable price and the ease of use. To be frank, there are plenty of similarly priced LRF binoculars on the global market but their poor quality is no match for Leica.

There are 4 models in the Geovid R series: 8×42 R, 10×42 R, 8×56 R, and 15×56 R.

The magnification and lens diameter combination of the Leica Geovid 15×56 R model is highly unusual. In fact, no other company but Leica makes a product like this. Despite its magnification power and 56-millimetre lens, the binocular is not too bulky. Normally, it works best with a tripod due to the high magnification.

Only 3 models are available in the latest Geovid HD-R series: Leica Geovid 8×42 HD-R 2700, 10×42 2700, and 8×56 2700. Previously (before) 2018, Leica used product “types” like 8×42 (Type 402), 10×42 (Type 403) and 8×56 (Type 500).

This series is considered the best value per price choice. Though Leica Geovid HD-B models have the Advanced Ballistic Compensation, this crème de la crème function is not considered an absolute must among the majority of hunters.

Geovid R and HD-R series come with near identical accessories.

All Leica Geovid products are manufactured in Portugal and the warranty on them is 5 years. Thanks to the brand policy, Leica customers can continue to send their products back for repairs even after the warranty is no longer valid. The longevity of Leica products is the last thing you should worry about.

This should cover it. Thank you for your attention. If you have any questions left, feel free to leave them in the comment section below or contact us via email. Please like and share this video if you found it useful. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more content like this. See you in the next video!