General Info

Class: Dobsonian Reflector
Best Uses: Stars, Galaxies & Nebulae
Recommended Experience: Beginner – Casual/Recreational

Overall Rating: 8.5/10
Official Review: The Zhumell 8-Inch Dobsonian reflector is an excellent telescope for the price. It is heavier and larger than most non-Dob models, so this is something to consider if there will be kids or using it, you have back problems, or you will be using it regularly and moving it often.

But, If you just want to work with something that’s accurate with LOTS of magnification, easy to setup and use, and you don’t care as much about planets & the moon as you do about stars & galaxies, this scope is a wonderful choice!

Pros: Accurate, Comfortable, Well-Built, Nice Lenses & Great Magnification!
Cons: Large/Heavy, Fairly Unstable, Not the Best for Planetary/Lunar Observation, Not Computerized

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Important Details

Usability: 8.4/10 – Couldn’t be much easier to use!
Comfortability: 7.7/10 – Comfortable eye piece; awkward size for some people
Durability: 8.1/10 – Well-built, sturdy mount
Battery Life: n/a – Since it’s not computerized, this scope will last forever! =)
Backlash: n/a
Warranty: 8.2/10 – Great Zhumell “No-Fault Repair” policy; Costs $15 to send to Zhumell for repairs
Storage: 7.0/10 – Easy to disassemble, but it’s large enough to make it tough to store for some
Accuracy: 8.9/10 – Very accurate compared to other scopes in this price range!
Setup: 9.0/10 – Extremely easy to get going!

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Tech Specs
Objective Lens: 204mm
Magnification (Highest Useful): 479x!!!
Focal Length: 1,200 mm (1.2 M)
Focal Ratio: f/5.9
Limiting Magnitude: 14.05
Tracking: Manual (Easy with Crayford focuser, quick collimation screws & RACI finderscope)

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Telescope Construction

Optical Design: Reflector
Viewfinder: 8×50
Eyepiece: 1.25″ & 2″
Tube: Black optical w/ lightweight, durable design (29lbs)
Mount Design: Traditional Dobsonian
Weight: 54lbs total
Tripod: n/a (Dobsonian Mount)
Power Supply: n/a
Lens Coating: Multi-Coated
Other Equipment: 2in. eyepiece

Extra Features

GoTo: No
GPS: No
Computerized: No
Alignment: Easy

Summary: For the price, the Zhumell Dobsonian 8-Inch is tough to beat. However, keep in mind that since it’s a Dob it is larger and heavier than other models in this price range. Also, it is NOT ideal for viewing planets and the moon.

In conclusion: if you’re looking for something under $400 that will let you see stars & galaxies with astounding magnification and clarity (and you don’t mind the negatives listed above), this telescope will be a perfect match for you!

Click here to order the Zhumell 8-Inch Dobsonian from Telescopes.com!