Telescopes

Selecting the right telescope depends on your experience level, viewing interests, and budget. Refractor telescopes are great for beginners, using lenses to offer clear views of the moon and planets with low maintenance, though larger models can be expensive. Reflector telescopes are more affordable for larger apertures, making them ideal for deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae, but they require more upkeep, such as mirror alignment. Compound telescopes, which combine lenses and mirrors, provide versatility for both planetary and deep-sky observations and are compact and portable, though often more costly. Consider your specific needs and goals when choosing the best telescope for your stargazing adventures.

Best Overall

Celestron CPC 1100

This 11-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope offers a great balance between power and usability. It’s equipped with a computerized GoTo mount, making it easy to locate and track celestial objects. It’s ideal for both observing and astrophotography, providing detailed views of planets, moons, and deep-sky objects.

15%

Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS Schmidt-Cassegrain 2800mm Telescope with Tripod and Tube

$3,982.15

Best for Beginners

Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian

This 6-inch Dobsonian reflector telescope is perfect for newcomers. It’s simple to set up and use, offering excellent optical performance for viewing the moon, planets, and brighter deep-sky objects. The stable mount and intuitive design make it a favorite for those just starting in astronomy.

Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope for Adults - High Powered Beginner Astronomy Telescope for Moon, Planets & Deep-sky Objects

Best for Astrophotography

Vaonis Vespera

This innovative telescope combines a telescope and camera in one compact device. It uses GPS, star patterns, and astrometry to locate celestial objects automatically, making it ideal for capturing stunning photos of the night sky. Its small aperture is offset by advanced technology, making astrophotography accessible and enjoyable.

Vaonis Vespera Easy to Use, Redesigned, Smart, and Fully Automated Observation Station with Tripod, USB Wall Charger and USB Magnetic Cable

Best for Travel

Popular Science

by Celestron Travel Scope 70

Lightweight and portable, this 70mm refractor telescope comes with a comprehensive kit including a tripod, eyepieces, and a moon filter. It’s designed for easy setup and transport, making it perfect for stargazing on the go.

$Celestron - 70mm Travel Scope - Portable Refractor Telescope - Fully-Coated Glass Optics - Ideal Telescope for Beginners - Bonus Astronomy Software Package$ 27%

Celestron - 70mm Travel Scope - Portable Refractor Telescope - Fully-Coated Glass Optics - Ideal Telescope for Beginners - Bonus Astronomy Software Package

$109.95

Best Tabletop

Sky-Watcher Classic Dobsonian 8-Inch

This tabletop Dobsonian reflector telescope offers a wide 8-inch aperture, providing bright and detailed views. Its compact size makes it easy to set up on any stable surface, and it includes a finderscope for locating celestial objects.

16%

Sky Watcher Classic 200 Dobsonian 8-inch Aperature Telescope – Solid-Tube – Simple, Traditional Design – Easy to Use, Perfect for Beginners, White (S11610)

$655.00

Best Budget

Celestron FirstScope

An affordable Newtonian reflector telescope with a 76mm aperture, it’s ideal for casual stargazing and educational purposes. It’s lightweight, portable, and comes with basic accessories, making it a great choice for those on a budget.

Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100 HD Computerized Telescope

Best for High-End Performance

Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100 HD

Optimized for advanced astrophotography, this telescope features EdgeHD optics that correct for distortion and improve image quality. Its Fastar technology allows for rapid focal ratio changes, making it a top choice for photographing distant celestial objects.

Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100 HD Computerized Telescope

Best for Kids

Celestron NexStar 4SE

This beginner-friendly telescope offers a compact design and simple operation. Its 4-inch aperture and computerized mount make it easy for kids to explore the night sky, while the built-in SkyAlign technology helps with quick and accurate setup.

$ToyerBee Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture (15X-150X) Portable Refractor Telescopes for Astronomy Beginners, 300mm Professional Travel Telescope with A Phone Adapter& A Wireless Remote$ 25%

ToyerBee Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture (15X-150X) Portable Refractor Telescopes for Astronomy Beginners, 300mm Professional Travel Telescope with A Phone Adapter& A Wireless Remote

$99.99

Best Smart Telescope

ToyerBee Telescope for Adults & Kids

The ToyerBee Telescope is a beginner-friendly option suitable for both adults and kids. It comes with a 70mm aperture and 300mm focal length, providing clear views of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects. The telescope is equipped with interchangeable eyepieces, offering varying magnifications to enhance the viewing experience. It also includes a smartphone adapter, allowing users to capture photos of their observations. The lightweight design and easy setup make it an accessible and portable choice for amateur astronomers.

20%

Unistellar - EVSCOPE 2 - Smart Digital Telescope - Beginners and Experienced Users - iPhone and Android Compatible - 114mm Aperture - Nikon Eyepiece Technology

$4,899.00