We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Telescopes Telescopes For Beginners 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope for Adults Astronomy, German Technology Scope

The Gskyer 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope is designed for beginners looking to explore the night sky. Its 90mm aperture and 600mm focal length offer a good balance for capturing bright celestial objects, making it a suitable choice for newcomers in astronomy. The fully coated optics help in delivering clear and vibrant images, which is a significant advantage for users wanting to enjoy their stargazing experience without straining their eyes.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Aperture
With a 70mm aperture and 400mm focal length, it provides clear and bright views of the Moon, planets, and distant stars.
Focal Length
With a 70mm aperture and 400mm focal length, it provides clear and bright views of the Moon, planets, and distant stars.
Mount Type
The AZ mount allows for smooth, intuitive movements when aiming at objects in the sky.
Portability
The telescope is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for kids.
Eyepieces
The included eyepieces and finderscope make locating objects easier, even for beginners.
Finderscope
The included eyepieces and finderscope make locating objects easier, even for beginners.
#2
9.6 score

Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners - Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote.

The Gskyer Telescope is a good choice for beginners, especially kids, who are interested in exploring astronomy. With a 70mm aperture and 400mm focal length, it offers clear and bright images of the moon and stars. The fully coated optics glass lens enhances image quality while protecting your eyes, which is especially important for young users.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Aperture
While the 70mm aperture is typical for an entry-level telescope, it may not offer the same experience as more advanced models, particularly in areas with light pollution.
Mount Type
Lightweight and portable, this telescope is ideal for kids, with an AZ mount that allows for smooth, intuitive movements.
Portability
Lightweight and portable, this telescope is ideal for kids, with an AZ mount that allows for smooth, intuitive movements.
Eyepieces
The included eyepieces and finderscope simplify locating objects, even for beginners.
Finderscope
The included eyepieces and finderscope simplify locating objects, even for beginners.
#3
9.3 score

Celestron - NexStar 8SE Telescope - Computerized Telescope for Beginners and Advanced Users - Fully-Automated GoTo Mount - SkyAlign Technology - 40,000+ Celestial Objects - 8-Inch Primary Mirror

The Celestron NexStar 8SE is an impressive choice for both beginner and experienced stargazers, featuring an 8-inch aperture that allows users to gather significant light, making it suitable for observing various celestial objects. Its computerized GoTo mount is particularly advantageous, offering a database of over 40,000 celestial targets and automating the process of locating and tracking them—an excellent feature for newcomers who may find manual searching challenging. The telescope's SkyAlign technology simplifies the alignment process, enabling users to get started with minimal setup time.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Mount Type
The computerized GoTo mount and SkyAlign technology simplify the alignment process, making it easier for newcomers to get started.
Portability
A portable lithium power supply is highly recommended as the internal batteries do not last long, and the telescope performs better with a stable power source.
Eyepieces
The 25 mm lens included with the scope provides excellent views, especially when paired with a Barlow lens.
Finderscope
The red dot finder included with the telescope is not the best; an upgrade to an optical finder with magnification and crosshairs is advised for better accuracy.

Top 10 Best Telescopes Telescopes For Beginners 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Buying Guide for the Best Telescopes Telescopes For Beginners

Choosing the right telescope as a beginner can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. The key is to understand the basic specifications and how they align with your needs and interests. By focusing on the essential features, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your stargazing experience. Here are the key specifications to consider when selecting a telescope for beginners.
ApertureAperture refers to the diameter of the telescope's main lens or mirror. It is one of the most important specs because it determines how much light the telescope can gather. A larger aperture allows you to see fainter objects and more detail. For beginners, an aperture of 70mm to 130mm is usually sufficient. If you are interested in viewing planets and the moon, a smaller aperture will do. However, if you want to explore deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae, a larger aperture is better.
Focal LengthFocal length is the distance between the telescope's main lens or mirror and the point where it forms an image. It affects the magnification and field of view. A longer focal length provides higher magnification, which is great for viewing planets and the moon. A shorter focal length offers a wider field of view, making it easier to locate and observe larger objects like star clusters. Beginners should consider what they are most interested in observing to choose the appropriate focal length.
Mount TypeThe mount is what holds the telescope and allows you to point it at different parts of the sky. There are two main types: altazimuth and equatorial. Altazimuth mounts are simpler and easier to use, making them ideal for beginners. They move up and down and left to right. Equatorial mounts are more complex but allow for more precise tracking of celestial objects as they move across the sky. If you are just starting out, an altazimuth mount is usually the best choice.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to transport and set up the telescope. This is important if you plan to take your telescope to different locations or if you have limited storage space. Smaller, lighter telescopes are easier to carry and set up, making them more convenient for beginners. Consider where you will be using the telescope most often and choose one that fits your lifestyle.
EyepiecesEyepieces are the lenses you look through to see the magnified image. Different eyepieces provide different levels of magnification. Most beginner telescopes come with one or two eyepieces, but you can always purchase additional ones. A good starting point is to have a low-power eyepiece for wide views and a high-power eyepiece for detailed views. Understanding the types of objects you want to observe will help you choose the right eyepieces.
FinderscopeA finderscope is a small auxiliary telescope mounted on the main telescope. It helps you locate objects in the sky more easily. There are two main types: optical finderscopes and red dot finders. Optical finderscopes provide a magnified view, while red dot finders project a red dot onto the sky to indicate where the telescope is pointing. For beginners, a red dot finder is often easier to use and can make locating objects quicker and more intuitive.

FAQ