12 Best Starter Telescopes [2023]

Mark Baker
Jun 8, 2023 10:59 PM

Best starter telescopes are a great way for beginners to get into astronomy. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, making them great for learning the basics of astronomy. Starter telescopes come in a variety of sizes, from small tabletop scopes to larger Dobsonian-style telescopes.

Starter telescopes usually have a fixed magnification and a small aperture, meaning they are best for viewing planets and the Moon, although more advanced models may be able to show more distant objects. They often come with accessories such as lunar filters and eyepieces, which can help make viewing more comfortable and enjoyable. With a little bit of practice, a starter telescope can open up a whole new world of exploration and discovery.

A starter telescope is the perfect way to begin your journey into the night sky.. Image source: Amazon.com

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No	Image	Product	Score	Check
1	$ABOTEC Telescope, 80mm Aperture Telescopes for Adults Astronomy &amp; Kids &amp; Beginners, Portable 500mm Refracting Telescope (25X-250X) with an Adjustable Tripod, a Bag, a Phone Adapter &amp; a Wireless Remote$	*ABOTEC Telescope 80mm Aperture Telescopes*	9	Check Price
2	$ToyerBee Telescope, 70mm telescopes for Adults Astronomy &amp; Kids &amp; Beginners, 300mm Portable Refractor Travel Telescope (15X-150X) with A Smartphone Adapter&amp; A Wireless Remote, Astronomy Gifts for Kids$	*ToyerBee Telescope 70mm telescopes*	8.8	Check Price
3	$Gskyer Telescope, Telescopes for Adults, 80mm AZ Space Astronomical Refractor Telescope, Telescope for Kids, Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, German Technology Scope$	*Gskyer Telescope Telescopes*	8.8	Check Price
4	$Gskyer Telescope, Telescopes for Adults, 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope,Telescope for Kids,Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, German Technology Scope$	*Gskyer Telescope Telescopes*	8.8	Check Price
5	$Telescope 80mm Aperture 600mm - Astronomical Portable Refracting Telescope Fully Multi-coated High Transmission Coatings AZ Mount with Tripod Phone Adapter, Wireless Control, Carrying Bag. Easy Set Up$	*Telescope 80mm Aperture 600mm*	8.6	Check Price

#1:ABOTEC Telescope 80mm Aperture Telescopes

ABOTEC Telescope is the perfect choice for amateur stargazers and astronomy lovers. Its 80mm aperture provides clear and bright images of the night sky, and its 500mm focal length makes it easy to observe distant objects. With its included adjustable tripod, bag, phone adapter, and wireless remote, this telescope is easy to use and transport. Its 25x-250x magnification makes it great for exploring the moon, planets, galaxies, and more. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced astronomer, ABOTEC Telescope will provide you with a great and enjoyable stargazing experience.

#2:ToyerBee Telescope 70mm telescopes

The ToyerBee HT001 Telescope is the perfect choice for anyone looking to explore the night sky. With its 70mm refractor telescope, it offers a powerful 300mm focal length - ideal for both astronomy and terrestrial viewing. Its 15X-150X magnification range makes it perfect for both beginner and experienced stargazers alike. And with its included Smartphone Adapter, you can take stunning photos and videos of the night sky with ease. Additionally, the ToyerBee HT001 comes with a convenient wireless remote for easy control of the telescope. With its easy setup and portability, this telescope is the perfect gift for kids and adults who are interested in exploring the stars.

#3:Gskyer Telescope Telescopes

This Gskyer AZ80400 telescope is designed to give you amazing views of the night sky. It features a powerful 80mm refractor telescope with a 400mm focal length, allowing you to observe distant galaxies and nebulae with crystal clear clarity. The telescope’s German equatorial mount and adjustable tripod make it easy to track celestial objects in the sky. The AZ80400 also provides a variety of included accessories, including two eyepieces, a smartphone adapter, a diagonal mirror, and a 2x Barlow lens. With its superior optics and ability to be easily adjusted, the Gskyer AZ80400 is the perfect choice for amateur astronomers looking to explore the wonders of the universe.

#4:Gskyer Telescope Telescopes

Gskyer's AZ90600 Telescope is one of the most powerful astronomical refractors on the market. This telescope is designed with a 600x90mm achromatic refractor that uses German technology to provide crystal clear images of the night sky. With its adjustable tripod, this telescope is easy to set up and use, making it perfect for both kids and adults. This telescope is great for stargazing, tracking planets, and observing moon phases. With its 600x90mm objective lens, this telescope is sure to provide clear and accurate images of the Milky Way and other celestial bodies. Whether you're a novice astronomer or a seasoned veteran, Gskyer's AZ90600 Telescope is a great way to explore the night sky.

#5:Telescope 80mm Aperture 600mm

The HEXEUM AZ80600 is a portable refracting telescope with an 80mm aperture and 600mm focal length. Its fully multi-coated optics provide high transmission coatings for enhanced image clarity and contrast. It features an Altazimuth (AZ) mount for easy pointing and tracking of celestial objects, as well as a sturdy tripod for stability. With the included phone adapter, you can easily connect your smartphone and take photos and videos of the night sky. The Wireless Control feature allows you to control the telescope from a distance, making it easy to find and follow your desired objects. The telescope comes with a carrying bag for easy transportation and storage. Set up is simple and the HEXEUM AZ80600 is the perfect telescope for beginners wanting to explore the stars.

$ABOTEC Telescope, 80mm Aperture Telescopes for Adults Astronomy &amp; Kids &amp; Beginners, Portable 500mm Refracting Telescope (25X-250X) with an Adjustable Tripod, a Bag, a Phone Adapter &amp; a Wireless Remote$

ABOTEC Telescope, 80mm Aperture Telescopes for Adults Astronomy &amp; Kids

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AFFCMS Score
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9.0
Brand
ABOTEC
Prime

【Portable & Stable】Our refractor telescope has a bag and an adjustable tripod. All accessories can be packed into the bag, which is convenient for you to carry out. The tripod is stable and the height can adjust from 22” to 48’’, which can be used in many different viewing positions. The tripod also has a tray for easy replacement and storage of eyepieces.
【Satisfaction Service】We provide 3 years satisfaction service. If you are not satisfied with our product or have any questions, please feel free to contact us to get 24-hour technical support from our expert team. more

$ToyerBee Telescope, 70mm telescopes for Adults Astronomy &amp; Kids &amp; Beginners, 300mm Portable Refractor Travel Telescope (15X-150X) with A Smartphone Adapter&amp; A Wireless Remote, Astronomy Gifts for Kids$

ToyerBee Telescope, 70mm telescopes for Adults Astronomy &amp; Kids &amp;

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8.8
Brand
ToyerBee
Prime

70mm Large Aperture: The refractor telescope is equipped with a large 70mm objective lens and the lens is fully coated with high transmission coatings. The high transmission optics lens can increase light transmittance and reduce the reflection of light. The bigger the aperture is, the bigger the field of vision will be, so you can see the clearer and brighter images. Professional astromomy telescope can help adults & 8-12 kids view the planets and stars more easily.
Reliable Service Team: We provide 3 years satisfaction service. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our telescopes and service. more

$Gskyer Telescope, Telescopes for Adults, 80mm AZ Space Astronomical Refractor Telescope, Telescope for Kids, Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, German Technology Scope$

Gskyer Telescope, Telescopes for Adults, 80mm AZ Space Astronomical Refractor

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8.8
Brand
Gskyer
Prime

【Adjustable Tripod】This telescope allows for many different viewing positions with a adjustable tripod. Adjustable full size tripod ensures a stable platform.
【Applicable Use】This telescope is quick and easy to set up even for the novice and will encourage kids to love learning about space, great gift idea for kids who love science and astronomy! more

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

Gskyer Telescope, Telescopes for Adults, 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope,Telescope

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8.8
Brand
Gskyer
Prime

【High Magnification】Come with three replaceable eyepieces(24X, 60X,120X) and one 3x Barlow lens. 3x Barlow lens trebles the magnifying power of each eyepiece
【What You Get】AZ90600 telescope with 3 eyepieces, our 12-month worry-free support and friendly customer service. more

$Telescope 80mm Aperture 600mm - Astronomical Portable Refracting Telescope Fully Multi-coated High Transmission Coatings AZ Mount with Tripod Phone Adapter, Wireless Control, Carrying Bag. Easy Set Up$

Telescope 80mm Aperture 600mm - Astronomical Portable Refracting Telescope Fully

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8.6
Brand
HEXEUM
Prime

Excellent Quality Optics: This telescope is 600mm(f/6.7) focal length and 80mm aperture, 80mm aperture to capture more light picture and multi-fully high transmission coated all-optical lens enhance image brightness and clarity. 18
Easy To Set Up: In order to save your time. Even for novices, no tools are required to set up the telescope. quick and easy to focus. Truly realize a no-tool-set telescope. more

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

Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope

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8.6
Brand
Gskyer
Prime

Adjustable Tripod: This telescope allows for many different viewing positions with a adjustable aluminum alloy tripod and carry bag make it easy to set up and transport the telescope to different locations.
Quality Optics: The fully coated optics glass lens with high transmission coatings can help to reduce reflections and increase the amount of light that reaches the eyepiece, resulting in brighter and more vibrant images. Additionally, the lens is designed to protect the eyes of the observer, making it a safer choice for extended viewing sessions. more

$Telescope for Kids & Adults - 70mm Aperture 500mm AZ Mount Fully Multi-Coated Optics Astronomical refracting Portable Telescopes, with Tripod Phone Adapter, Carrying Bag, Remote Control$

Telescope for Kids & Adults - 70mm Aperture 500mm AZ

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8.6
Brand
HEXEUM
Prime

Portable And Convenient: Comes with a phone adapter and an adjustable aluminum tripod. Wireless remote control and carrying bag make it easier for you portable and capture amazing images.
Satisfaction Quality: lifetime maintenance. If you have any questions about the product and service, please feel free to contact us, we will do our best to help you in 24 hours! more

Telescope 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescopes for Adults, Professional Telescopes for

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8.6
Brand
SOLOMARK
Prime

【130mm Large Aperture】Large aperture 130mm telescope, high resolution, good light collecting ability, imaging brighter, more suitable for the observation of deep space celestial objective.
【High Quality Optics】The telescope adopts a sturdy and light fram structure, the carbon fiber was covering on the telescope surface, sophisticated technology. Objective lens features fully-coated glass optics, it can improve the optical system performance of astronomical telescopes, help you observe brighter, more detailed planets. more

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

Celestron - 70mm Travel Scope - Portable Refractor Telescope -

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8.4
Brand
Celestron
Prime

BONUS BAG, TRIPOD, AND SOFTWARE: Take your Travel Scope anywhere in the included travel backpack.The scope and tripod are easy to set up and use. You'll also receive a FREE download of one of the top-rated astronomy software programs.
POWERFUL EYEPIECES FOR UP-CLOSE VIEWING: Our telescope for astronomy beginners is equipped with two high-quality eyepieces (20mm and 10mm) that provide low- and high-power views. Observe celestial objects at night and land-based objects during the day. more

$ESSLNB Telescopes for Adults & Kids Astronomy, 80mm Astronomical Travel Telescopes with Moon Filter, Erect Image, 10 Times Refractor, Tripod and Carrying Bag for Astronomy Beginners (40080 Telescope)$

ESSLNB Telescopes for Adults & Kids Astronomy, 80mm Astronomical Travel

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8.4
Brand
ESSLNB
Prime

[Optimum Viewing Position] For varied viewing locations, an aluminum tripod may be adjusted by 180 degrees in the vertical direction and 360 degrees in the horizontal direction. The novice telescope's height may be adjusted to 120cm. The stargazing telescope for youngsters comes with a backpack that makes it easy to transport.
[High-Transmission Optical Lens] The 400mm focal length and big objective lens, as well as the multi-fully high transmission coated all-optical lens, improve image brightness and clarity. The 80mm objective diameter provides a broad field of view and comfortable viewing. Excellent moon telescope for children, adults, and astronomy novices. more

$HSL Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture 400mm Focal Length Refractor Telescope for Astronomy Beginners(20x-100x) - Travel Telescopes with Carry Bag and Adapter(White)$

HSL Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture 400mm Focal

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8.4
Brand
HSL
Prime

【Compact and Portable】 Kid telescope features a lightweight frame and multi-angle adjustable tripod with stable and durable light to meet the needs of different viewing angles. Portable telescope for children ages 8-12. All this can be packed in a custom backpack for easy travel and storage.
【Highly Translucent Optics】 400mm (f/5.7) focal length and 70mm aperture, made of fully coated optical glass lenses and highly translucent coatings to produce clear, bright images, perfect telescopio for adults and kids to explore the stars and moon more

$Vivitar TEL50600 60X/120X Telescope Refractor with Tripod (Black)$

Vivitar TEL50600 60X/120X Telescope Refractor with Tripod (Black)

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7.4
Brand
Vivitar
Prime

Includes Zeikos ZE-CL5 5 Piece Cleaning Kit
Mirrored Diagonal Eyepiece For Easy Viewing more

Last update on 2023-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Common Answers

A starter telescope is a great way to get into the world of astronomy and explore all that the night sky has to offer. Image source: Amazon.com

What are the most important features to consider when choosing a starter telescope?

1. Aperture: Aperture is the size of the telescope's lens or mirror, and is the most important feature to consider when choosing a starter telescope. The larger the aperture, the more light it will gather and the better the image quality will be.

2. Mount: The mount is how the telescope is held in place and how it is moved. A good starter mount should be stable and easy to use.

3. Focal length: The focal length is the distance from the telescope's optics to the point of focus. A shorter focal length allows for a wider field of view and is better suited for viewing deep space objects such as galaxies and nebulae.

4. Eyepieces: Eyepieces are lenses that magnify the image in the telescope. Having a selection of eyepieces allows you to get different magnifications and fields of view.

5. Price: Price is always an important factor to consider. While more expensive telescopes often have higher quality optics and better mounts, they may not be necessary for a beginner. It is important to find a telescope that is within your budget and meets your needs.

What type of telescope is best suited for beginner astronomers?

The type of telescope that is best suited for beginner astronomers is a Dobsonian telescope. Dobsonian telescopes are easy to use, relatively inexpensive, and provide good light gathering capacity and wide fields of view.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a reflector vs

a softbox?Advantages of a Reflector:1. Easier to transport and store due to its lightweight and collapsible design.
2. Quick and easy to set up.

3. Reflectors are often less expensive than softboxes.

4. Reflectors can be used to bounce light from a variety of angles.

5. They offer more control over the quality and quantity of light.

Disadvantages of a Reflector:

1. Reflectors do not provide diffused light, which can produce harsher shadows.

2. Reflectors can be difficult to aim accurately.

3. Hot spots may occur when using a reflector.

Advantages of a Softbox:

1. Softboxes provide diffused, even light with soft shadows.

2. They offer more control over the quality and quantity of light.

3. Softboxes are more efficient at bouncing light than reflectors.

4. Softboxes can be used to create more dramatic lighting effects.

Disadvantages of a Softbox:

1. Softboxes are bulky and more difficult to transport and store.

2. They are more expensive

How much should a beginner budget for their first telescope?

The cost of a telescope depends on the type and quality of the telescope you are looking for. There are a wide variety of entry-level telescopes available for under $200, while mid-range telescopes can cost up to $1000 or more. For a beginner, it is recommended to start with an entry-level telescope in the $100 to $200 range.

Best Telescope For Star Gazing 2023: Top choices: A telescope is a powerful tool for star gazing and can help you explore the night sky in more detail..

Summary

$Gskyer Telescope, Telescopes for Adults, 80mm AZ Space Astronomical Refractor Telescope, Telescope for Kids, Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, German Technology Scope$

A telescope is an essential tool for stargazing and exploring the night sky. Image source: Amazon.com

In conclusion, ABOTEC Telescope 80mm Aperture Telescopes is an excellent starter telescope and is highly recommended for those who are looking to explore the night sky. Its easy to use and intuitive features make it a great choice for those who are new to astronomy. Its relatively low cost also makes it an excellent value for money. Overall, it is the perfect choice for any beginner looking to explore the stars.

1 ratings

Mark Baker

Mark Baker is the name, electrical engineering is the game. When it comes to juice running through wires, there's nobody more knowledgable or experienced than Mark. That's why he's been tapped to be the chief reviewer for PolarSteelBuildings.com, the world's leading authority on, you guessed it, steel buildings. From simple garages to massive warehouses, if it's made of steel and needs juice to run, Mark is the guy for the job. He doesn't just stop at buildings though. If you need a review of any electrical product under the sun, from power strips to light bulbs, Mark is your man. So when looking for an objective, trustworthy source for all your electrical needs, look no further than Mark Baker and PolarSteelBuildings.com.