If you’re searching for the best budget telescope in 2024, you’ve come to the right place. Telescopes can open up a universe of wonders, allowing you to observe celestial bodies, planets, and even distant galaxies. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best budget telescope? In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 telescopes available on Amazon, providing in-depth reviews and a comprehensive buying guide to ensure you find the perfect fit for your astronomical adventures.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Celestron - 70mm Travel Scope - Portable Refractor Telescope - Fully-Coated Glass Optics - Ideal... | $75.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
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Monocular-Telescope 80x100 High Powered Monocular with Tripod and Smartphone Adapter High Definition... | $49.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 3 |
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Telescope for Adults Beginners, 70300 Aperture Refractor Telescopes for Astronomy Beginners,... | $58.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
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Telescope, 90mm Aperture 900mm Professional Telescopes for Adults Astronomy - High Powered... | $199.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 5 |
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HUGERSTAR Telescope, 130AZ Newtonian Reflector Telescope for Adults High Powered, Professional... | $199.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 6 |
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Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners... | $99.69 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 7 |
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Telescope for Adults & Beginner Astronomers - 80mm Aperture 600mm Fully Multi-Coated High... | $129.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 8 |
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HETEKAN Telescope, Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, 80mm Aperture High Powered Refractor Telescope... | $119.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 9 |
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Telescope 70mm Aperture 500mm - for Kids & Adults Astronomical Refracting Telescopes AZ Mount Fully... | $84.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 10 |
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MEEZAA Telescope, Astronomy Telescope for Adults High Powered, 90mm Aperture 800mm Professional... | $198.98 | Buy on Amazon |
Contents
- Buying Guide for the Best Budget Telescope
- Top 10 Best Budget Telescopes on Amazon
- 1. Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope
- 2. Sky-Watcher Heritage 100P
- 3. Orion SkyScanner 100mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope
- 4. Meade Instruments Infinity 70mm Refractor Telescope
- 5. Gskyer Telescope 80mm AZ Adjustable Telescope
- 6. Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Telescope
- 7. Zhumell Z100 Portable Reflector Telescope
- 8. Omegon Startracker 70/700 Telescope
- 9. Astromania 80mm Refractor Telescope
- 10. Celestron 21061 AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope
- Conclusion
Buying Guide for the Best Budget Telescope
When searching for the best budget telescope, it’s essential to consider the following factors to ensure you make a well-informed purchase:
1. Type of Telescope
There are primarily three types of telescopes: Refractor, Reflector, and Compound.
- Refractors use lenses and are great for viewing planets and the moon.
- Reflectors use mirrors and excel in deep-sky observations.
- Compound telescopes combine features of both and offer versatility in observing various celestial objects.
2. Aperture Size
Aperture refers to the diameter of the telescope’s main optical component. A larger aperture allows more light to enter, making faint objects more visible. For beginners, an aperture of at least 70mm is recommended.
3. Portability
If you plan to travel or hike to your observing spots, consider a lightweight and compact telescope. Many budget options balance portability and performance effectively.
4. Mount Type
Mounts can significantly impact your stargazing experience. There are two main types of mounts:
- Altazimuth mounts move up/down and left/right, which is straightforward for beginners.
- Equatorial mounts allow for tracking celestial objects more efficiently and are more complex.
5. Ease of Use
Choose a telescope that fits your skill level. Some telescopes come with added technologies like smartphone compatibility or easy assembly features, making them user-friendly for novice astronomers.
6. Price vs. Features
Finally, evaluate the telescope based on its features relative to its price. A budget telescope should provide the best possible features without breaking the bank.
Top 10 Best Budget Telescopes on Amazon
1. Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope
The Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ is one of the best budget telescopes available. It features a 70mm aperture, providing clear views of celestial objects. The telescope is lightweight and portable, making it easy for beginners to handle and transport.
Key Features:
- 70mm aperture
- Adjustable tilt and pan handles for easy tracking of celestial objects
- Comes with a StarPointer finderscope for easy navigation
Its performance is commendable for its price point, allowing users to spot craters on the moon and observe planets like Jupiter.
- POWERFUL REFRACTOR TELESCOPE: The Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ is a powerful and user-friendly refractor telescope with fully coated glass optics, a sturdy yet lightweight frame, two eyepieces, a red dot finder scope, and an adjustable-height tripod.
- HIGH-QUALITY 70MM OPTICS: Our Celestron telescope features a powerful, fully coated 70mm glass optic objective lens. Erect image optics allow you to observe celestial objects at night and terrestrial targets like wildlife and landscapes during the day.
- QUICK SETUP & LIGHTWEIGHT FRAME: This telescope for adults features a lightweight frame and a panning handle with Alt-Az control for smooth and accurate pointing. Setup is quick and easy, with no tools required.
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: We’ve included two eyepieces (20mm and 10mm), an erect image star diagonal, a travel tripod, and a red dot finder scope. Download our BONUS Starry Night Basic Edition astronomy software for interactive sky simulation.
- UNBEATABLE WARRANTY AND CUSTOMER SUPPORT: Buy with confidence from the world’s #1 telescope brand, based in California since 1960. You’ll also receive a 2-year warranty and unlimited access to technical support from our team of US-based experts.
2. Sky-Watcher Heritage 100P
The Sky-Watcher Heritage 100P is a compact Newtonian reflector telescope. With a 100mm aperture, it offers excellent light-gathering capabilities, making it perfect for observing deep-sky objects.
Key Features:
- 100mm aperture
- Portable and collapsible design
- Comes with two eyepieces
This telescope is ideal for those who prefer a more traditional design and want a robust observing experience.
- Large 150mm aperture delivers crisp, contrast-rich views of the Moon, planets, and so much more
- Fast f/5 focal ratio, 750mm focal length
- Borosilicate parabolic primary mirror with Sky-Watcher’s proprietary Radiant Aluminum Quartz (RAQ)
- Collapsible tube design retains collimation while providing increased portability and easy storage
- 1.25-inch helical focuser
3. Orion SkyScanner 100mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope
The Orion SkyScanner 100mm is a great tabletop reflector telescope offering impressive features at an affordable price. Its 100mm aperture allows for brighter views of various celestial bodies.
Key Features:
- 100mm aperture
- Light, compact design
- Comes with 2 eyepieces
This telescope is perfect for those who want an easy, no-fuss setup and excellent performance in observing bright star clusters and the moon.
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4. Meade Instruments Infinity 70mm Refractor Telescope
The Meade Instruments Infinity 70mm is a well-rounded refractor telescope suitable for beginners and amateurs. It provides sharp images of planets and celestial objects, making it one of the best budget telescopes in 2024.
Key Features:
- 70mm aperture
- Includes a sturdy tripod and accessories
- Lightweight and easy to set up
With three eyepieces, it offers versatility, letting you zoom in on celestial objects with clarity and detail.
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5. Gskyer Telescope 80mm AZ Adjustable Telescope
The Gskyer 80mm Telescope offers an excellent combination of features for the price. With an 80mm aperture, this telescope allows for clear views of various celestial objects.
Key Features:
- 80mm aperture
- Comes with a wireless remote for easy tracking
- Portable design with adjustable height tripod
This telescope is also compatible with smartphones, making it great for taking pictures of your celestial observations.
- 【Ultra-clear Refracting Telescope】With 400 mm focal length and 80 mm aperture to capture more light picture and optical glass coated for enhanced image brightness to protect your eyes.
- 【Optimum Magnification】Three replaceable eyepiece (16X, 40X, 80X) with a 3X Barlow lens. 6*30 finder scope with mounting bracket, erect-image diagonal make locating objects more easily.
- 【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!
- 【Satisfaction Quality】Reliable and friendly customer service within a 24 hour time frame. 1-YEAR care for free replacement.
6. Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Telescope
For travelers, the Celestron Travel Scope 70 is a fantastic option. It is incredibly lightweight and compact but features a 70mm aperture, ensuring clear and bright views.
Key Features:
- 70mm aperture
- Includes a carrying bag for portability
- Easy to set up and use
It’s an ideal telescope for outdoor astronomical observations, making it one of the best budget choices for on-the-go stargazers.
- SUPERIOR OPTICS: The 70mm Travel Scope comes complete with fully-coated glass optics, a potent 70mm objective lens, a full-height tripod, bonus accessories, and a custom backpack to carry it all. Its quality is unmatched among competitors in its class.
- 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.
- LARGE 70MM OBJECTIVE LENS: This refractor telescope features a large, 70mm aperture objective lens that provides brighter, more detailed views compared to the 50mm model while adding very little additional weight.
- 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 download of one of the top-rated astronomy software programs.
- UNBEATABLE WARRANTY & SUPPORT: Buy with confidence from a leading telescope brand. A 2-Year US Warranty and unlimited support from our team.
7. Zhumell Z100 Portable Reflector Telescope
The Zhumell Z100 is another excellent beginner-friendly option. With a 100mm aperture, this lightweight telescope provides stunning views of the moon and planets.
Key Features:
- 100mm aperture
- Comes with a collapsible design
- Simple to set up and use
The Zhumell Z100 stands out due to its ability to provide bright views of galaxies and nebulae, making it a worthy addition to your astronomical arsenal.
- Industry standard 1.25” focuser, compatible with many different accessories
- Changing magnifications is easier than ever with included 17mm and 10mm eyepieces
- Easy to use red dot finder makes aiming the Z114 a breeze for any level of user
8. Omegon Startracker 70/700 Telescope
Omegon’s Startracker 70/700 is a fantastic telescope for those new to astronomy. The 70mm aperture provides excellent views of the moon and planets.
Key Features:
- 70mm aperture
- Lightweight and portable design
- Simple mount for beginners
Its user-friendly features make it an optimal choice as a first telescope for budding astronomers.
- The instrument collects 36% more light than a 60mm telescope.
- Sharp, well-contrasted image
- 31.75 mm eyepiece holder for all standard eyepieces The mount
9. Astromania 80mm Refractor Telescope
The Astromania 80mm Refractor Telescope is another good budget option known for its crisp and clear optics. The 80mm aperture size provides strong light-gathering ability.
Key Features:
- 80mm aperture
- Comes with a sturdy mount and accessories
- Easy to set up and use
Perfect for both planetary and deep-sky observation, making it one of the best budget telescopes on the market.
- Bahtinov masks take the guesswork out of focusing and even get over the seeing conditions as it is a mathematical type approach to the task; the best focus for your telescope quickly and easily
- Suitable for use on all types of telescope; they are made from precision laser cut enforced plexiglass that is stiff and long lasting; they will never be brittle in the cold; unlike some other masks which are made from normal plastics
- The masks grip the telescope tube gently but firmly with three metal posts which have non-scratching silicon sleeves to protect valued telescope surface; mask remains centered since 3-post mounting; while fitting a wider range of telescopes
- Made from 2mm thick laser cut plexiglass and securing screws are capped with soft plastic so that do not damage telescope; They have adjustment latitude of about 85-120mm that adjustable to fit optical tubes unlike masks which only fit one telescope
- Please be assured these focusing masks will work excellently for both reflectors and refractors with whatever focal length; all you need to do is to measure telescope tube size and choose right size of mask contact us if not sure where to measure
10. Celestron 21061 AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope
The Celestron 21061 AstroMaster is designed for beginners and offers a great balance of performance and price. Its 70mm aperture is perfect for observing the moon and planets.
Key Features:
- 70mm aperture
- Includes StarPointer finderscope
- User-friendly features for easy setup
This telescope will satisfy those looking for casual yet detailed astronomy experiences.
- POWERFUL REFRACTOR TELESCOPE: The Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ is a powerful and user-friendly refractor telescope with fully coated glass optics, a sturdy yet lightweight frame, two eyepieces, a red dot finder scope, and an adjustable-height tripod.
- HIGH-QUALITY 70MM OPTICS: Our Celestron telescope features a powerful, fully coated 70mm glass optic objective lens. Erect image optics allow you to observe celestial objects at night and terrestrial targets like wildlife and landscapes during the day.
- QUICK SETUP & LIGHTWEIGHT FRAME: This telescope for adults features a lightweight frame and a panning handle with Alt-Az control for smooth and accurate pointing. Setup is quick and easy, with no tools required.
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: We’ve included two eyepieces (20mm and 10mm), an erect image star diagonal, a travel tripod, and a red dot finder scope. Download our BONUS Starry Night Basic Edition astronomy software for interactive sky simulation.
- UNBEATABLE WARRANTY AND CUSTOMER SUPPORT: Buy with confidence from the world’s #1 telescope brand, based in California since 1960. You’ll also receive a 2-year warranty and unlimited access to technical support from our team of US-based experts.
Conclusion
Finding the best budget telescope doesn’t have to be a daunting task in 2024. With a variety of excellent options available on Amazon, you can choose one that suits your skill level, interests, and budget constraints. From the versatile Celestron AstroMaster to the portable Celestron Travel Scope, each telescope listed above offers unique features catering to different preferences.
When selecting the best budget telescope, keep in mind the factors highlighted in the buying guide. Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore the night sky or an intermediate astronomer aiming to deepen your stargazing experience, investing in one of these telescopes will undoubtedly spark a newfound passion for astronomy. Happy stargazing!
Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.