Best telescope for stargazing 2025: bring the stars closer to home

ActiveOutdoorsOutdoor TechBest telescope for stargazing 2025: bring the stars closer to homeExplore the wonders of the universe with the best telescopes, perfect for stargazers of all levelsWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

Explore the wonders of the universe with the best telescopes, perfect for stargazers of all levels

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Getty)

Best telescope for stargazing: telescope and nightsky

(Image credit: Getty)

Gaze into the great beyond from your own backyard with the best telescopes for stargazing, where distant galaxies become backyard companions, and the moon feels like a mere stone’s throw away. But beware, fellow cosmic adventurer, for this journey into the celestial realm can be as treacherous as it is exhilarating.

But if you dream of probing the deepest corners of space, you’ll need a high-tech marvel capable of guiding you to distant celestial wonders. Prepare to delve deep into your pockets, for the most advanced telescopes command a hefty price tag. Yet fear not, for with great investment comes great flexibility and boundless cosmic discoveries.

Remember, fellow stargazer, to choose the telescope that fits your budget like a snug astronaut suit. Skimping on expenses in this celestial pursuit could leave you adrift in a sea of cosmic disappointment.

And if telescopes don’t quite align with your celestial ambitions, fear not! Today’sbest binocularsoffer a stellar alternative (pun very much intended). Join us as we navigate the cosmos, one star at a time.

Best overallSkyWatcher Explorer 130MCheck AmazonThis motorised option is accessible for beginners but with plenty of room to grow. There’s a 900mm focal length, f/6.92 aperture and two eyepieces (10mm and 25mm), which will enable you to check out neighbouring planets or gaze into deep space. People managed to access impressively sharp views of the craters on the Moon’s surface, alongside Jupiter’s moons, Saturn’s rings and the Andromeda galaxy.Read more belowBest for beginnersCelestron StarSense Explorer 8"View at AmazonThis telescope’s Dobsonian design delivers a lot of light in a reasonably compact package. Celestron’s fantastic StarSense app brings your phone into play and makes it astonishingly easy for even a fresh-faced newbie to find celestial bodies. It’s not exactly cheap, but you get stacks of performance for your money, and the views you’ll get from this telescope are incredible.Read more belowBest premiumUnistellar Odyssey ProView at Unistellar USThe iconic Celestron NexStar 6SE telescope is perfect for amateur astronomers looking for higher magnifications and sharper, more refined views of both the deep sky and objects in our own solar system. Its 6-inch aperture gives it high usable magnification on planets and the Moon and on distant star clusters, galaxies and nebulae.Read more below

Best overall

best telescope for stargazing

SkyWatcher Explorer 130MCheck AmazonThis motorised option is accessible for beginners but with plenty of room to grow. There’s a 900mm focal length, f/6.92 aperture and two eyepieces (10mm and 25mm), which will enable you to check out neighbouring planets or gaze into deep space. People managed to access impressively sharp views of the craters on the Moon’s surface, alongside Jupiter’s moons, Saturn’s rings and the Andromeda galaxy.Read more below

SkyWatcher Explorer 130M

Check AmazonThis motorised option is accessible for beginners but with plenty of room to grow. There’s a 900mm focal length, f/6.92 aperture and two eyepieces (10mm and 25mm), which will enable you to check out neighbouring planets or gaze into deep space. People managed to access impressively sharp views of the craters on the Moon’s surface, alongside Jupiter’s moons, Saturn’s rings and the Andromeda galaxy.Read more below

Check Amazon

This motorised option is accessible for beginners but with plenty of room to grow. There’s a 900mm focal length, f/6.92 aperture and two eyepieces (10mm and 25mm), which will enable you to check out neighbouring planets or gaze into deep space. People managed to access impressively sharp views of the craters on the Moon’s surface, alongside Jupiter’s moons, Saturn’s rings and the Andromeda galaxy.

Best telescopes for stargazing to buy right now

Why you can trust T3Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you.Find out more about how we test.

Best overall

(Image credit: SkyWatcher)

SkyWatcher Explorer 130M Motorised Newtonian Reflector Telescope

T3 Best Buy badge

(Image credit: SkyWatcher)

SkyWatcher Explorer 130MBest telescope for stargazing overallAverage Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsDesign:ReflectorAperture:5"/130mmFocal length:35.4"/900mmMount:EquatorialToday’s Best DealsCheck AmazonVisit SiteReasons to buy+Fairly priced and well-built+Suitable for a range of abilities+Multi-speed handset includedReasons to avoid-Batteries required to run the motor-Some aspects of the build are plastic-y-Bulky
SkyWatcher Explorer 130M

1. SkyWatcher Explorer 130M

Best telescope for stargazing overall

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsDesign:ReflectorAperture:5"/130mmFocal length:35.4"/900mmMount:Equatorial

Design:ReflectorAperture:5"/130mmFocal length:35.4"/900mmMount:Equatorial

Design:Reflector

Aperture:5"/130mm

Focal length:35.4"/900mm

Mount:Equatorial

Today’s Best DealsCheck AmazonVisit Site

Today’s Best Deals

Check AmazonVisit Site

Check Amazon

Visit Site

Reasons to buy+Fairly priced and well-built+Suitable for a range of abilities+Multi-speed handset included

+Fairly priced and well-built+Suitable for a range of abilities+Multi-speed handset included

Fairly priced and well-built

Suitable for a range of abilities

Multi-speed handset included

Reasons to avoid-Batteries required to run the motor-Some aspects of the build are plastic-y-Bulky

-Batteries required to run the motor-Some aspects of the build are plastic-y-Bulky

Batteries required to run the motor

Some aspects of the build are plastic-y

Bulky

The SkyWatcher Explorer 130M Motorised Newtonian Reflector Telescope is a motorised option, accessible for beginners but with plenty of room to grow, and delivers a lot for its reasonable price tag.

There’s a 900mm focal length, f/6.92 aperture and two eyepieces (10mm and 25mm), which will enable you to check out neighbouring planets or gaze into deep space. Customers have managed to access impressively sharp views of the craters on the Moon’s surface, alongside Jupiter’s moons, Saturn’s rings and the Andromeda galaxy.

While this isn’t the lightest or most compact telescope, the fully adjustable aluminium tripod is very stable, and general consensus is that setup is pretty straightforward, with two complete novices managing it in around an hour. You should expect a build quality that’s great for the price, although understandably not as rugged as more expensive options.

Despite these few niggles, the SkyWatcher Explorer 130M Motorised Newtonian Reflector Telescope comes extremely well reviewed, with consistently high scores and customers impressed with what’s delivered for the reasonable price tag. An excellent option for new stargazers and onwards, this one should whet your appetite for further investigation of the Moon – and beyond!

Not sold? Check out some more mid-range all-rounders in ourCelestron Inspire 100AZ refractor vs Meade Polaris 114mm reflector telescopeface-off.

Best beginner

(Image credit: Jamie Carter / T3)

Celestron StarSense Explorer 8" Dobsonian telescope in a garden

T3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Jamie Carter / T3)

Celestron StarSense Explorer 8" Dobsonian telescopeBest telescope for stargazing for beginnersOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsDesign:Dobsonian Newtonian reflectorAperture:8"/203mmFocal length:47.24"/1200mmMount:Manual alt-azimuth DobsonianToday’s Best DealsView at BHPhotoView at AmazonReasons to buy+Easy to align+Super sharp views+Great valueReasons to avoid-Big and heavy
Celestron StarSense Explorer 8" Dobsonian telescope

2. Celestron StarSense Explorer 8" Dobsonian telescope

Best telescope for stargazing for beginners

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsDesign:Dobsonian Newtonian reflectorAperture:8"/203mmFocal length:47.24"/1200mmMount:Manual alt-azimuth Dobsonian

Design:Dobsonian Newtonian reflectorAperture:8"/203mmFocal length:47.24"/1200mmMount:Manual alt-azimuth Dobsonian

Design:Dobsonian Newtonian reflector

Aperture:8"/203mm

Focal length:47.24"/1200mm

Mount:Manual alt-azimuth Dobsonian

Today’s Best DealsView at BHPhotoView at Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

View at BHPhotoView at Amazon

View at BHPhoto

View at Amazon

Reasons to buy+Easy to align+Super sharp views+Great value

+Easy to align+Super sharp views+Great value

Easy to align

Super sharp views

Great value

Reasons to avoid-Big and heavy

-Big and heavy

Big and heavy

A quick look at the Celestron StarSense Explorer 8-inch Dobsonian’s specs should be enough to put off inexperienced astronomers; its 8-inches/203 mm aperture is the sort of thing you’d only go for after a few years of studying the night sky, and the fact that it’s manually operated should mean that it’s a nightmare to operate. But no, we’re here to tell you that this is a staggeringly good telescope for beginners and, indeed, anyone who wants an amazingly sharp view of the night sky without paying an arm and a leg for the privilege.

Its Dobsonian design (see our explainer of the different telescope types for an explanation) delivers a lot of light in a reasonably compact package, but what really changes everything is Celestron’s fantastic StarSense app, which brings your phone into play and makes it astonishingly easy for even a fresh-faced newbie to find celestial bodies. It’s not exactly cheap, but you get stacks of performance for your money, and the views you’ll get from this telescope are incredible.

Read our fullCelestron StarSense Explorer 8" Dobsonian Telescope review.

Best premium

(Image credit: Jamie Carter)

Unistellar Odyssey Pro review

(Image credit: Jamie Carter)

Unistellar Odyssey ProBest premium telescope for stargazingOur expert review:SpecificationsOptical design:ReflectorAperture:3.4-inch/85 mmFocal length:12.6-inch/320 mmFocal ratio:f/3.9Total kit weight:11lbs/ 5kgMount type:Motorized alt-azToday’s Best DealsView at Unistellar USView at Amazon(Black)View at BHPhotoReasons to buy+Nikon-made eyepiece+Detailed images+Excellent build quality+Easy-to-use appReasons to avoid-Planet images are basic-Only lasts for five hours on one charge-Eyepiece is an electronic OLED-Proprietary tripod
Unistellar Odyssey Pro

3. Unistellar Odyssey Pro

Best premium telescope for stargazing

Our expert review:

SpecificationsOptical design:ReflectorAperture:3.4-inch/85 mmFocal length:12.6-inch/320 mmFocal ratio:f/3.9Total kit weight:11lbs/ 5kgMount type:Motorized alt-az

Optical design:ReflectorAperture:3.4-inch/85 mmFocal length:12.6-inch/320 mmFocal ratio:f/3.9Total kit weight:11lbs/ 5kgMount type:Motorized alt-az

Optical design:Reflector

Aperture:3.4-inch/85 mm

Focal length:12.6-inch/320 mm

Focal ratio:f/3.9

Total kit weight:11lbs/ 5kg

Mount type:Motorized alt-az

Today’s Best DealsView at Unistellar USView at Amazon(Black)View at BHPhoto

Today’s Best Deals

View at Unistellar USView at Amazon(Black)View at BHPhoto

View at Unistellar US

View at Amazon(Black)

View at Amazon

(Black)

View at BHPhoto

Reasons to buy+Nikon-made eyepiece+Detailed images+Excellent build quality+Easy-to-use app

+Nikon-made eyepiece+Detailed images+Excellent build quality+Easy-to-use app

Nikon-made eyepiece

Detailed images

Excellent build quality

Easy-to-use app

Reasons to avoid-Planet images are basic-Only lasts for five hours on one charge-Eyepiece is an electronic OLED-Proprietary tripod

-Planet images are basic-Only lasts for five hours on one charge-Eyepiece is an electronic OLED-Proprietary tripod

Planet images are basic

Only lasts for five hours on one charge

Eyepiece is an electronic OLED

Proprietary tripod

The Unistellar Odyssey Pro smart telescope has truly impressed us with its user-friendly design and remarkable performance in astrophotography. From the moment we set it up, we appreciated the solid build quality and the ease with which we could start capturing stunning images of celestial bodies. The app is particularly intuitive, guiding us through the process and compensating for light pollution, which is a significant advantage for urban stargazers.

We were able to capture detailed views of the sun, moon, and deep-sky objects, bringing the wonders of the universe closer than ever. The telescope’s portability was another highlight, allowing us to take it to different locations with ease. However, we did notice some limitations.

The battery life, which lasts about five hours, could be more generous, especially for long sessions. Also, while deep-sky images were impressive, planetary details fell short of our expectations compared to other specialised telescopes.

That said, the Odyssey Pro is a fantastic choice for both beginners and experienced users who want to explore the night sky with minimal hassle. Its combination of portability, ease of use, and image quality make it a top contender in the smart telescope market.

Read our full UnistellarOdyssey Pro review.

Best mid-range

(Image credit: Jamie Carter)

Celestron NexStar 6SE telescope

(Image credit: Jamie Carter)

Celestron NexStar 6SEBest mid-range telescope for stargazingOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsOptical design:Schmidt-CassegrainAperture:5.9”/150mmFocal length:59”/1500mmFocal ratio:f/10Eyepiece focal length:1”/25 mm (60x)Total kit weight:21lb/9.5kgMount type:motorized altazimuthToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Orange)View at BHPhotoView at Adorama USReasons to buy+Superbly sharp optics+No color fringing+Good build quality+Easy to useReasons to avoid-NexStar+ hand controller is old-fashioned-Lacks built-in spirit level-SkyAlign sometimes fails-Awkward to move-Only one eyepiece included
Celestron NexStar 6SE

4. Celestron NexStar 6SE

Best mid-range telescope for stargazing

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsOptical design:Schmidt-CassegrainAperture:5.9”/150mmFocal length:59”/1500mmFocal ratio:f/10Eyepiece focal length:1”/25 mm (60x)Total kit weight:21lb/9.5kgMount type:motorized altazimuth

Optical design:Schmidt-CassegrainAperture:5.9”/150mmFocal length:59”/1500mmFocal ratio:f/10Eyepiece focal length:1”/25 mm (60x)Total kit weight:21lb/9.5kgMount type:motorized altazimuth

Optical design:Schmidt-Cassegrain

Aperture:5.9”/150mm

Focal length:59”/1500mm

Focal ratio:f/10

Eyepiece focal length:1”/25 mm (60x)

Total kit weight:21lb/9.5kg

Mount type:motorized altazimuth

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Orange)View at BHPhotoView at Adorama US

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Orange)View at BHPhotoView at Adorama US

View at Amazon(Orange)

View at Amazon

(Orange)

View at BHPhoto

View at Adorama US

Reasons to buy+Superbly sharp optics+No color fringing+Good build quality+Easy to use

+Superbly sharp optics+No color fringing+Good build quality+Easy to use

Superbly sharp optics

No color fringing

Good build quality

Easy to use

Reasons to avoid-NexStar+ hand controller is old-fashioned-Lacks built-in spirit level-SkyAlign sometimes fails-Awkward to move-Only one eyepiece included

-NexStar+ hand controller is old-fashioned-Lacks built-in spirit level-SkyAlign sometimes fails-Awkward to move-Only one eyepiece included

NexStar+ hand controller is old-fashioned

Lacks built-in spirit level

SkyAlign sometimes fails

Awkward to move

Only one eyepiece included

They may not be marketed as such, but most of the best telescopes for beginners are good for looking at either planetsordeep sky objects – rarely both. The Celestron NexStar 6SE is an exception, with the step-up in price coming with a huge advance in image quality. Its 6-inch aperture gives it high usable magnification on planets and the Moon and on distant star clusters, galaxies and nebulae.

It’s as close to a genuine allrounder as you’ll get, but the Celestron NexStar 6SE is nevertheless beginning to show its age. The NexStar+ hand controller is beginning to look a bit old-fashioned and clunky compared to how more modern ‘smart’ telescopes work. For now, it’s a classic telescope worthy of investing in, but it won’t be too long before its high price will be difficult to justify when there are even easier-to-use alternatives to choose from.

Read our fullCelestron NexStar 6SE review.

Best app-controlled

(Image credit: Celestron)

Celestron 22203 AstroFi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope

T3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Celestron)

Celestron 22203 AstroFi 130 WirelessBest app-controlled telescope for stargazingOur expert review:SpecificationsDesign:Newtonian ReflectorAperture:5"/130mmFocal length:25.5"/650mmMount:Alt-AzimuthToday’s Best DealsView at Adorama USView at Amazon(Black)View at BHPhotoReasons to buy+High-tech but easy to use+Stable and lightweight+Comes with accessory tray and eyepiecesReasons to avoid-Scope can’t be removed from tripod-On-board Wi-Fi can be unreliable-Some plastic-y elements to the build
Celestron 22203 AstroFi 130 Wireless

5. Celestron 22203 AstroFi 130 Wireless

Best app-controlled telescope for stargazing

Our expert review:

SpecificationsDesign:Newtonian ReflectorAperture:5"/130mmFocal length:25.5"/650mmMount:Alt-Azimuth

Design:Newtonian ReflectorAperture:5"/130mmFocal length:25.5"/650mmMount:Alt-Azimuth

Design:Newtonian Reflector

Aperture:5"/130mm

Focal length:25.5"/650mm

Mount:Alt-Azimuth

Today’s Best DealsView at Adorama USView at Amazon(Black)View at BHPhoto

Today’s Best Deals

View at Adorama USView at Amazon(Black)View at BHPhoto

View at Adorama US

View at Amazon(Black)

View at Amazon

(Black)

View at BHPhoto

Reasons to buy+High-tech but easy to use+Stable and lightweight+Comes with accessory tray and eyepieces

+High-tech but easy to use+Stable and lightweight+Comes with accessory tray and eyepieces

High-tech but easy to use

Stable and lightweight

Comes with accessory tray and eyepieces

Reasons to avoid-Scope can’t be removed from tripod-On-board Wi-Fi can be unreliable-Some plastic-y elements to the build

-Scope can’t be removed from tripod-On-board Wi-Fi can be unreliable-Some plastic-y elements to the build

Scope can’t be removed from tripod

On-board Wi-Fi can be unreliable

Some plastic-y elements to the build

For a high tech stargazing solution that won’t cost you an absolute fortune, we’d point you at the Celestron 22203 AstroFi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope. This scope comes with integrated Wi-Fi and is designed to be controlled with a phone or tablet, via Celestron’s free SkyPortal app. Although a few reviewers have found the Wi-Fi a little temperamental, generally this succeeds in its task of making it super-easy to find the heavenly bodies you’re looking for.

Aiming to provide clear views of the Moon and the planets beyond, the Celestron 22203 AstroFi features a large 130mm lens and a field of view that’s wide enough to take in even the largest deep-sky objects. Additionally, it helpfully comes supplied with an accessory tray for stashing your biscuits in, and more importantly two 1.25-inch eyepieces. Slightly annoyingly, this telescope cannot be removed from tripod, should you want to use it as a desktop device.

Not quite right for you? Check out ourOrion SkyView Pro 8 GoTo vs Celestron Nexstar 8SEshowdown for two more top-end options.

Best budget

(Image credit: Gavin Stoker)

Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ beginner telescope in a garden

T3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Gavin Stoker)

Celestron AstroMaster 102AZBest budget telescope for stargazingOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsDesign:RefractorAperture:4-inchFocal length:660mmMount:AltazimuthToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Blue)View at BHPhotoReasons to buy+Terrestrial as well as astrological viewing+Large objective lens and generous focal length+Tripod, software and manual includedReasons to avoid-Heavy at 6.4kg-Screws loosen easily
Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ

6. Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ

Best budget telescope for stargazing

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsDesign:RefractorAperture:4-inchFocal length:660mmMount:Altazimuth

Design:RefractorAperture:4-inchFocal length:660mmMount:Altazimuth

Design:Refractor

Aperture:4-inch

Focal length:660mm

Mount:Altazimuth

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Blue)View at BHPhoto

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Blue)View at BHPhoto

View at Amazon(Blue)

View at Amazon

(Blue)

View at BHPhoto

Reasons to buy+Terrestrial as well as astrological viewing+Large objective lens and generous focal length+Tripod, software and manual included

+Terrestrial as well as astrological viewing+Large objective lens and generous focal length+Tripod, software and manual included

Terrestrial as well as astrological viewing

Large objective lens and generous focal length

Tripod, software and manual included

Reasons to avoid-Heavy at 6.4kg-Screws loosen easily

-Heavy at 6.4kg-Screws loosen easily

Heavy at 6.4kg

Screws loosen easily

If you’re just getting started with stargazing, the Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ is an affordable scope that packs enough features to keep you going as your experience and skills grow. In ourCelestron AstroMaster 102AZ review, our tester was very impressed with the viewing possibilities this telescope affords – the enormous 102mm objective lens combined with an impressive 606mm focal length deliver detailed, ultra-bright views of the Moon, but also the visual clout to see Saturn’s rings and Jupiter’s moons (although our tester noted that for more deep-space viewing, they would prefer a higher specced option still). The altazimuth mount and pan handle setup are ideal for finding objects in the night sky, but it can also be used to look at Earth-based objects if you prefer.

The bundle includes a steel tripod, accessory tray and manual, alongside 10mm and 20mm eyepieces, a red dot finder scope and Starry Night astronomy software, making for a sound starter package. It’s also pretty simple to set up from scratch without the need for tools, bar a Philips screwdriver. On the downside, this AstroMaster is a bit of a beast, weighing in at 6.4kg and sporting a large footprint that means you’ll need to have a bit of space at your disposal.

Not right for you? We compare two alternative beginners' telescopes in ourCelestron 21039 PowerSeeker 50AZ vs National Geographic Refractor 60/700 AZshowdown.

Best for sharpness

(Image credit: Jamie Carter)

Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ

T3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Jamie Carter)

Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZBest telescope for stargazing for sharpnessOur expert review:SpecificationsDesign:Newtonian reflectorAperture:130mmFocal length:650mmMount:manual alt-azToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Silver)View at BHPhotoView at Best BuyReasons to buy+Easy to set up and align+Sharp images+All-in one packageReasons to avoid-Not for astrophotography-Manual slewing
Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ

7. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ

Best telescope for stargazing for sharpness

Our expert review:

SpecificationsDesign:Newtonian reflectorAperture:130mmFocal length:650mmMount:manual alt-az

Design:Newtonian reflectorAperture:130mmFocal length:650mmMount:manual alt-az

Design:Newtonian reflector

Aperture:130mm

Focal length:650mm

Mount:manual alt-az

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Silver)View at BHPhotoView at Best Buy

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Silver)View at BHPhotoView at Best Buy

View at Amazon(Silver)

View at Amazon

(Silver)

View at BHPhoto

View at Best Buy

Reasons to buy+Easy to set up and align+Sharp images+All-in one package

+Easy to set up and align+Sharp images+All-in one package

Easy to set up and align

Sharp images

All-in one package

Reasons to avoid-Not for astrophotography-Manual slewing

-Not for astrophotography-Manual slewing

Not for astrophotography

Manual slewing

This might prove challenging to newcomers (especially considering that its Newtonian reflector shows you everything upside-down), but once you’re focused and looking the right way, the results are impressive. Even with its basic eyepieces you’ll get sharp, colourful results, and if you like what you see you’ll do even better with upgrade eyepieces or a Barlow lens. If you’re into stargazing for the long haul, this is a scope that’ll teach you skills that a more automated scope won’t; find out more in ourCelestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ telescope review.

Best high-tech

(Image credit: Celestron)

Celestron 11069 Nexstar 8SE Telescope

T3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Celestron)

Celestron Nexstar 8SE Compound Telescope

8. Celestron Nexstar 8SE Compound Telescope

Best high-tech telescope for stargazing

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsDesign:Schmidt-CassegrainAperture:8"/203mmFocal length:80"/2,032mmMount:Alt-Azimuth

Design:Schmidt-CassegrainAperture:8"/203mmFocal length:80"/2,032mmMount:Alt-Azimuth

Design:Schmidt-Cassegrain

Aperture:8"/203mm

Focal length:80"/2,032mm

Mount:Alt-Azimuth

Today’s Best DealsView at Best Buy(Orange)View at AmazonView at BHPhoto

Today’s Best Deals

View at Best Buy(Orange)View at AmazonView at BHPhoto

View at Best Buy(Orange)

View at Best Buy

(Orange)

View at Amazon

View at BHPhoto

Reasons to buy+On-board computer does the hard work+Portable in comparison to others

+On-board computer does the hard work+Portable in comparison to others

On-board computer does the hard work

Portable in comparison to others

Heavy going for new stargazers

Included software a bit dated

The Nexstar 8SE is one of Celestron’s high-end computerised devices, which means it does the hard work for you. After a 5-minute set up each session, you can type a target into the side-mounted keypad, and the Nexstar will find it for you from a library of more than 40,000 celestial objects (if you want to be able to search for objects on your smartphone rather than having to remember their names, you can upgrade with Celestron’s Skyportal WiFi module). For those new to astronomy, it provides a really quick and easy way to start finding your way around the night sky.

There’s a large 8-inch aperture and good light-gathering ability, delivering a clear view of many deep-space objects. It’s not the most compact telescope on the market, but does pack down to a reasonable size – and there are smaller 6-inch and 4-inch models of this same telescope (with a smaller price tag to match), if you’re really wanting to slim down.

The supplied tripod is fairly sturdy, and for short viewing sessions, some reviewers note that it can also just be used on a tabletop without the tripod. One potential annoyance to be aware of for more advanced users is that while you can rotate it vertically manually, you can’t pan it left and right without using the motor and keypad. However, there’s still plenty to recommend this impressive high-tech telescope.

(Image credit: Bresser)

Bresser Taurus 90 NG telescope

T3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Bresser)

Bresser Taurus 90 NG telescope

9. Bresser Taurus 90 NG telescope

SpecificationsDesign:Achromatic refractorAperture:90mmFocal length:900mmMount:multi purpose; allows for both terrestrial and astronomical use

Design:Achromatic refractorAperture:90mmFocal length:900mmMount:multi purpose; allows for both terrestrial and astronomical use

Design:Achromatic refractor

Aperture:90mm

Focal length:900mm

Mount:multi purpose; allows for both terrestrial and astronomical use

Today’s Best DealsCheck AmazonVisit Site

Today’s Best Deals

Check AmazonVisit Site

Check Amazon

Visit Site

Reasons to buy+strong aluminium construction+Smartphone mount for picture taking+Generous focal length and large, bright lens

+strong aluminium construction+Smartphone mount for picture taking+Generous focal length and large, bright lens

strong aluminium construction

Smartphone mount for picture taking

Generous focal length and large, bright lens

Reasons to avoid-Weighty at 7.5kg combined

-Weighty at 7.5kg combined

Weighty at 7.5kg combined

While the above all sounds great, one downside is that despite its aluminium construction, the Bresser Taurus 90 NG’s combined weight is a hefty 7.5kg. Still, the fact that the set up can be used in altazimuth mode for terrestrial observations, and then in equatorial mode for astrological use provides a degree of versatility lacking in other options in our best telescope list.

How to choose the best telescope for you

The latter two are self-explanatory – shop within your assigned budget, and check out the size to make sure you have space to store your scope. On that final point, you’ll also want to factor in where you’ll use your telescope. Most telescopes will need to be used outside – you won’t get a great view if you just point one out of your window because light pollution (and even the heat from your home) will affect your view. So bear that in mind when considering portability and ease of set-up. Also, consider if you’ll want to be able to attach a stills or video camera to be able to record what you see as you see it.

There are threetypes of telescopes: reflectors, refractors, and catadioptric or compound telescopes. They each have a different kind of lens set-up, which means they provide different results. Perhaps the most common type for astronomical telescopes is the refractor, but typically the alternative of the reflecting telescope allows for larger apertures – and, therefore, a greater amount of light to be collected, translating as a brighter image. The rough rule of thumb when it comes to optics is brighter is always better. If you’re brand new to stargazing, you might also want to check out our guides onhow to set up a telescope.

How we test the best telescopes

Wherever possible, our stargazing specialists have called in samples of these telescopes and spent time putting them through their paces at home. In these cases, we’ve also put together full-length reviews that dig into how the product performed in more detail. These are linked to in the blurb of the product. We consider things like the features on offer, how easy it is to set up, the handling and operation. We’ll also compare it to other similarly-priced and similarly specced alternatives on the market, to see if it’s the strongest recommendation in that particular area.

Where we haven’t been able to get our hands on a test sample to try out, we make an informed decision based on the specs offered for the price, our experience with that brand, and other customer reviews available.

For our best telescope ranking, we’ve focused on offering a range of options for different priorities and at different price points. You won’t find a list of just the highest-specced and priciest models, but a variety of different kinds of telescope to suit different people.

FAQ

What magnification telescope is best for stargazing?

The best magnification for stargazing with a telescope depends on various factors such as the telescope’s aperture size, atmospheric conditions, and the objects you want to observe. Generally, for beginners, a magnification range of 20x to 50x per inch of aperture is recommended to provide clear and detailed views of celestial objects without sacrificing brightness or field of view. However, it’s essential to balance magnification with aperture size to avoid diminishing image quality.

What size telescope is good for stargazing?

The size of a telescope that is good for stargazing depends on various factors, including your observing goals, budget, and portability preferences.

In general, larger aperture telescopes (with larger primary mirrors or lenses) gather more light and provide better views of fainter celestial objects and more detail on planets and deep-sky objects. However, they can be heavier and less portable.

For casual stargazing and beginner astronomers, a telescope with an aperture of 70mm to 114mm (2.8 to 4.5 inches) can provide satisfying views of the Moon, planets, and some brighter deep-sky objects like star clusters and nebulae.

Intermediate astronomers may opt for telescopes with apertures ranging from 114mm to 203mm (4.5 to 8 inches) to explore a wider range of celestial objects with better detail and clarity.

Advanced astronomers or those interested in astrophotography often choose telescopes with larger apertures (8 inches and above) for capturing more detailed images of faint objects and for advanced observing sessions.

Ultimately, the best size telescope for stargazing depends on your personal preferences, observing location, and intended use.

Round up of today’s best deals

Celestron StarSense Explorer 8-inch$1,282.07ViewSee all pricesUnistellar Odyssey Pro$3,999ViewSee all pricesCelestron NexStar 6SE$1,099$918.95ViewSee all pricesCelestron Astro Fi 130mm Reflector$559.95ViewSee all pricesCelestron AstroMaster 102AZ Telescope$349.95$279.69ViewSee all pricesCelestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ$479.95$365.49ViewSee all pricesCelestron NexStar 8SE$1,399.99ViewSee all prices

Celestron StarSense Explorer 8-inch$1,282.07ViewSee all prices

Celestron – StarSense…

Celestron StarSense Explorer 8-inch

Amazon

$1,282.07View

$1,282.07

See all prices

Unistellar Odyssey Pro$3,999ViewSee all prices

Unistellar Odyssey Pro

Unistellar US

$3,999View

$3,999

See all prices

Celestron NexStar 6SE$1,099$918.95ViewSee all prices

Celestron - NexStar 6SE…

Celestron NexStar 6SE

Amazon

$1,099$918.95View

$1,099$918.95

$918.95

See all prices

Celestron Astro Fi 130mm Reflector$559.95ViewSee all prices

Celestron Astro Fi 130…

Celestron Astro Fi 130mm Reflector

Amazon

$559.95View

$559.95

See all prices

Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ Telescope$349.95$279.69ViewSee all prices

Celestron - AstroMaster 102AZ…

Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ Telescope

Amazon

$349.95$279.69View

$349.95$279.69

$279.69

See all prices

Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ$479.95$365.49ViewSee all prices

CELESTRON StarSense Explorer…

Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ

Amazon

$479.95$365.49View

$479.95$365.49

$365.49

See all prices

Celestron NexStar 8SE$1,399.99ViewSee all prices

Celestron Nexstar 8SE 203mm…

Celestron NexStar 8SE

Amazon

$1,399.99View

$1,399.99

See all prices

We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices

Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts

Man doing leg press

The ultimate full-body gym workout for beginners, according to a fitness expertWant to hit the gym to build strength and muscle, but don’t know where to start? This workout can help

Want to hit the gym to build strength and muscle, but don’t know where to start? This workout can help

Kindle Colorsoft review

Amazon upgrades Kindle Colorsoft already – new model addresses customer complaintsAmazon’s full-colour e-reader fixes a problem that was plaguing its display

Amazon’s full-colour e-reader fixes a problem that was plaguing its display

Anker Solix C1000 at home

Change my mind: the smaller, the better with portable power stationsPut your portable power station to work when you’re not using it

Put your portable power station to work when you’re not using it

Garmin Instinct 2

This rugged adventure Garmin is mega cheap in Walmart’s Black Friday saleThe Instinct 2 is a top watch for outdoor and sport enthusiasts

The Instinct 2 is a top watch for outdoor and sport enthusiasts

Yeti Black Friday sale

YETI’s best-selling products are ridiculously cheap in Amazon’s Black Friday saleFancy yourself a tumbler, rambler or cooler? Amazon’s reduced them all

Fancy yourself a tumbler, rambler or cooler? Amazon’s reduced them all

Akaso Seemor 200 lifestyle

AKASO Seemor 200 night vision goggles review: unparalleled clarity for nighttime adventuresAKASO’s new NVD unlocks the night with cutting-edge colour vision technology

AKASO’s new NVD unlocks the night with cutting-edge colour vision technology

A man hiking in the mountains during the autumn

8 must-have hiking gadgets for tackling cold and wet trailsWhether it be wet and rainy, or super chilly, these 8 gadgets can make your outdoor adventure even more enjoyable

Whether it be wet and rainy, or super chilly, these 8 gadgets can make your outdoor adventure even more enjoyable

Vango Classic Instant 300 review

Vango Classic Instant 300 review: a festival-goer’s dream tentSuper quick to pitch and pull down, this reasonably priced tent is spacious, tall and well-featured for festival use

Super quick to pitch and pull down, this reasonably priced tent is spacious, tall and well-featured for festival use

Columbia ODX

Is Columbia’s OutDry Extreme the best waterproof-breathable material that no one is using?ODX hasn’t revolutionised the outdoor apparel world in the way its creators expected it to – but that could be about to change…

ODX hasn’t revolutionised the outdoor apparel world in the way its creators expected it to – but that could be about to change…

Best YETI coolers: person wearing a YETI cooler on his back

Best YETI coolers 2025: ice cold excellenceKeep food and beverage frosty with our curated selection of top-rated YETI coolers for every occasion

Keep food and beverage frosty with our curated selection of top-rated YETI coolers for every occasion

Best telescopes for stargazing to buy right now#

Best overall#

1. SkyWatcher Explorer 130M#

Best beginner#

2. Celestron StarSense Explorer 8" Dobsonian telescope#

Best premium#

3. Unistellar Odyssey Pro#

Best mid-range#

4. Celestron NexStar 6SE#

Best app-controlled#

5. Celestron 22203 AstroFi 130 Wireless#

Best budget#

6. Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ#

Best for sharpness#

7. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ#

Best high-tech#

8. Celestron Nexstar 8SE Compound Telescope#

9. Bresser Taurus 90 NG telescope#

How to choose the best telescope for you#

How we test the best telescopes#

FAQ#

What magnification telescope is best for stargazing?#

What size telescope is good for stargazing?#

Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox#

Best telescopes for stargazing to buy right now

Best overall

1. SkyWatcher Explorer 130M

Best beginner

2. Celestron StarSense Explorer 8" Dobsonian telescope

Best premium

3. Unistellar Odyssey Pro

Best mid-range

4. Celestron NexStar 6SE

Best app-controlled

5. Celestron 22203 AstroFi 130 Wireless

Best budget

6. Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ

Best for sharpness

7. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ

Best high-tech

8. Celestron Nexstar 8SE Compound Telescope

9. Bresser Taurus 90 NG telescope

How to choose the best telescope for you

How we test the best telescopes

FAQ

What magnification telescope is best for stargazing?

What size telescope is good for stargazing?

Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox