10 Best Beginners Telescopes 2025 in the United States

The Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm is a solid choice for beginners eager to explore astronomy. Its 90mm aperture and 600mm focal length provide decent light-gathering ability, enabling users to observe various celestial objects clearly. The fully coated optics enhance image brightness and protect eyesight, which is vital for newcomers. With three replaceable eyepieces (24X, 60X, and 120X) and a 3x Barlow lens, users can enjoy a range of magnification options, helping them to see details on planets and the moon more effectively.

Portability is another strength, as the telescope includes an adjustable aluminum tripod that can be set between 31.5 and 49 inches, accommodating different viewing positions. Since it's easy to operate—without needing any tools for setup—this telescope is particularly user-friendly for novices who may feel overwhelmed by complex equipment.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. Weighing in at 18 pounds, it may be slightly heavy for some users, limiting its portability for those who wish to travel. The manual focus can also be a little challenging for beginners, who might prefer a more automated system to make adjustments easier. Furthermore, while the Reflex finderscope is beneficial for locating objects, some users may find it less intuitive compared to other types of finders.

The Gskyer Telescope is a solid choice for beginners looking to explore the night sky. With a 70mm aperture and a 400mm focal length, it offers decent light-gathering capabilities, allowing users to see celestial objects like the moon and some planets with clarity. The fully coated optics enhance image quality, protecting your eyes while making stargazing more enjoyable. This telescope also comes with two replaceable eyepieces and a 3x Barlow lens, which significantly increases magnification, making it versatile for different viewing situations. The 5x24 finderscope is helpful for locating objects in the sky, an essential feature for newcomers who may struggle with initial alignment.

Portability is another strong point; the adjustable aluminum tripod and included carry bag make it easy to transport, which is ideal for those who want to take their observations to different locations. The smart phone adapter and wireless remote enable users to capture images of their findings, blending traditional stargazing with modern technology.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the optical system is decent, it may not satisfy more experienced astronomers seeking higher quality optics for deeper space observations. The manual focus can also be a challenge for beginners, as it requires a steady hand and patience to adjust properly. Additionally, some users have noted that the build quality feels a bit less robust compared to higher-end models, which might raise concerns about longevity with frequent use. Finally, being a refractor telescope, it may not be as effective at viewing certain deep-sky objects compared to larger, more advanced telescopes.

The Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ is a solid choice for beginners interested in exploring the night sky with the help of modern technology. Its 130mm aperture (about 5 inches) offers bright and clear views of the Moon, planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and some deep-sky objects such as the Orion Nebula. The focal length of 635mm gives a nice balance between wide views and detail. A big plus is the smartphone dock paired with the StarSense app, which turns your phone into a smart guide showing you exactly where to point the telescope—perfect for those new to star-hopping who might find the night sky overwhelming.

The altazimuth mount is manual but includes smooth slow-motion controls that make tracking objects easier once you've found them. It comes with two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) for varying magnification levels, and the StarPointer red dot finderscope helps with initial target alignment. On the downside, the telescope weighs around 18 pounds and measures about 50 inches tall, so while it’s portable for short trips, it might not be ideal for very frequent transport or young kids to carry. The manual focusing and operation mean you’ll need some patience to get good views and to keep objects in sight.

This telescope combines user-friendly tech with solid optics, making it an excellent starting point for beginners who want an interactive, educational experience under the stars.