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 Sky Watcher Flextube 300 SynScan Dobsonian is a great choice for beginners looking to dive into stargazing with a powerful telescope. Its large 12-inch aperture provides bright and clear views of celestial objects, making it ideal for deep-sky observations. The innovative collapsible design ensures that the telescope is portable and easy to store, which is a significant advantage for users with limited space or who wish to travel with their telescope.

The built-in WiFi feature allows you to control the telescope via a smartphone or tablet, adding convenience and a modern touch to your stargazing experience. The all-metal gearing and 42,000 object database make it a highly capable and user-friendly option for both beginners and experienced astronomers. Additionally, the package includes useful accessories like wide-angle eyepieces and a 9x50 finderscope, enhancing its value.

However, at 99.2 pounds when fully assembled, it is relatively heavy, which might be a drawback for some users in terms of portability. Also, the altazimuth mount type is easy to use but may not be as stable as an equatorial mount for long-exposure astrophotography. Despite these minor drawbacks, its excellent optical performance and feature-packed design make it a solid choice for those new to astronomy.