5 Best Orion Telescope 2026 in the United States

The Orion GiantView BT-100 ED binocular telescope is designed for advanced astronomers seeking a unique stargazing experience using both eyes, which can feel more immersive and comfortable compared to traditional single-tube telescopes. Its large 100mm aperture lenses capture bright and detailed views, making faint stars and celestial objects easier to see. The extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses help produce sharp images with minimal color distortion, enhancing clarity during nighttime observations.

The included eyepieces offer a 31x magnification out of the box, suitable for general deep-sky and planetary viewing. You can increase or change magnification by swapping eyepiece pairs, though these must be purchased separately. The 90-degree angled eyepieces make viewing more comfortable, especially when looking towards the sky for extended periods. The telescope is also waterproof and nitrogen-purged, protecting the optics from moisture and fogging, which is great for outdoor use.

Weighing nearly 27 pounds, the telescope is quite heavy, which may limit portability or require a sturdy mount or tripod. While the magnification is decent for binocular telescopes, it might not reach the higher levels some single-tube telescopes offer. This product is well suited for serious astronomy enthusiasts who appreciate the binocular viewing style and want high optical quality but may be less ideal for casual users seeking a lightweight or highly portable option.

The Orion GiantView BT-70 is a binocular telescope designed for intermediate astronomers who want an immersive viewing experience without sacrificing portability. Its 70mm aperture offers bright, clear views of both celestial objects and distant terrestrial scenes, making it versatile for day and night use. The included eyepieces provide 22x magnification right out of the box, which is suitable for general star gazing and scenic observations, though you can expand magnification options by purchasing additional eyepiece pairs.

The 45-degree eyepiece angle and individual focusers make viewing more comfortable, especially for extended sessions. Its waterproof and nitrogen-purged design helps protect the optics from fogging and moisture, enhancing durability. Weighing 6.6 pounds, it is fairly portable but not ultra-light, which is reasonable given its size and binocular format. One downside is that it might feel a bit bulky compared to smaller telescopes or monocular designs if you prioritize easy travel.

The maximum magnification is limited compared to some astronomy-specific telescopes, so it’s best for users who want wide-field views rather than detailed planetary observations. This model is a solid choice if you value comfortable binocular viewing with good optical quality and weather protection, especially if you appreciate versatility between day and night use.

The Orion 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescope is a good option for those interested in astronomy, offering a large 130mm aperture that allows for clear and bright views of deep space objects. Its optical design, featuring fully-coated glass optics, enhances image quality, making it easier to observe detailed celestial bodies.

The German Equatorial Mount with precise positioning and tracking capabilities ensures stable and smooth observation of the moon and planets. The stable aluminum tripod further aids in accurate celestial object location, and the included accessories such as high-quality eyepieces, a 1.5X Barlow lens, and a moon filter provide a complete package for both beginners and more experienced users.

However, at 32.8 pounds, this telescope is not the most portable option and may be cumbersome for frequent transport. The manual focus and operation might require a learning curve for those new to using telescopes. Despite these minor drawbacks, the 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescope stands out for its high resolution and robust construction, making it a solid choice for serious amateur astronomers.