10 Best Refracting Telescopes 2025 in the United States

The Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor is a solid choice for adults interested in stargazing and astronomy. Featuring a 600mm focal length and a 90mm aperture, this telescope offers high-quality optics for clear and bright images. The fully coated optics glass lens enhances image clarity and eye protection, making it suitable for extended viewing sessions.

With three replaceable eyepieces (24X, 60X, and 120X) and a 3x Barlow lens that triples the magnification, users have a range of magnification options to explore different celestial objects. The adjustable aluminum tripod provides flexibility in viewing positions and can be adjusted from 31.5 inches to 49 inches in height, ensuring comfort for users of varying heights. Weighing 18 pounds, it is relatively portable for a telescope of this size, though it might be a bit cumbersome for some users to carry around frequently.

The altazimuth mount is user-friendly and allows for smooth tracking of objects across the sky. One of the standout features is its ease of use; no tools are required for setup, making it accessible for beginners. On the downside, some users might find the 18-pound weight a bit heavy, and manual focus operation may require some practice to master. In summary, the Gskyer Telescope is well-suited for amateur astronomers who seek a balance of quality, usability, and portability.

The Gskyer Telescope with a 70mm aperture and 400mm focal length is a solid option for kids and beginners interested in astronomy. Its fully coated optics and high transmission coatings ensure clear and stunning images while protecting your eyes. The telescope comes with two eyepieces and a 3x Barlow lens, enhancing the magnification significantly, making it easier to explore celestial objects.

The included 5x24 finder scope helps in locating objects easily, thanks to its mounting bracket and cross-hair lines. A notable feature is the wireless remote and smartphone adapter, allowing users to capture and share their celestial discoveries easily. The adjustable aluminum alloy tripod provides flexibility in viewing positions, and the carry bag enhances portability, making it suitable for travel and storage.

It is well-suited for novice astronomers and children, providing a decent balance of performance, ease of use, and portability. However, it is important to note that the manual focus might require some practice for beginners to get precise clarity. The altazimuth mount is user-friendly but may not offer the precision needed for more advanced astronomers. Weighing 5.7 pounds and with compact dimensions, this telescope is easy to handle and transport.

The HEXEUM 80mm Aperture 600mm Focal Length Telescope is a versatile option suitable for both kids and adults. Its 80mm aperture is quite good for a refracting telescope, allowing it to capture more light and provide clearer images of celestial objects. The 600mm focal length offers decent magnification capabilities, and the included 25mm and 10mm eyepieces provide 24x and 60x magnification respectively. With the addition of a 3x Barlow lens, magnification can be increased to 72x or 180x, which is impressive for moon observation.

The 5x24 finder scope is a helpful feature for locating objects in the sky with ease. The Altazimuth mount with tripod is user-friendly, making it easy to set up and adjust, which is a plus for beginners. Additionally, the portable design with a phone adapter, wireless remote control, and carrying bag makes it convenient to take on the go and capture images through your smartphone. However, the manual focus might be challenging for those seeking more automated features.

The construction is lightweight at 6.2 pounds, enhancing portability but might feel less stable in breezy conditions. It's a good value for those looking for an introductory telescope that balances performance with ease of use and portability. However, if you're an advanced user looking for more precision and stability, you might find the manual features and lightweight build somewhat limiting.