The best telescopes for getting started in astronomy in 2026

Discover the best beginner telescopes to introduce you to the fascinating world of astronomy. This guide will help you choose an easy-to-use and quick-to-set-up telescope, ideal for observing planets, stars, and galaxies. You'll find options that offer an excellent mix of price, simplicity, and impressive views, perfect for those starting their journey into night sky observation. We consider Dobsonian models, refractors, and smart telescopes, ensuring each recommendation facilitates your first astronomical experience. Get ready to explore the universe with the right equipment for novices.

512100% verified
  1. 1

    Celestron Travel Scope 70mm

    188 Global Votes
    • Aids in muscle recovery

      (+3)

    This is an excellent starting point for beginners on a budget, standing out for its great portability and ease of carrying it to any dark location, ideal for observation on the go.

  2. 2

    Celestron PowerSeeker 127 EQ

    135 Global Votes
    • Large aperture for a low price

      (+4)

    Offers a large aperture for beginners, allowing you to observe fainter objects. While its equatorial mount may be more complex at first, it provides greater precision for tracking celestial objects.

  3. 3

    Celestron 21039 PowerSeeker 50

    55 Global Votes
    • Cheap

      (+4)

    This refractor telescope is an excellent choice for beginners due to its high-quality optics and ease of use, allowing for a simple and accurate introduction to astronomical observation. It is reliable and offers clear images of bright celestial objects.

  4. 4

    Slokey SkyWays 50080

    47 Global Votes
    • Aids in viewing the moon in great detail

      (+4)

    This telescope is perfect for beginners who want to not only observe but also capture images of the Moon and planets, thanks to its universal smartphone adapter. Its portable design and quick assembly make it very convenient.

  5. 5

    Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130 AZ

    21 Global Votes
    • Great price

      (+4)

    It greatly simplifies the experience of finding celestial objects for beginners thanks to its advanced StarSense Explorer technology and larger aperture, making astronomy more accessible and rewarding.

  6. All the rankings you can imagine

    Thousands of verified votes to discover the best. Your vote here counts

  7. 6

    Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ

    17 Global Votes
    • Affordable option for moon and planet gazing

      (+4)

    Combines greater observational capabilities thanks to its 114mm aperture with the ease of smartphone guiding, allowing for better views of planets and more distant objects for beginners.

  8. 7

    Bresser Arcturus 60/700 AZ

    12 Global Votes
    • Provides a quick start for stargazing

      (+4)

    Recommended for its ability to deliver clear, bright, and high-resolution images, this refractor is ideal for beginners and children. Its ease of use and stability make it an excellent tool for exploring the sky.

  9. 8

    MEEZAA 80/600 mm

    11 Global Votes
    • Gathers plenty of light for bright, clear views

      (+3)

    This telescope offers an unbeatable balance of optical quality, ease of use, and comprehensive accessories, allowing beginners to observe the Moon, planets, and stars in great detail.

  10. 9

    Celticbird AZ 80600

    10 Global Votes
    • Captures greater amount of light

      (+2)

    This refractor stands out for its versatility and convenience, with an 80mm aperture that gathers more light for bright and detailed images, and a tall tripod for comfortable viewing. It includes a mobile phone adapter.

  11. 10

    Celestron Cometron FirstScope

    7 Global Votes
    • Aids in muscle recovery

      (+3)

    This is a very affordable and easy-to-use Dobsonian telescope, ideal for the Moon, nebulae, and galaxies. Its compact design makes it perfect for quick, portable, and hassle-free observations.

  12. 11

    Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 80 AZ

    6 Global Votes
    • Good optics for lunar, planetary, and double star observation

      (+4)

    This telescope greatly simplifies locating celestial objects for beginners, as it uses a smartphone for assisted guidance, combining technology with observation for a more accessible experience.

  13. 12

    Skywatcher Evostar-90 AZ-3

    2 Global Votes
    • Easy to operate alt-az mount

      (+4)

    This achromatic refractor offers excellent value for money for beginners, with good lunar and planetary images, and decent performance for larger deep-sky objects. It is very easy to handle and transport.

  14. 13

    Omegon AC 70/700 AZ-2

    1 Global Votes
    • AZ Mount with adjustable tripod allows easy movement in any direction

      (+3)

    It is considered the most popular beginner telescope, ideal for viewing the Moon and planets, and for starting to explore deep-sky objects. Its altazimuth mount facilitates intuitive handling for new users.

  15. 14

    Mijiao 70/400mm

    0 Global Votes
    • Quick and easy setup for novices

      (+4)

    It offers excellent value for money, making it a complete package for getting started in astronomy without a large investment. Its 70mm aperture and multi-coated lens guarantee good observations for beginners.

  16. 15

    Svbony SV48P Refractor Telescope 90mm

    0 Global Votes
    • Suitable for observing planets, Moon, and deep-sky objects

      (+3)

    This telescope stands out for its precise adjustments and high image quality, thanks to its dual-speed Crayford focuser and ED glass. It is ideal for both visual observation and lunar and planetary astrophotography.

  17. 16

    Levenhuk Skyline PLUS 105 MAK

    0 Global Votes
    • Compact and lightweight

      (+4)

    This Maksutov-Cassegrain catadioptric telescope is ideal for users seeking high magnification and portability in a compact design, perfect for detailed observation of planets and the Moon.