Being passionate about Astronomy is definitely interesting but not so interesting when it comes to the cost of it.
If you want to treat your eyes, only a telescope would work as it allows deep-sky viewing.
Telescopes are a great piece of equipment that provides seamless results if configured correctly. With these in hand, you can venture into deep space and observe the magnitude of heavenly bodies at the comfort of your home. The great thing about modern telescopes is that you don’t need a lot of technical knowledge in order to operate them. And with a little bit of hustle, you can start your astronomical journey within no time. Now there are tons of different options in terms of telescopes for astronomy, each with its own implication and price tag.
Before you juggle between which telescope to purchase, let me guide you through it. A Telescope is basically an instrument designed to see far away objects by making them appear large, hence closer. There are mainly 2 types of telescopes; Refractor & Reflector Telescopes. You should consider a few basic parts to ensure that you have the telescope that would satisfy your needs. Some main parts of every telescope include the aperture, the focal length, the mounts, and the eyepiece. You can have a look at this guide for more information.
Things to consider before buying:
Reflecting Vs. Refracting: General-purpose astronomy telescopes are available in two major configurations. They could either be reflecting or refracting. Generally speaking, refractor telescopes will cost you a bit more than the reflecting counterparts as their lens is of higher quality. Similarly, the maintenance cost of reflectors is far low as compared to the reflective ones, as their lenses are converged in a fixed position. So take these things with a grain of salt when buying either one of them.
Eyepiece: Like anything else, scopes are available in a given set of eyepieces. There are the components that you use to see through the telescope. Now eyepiece varies in terms of size and kind, so there is no hard and fast rule in selecting the right one. With that said, we would recommend you to choose models like the Orion 10012 Skyscanner, which has multiple eyepieces for added comfort.
Best Telescopes Under 300 in 2022:
These include professional telescopes along with great ones for beginners.
Popular for viewing deep-sky objects like nebulas & star clusters
Extremely easy to use & store.
Has 6″ diameter f/8 parabolic mirror.
Provides a distortion-free image.
Pros
Cons
✅ Solid build
❌ A bit heavy
✅ Provides a vibration free image
❌ Only one eye piece included
✅ The eyepiece and lens can be upgraded
Why do we recommend it?
If you’re looking for an astronomy telescope that is preferably one of the best in the business in terms of its sheer quality, precision, and affordability, then you can’t go wrong choosing Orion SkyQuest. This is hands down the most professional telescope one can have. It comes with an altazimuth mount and an aluminum & silicon dioxide lens coating. You will have a lifetime of amazing views with the 6″ Dobsonian. One of the nice additions that Orion SkyQuest brings to the table is the protective foil covering, which will help you observe bright objects such as sunspots. Design-wise, it’s also worth the consideration for an average consumer. The overall body is metallic with plastic finishing at the backend.
You will immediately notice that it adopts pyrex low expansion borosilicate glass to give it advanced levels of reflectivity as well as temperature regulation. It immediately cools off, unlike many other high-end models on our list.
This telescope is also very easy to use because of simple navigation and does not require polar alignment. Orion 8944 has high light-gathering power, enough for deep-sky viewing.
Added Features
In terms of additional features, the Orion 8944 SkyQuest has it all. It boasts a 2inch Crayford focuser to observe a wide spectrum of heavenly bodies. Another great addition to this model is the ability to use tension springs, which protect it from any kind of imbalances. This means you won’t be prone to overturning and other irregularities.
This comes with a stable base that prevents a shaky image while viewing at high powers. This is one of the telescopes for astrophotography. Check out this amazing review if you are interested in a similar model, Orion Skyquest XT 10 Classical Dobsonioan Telescope.
Next up on our list, we have the StarBlaster II from Orion. If examining heavenly bodies is something dear to you, then this particular telescope is worth the investment in any day. This telescope makes all the distant objects appear bright and clear.
Everything from the moon to galaxies will seem to appear closer. This could keep you and your family occupied because of the fantastic wide-field astronomy telescope with large reflecting optics.
The reason why novice stargazers prefer it is because of its top-of-the-line optical strength, followed by an astonishing field of view. With this bad buy, you can observe planets like mars with accurate detail. If you up the ante through its configuration, then things like Jupiter’s cloud bands or Neptune’s moon (Titan) is also visible with an added element.
Added Features
Now let’s look at some of the things in which Orion StarBlast II excel. First of all, it is provided with a 2x extension lens along with the kit so you can easily locate stars at a distance. Besides that, you will also receive a general observation booklet that will guide you through the best location to find objects in the night sky. If that’s not enough, then the built-in LED will occupy your needs, especially on a foggy night.
With the help of the EQ-1 mount, you can easily keep moving objects still. It also has slow-motion controls that could prevent distorted views. The included eyepieces provide 18 and 45 high power views. It also includes the EZ Finder and a Moon Map 260.
Fully coated optic lens for top of the line imaging.
Provided with a wide range of accessories.
Around 2-year technical warranty.
Pros
Cons
✅ 2 year warranty & customer service.
❌ Heavy weight
✅ Bonus bag, tripod & software
✅ Easy & quick set up.
Why do we recommend it?
Telescopes for astronomy come in many form factors, but not many can deliver up to the standards for those who are into traveling. If that’s the case, then you will definitely love the upcoming product on our review that is the Celestron 70mm Refractor Telescope. It meets the need of both beginners and professionals alike without costing a fortune.
You will find that it works under several integrated technologies that make stargazing easy as it gets. The Celestron – 70mm Travel Scope has 2 powerful eyepieces for up-close viewing. It also Celestron- 70mm is great for beginners as it includes two high-quality eyepieces that help with views appear in a very close range. It captures objects during both, day and night.
Added Features
Right of the bat, this reflective telescope is compatible with Celestron’s stargazing app for both android and IOS devices, giving you extra comfort around the clock. Other than that, it works seamlessly dual eyepiece (20mm and 10mm), which are both high-quality components to view planets, moons, and anything in between.
Even being a portable option, it supports tripod compatibility. You will praise how there is a separate section to hold your miscellaneous accessories like a smartphone at the rear end of this model.
The 70mm aperture of this telescope lays out bright views. The 70mm Travel Scope comes with prime quality entirely coated glass optics, a lightweight fixture, and a bag according to its measurements, to carry it all. It also offers its users to download the top-ranked astronomy software for free. To maximize customer satisfaction, it comes with a 2-year warranty.
When it comes to an all-purpose telescope, not many models can match the performance of the Gskyer wireless refractor. At first glance, it’s a beginner-friendly telescope that will make your kids want to learn more about stellar bodies and their significance in our solar system. With a 70mm aperture and a 400mm focal length, it provides bright yet accurate images with limited distortion.
Get your hand on the best professional telescope in the business. The lens has been specially designed with a high transmission coating to prevent eye damage. They also provide the users with two replaceable eyepieces and one 3x Barlow lens. The magnifying power is tripled due to the 3x Barlow lens. It is easier to locate afar objects because of the 5×24 finder scope that has a mounting bracket and cross-hair lines.
Added Features
High-performance goes hands-on hand with pleasing attributes, which is why the Gskyer excel in modern times. It comes equipped with fully coated glass lenses that enhance its significance and make it somewhat secure as it will protect the user’s eyes from harmful space radiations. The images you will receive out of this telescope with be bright and precise thanks to its superb magnification power.
Like Celestron – 70mm, it has two eyepieces of respective 10mm and 20mm dimensions for further versatility. You can set this variant with a tri-pod stand in just mere minutes, thanks to its minimalistic design.
What further makes it the scope under 200 is the fact that you also get a smartphone adapter and a camera remote, that too wireless, to take amazing astronomical shots. A portable tripod and carry bag also come along. Take a look at our article on the finest telescopes in Canada under $500.
Newtonian Reflector Telescope with a 114mm aperture.
Smooth and precise pointing with the help of a slow-motion rod.
Comes with a 3x Barlow lens, two eyepieces as well & a tripod.
Ergonomically crafted and contains a lightweight frame.
Superior adjustments with no-tool setup.
Pros
Cons
✅ 2 year warranty.
❌ Only for adults
✅ Quick and easy set up.
✅ Sturdy tripod
Why do we recommend it?
If you’re a fan of Newtonian reflector telescopes in all their glory, then you will probably praise the number 5th product on our list, which is the Celestron ExploraScope 22103. The majority of old-school astronomers are into the feel of using a manual telescope that isn’t bound to modern technology. This is when this telescope shines the brightest.
Also, the great thing about this classical equipment other than its baseline functions is its reasonable pricing. Depending on your region, you can avail of this model in the sub $300 and start your deep-space venture within no time. For a beginner, the ExploraScope 114AZ is perfect to use. The finder scope comes with 2 high and low magnification lenses.
Added Features
With respect to overall features, the ExploraScope 22103 is pretty well aligned. There is an aluminum tripod stand within the packaging, so stargazing enthusiasts detect deep-space objects with greater precision. Also, unlike many high-end models, this refractor telescope is extremely easy to fix and use. You don’t require any technical knowledge and with simple guidelines, set this variant across your living space.
The Celestron ExploraScope 22103 offers a 3x Barlow lens and a finderscope to further cancel out the limitations. Other items include a well-built tripod and 3x Barlow lens. It also provides an option to use the smartphone through an app, Sky Portal. It is easy and quick to assemble because of the no-tool setup design.
Features a fully coated 70mm glass optic objective lens.
Is useable in both, daytime and nighttime.
For smooth and precise pointing, it has been designed with Alt-Az control.
Precision-driven red dot finder scope as well as an erect image star diagonal
Offers detailed views in the night sky.
Pros
Cons
✅ Specially made for beginners.
❌ Heavy weight
✅ Compact for storage.
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Why do we recommend it?
Here we have the AstroMaster 70AZ that is always ready to use in minutes. This is the top telescope for space as it is powerful enough to look at the moon and the planets. Included are extra lenses, a travel tripod, and a red dot finder scope. We would recommend you to grab this amazing piece, the top automatic telescope.
One of the great aspects of this telescope is that it comes in a classical refractor format. This means even the beginners will have an easy time setting it up and enjoy the wonders of the night sky on the get-go. Just like any other high-end Celestron model, it boasts a 70mm Objective lens, which is quite efficient in capturing celestial objects.
Whether you want to observe moon craters or are interested in studying Saturn’s outer rings, it will have you covered. If you want to further up the ante, this model comes in a 90mm configuration as well. So, the giveaway is that the options aren’t limited when it comes to Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ.
Added Features
Celestron products particularly their telescopes are known for their quality and efficiency, and the AstroMaster is no exception to that. It features erect image optics, which aren’t only effective against nighttime celestial bodies but also work wonders during daytime in capturing wildlife. There is even a built-in panhandle which is quite helpful when you’re in need of precise handling or adjustments.
Has a tabletop design with wide-angle, low-power viewing.
Provided with two eyepieces for magnification and also works with eyepiece filters.
A portable reflector telescope with 20mm rear magnification.
Compatible with Starry Night astronomy software.
Pros
Cons
✅ Specially made for beginners.
❌ Heavy weight
✅ Compact for storage.
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Why do we recommend it?
Do you want to bring those faintest stars closer? Choose this telescope under 200. It comes in handy and is easily manageable because of its delicate base. The other telescopes available on the market are not as lightweight as this one.
Observing the universe by using a miniature device can be a bit stressful, but that’s not the case with Orion SkyScanner. It is a highly compact and portable device that can be aligned with little or no technical knowledge. This is basically an upgraded version of the StarBlast series with better design and seamless performance.
All the things are carefully included within the packaging, so you won’t have to spend extra bucks on accessories. According to Orion, there is a 3x Barlow lens, dual eyepieces, as well as a full stand tripod (aluminum construction). Trust me; the offer couldn’t get better than this!
Added Features
There are certain attributes, which make the Orion SkyScanner, stand out from the rest of the competition. For once, it offers a tabletop configuration to measure even the faintest of celestial bodies out in the night sky. You will also be blown away from the quality and clarity this telescope delivers, especially in the magnification department. It is on par with some of the premium models out there.
The mount is designed with a slow-motion altitude rod.
3x Barlow lens and 2 extra eyepieces are also included.
A feature-rich accessory with ideal aperture.
Compact and lightweight construction.
Pros
Cons
✅ 2 year warranty
❌ Takes time to focus
✅ BONUS Starry Night Astronomy Software Package
❌ Not the best one for travelling
Why do we recommend it?
There isn’t much debate on who is the prime manufacturers for astronomy-related products. The only name which stands out from the rest in terms of quality and efficiency is undoubtedly Celestron. This particular model is among their latest lineup, which is yet again this one is the answer to, “what is the best telescope for beginners?”
It does not come with an easy setup, but it is definitely worth the patience. However, once it all collimated, the image would stay sharp forever. It has an optical coating all over. This telescope can be used by people of all ages.
If you thought that Celestron AstroMaster had a large aperture, then you might be gladly wrong. This thing has quite a large opening of 127mm and an aperture that can enhance magnification deep space viewing. You even have the option for different eyepieces for added comfort and peace of mind.
It comes in handy and is carriageable because of being lightweight, unlike other telescopes.
Added Features
It has quite a decent set of features to enhance your stargazing experience. The magnification power of this beast is set to 250x, which works wonders in any given condition. There is even a 3x barrel lens that is fully compatible with the specified 20mm eyepiece for even greater observation. Just don’t acquire the 4mm eyepiece with barrel lens, as it will make your vision blurry.
Designed with a permanent StarPointer finderscope.
SiO2 and aluminum have been coated all over the glass mirrors.
Compatible with all mobile phone devices & their operating systems.
Avaliable in a wide range of configurations.
Durable metallic body with adaptor knobs.
Pros
Cons
✅Quick and easy no-tool setup
❌ Carry bag not included
✅Comes in 3 styles
Why do we recommend it?
Do you want to have a blast discovering the skies over your head? Experience it with AstroMaster. If you are a beginner, you will enjoy using this for ease of use.
Added Features
Being a predecessor to the original AstroMaster series, it has the same attributes and aspects that stargazing enthusiasts deserve. First and foremost, there is minimal tool setup which means almost anyone can configure their model at their desired position. There is a smartphone adaptor so you can capture planets, stars, and other astronomical objects on the go. On top of that, the tripod stand is mounted permanently to save you extra time in the long run.
Shorty 2x Barlow included for deep-space ventures.
Additional items included planning stargazing sessions.
Perfect for beginners and professionals alike.
Moderate focal length as well as other adjustments.
Pros
Cons
✅ Guide book included
❌ On the pricey side
Why do we recommend it?
Finally, at number 10th spot, we have the Orion StarBlast AutoTracker Reflector. If you’re looking for a general-purpose telescope that won’t cost a fortune, then this particular model will suit your needs. It is based on a 114mm reflector that tracks the observable stars with substantial precision. You are also provided with an Observer’s Guide book as well as a MoonMap through online purchase. This is pretty useful for beginners.
Added Features
As the name suggests, you will receive AutoTracker Mount with this variant. This feature will help you to track objects at the configured position repeatedly. The Shorty 2x Barlow doubles the magnification of both included eyepieces. Hence makes it the best telescope for viewing planets. It has an abundant aperture to see breathtaking views of objects in the solar system. It also tracks all the objects you observe through the built-in auto tracker mount.
As we end the list of top telescopes, we hope it is simple for you to understand which type would be the perfect telescope. The list of top telescopes we have compiled comprises not only those which are of prime quality but also those that won’t leave a dent in your wallet. We have made finding an affordable and yet durable telescope under 300 dollars easy for you. You can also have a look at the top astronomy Apps for your phone.[/su_note]
Buying Guide:
Astronomy or astrophotography, in general, is no doubt a complicated field. Even with the latest and greatest model, you will still need a bit of insight into the procedures and configure your model according to your needs. Not to mention things like aperture size, reflectivity, magnification power, and objective lens could all make or break your purchase. That’s why to provide you with peace of mind, we have listed some factors which you definitely want to consider on your next telescope shopping spree.
1) Aperture
One of the biggest factors that you most often have to tackle in terms of things like astronomy telescopes is the overall aperture. For those of you who are new to this, it is the area through which light is transmitted in an optical device. The general rule of thumb is that the larger the aperture, the better is the telescope. A wide-reaching aperture will gather a higher amount of light, and the brighter will be the object. So, anything in between 70mm should be on your watch list.
Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ Reflector Telescope is a good telescope for space.
List of Telescope for sale near me are?
The telescopes for sale near me are as follow;
Gskyer Telescope 70mm and Gskyer Telescope 80mm. These are professional telescopes for sale.
Should a beginner get their hands on a binocular first or a telescope?
Binoculars are not for deep-sky viewing. Therefore, a telescope is preferable if you are interested in astronomy. A beginner can go for a telescope that falls under the beginner category. You can have a look at the few options listed above for your convenience and ease.
Which is the best telescope for deep space astrophotography?
The Celestron 127eq Powerseeker Telescope. Refractor is the top telescope for deep space astrophotography. It is also the most affordable deep space telescope. Don’t forget to check out the review for The Celestron 127eq Powerseeker Telescope.
What is the top telescope eyepiece for viewing planets?
Orion 08890 1.25-Inch Premium Telescope. You can buy telescope online.
What telescope can less money buy?
The telescope money can buy is Orion StarBlast 4.5.
Keep your eyes on the stars and have a good time discovering the space heaven!
I am a Space enthusiast and have been into deep space research for over 8 years. Inspired by the likes of Mary Robinette Kowal and others to write great content.
I hope you agree with me when I say:
Why do we recommend it? 
2- Orion StarBlast II 4.5 Equatorial Reflector Telescope
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