Best Telescopes Under $300 in 2022 [Top 10 Reviewed]

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.

You can get Orion 8944 SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope on telescope.com

Why do we recommend it? 

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.

You can get Orion StarBlast II 4.5 Equatorial Reflector Telescope on walmart.com

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.

You can get Celestron – 70mm Travel Scope on bhphotovideo.com

Why do we recommend it? 

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.

You can get Gskyer Telescope on walmart.com

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 5^th 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.

You can get Celestron ExploraScope 22103 on bhphotovideo.com

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.

You can get Celestron – AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope on bhphotovideo.com

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.

You can get Orion 10012 SkyScanner, TableTop Reflector on optcorp.com

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.

You can get Celestron – PowerSeeker 127EQ on bhphotovideo.com

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.

You can get Celestron 31036 AstroMaster on walmart.com

Why do we recommend it? 

Finally, at number 10^th 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.

You can get Orion StarBlast AutoTracker Reflector on telescope.com