Best Telescopes Under $200
Ever since Galileo improved the telescope to be able to see details of the moon and Jupiter’s four largest moons, man has been fascinated with what mysteries the Universe holds. At $200 or less, you can get a great beginner scope that will provide you and your family with detailed views of the moon, and great views of Jupiter, Saturn, or planetary nebulas and galaxies. Every time I set up my telescope, people that are walking by always ask to take a look, and I’m always amazed at the expression of gratitude and wonderment that overcomes them when they see the rings of Saturn or the detailed craters and canyons of the moon. Our top rated telescopes under $200 make a great gift for the young and young at heart.
Celestron 127EQ Powerseeker
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Price at Time of Rating: $149
- This easy to use telescope is perfect for the beginning astronomer.
- It’s a great size for a beginner to intermediate scope and you will have no trouble viewing details of the moon as well as brighter planets, nebulas and star clusters.
- The Newtonian reflector design with a German equatorial mount and high quality materials are very impressive at this price point.
- The tripod mount, excellent optics, high quality, and 2 year warranty make this an outstanding buy for your star gazer.
Rating by Brian on July 1, 2016
Celestron Astromaster 114EQ
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Price at Time of Rating: $181
- This telescope is an outstanding choice for the beginning astronomer.
- The 114mm Newtonian reflector telescope provides breathtaking views of the Moon, Saturn’s ring structure, Jupiter’s cloud bands and moons, and other favorite deep sky objects like the Orion Nebula.
- With a sturdy tripod and German Equatorial mount, it’s easy to locate and track everything in the sky.
Rating by Brian on July 1, 2016
Orion ShortTube 80
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Price at Time of Rating: $199
- The Orion ShortTube 80 is a great little scope that is great for daytime or night viewing.
- Thanks to its short focal length, you get a crisp and wide field of view.
- This compact refractor is a great starter scope or a fantastic 2nd scope because it’s so easy to travel with and comes with a soft carry case.
- If you need a tripod, be sure to buy the “bundle” since this scope doesn’t normally include a tripod.
Rating by Brian on July 1, 2016
Celestron Powerseeker 80 EQ
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Price at Time of Rating: $114
- This is a great telescope for those that are beginner astronomers.
- Since its a refractor scope, you can use it both during the day, and at night.
- The scope comes with a sturdy tripod, an easy to use equatorial mount, 2 eye pieces, and a barlow lens which triples the magnification of the two eyepieces.
Rating by Brian on July 1, 2016
Celestron Travelscope 70
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Price at Time of Rating: $68
- This is a great, easy to use, 70mm refractor telescope for those on the go.
- You get clear, crisp views both during the day and at night.
- With the included tripod, finder scope, and travel backpack, you can easily take this great little scope anywhere.
Rating by Brian on July 1, 2016