10 Best Cheap Telescopes 2025 in the United States

The Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm AZ is an affordable option for amateur astronomers and casual stargazers. With a 90mm aperture and a 600mm focal length, it offers a clear and bright view of celestial objects, making it great for beginners. The fully coated optics enhance image quality while protecting your eyes, ensuring a good viewing experience. The included three eyepieces (24X, 60X, 120X) along with a 3x Barlow lens allow for versatile magnification options, which is a fantastic feature for exploring various objects in the night sky.

Portability is another strong point, as the adjustable aluminum tripod makes it easy to set up and use in different locations. Its height range of about 31.5 inches to 49 inches caters to users of various heights. Additionally, the telescope is designed to be user-friendly, requiring no tools for assembly and offering quick focusing, which is ideal for novices.

There are some drawbacks to consider. Weighing 18 pounds, it’s not the lightest telescope out there, which might hinder portability for some users. The manual focus can be a bit challenging for those who prefer more automatic mechanisms. Also, while it's suitable for viewing planets and the moon, its performance may not be adequate for deep-sky objects, limiting its use for more advanced astronomical pursuits.

This HEXEUM telescope offers a robust package for both adult beginners and more experienced astronomers. With an 80mm aperture and 600mm focal length, it provides clear and bright images of the night sky. You get two eyepieces for 24X and 60X magnification, and a 3x Barlow lens that can boost magnification up to 180X, making it easier to view details on the moon and other celestial objects. The 5x24 finder scope also helps in locating objects quickly.

The telescope comes with an AZ mount, which is straightforward and easy to use, especially for beginners. It’s light at 6.2 pounds and portable, with a carrying bag and phone adapter included, making it great for stargazing on the go. The setup is user-friendly, requiring no tools, so even novices can start stargazing immediately. Additionally, it includes a wireless remote control for convenience.

However, the manual focus might be a bit challenging for complete beginners, and the included eyepieces, while decent, may not provide the best quality views compared to more expensive models. This telescope is a good choice for those looking for an affordable, portable, and easy-to-use option for casual stargazing.

The Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope is a solid choice for both beginners and more advanced users who want a computerized option for stargazing. One of its major strengths lies in its impressive 8-inch aperture, which allows ample light collection for observing celestial objects, making it well-suited for exploring our Solar System. The fully automated GoTo mount is a standout feature, offering a database of over 40,000 celestial objects, allowing users to effortlessly locate and track targets. This makes it particularly appealing for those who may feel overwhelmed by the complexities of manual telescopes.

Portability is another strong point, as the telescope's design allows for easy assembly and disassembly, making it convenient for transportation. The SkyAlign technology simplifies the setup process, enabling users to get started swiftly, which is great for casual astronomers or families looking to enjoy some stargazing.

While the NexStar 8SE is packed with features, it does come with some drawbacks. Its price might not fit the 'cheap' category, as it is more of an investment compared to entry-level telescopes. Additionally, the telescope's manual focus can be a bit tricky for some users, particularly those who are new to astronomy. Although it is user-friendly, individuals seeking a completely automated experience may find themselves needing more familiarity with the manual adjustments. The Celestron NexStar 8SE is a fantastic option for those who want a well-equipped telescope with advanced features, suitable for both beginners and seasoned observers. Potential buyers should consider their budget and willingness to engage with some manual operations before making a decision.