It’s no wonder customers heap 5-star ratings on this “gentle giant.” For not only does its jumbo-sized optics and uncomplicated design bring a “new level of joy to simple observing,” raved Astronomy magazine, but it’s also one of the most affordable quality Dobs on the market. This is truly the best beginner telescope for many enthusiasts. The SkyQuest XT8 Classic isn’t just good bang for the buck, it’s a supernova of telescope value! The XT8 Classic gives you the deep-space thrills without the deep-pocket frills. We’ve kept it lean and mean to…
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Review
The third edition of Nightwatch continues its tradition of being the best handbook for the beginning astronomer. Terence Dickinson covers all the problems beginners face, starting with the fact that the night sky does not look the way a modern city-dweller expects. He discusses light pollution, how to choose binoculars and telescopes, how to pronounce the names of stars and constellations, telescope mounts, averted vision, and why the harvest moon looks especially bright. Mo…
Buy Nightwatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe at Amazon

This tried-and-true refractor goes the extra distance in introducing the novice to the wonders of the night sky. The Observer 70 features a 70mm fully anti-reflection coated achromatic objective lens, which provides 36% more light-gathering ability than a 60mm. Its 700mm focal length (f/10) will show you the stark beauty of the lunar surface, Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s atmospheric belts, or the billowy clouds of the Orion Nebula. The included EQ-1 equatorial mount comes equipped wit…
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For many, the best beginner telescope may actually be a pair of binoculars.

Binoculars come in a wide range of shapes and sizes these days, and an even wider range of prices. It’s easy to spend less than $100 or more than $500 for what may appear to be, at least outwardly, comparable models. While they may look the same, they are probably quite different on the inside. Recently, the binocular market has seen a flood of giant binoculars at prices that were unheard of just a few years ago. In general, giant binoculars are defined as those t…
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Owners of small telescopes will appreciated this revised edition of a classic, which has been updated to AD 2006, and which includes hundreds of night sky objects easily viewed by the home observer. From seasonal challenges in making observations to locating common guideposts and visible clusters, this is the home astronomer’s ‘bible’. — Midwest Book Review

Review
“…an excellent book for small…
Buy Turn Left at Orion: A Hundred Night Sky Objects to See in a Small Telescope–and How to Find Them at Amazon

Looking for the best beginner telescope?

In order to find the best beginner telescope for your needs, you will need to examine your budget, interests, and what you expect to get out of your beginner telescope.

Here are two useful articles to help you get started:

• How to Pick the Best Beginner Telescope
  A guide to finding the best beginner telescope based on your budget and needs.
• Our Recommendations
  Our top recommendations, if you wish to quickly scan by price range.