Would you like the opportunity to gaze out into our vast space? We have reviewed the huge range of telescopes and selected the best options for budding hobby astronomers and stargazing professionals alike.
In our test we also teach you everything you need to know before you make your purchase. In addition to this you will be able to find pages about stargazing, accessories for telescopes and some fun facts. Everything to enhance your experience of space. Join us on our exciting journey among the stars.
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The Best Telescopes – Best in our Test
- The Best in our Test : GoTo Skyliner 250P FlexTube
- The Best Beginner Telescope: AstroMaster LT 70AZ
- The Best Complete Package for Beginners: AstroMaster 130EQ
- The Best Telescope for Kids: Sky-Watcher Heritage
- The Best Telescope with Computer Control (Wi-Fi): Astro Explorer-130PS AZ-GTI
- The Best Professional Telescope: Meade LX200-ACF
- The Best Inexpensive Telescope: 8X teleskop BAK4
You can read more about these products along with a few others below. Further down you will also find our buyer’s guide with helpful tips regarding what to consider when buying a new telescope. (Our texts contain advertisements)
Results of our review of the best telescopes
According to our test panel, the Go-To Skyliner-250P FlexTube is without a doubt our best in test telescope. This option provides you with a collapsible Dobsonian telescope that gives you bang for your buck when it comes to optics. With this purchase, you are really making a worthwhile investment into your hobby.
We can start by saying that the Go-To Skyliner-250P FlexTube has an optic diameter of 250 mm. It's one of the largest apertures of any product we've tested. It gives you an incredible amount of detail.
The included magnification maxes out at 120x, but the highest possible is 500x. With this model, you can get a field of view of an impressive 2.3° of the wide space.
With its 1276x light-gathering capability and incredible optics, we believe this reflecting telescope is the best you can have at home for the purpose of stargazing. The weight is especially noticeable with its 46 kg, so you might want to consider this product a stay-at-home telescope.
One thing in particular that we appreciate is the inclusion of the GoTo control, i.e. computer control. This way you can quickly find thousands of points of interest. It is perfect for beginners and pros alike! With Wi-Fi, you have full control over the telescope via both mobile and tablet.
Pros: Computer control, Large ocular diameter, Incredible optics
Cons: Not suitable for solar observations, Heavy
Facts:
- Easy to use: Yes
- Easy to move: No
- Max magnification: 1200
- Ocular diameter: 250 m
- Weight: 46 kg
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Approximate price point: £1 200
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Our extensive review shows that the AstroMaster LT 70AZ should be your go-to if you want to discover the starry sky for the first time. This is a true entry-level model that can bring you joy for many years to come.
It does not require a big budget to discover galaxies, nebulae and planets.
You can also spot the moon using the included moon filter. Take the opportunity to photograph it using your smartphone. A smartphone adapter is included.
The product is easy to use, and the lens telescope provides a high-contrast image. Thanks to the three-legged stand, it stands firmly on the ground while you gaze. The 70 mm optical diameter is not going to knock anyone’s socks off, but it is sufficient and perfect for beginners.
Pros: Smartphone adapter, Easy to use for beginners, Stable stand
Cons: Small optic diameter
Facts:
- Easy to use: Yes
- Easy to move: Yes
- Max magnification:140X
- Ocular diameter: 70 mm
- Weight: 3.45 kg
- Wi-Fi: No
- Approximate price point: £ 200
When we tested the AstroMaster 130EQ, we immediately realized that it is an excellent entry-level telescope. This reflecting telescope will not leave your wallet empty and therefore paves the road for your growing interest in space.
With the help of the AstroMaster 130EQ, you can gaze at the moon and planets as well as stars. The ocular diameter is 130 mm, which is fairly sizeable for telescopes of this model. You can gaze at anything from galaxies to nebulae. A major benefit is the adapter for your mobile phone that is included in the package. By using the adapter, you can take stunning pictures of different planets. It is also possible to connect a regular photography camera.
Perhaps this is your first time venturing into astrophotography?
Pros: Smartphone adapter, Easy to use by beginners, Stable stand
Cons: Small optic diameter
Facts:
- Easy to use: Yes
- Easy to move: Yes
- Max magnification: 307x
- Ocular diameter: 130 mm
- Weight: Not specified
- Wi-Fi: No
- Approximate price point: £300
If you want to share your love for space with your children, then the Sky-Watcher Heritage is the best telescope for introducing them to all the stars. With a fun design, the equipment is playful from first glance.
The telescope has an ocular diameter of 76 mm, which makes it perfect to start off with. Planets can be magnified a full 30 times over. This way, you can get a good view of space in your field of vision.
What users especially like about Sky-Watcher Heritage is the user-friendly design. It is easy to both observe and manually navigate. The telescope is compact, so it fits at home on the desk when not in use.
Pros: Ease of use, Compact design, Perfect entry-level model
Cons: You cannot take photos with it
Facts:
- Easy to use: Yes
- Easy to move: Yes
- Max magnification: 30x
- Ocular diameter: 76 mm
- Weight: 1.8 kg
- Wi-Fi: No
- Approximate price point: £ 75
Water-resistant 8X teleskop BAK4 is the ultimate entry-level model for those who want to gaze at planets and stars. Thanks to the light weight, you can easily take the equipment with you outside the home. Why not head out into the countryside and gaze far beyond the light pollution of the city?
Users find that the telescope is very easy to handle. It is simply an excellent choice for those of you who want to quickly gain access to space without having to spend too much money on your new hobby. A cheap price point does not always have to translate to lower quality. It all depends on where you set your expectations.
The model is easy to assemble, resistant to water and has a light transmission of 99.5%. You can magnify up to eight times. A feature we appreciate is that you can see a full 236 meters within one kilometer.
Pros: Ease of use, Compact design, Perfect entry-level model
Cons: You cannot take photos with it
Facts:
- Easy to use: Yes
- Easy to move: Yes
- Max magnification: 8x
- Ocular diameter: Not specified
- Weight: 272 grams
- Wi-Fi: No
- Approximate price point: £ 50
With the Astro Explorer-130PS AZ-GTI, getting started with astronomy is a breeze. Here you get a complete package with everything you could possibly need. The fact that this telescope can also be used with Wi-Fi makes this the ideal upgraded beginner's equipment.
Our survey showed that complete packages are popular among new enthusiasts. This specific package includes, among other things, a reflecting telescope, a moon chart and a star chart that allows you to navigate the sky.
Furthermore, being able to control the telescope using Wi-Fi from your mobile is a well-liked feature. This eliminates the need for messing with extra cables. The optic diameter is a whopping 130 mm, so you get plenty of light coming in. The field of view also leaves little to be desired, with its 2.6°.
Pros: Many accessories included, Motor control and Wi-Fi, Large field of view
Cons: Difficult to photograph nebulae
Facts:
- Easy to use: Yes
- Easy to move: Yes
- Max magnification: 65x
- Ocular diameter: 130 mm
- Weight: 6.65 kg
- Wi-Fi: Yes
Approximate price point: £500
Looking for an unbeatable telescope that can take you into space? In that case, the Meade LX200-ACF is the one piece of equipment you should invest in. This model has unmatched quality in terms of both optics and construction.
The Meade LX200-ACF has an ocular diameter of an astonishing 400 mm, the largest in our review. Thanks to the large aperture, plenty of light makes its way in. You can therefore gaze at planets and galaxies as well as nebulae in high definition. The amount of detail is staggering, even for the experts in our test panel.
You get a 156x included magnification, with the possibility of 800x. The focal length is 4,064 mm, and you get the largest possible field of view of 0.7°. The light gathering capacity is a whopping 3265x.
But enough with the numbers. This exclusive model speaks for itself. It includes computer control via a hand remote along with motor control. The telescope has an Alt-azimuth mount, and we believe it is one of the most stable we have seen yet.
Use the hand remote to view 145,000 objects. You can easily view the sun as well as the moon. It is also possible to use the model for long exposure astrophotography.
Pros: Unsurpassed quality, 3265x light gathering ability, Hand remote
Cons: Not for beginners
Facts:
- Easy to use: Yes, with experience
- Easy to move: No
- Max magnification: 156x
- Ocular diameter: 400 mm
- Weight: 144 kg
- Wi-Fi: No
- Approximate price point: 180,000 SEK (Currently on sale, regular price 250,000 SEK)
Buyer’s Guide Telescope – Stargazing Equipment
What to consider when buying a telescope
Are you on the hunt for a telescope? Then there are a lot of points you should consider beforehand. In order to avoid being disappointed with your new purchase, get yourself familiar with the topic of stargazing while also being aware of what you can expect to see with the help of a telescope.
Different models for different users
First, our review shows that there are different models suitable for different users. You will get the most out of your experience if you choose the optimal telescope for you. In our review, we have therefore looked at models that are geared towards kids, adults, professionals and beginners.
What are you able to see with the help of a telescope?
Many beginners purchase a telescope, only to feel disappointed. They were expecting to be able to zoom in on Jupiter and see the huge planet in its colorful glory, just like in pictures. However, that is not how it works. The best model will help you see space incredibly clearly and in detail, but not in close-up. Therefore, make sure you have the right expectations for a successful purchase.
When and how are you going to use your telescope?
Consider when you are going to use your new telescope and, above all, where. If you want to be able to take your equipment with you and go out into the countryside to avoid all the city lights, then you need a flexible model that is easy to set up and move around. If, however, you are going to place it on the balcony and leave it there, a larger model will do the trick.
How does a telescope work?
The invention of the telescope revolutionized our knowledge of space. All of a sudden, we were able to see so far away that stars could be viewed and planets could be discovered. But how do astronomical telescopes actually work?
In short, telescopes are used for gazing far away. You will not be able to magnify the planets to make them look huge, but you will be able to see distant objects in greater detail.
There is an advanced construction behind it all, but when it all comes down to it, different lenses and mirrors are used. These collect as much light as possible from small stars that are far away.
By directing the light towards your eyes, you can see more detailed images of both stars and planets. Users find that they can see space very clearly. Exactly how it all happens depends, among other things, on the type of construction the telescope has.
Three popular types of telescopes
There are different types of telescopes to choose from on the market. All have their own advantages and disadvantages. There are mainly three models that are particularly common and popular among both hobby users and professionals.
These three models are:
- Refracting telescopes – Also called refractors or dioptric telescopes. It makes use of a lens as its objective in order to form an image. This model provides excellent color correction, sharp images and a high contrast. In other words, it is the best choice for beginners. The price point benefits your wallet, and the telescope is suitable for hobby astronomers who only wish to observe stars and moons. A refracting telescope is the most user-friendly entry-level telescope.
- Reflecting telescopes – Often referred to as a Newton telescope after its inventor. In this model, there is instead a large mirror at the back of the tube. Pick this telescope if you want to gaze at more faint objects such as galaxies or nebulae. With this model, you get a true-to-life color reproduction.
- Catadioptric telescopes – This model has a composite lens and mirror, which creates the absolute best conditions for stargazing. The model is often called a hybrid telescope since it is a combination of the two models mentioned above. Here you get good performance and a long focal length, but in a slightly more compact format. Choose this model if you want to be able to carry the telescope with you to interesting places.
Which model you should choose depends on the type of experience you are looking for. When we tested all the models in our test, we therefore focused on what you as a user are able to do with them.
Telescope with a camera
If you are really interested in astrophotography, i.e. the art of photographing space and its stars, then a good telescope is a requirement.
Astrophotography is not only fun, but it can also be advanced. It all really depends on what you want to photograph. In our test, we have therefore looked at the process of photographing space by using the different telescopes.
- The easiest objects to photograph: The easiest targets are the moon and planets since they emit a lot of light. Here you do not need long exposure times.
- The most difficult objects to photograph: The hardest part is photographing galaxies and nebulae since they only emit a small amount of light. Therefore, it requires long exposure times, often up to several hours.
In order to be able to take pictures, a motor control of the telescope is needed. Not all models can be equipped with a motor. If you want to start experiencing astrophotography, it is recommended that you choose a compatible model right from the start. After that, it takes patience as well as practice and experience to become good at it.
You also need a camera. Our test shows that it is good to invest in a planetary camera with a high frame rate (frames per second). You can start with a DSLR camera that can record video sequences, but the result will not be optimal since the frame rate is too low.
Why you should choose a large optic diameter
Would you like a nice view of the universe in order to gaze at constellations? In that case, it is important to have the correct optic diameter, i.e. the aperture. Our review shows that this is the single most important factor in choosing the best telescope.
The larger the aperture, i.e. the larger the optical diameter, the more details you will be able to see. With a large aperture, more objects fit in your field of vision, and they also become more detailed. This way you get an impressive view of space.
The right optic diameter is crucial for an optimal user experience. The optic diameter is controlled by the size of the lens or mirror. A larger aperture is beneficial because it can collect more light and provides better resolution. The rule is: The larger the optic diameter – the more you can see.
Magnification is less important
Something to keep in mind when you purchase astronomical equipment, however, is that the magnification is less important. Just as we have mentioned before: it is not magnification you want, but an impressive amount of detail. Then you can be sure that you have chosen the most beautiful model on the market.
In many product descriptions, you can read that the model gives you a certain magnification. Do not be fooled though: magnification only results in a blurrier image.
The magnification must always be set in relation to how big the aperture is. We do not recommend that you magnify by more than twice the size of the aperture in millimeters.
In other words, if the aperture measures 200 mm, then you should not magnify more than 400 mm. After that, the result becomes uninteresting and unusable.
Telescopes for kids
Buying a telescope for your children is a great way to spark their interest in space. In addition, they can learn all about planets, stars and the solar system by gazing out into the universe. In our test, we have therefore chosen the best and most suitable model for kids.
In our opinion, stargazing is the perfect hobby. It is also a hobby that can be shared by everyone in the family. Why not take the opportunity to look for shooting stars and constellations before bedtime?
Durable telescopes for children do not have to be overly expensive. In addition, it is a one-time investment, unlike soccer practice which has to be paid every month or semester. Feel free to combine your gazing with educational books about space.
The best model for kids under and over the age of 10
Which model you should invest in depends on how old your child is. The most important guideline is always that stargazing should be both simple and fun. The model must therefore suit the child’s age, something that is important to take note of when you are shopping.
Kids under the age of 10: For smaller children, it is difficult to handle stargazing equipment on their own. Therefore, take this opportunity to explore together so that you, as an adult, can handle the equipment. It is best to choose a telescope with motor control. This enables the object to remain in the child’s field of vision for a long time.
Kids over the age of 10: Older children can often handle stargazing equipment on their own. Choose a telescope that is as simple as possible and easy to handle.
Telescope with computer control
Something that we have taken into account during our test is how easy it is to use the different models. As a beginner, it can be difficult to locate both stars and planets. Different aids are therefore needed, for example a star chart or an app.
However, the best option is to use a telescope with computer control (for example a GoTo). This way, it is faster to locate different constellations, while also being more fun.
What does computer control refer to?
Computer control refers to the use of a hand remote or an app on your mobile phone that controls the telescopes. By entering what you want to see, the computer-controlled telescope can look it up for you. You connect using Wi-Fi.
Three benefits of computer control
One of the biggest advantages is that you can quickly find interesting objects. You see why this is the go-to choice when stargazing with young children, right? So, no overly great patience is required.
Another advantage is that you can quickly jump between different objects and therefore have time to gaze at even more of them. Best of all: you don’t need any extensive knowledge of the starry sky. With the help of computer control, anyone can start stargazing and quickly view beautiful planets.
Well-known telescope brands
In the world of astronomy, there are many well-known brands, but two that always stand out a bit extra are Sky-Watcher and Celestron. In fact, these two brands are responsible for many of the models on our top list.
Sky-Watcher offers high quality in the form of affordable products for amateur astronomy. The same applies to Celestron, but this brand focuses on slightly more experienced users. Real professionals should direct their attention to equipment from Meade.
You can find astronomy equipment from both Sky-Watcher, Celestron and Meade in a number of places. Of course, you will find the best prices by clicking on the links in our top list. However, if you want to browse physical stores, you can turn to Kjell & Company along with AstroSweden.
How our test was conducted
When we picked out products for our big “telescope best in test”, we reviewed other tests and read lots of reviews. In addition, we also took note of both customer ratings and expert opinions since they have tested all the models that we reviewed.
Here you will be able to read more about how we conduct our tests.
FAQ regarding telescopes
It depends on what you want out of your new stargazing equipment. We have chosen the best models in each individual category. However, we consider the absolute best in test to be the Go-To Skyliner-250P FlexTube thanks to all of its features.
Yes, if a hand remote that you plug in with a cord is included. However, Wi-Fi is required if you are going to control the telescope with your mobile phone.
Many models can be powered by both electricity and batteries, so what should you invest in? Generally, electricity is the most popular choice because batteries have, well, a short battery life. Telescopes use a lot of power, and the batteries often need be replaced or recharged.
If you lack experience, you should buy a model that is simple. It should be easy to assemble and easy to handle. However, a few nifty features would be appreciated so that you can keep getting better at stargazing. Why not try a model that has motor control?
If you want to be able to gaze at stars and planets, you need to know how to find them. This means that you have to learn how to navigate the sky if you lack motor control. This is because you yourself have to point the aperture in the right direction.
With this in mind, you might want to buy a star chart or a model where one is included, e.g. Astro Explorer-130PS AZ-GTI.
In summary
The range of telescopes is huge, so we always advise you to carefully compare different models. By considering which functions are most important to you, it will be easier to make a good purchase.
In our telescope test, we concluded that the Go-To Skyliner-250P FlexTube is the best in test option. This model meets all our criteria for smooth operation, an impressive optical diameter and a detailed visual image of space.
Here you can read more about the history of telescopes.
Top list with different telescope test winners
- The Best in our Test : GoTo Skyliner 250P FlexTube
- The Best Beginner Telescope: AstroMaster LT 70AZ
- The Best Complete Package for Beginners: AstroMaster 130EQ
- The Best Telescope for Kids: Sky-Watcher Heritage
- The Best Telescope with Computer Control (Wi-Fi): Astro Explorer-130PS AZ-GTI
- The Best Professional Telescope: Meade LX200-ACF
- The Best Inexpensive Telescope: 8X teleskop BAK4
Sources
https://www.chalmers.se/sv/forskningsinfrastruktur/-
https://www.lu.se/artikel/forskare-hittar-forklaring-pa-gatfulla-stjarnor
Are you from another country, see our country specific sites here:
I Norge har vi – Beste teleskop – En kjøpsguide
In Deutschland kann man lesen https://teleskopguide.de/
Taler du dansk, kan du komme ind her https://teleskopguide.dk/
I Sverige så har vi https://teleskopguide.se/