Start here · Essential guide
How to Pick a Good Telescope: A Buyer's Guide
Learn how to pick a good telescope: why aperture matters most, how telescope types and mounts differ, what to avoid, and how to match a scope to your budget.
Choosing a Telescope
Choosing a Telescope
6 guides, starting with How to Pick a Good Telescope: A Buyer’s Guide.
Best GoTo Telescopes
Considering a GoTo telescope? Learn how computerized mounts work, the main types (SCT, tabletop, smart), what to look for, and what to expect at different budgets.
Best Telescope for Deep Space Viewing
What is the best telescope for deep space viewing? Learn why aperture matters, how Dobsonians, SCTs and smart telescopes compare, and what galaxies and nebulae look like.
Best Telescope for Watching Stars on a Budget
Looking for the best telescope for watching stars on a budget? Compare binoculars, tabletop Dobsonians and small refractors, and learn what to expect to see.
Best Telescopes for Looking at Planets Up Close
Which telescope is best for looking at planets? Compare refractors, Maksutovs, SCTs and Dobsonians, and learn what Jupiter, Saturn and Mars really look like.
How Much Does a Good Telescope Cost?
How much does a good telescope cost? See typical price tiers from beginner scopes to large Dobsonians, what drives the price, and where your money works hardest.
Related topics
More in choosing a telescope
Telescope Types 7 guides, starting with Telescope Types Explained. Dobsonian Telescopes 5 guides, starting with Dobsonian Telescope for Beginners: Why It Is a Great First Scope. Telescope Optics & Specs 6 guides, starting with What Is Aperture on a Telescope? Why Size Matters. Eyepieces & Finders 5 guides, starting with Telescope Eyepieces Guide: Types, Sizes and Choices. Telescope Filters 3 guides, starting with Telescope Filters Guide: Which Ones Are Worth Buying.