Best Telescopes Under $500 in 2024
Looking to explore the night sky without breaking the bank? We have you covered! There is no need for a massive budget to enjoy stunning views of our universe. For under $500, these telescopes come with everything you need, and are powerful enough for incredible resolution in the planets, deep sky objects, star clusters, and more! Our team of Gear Experts at High Point Scientific have taken the time to compile a list of the best telescopes under $500 that you can use to enjoy the night sky for many years to come.
Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ -
The Celestron DX 130AZ, the largest telescope in Celestron’s DX series of telescopes, is an absolutely fantastic choice for widefield observing while also being able to see beautiful detail on the Jupiter, the Orion Nebula, and plenty more. A Newtonian telescope, this telescope has a primary mirror diameter of 5.12” and a focal length of 650mm for a focal ratio of f/5. The biggest upside to this telescope? Its ability to point to and observe any object in the night sky with the included StarSense Explorer smartphone docking station. Simply connect your smartphone to the telescope mount and your telescope will locate nearly anything in the night sky with the free StarSense Explorer app!
Also included are two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), a StarPointer Red Dot Finder, and a tripod accessory tray. The telescope features a focuser that can use both 1.25” and 2” eyepieces should you wish to expand your observing experience. We recommend an eyepiece like the Apertura 26mm SWA 2” eyepiece. You may also wish to consider the optional essential bundle package for an additional $50.00 that will include a cleaning kit for your optics and a handy red light.
SHOP NOW
Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ -
While smaller than the DX 130AZ, the Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ still packs a punch! This telescope is a 4” refractor telescope with a focal length of 660mm (f/6.5), meaning that it uses a lenses to create an image instead of a mirror. This yields a higher contrast view as there is no central obstruction. Additionally, unlike a Newtonian, this telescope does not need to be collimated, which can be tedious and difficult for a new observer. Included are 25mm and 10mm eyepieces, a 1.25'' 90 degree diagonal, and a red dot finder to get you out and observing in no time. For more information on refractor telescopes, check out our Beginners Guide to Refractor Telescopes. Like the 130AZ, the 102AZ also comes with the Celestron StarSense smartphone docking station that can be used to locate object in the night sky with the free StarSense Explorer smartphone app. Should you wish to consider additional accessories, we recommend purchasing the optional essential bundle package!
SHOP NOW
Sky-Watcher Virtuoso GTi 130P -
Take one look through this 130 mm Tabletop Dobsonian from Sky-Watcher and be amazed by the level of detail seen within your eyepiece! From the craters of our Moon to the bright light of Jupiter's Moons and beyond, this tabletop Dobsonian provides spectacular views. Portable, reliable, and easy to set up - the Virtuoso series is perfect for anyone looking for an easy night under the stars. The Virtuoso GTi tabletop Dob is designed to provide the ultimate experience with convenience, flexibility, and light-gathering power.
Simply connect to the SynScan app, align your telescope and choose your targets. The app features a list of "Tonight's Best" based on your current time and location. Planning, locating, and observing your targets has never been easier!
SHOP NOW
Celestron AstroMaster 114 EQ -
Combining portability and powerful optics, the Celestron Astromaster 114 EQ is a perfect choice for any astronomy enthusiast! The lightweight CG-2 style Equatorial mount features slow motion controls which makes slewing to and from objects quick and effortless. The optical design provides a longer focal length than most other 114mm aperture scopes because of the built-in amplifier on the front of the focuser drawtube, which proves wonderful for planetary viewing. Setting you up for success, this telescope comes standard with everything you need for viewing right out of the box. The 10mm eyepiece delivers stunning sights on Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars, and the 20mm eyepiece is perfect for viewing the Moon and bright deep space objects.
Honorable Mention - Celestron NexStar 4SE -
If you’re willing to look a bit beyond the $500 mark, we highly recommend the Celestron NexStar 4SE computerized telescope. This 4” Maksutov-Cassegrain features a focal length of 1325 mm and a focal ratio of f/13. Pair this with the fantastic tracking and GoTo capabilities provided by the NexStar SE mount, and you’re all set for stunning, awe-inspiring views! Not only this, but the automated tracking offers the ability to engage in short-exposure astrophotography as well. You also have the freedom to slew to just about any object in the night sky with the extensive database within the included NexStar+ Hand Controller. Thanks to Celestron, you’re sure to enjoy engaging astronomy sessions night after night!
SHOP NOWQuestions? Contact Us!
Have any questions about any of these telescopes? Interested in more recommendations? We’re here to help! We have curated a large selection of high-quality telescopes under $500 here at High Point Scientific. Our experts are on standby to assist you in finding the telescope of your dreams without breaking the bank. Reach out by completing our contact form today.
This Article was Originally Posted on December 2nd, 2022
