Telescope picker

Thinking about a first telescope? Answer five quick questions and we’ll suggest telescope types that fit your sky, storage space and budget — with links to browse current models.

Disclosure: Product links go to Amazon search results. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. We suggest types of gear rather than specific models, and we don't list prices — check current prices and reviews on the retailer's page. Learn more.

Hippocamp needed Hubble, but Neptune itself is within reach of a modest telescope as a small blue-grey dot.

1/5 What's your budget?

Under $150$150 – $400$400 – $1,000$1,000+

2/5 How much experience do you have?

Total beginnerI know a few constellationsI've used a telescope before

3/5 What are your skies like?

City — bright, few starsSuburbs — Milky Way faint or hiddenDark rural skies

4/5 What do you most want to see or do?

Moon & planetsGalaxies, nebulae & clustersTake astrophotosA bit of everything

5/5 How portable does it need to be?

Grab-and-go / travelFits in a carMostly backyard use

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How the picker works

Your answers filter a list of common telescope and binocular categories by budget band, then rank them by how well they suit your experience, sky conditions, goals and portability needs. Budget bands are rough guides only; prices vary by retailer and change often. Recommendations are general guidance, not professional advice.