Review Process:

In this article, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive review of the top telescopes of 2023, enabling you to make an informed decision when embarking on your stargazing journey. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious beginner, our review will offer valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each telescope, catering to various preferences and requirements.

We have carefully examined the key features of each telescope, including aperture size, focal length, magnification, portability, and affordability, to help you identify the perfect telescope for your stargazing needs. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge necessary to select the telescope that aligns with your specific interests and budget.

Throughout the article, we will provide a balanced overview of each telescope’s pros and cons, allowing you to weigh the advantages and limitations of different models. By the time you reach the end of our comprehensive review, you will have a deeper understanding of the available telescopes in the market, equipping you with the confidence to choose the best telescope for your astronomical explorations.

Review Categories: 

• Best Telescopes for Beginners in 2023
• Best Telescopes for Deep Space in 2023
• Best Telescopes under $500 for 2023
• Best Telescopes for Kids in 2023
• Best Telescope for Astrophotography in 2023
• Best Telescope for Adults in 2023
• Best Reflector Telescope for 2023
• Best Telescope for Viewing Planets in 2023

Best Telescope for Beginners in 2023

Our Experts Picked the Orion Starblast 6 AstroReflector Telescope

ReadWrite Expert Review: 9.2/10

• Aperture: 9/10
• Focal Length: 9/10
• Magnification: 9/10
• Portability: 8.5/10
• Affordability: 9.5/10

Why We Picked It:

The Orion StarBlast 6 Astro Reflector telescope is an ideal choice for beginners venturing into the world of astronomy. With a respectable aperture of 6 inches, it offers excellent light-gathering capabilities, allowing for clear and detailed views of celestial objects. The telescope’s focal length provides a balanced balance between wide-field views and higher magnification, making it versatile for observing various astronomical targets.

This telescope’s straightforward setup and intuitive operation make it user-friendly for beginners. Its sturdy and compact design enhances portability, enabling aspiring astronomers to easily transport and set it up in different locations. The StarBlast 6 Astro Reflector also offers great value for money, providing impressive performance at an affordable price point.

Why You Might Avoid It:

• Aperture: 9.5/10
• Focal Length: 9/10
• Magnification: 9/10
• Portability: 8/10
• Affordability: 9.5/10

Why We Picked It:

The Gskyer 130EQ Professional Telescope is a remarkable choice for deep space observation. With its generous 5.1-inch aperture, this telescope offers excellent light-gathering capabilities, allowing for impressive views of distant celestial objects. Its long focal length and high magnification provide enhanced clarity and detail when observing galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

This telescope is designed to provide professional-level performance at an affordable price, making it an attractive option for astronomers looking to delve into deep space exploration. The Gskyer 130EQ’s sturdy equatorial mount ensures smooth tracking and precise positioning, enabling users to easily track objects as they move across the night sky. It also comes with multiple eyepieces, allowing for versatile observation options.

Why You Might Avoid It:

One aspect to be cautious about when considering the Gskyer 130EQ Professional Telescope is its portability. Due to its larger size and weight, it may be less convenient to transport and set up compared to more compact telescopes. While it is still manageable for most observers, it may require some additional effort and a dedicated storage solution for portability.

Additionally, while the Gskyer 130EQ offers exceptional deep space performance, it may not be as well-suited for terrestrial viewing. Its design and optics prioritize astronomical observation, and while it can still be used for terrestrial subjects, the image quality and focus may not be as optimized as with telescopes specifically designed for terrestrial viewing.

Overall, the Gskyer 130EQ Professional Telescope stands out as an excellent choice for those passionate about exploring the depths of space. With its impressive aperture, versatile focal length, reliable mount, and affordability, it provides the perfect tool for observing distant galaxies, nebulae, and other captivating celestial wonders.

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Best Telescope under $500 for 2023

Our Experts Picked the Sky-Watcher Skymax Telescope

ReadWrite Expert Review: 9.1/10

• Aperture: 9/10
• Focal Length: 9/10
• Magnification: 9/10
• Portability: 8.5/10
• Affordability: 9.5/10

Why We Picked It:

The Sky-Watcher Skymax Telescope is a standout choice for those seeking an excellent telescope under $500. With its respectable aperture, this telescope offers commendable light-gathering capabilities, allowing for detailed and crisp views of celestial objects. The Skymax’s focal length and magnification provide versatility, making it suitable for both planetary observation and deep-sky exploration.

One of the major advantages of the Skymax is its impressive affordability. It offers great value for its price, providing high-quality optics and performance without breaking the bank. The telescope’s compact design and lightweight nature enhance its portability, allowing astronomers to easily transport and set it up for observation sessions in various locations.

Why You Might Avoid It:

While the Sky-Watcher Skymax Telescope excels in many aspects, it’s important to note that its portability may not be as convenient as smaller and more lightweight models. While still manageable for most users, it may require a dedicated carrying case or additional considerations for transportation.

Additionally, while the Skymax performs admirably for its price range, it may not match the performance of higher-end telescopes in terms of image quality and precision. While this is expected given its affordability, it’s essential to set realistic expectations and understand that some compromises may be present compared to more expensive options.

In conclusion, the Sky-Watcher Skymax Telescope offers an exceptional choice for astronomers on a budget, delivering impressive optics, versatility, and affordability. With its commendable aperture, focal length, and portability, it provides an accessible gateway to the wonders of the night sky without compromising on performance.

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Best Telescope for Kids in 2023

Our Experts Picked the Vixen A80mf Refractor Telescope

ReadWrite Expert Review: 8.7/10

• Aperture: 8/10
• Focal Length: 9/10
• Magnification: 8.5/10
• Portability: 9/10
• Affordability: 9/10

Why We Picked It:

The Vixen A80mf Refractor Telescope is an excellent choice for introducing kids to the wonders of astronomy. With its reliable aperture, this telescope provides clear and crisp views of the night sky, allowing young astronomers to explore the Moon, planets, and other celestial objects with ease. The telescope’s focal length and magnification offer versatility for observing various astronomical targets.

Designed with user-friendliness in mind, the Vixen A80mf is easy to set up and operate, making it accessible for kids to use under adult supervision. Its compact and lightweight design enhances portability, enabling families to take it on outdoor adventures or to dark-sky locations for optimal stargazing experiences. Furthermore, the telescope’s affordable price makes it an attractive choice for parents seeking an introductory telescope for their children.

Why You Might Avoid It:

While the Vixen A80mf Refractor Telescope is well-suited for kids, it’s important to note that its aperture size is relatively modest. This means it may not capture as much light as larger telescopes, resulting in slightly less detail and brightness in the observed celestial objects. However, it still provides a satisfactory viewing experience for beginners and young astronomers.

It’s worth mentioning that this telescope’s primary focus is on celestial observation rather than terrestrial viewing. While it can be used for observing distant landscapes or wildlife, its optics and design are optimized for astronomical purposes. Therefore, its performance may not be as ideal when used for terrestrial subjects.

In summary, the Vixen A80mf Refractor Telescope offers an excellent entry-level option for kids interested in astronomy. With its reliable optics, ease of use, portability, and affordability, it provides young astronomers with an exciting opportunity to explore the wonders of the night sky and nurture their curiosity about the universe.

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Best Telescope for Astrophotography in 2023

Our Experts Picked the Celestron NexStar Astrophotography Telescope

ReadWrite Expert Review: 9.3/10

• Aperture: 9/10
• Focal Length: 9.5/10
• Magnification: 9/10
• Portability: 8/10
• Affordability: 9.5/10

Why We Picked It:

The Celestron NexStar Astrophotography Telescope is an exceptional choice for astrophotographers in 2023. With its impressive aperture, this telescope gathers ample light to capture stunning and detailed images of celestial objects. The long focal length and high magnification allow for precise imaging of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky targets, providing astrophotographers with remarkable opportunities to capture the beauty of the cosmos.

The NexStar’s computerized GoTo mount offers precise tracking and automated object location, simplifying the astrophotography process. This feature allows photographers to focus more on capturing images and less on manually tracking celestial objects. The telescope’s compatibility with various astrophotography accessories, such as cameras and filters, further enhances its capabilities, providing versatility for capturing different types of astronomical images.

Why You Might Avoid It:

While the Celestron NexStar Astrophotography Telescope excels in astrophotography, its portability may be a consideration for some users. The telescope, along with its mount and accessories, can be relatively bulky and heavy. This may limit its ease of transport, especially for photographers who wish to travel to different locations for optimal imaging conditions. It is important to have a sturdy and stable setup to ensure steady and accurate tracking during long-exposure imaging.

Astrophotography requires a certain level of expertise and understanding of imaging techniques. While the NexStar telescope provides a solid foundation for astrophotography, beginners may need to invest time in learning the necessary skills and techniques to achieve desired results. Additionally, the cost of additional astrophotography equipment, such as cameras and filters, should be considered when planning to engage in this specialized aspect of astronomy.

In summary, the Celestron NexStar Astrophotography Telescope stands out as an exceptional choice for astrophotographers in 2023. With its impressive optics, user-friendly GoTo mount, and compatibility with astrophotography accessories, it provides the tools necessary to capture breathtaking images of celestial objects.

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Best Telescope for Adults in 2023

Our Experts Picked the ACTBOT Telescope for Adults

ReadWrite Expert Review: 9.2/10

• Aperture: 9.5/10
• Focal Length: 9/10
• Magnification: 8.5/10
• Portability: 8/10
• Affordability: 9/10

Why We Picked It:

The ACTBOT Telescope for Adults is an excellent choice for seasoned stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts. With its impressive aperture, this telescope gathers an abundance of light, allowing for detailed and immersive views of celestial objects. The telescope’s focal length and magnification provide versatility, making it suitable for observing a wide range of astronomical targets, from the Moon and planets to deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae.

Designed with the needs of adult users in mind, the ACTBOT Telescope offers advanced features and functionality. Its sturdy and reliable construction ensures stability during observation sessions, while its precise focusing mechanism allows for fine adjustments to achieve optimal clarity. Additionally, the telescope’s affordability makes it an attractive option for adults seeking a high-performance instrument without breaking the bank.

Why You Might Avoid It:

While the ACTBOT Telescope offers impressive performance, its portability may be a consideration for some users. The telescope, with its larger aperture and sturdy build, can be relatively bulky and heavy. This may limit its ease of transportation, especially for those who wish to take it to different locations for stargazing sessions. It’s important to ensure you have a stable and sturdy mount to support the telescope’s weight and maintain steady tracking.

As an advanced telescope for adult users, the ACTBOT may require a certain level of experience and familiarity with telescopic observation. Beginners may find the telescope’s features and controls more complex compared to entry-level models. It’s advisable to have a basic understanding of astronomy and telescope operation before using this instrument to fully appreciate its capabilities.

In summary, the ACTBOT Telescope for Adults stands out as a top choice for adult stargazers in 2023. With its impressive optics, advanced features, and affordability, it provides a rewarding and immersive observing experience. However, potential buyers should consider the telescope’s portability and ensure they have the necessary experience to make the most of its capabilities.

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Best Reflector Telescope for 2023

Our Experts Picked the Orion Skyline Reflector Telescope

ReadWrite Expert Review: 9.4/10

• Aperture: 9.5/10
• Focal Length: 9/10
• Magnification: 9/10
• Portability: 8.5/10
• Affordability: 9.5/10

Reasons to Consider:

The Orion Skyline Reflector Telescope is a standout choice for astronomy enthusiasts seeking a high-quality reflector telescope in 2023. With its impressive aperture, this telescope collects ample light to provide stunning views of celestial objects. The telescope’s focal length and magnification capabilities allow for detailed observation of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects, revealing intricate details and offering an immersive viewing experience.

One of the key advantages of the Orion Skyline is its exceptional build quality and design. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, this telescope ensures stability and durability during observations. The telescope’s high-quality optics deliver sharp and clear images, allowing users to explore the cosmos with remarkable clarity. Additionally, the telescope’s affordability makes it an appealing option for those seeking excellent performance at a reasonable price point.

Why You Might Avoid It:

While the Orion Skyline Reflector Telescope offers impressive performance, its portability may be a consideration for some users. The telescope, with its larger aperture and solid construction, can be relatively bulkier and heavier compared to more compact models. This may limit its ease of transportation, particularly for individuals who wish to take it to various observing sites. It’s important to ensure you have a stable mount and a dedicated space for setting up the telescope.

As a reflector telescope with advanced features, the Orion Skyline may require some level of experience and familiarity with telescope operation. Beginners may need to invest time in understanding the telescope’s setup and adjustment procedures to achieve optimal results. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with basic astronomy concepts and telescope operation before using this instrument to fully appreciate its capabilities.

In summary, the Orion Skyline Reflector Telescope stands out as the top choice for astronomy enthusiasts looking for a high-performance reflector telescope in 2023. With its impressive optics, sturdy construction, and affordability, it provides exceptional views of celestial objects. However, potential buyers should consider the telescope’s portability and ensure they have the necessary experience to optimize their observing sessions.

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Best Telescope for Viewing Planets in 2023

Our Experts Picked the Celestron 70EQ Refractor Telescope

ReadWrite Expert Review: 9.1/10

• Aperture: 8.5/10
• Focal Length: 9/10
• Magnification: 9/10
• Portability: 8/10
• Affordability: 9.5/10

Why We Picked It:

The Celestron 70EQ Refractor Telescope is an excellent choice for astronomers interested in observing planets in 2023. With its reliable aperture, this telescope allows for clear and detailed views of planetary surfaces, showcasing their features and textures. The telescope’s focal length and magnification capabilities enable astronomers to zoom in on planets, revealing intricate details such as cloud bands on Jupiter or the rings of Saturn.

The Celestron 70EQ is designed with convenience and user-friendliness in mind. Its sturdy equatorial mount provides stability and smooth tracking, allowing for precise planetary observation. The telescope’s high-quality refractor optics deliver crisp and sharp images, ensuring a rewarding viewing experience. Additionally, the telescope’s affordability makes it an attractive option for those seeking an accessible entry into planetary observation.

Why You Might Avoid It:

While the Celestron 70EQ Refractor Telescope offers excellent planetary views, its aperture may be a consideration for some users. The telescope’s smaller aperture limits its light-gathering ability compared to larger models, which may affect the level of detail observed for fainter objects or deep-sky targets. However, it still provides satisfactory views of planets within the solar system.

Portability should also be considered, as the Celestron 70EQ, along with its mount and accessories, may be relatively bulky and heavy. This can make it less convenient for users who prefer a highly portable telescope for on-the-go observations. It’s important to have a dedicated space for setting up the telescope and ensure a stable mount for steady tracking during planetary viewing sessions.

In summary, the Celestron 70EQ Refractor Telescope stands out as the top choice for astronomers interested in observing planets in 2023. With its reliable optics, user-friendly equatorial mount, and affordability, it provides enjoyable and detailed views of our neighboring celestial bodies. Potential buyers should consider the telescope’s aperture and portability, ensuring they align with their specific viewing preferences and requirements.

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Brad Anderson

Editor In Chief at ReadWrite

Brad is the editor overseeing contributed content at ReadWrite.com. He previously worked as an editor at PayPal and Crunchbase. You can reach him at brad at readwrite.com.

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