Choose a telescope around the observing you want to do, the space you have and the equipment you can comfortably carry.
Start with how you want to use it
Write down your priorities before comparing models: looking through an eyepiece, taking photographs, observing from the garden or travelling to darker skies. These lead to different choices. If you want automated image capture, start with our smart telescope buying guides. For a separate telescope and camera, use our astrophotography setup guide.
Aperture, focal length and magnification
Aperture is the diameter of the main lens or mirror. Focal length is a separate measurement. For visual observing, magnification is the telescope focal length divided by the eyepiece focal length, using the same units. A 600 mm telescope with a 20 mm eyepiece gives 30×.
A higher magnification number does not automatically reveal more detail. Atmospheric conditions, the optics and the steadiness of the setup limit the useful result. Start at low power to find and centre your target, then increase magnification when the view supports it.
Check the complete setup
- Is this an optical tube only, or does the package include a mount and tripod?
- Can you carry, store and assemble every part comfortably?
- Which eyepieces, diagonal or adapters are included?
- Does a computerised mount require an additional power supply?
- Are alignment, optical adjustment or other routine setup steps suitable for you?
Set a complete budget
Compare the cost of a usable system, including any essential mounting hardware, power and accessories. Send us the exact model or product link before buying extra parts; similarly named telescope packages can include different equipment.
For more on useful magnification, see Celestron’s eyepiece guidance.
Help choosing compatible equipment
Tell us your budget, the exact equipment you already own and what you want to observe or photograph. We can help you check the connections and decide what you actually need.