What You Can See
Best Telescopes for Seeing Jupiter
The best telescope to see Jupiter needs enough aperture for cloud bands and the four Galilean moons. Compare 8 picks by use and budget.
Know which telescope to buy before you look up
We compare the telescopes people really buy and explain the terms that trip up new owners. Pick a path below: buying advice, top picks, what you can see or setup help.
Latest guides
Top Telescope PicksBest Telescopes for Planets and Deep Space
Find the best telescope for planets and deep space. Compare GoTo, smart and manual scopes by aperture, mount and imaging features for bright and faint targets.
Top Telescope PicksBest Portable Telescopes for Travel and Small Spaces
Compare the best portable telescope options for travel, small spaces and beginner stargazing, from compact tabletop Dobsonians to backpack-ready refractors.
Top Telescope PicksBest Refractor Telescopes for Beginners
Compare the best refractor telescope picks for beginners, with clear notes on portability, phone guidance, aperture, included accessories and choosing your first scope.
Top Telescope PicksBest Telescopes for Backyard Astronomy
Compare telescopes for backyard astronomy by aperture, mount and setup. Find a model that fits your yard, storage space, observing goals and experience.
- Top Telescope Picks
Best Easy-to-Use Telescopes for Beginners
Compare the best telescope for beginners by setup, target finding, portability and viewing style, then choose a scope that fits your first nights under the sky.
- Top Telescope Picks
Best Telescopes for the Money
Compare telescopes for the money by aperture, mount and setup needs. Find a value pick for guided stargazing, brighter views, portability or a first scope.
Top Telescope PicksBest Telescopes Under $100
Compare the best telescope under 100 dollars for Moon viewing, family stargazing and travel. See what each scope includes and choose one that fits your plans.
- Top Telescope Picks
Best Telescopes Under $500
Compare the best telescope under 500 dollars for beginners and backyard viewing. Find the right mix of aperture, tripod style, app guidance and easy setup.