Best Refractor Telescopes for 2023
vienvien May 30, 2023 8:52 AM
The best refractor telescopes for the money vary in price and features, but all of them offer stunning views of the universe. Compact and lightweight models are great for beginners, while more advanced users can opt for powerful yet heavy-duty refractors. Here's a look at some of the best refractor telescopes on the market today.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Sky-Watcher EvoStar 100 APO Doublet Refractor – Compact and Portable Optical Tube
The EvoStar 100 also includes an 8x42mm Aperture Quadrant eyepiece for viewing galaxies, nebulae, and stars up close. This telescope is made with high quality materials and features two aperture sizes to fit most imaging needs.
Best Budget: KIOSESI Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture 400mm Refractor Telescope
Ideal for astronomy beginners: This telescope has a 70mm aperture and a 400mm focal length, making it perfect for beginning astronomers. Versatile: The KIOSESI telescope is versatile enough to be used for both terrestrial and astronomical viewing.
Best Value: Celestron Advanced VX 6in Refractor Telescope 22020
Highest possible contrast for planetary imaging and brighter deep-sky object viewing. Fully multi-coated optics for superior light transmission and image quality. Equipped with a 6" aperture for clear, crisp views of the night sky.
Editor's Choice: Gskyer Telescope, Telescopes for Adults, 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope
600x magnification for clear views of the night sky. German made telescope for superior quality and performance. Comes with tripod, eyepiece and accessory tray. Ideal telescope for adults who want to explore the universe.
ToyerBee Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture Astronomical Refractor Telescopes for Astronomy Beginners (15X-150X), 300mm Portable Telescope with an Phone Adapter & A Wireless Remote
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KIOSESI Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture 400mm Refractor Telescope (20X-200X) for Astronomy Beginners, Portable Telescope with Phone Adapter & Wireless Remote, Astronomy Gifts for Kids
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Celestron – StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope – Works with StarSense App to Help You Find Stars, Planets & More – 114mm Newtonian Reflector – iPhone/Android Compatible
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Celestron - 70mm Travel Scope - Portable Refractor Telescope - Fully-Coated Glass Optics - Ideal Telescope for Beginners - BONUS Astronomy Software Package
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Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Smartphone Adapter Built-In Refracting Telescope, Blue (22403)
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Last update on 2023-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What is the best size refractor telescope?
A 4-inch refractor is a good size for beginner astronomers. It's small enough to take to the park or on a trip, but has enough magnification to see some detail in the night sky.
What problems do refractor telescopes have?
Refractor telescopes have two main problems: chromatic aberration and spherical aberration. Chromatic aberration occurs when the light waves are not all of the same color, which can cause the image to look blurry. Spherical aberration is when the image is distorted because the telescope's lenses are not perfectly round.
What is a major disadvantage of refractors?
There are a few disadvantages of refractors. One is that they typically have low magnification, meaning that they can't see things very close up. This can be a disadvantage for people who are interested in wildlife or nature photography, as it limits the range of subjects that they can photograph. Additionally, refractors tend to be more expensive than other types of telescopes, and they may not be as versatile when it comes to using them for different purposes.
What size telescope do I need to see galaxies?
A telescope that is 8 inches or more in aperture is typically sufficient to see galaxies. However, as the size of the telescope increases, the amount of light that is able to enter the telescope also increases, which means that you can see even more distant objects. So if you have a larger telescope, it's worth using it to see even more distant galaxies.
We’ve narrowed down the best telescopes for citizen and amateur astronomers, beginning star gazers and even birdwatchers. If you’re interested in checking out some quality pieces, be sure to check out our recommended refractors and reflectors. Be sure to also read our telescope reviews to find the perfect instrument for your needs. Finally, don’t forget to take into account your viewing location and weather conditions when choosing a telescope.