8 Best Telescopes Under $5000 | Explore Top Picks & Features

Are you an aspiring astronomer looking for the Best telescope under $5000 that is both powerful and reliable? If so, you have come to the right place. We review the best telescope under $5000 on the market today, taking into account their features, performance, sturdiness and durability to guide you in selecting a product within your budget that will help explore galaxies, planets and distant stars with remarkable clarity. So if you are ready to view celestial wonders from the comfort of your own home then read on as we explore some of best telescopic options available.

List of 8 Best Telescopes Under $5000 for Astronomy Enthusiasts

This list features the top 10 best telescope under $5000 for astronomy enthusiasts, including exceptional models that deliver superior performance and features at an affordable price. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced astronomer, these telescopes are sure to take your stargazing experience to the next level.

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Celestron – NexStar 8SE Telescope

Celestron – NexStar 8SE Telescope

  • Brand: Celestron
  • Model: 11069
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 203 Millimeters
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Advanced VX 6″ Refractor Telescope

Advanced VX 6″ Refractor Telescope

  • Brand: Celestron
  • Model: 22020
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 150 Millimeters
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Advanced VX 8″ Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

Advanced VX 8″ Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

  • Brand: Celestron
  • Model: 12026
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 203 Millimeters
  • Dimensions: 26″D x 12″W x 37.3″H
  • Weight: 82 Pounds
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Sky-Watcher EvoStar 120 APO Doublet Refractor

Sky-Watcher EvoStar 120 APO Doublet Refractor

  • Brand: Sky Watcher
  • Model: S11130
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 120 Millimeters
  • Mount: Equatorial Mount
  • Dimensions: 44″D x 20″W x 14″H
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Swarovski Optik HD-ATS-80 HD Spotting Scope with 20×60 Eyepiece

Swarovski Optik HD-ATS-80 HD Spotting Scope with 20×60 Eyepiece

  • Brand: Swarovski Optik
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 80 Millimeters
  • Finderscope: Reflex
  • Weight: 5.6 Pounds
  • Mount: Equatorial Mount
  • Dimensions: ‎18.8 x 6.2 x 4.6 inches
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Kowa TSN-770 Series Straight Body High-Performance Spotting Scope Kowa TSN-770 Series  The Kowa TSN-770 Series Straight Body High-Performance Spotting

Kowa TSN-770 Series Straight Body High-Performance Spotting Scope Kowa TSN-770 Series The Kowa TSN-770 Series Straight Body High-Performance Spotting

  • Brand: Kowa Optimed
  • Sport Type: Hunting
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Weight: 53.6 ounces
  • Mount: Cantilever Mount
  • Dimensions: ‎16.5 x 6.5 x 7 inches
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Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT

Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT

  • Brand: Celestron
  • Model: 11075-XLT
  • Weight: 80 Pounds
  • Mount: Altazimuth Mount
  • Dimensions: ‎36″D x 19″W x 37″H
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Celestron–StarSense Explorer 10-inch Dobsonian

Celestron–StarSense Explorer 10-inch Dobsonian

  • Brand: Celestron
  • Model: Explorer 10″ Dobsonian
  • Weight: 81 Pounds
  • Mount: Altazimuth Mount
  • Dimensions: 51″D x 21″W x 21″H
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Celestron – NexStar 8SE Telescope – Computerized Telescope 

NexStar 8SE Telescope

The Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope is the perfect combination of smart technology and classic design. Boasting an iconic orange tube design, this telescope is full of exciting features that are sure to please both new and experienced stargazers alike. With its impressive 8-inch aperture primary mirror, it has incredible light-gathering power to help you appreciate the full beauty that our Solar System has to offer in amazing detail all from a compact form factor, Plus, with its revolutionary built-in go-to mount, you’ll get instant access to an extensive database of over 40,000 celestial objects for your observed pleasure.

What’s more, connecting to starsense technology or wifi gives you even more control over your exploration. Setup is easy too thanks to intuitive assembly and breakdown instructions so you don’t have to waste any time getting out there! Celestial wonders await make the most of them with the Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope.

Specifications

Brand: Celestron

Model: 11069

Objective Lens Diameter: 203 Millimeters

Mount: Altazimuth Mount

Focus Type: Manual Focus

Dimensions: 42.01″D x 23.66″W x 12.99″H

Weight: 10.88 Kilograms

Pros
  • You can see the stars and planets up close.
  • Easy to assemble.
  • The telescope is easy to break down.
Cons
  • Expensive.
  • Heavy.

Advanced VX 6″ Refractor Telescope

Advanced VX 6" Refractor Telescope

Are you ready to explore galaxies and gain knowledge that surpasses the limits of this planet? Get set with the Celestron Advanced VX 6″ Refractor Telescope and start your journey to new heights! This incredible telescope features a 6-inch refractor optical tube perfect for planetary imaging and advanced telescopes, while the Advanced Computerized GoTo Mount offers integrated support, alignment, and even guiding systems.

The advanced motors offer increased torque allowing for adjustments with minor load imbalances. And, an updated industrial design ensures more rigidity and stability making your experience easier while providing improved aesthetics.

With Celestron’s Advanced VX Telescope System, you can now observe or image across the meridian without being hampered by motor housings. Take this chance to explore the universe today and unlock endless discoveries right outside your door.

Specifications

Brand: Celestron

Model: 22020

Objective Lens Diameter: 150 Millimeters

Mount: Equatorial Mount

Focus Type: Manual Focus

Dimensions: 65″D x 10.98″W x 10.98″H

Weight: 1.8 Kilograms

Focal Length: 1200 millimeters

Pros
  • Crisp, clear images of planets and deep-sky objects.
  • Sleek, updated design.
  • Capture the beauty of the universe in stunning detail.
Cons
  • Complicated setup.

Advanced VX 8″ Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

Advanced VX 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

Look no further for a superior astronomy experience the Celestron Advanced VX 8″ Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope is here. This telescope is ideal for observers interested in seeing immense deep-sky objects such as galaxies and nebulae, along with impressive views of the Moon and planets. Its state-of-the-art optics provide an enormous 84% more light gathering than a 6-inch telescope, and its StarBright XLT coatings offer clearer, brighter images than many competing models.

Plus, you’ve got a 6×30 optical finderscope to help locate alignment stars quickly and accurately, so you’ll be able to save time for viewing the night sky. The AdvancedVX 8″ Schmidt-Cassegrain also features integer gear ratios which eliminate recurring track errors from the worm gear plus an auto guider port that provides long exposure imaging opportunities. All in all, this telescope is designed to ease your observing experience and delight you with breathtaking views of outer space.

Specifications

Brand: Celestron

Model: 12026

Objective Lens Diameter: 203 Millimeters

Mount: Equatorial Mount

Focus Type: Manual Focus

Dimensions: 26″D x 12″W x 37.3″H

Weight: 82 Pounds

Lens Coating: StarBright XLT

Pros
  • Advanced features.
  • 8 inches in diameter, making it ideal for viewing celestial objects.
  • StarBright XLT coatings improve light transmission.
Cons
  • Tripod can be quite heavy.

Sky-Watcher EvoStar 120 APO Doublet Refractor

Sky-Watcher EvoStar 120 APO Doublet Refractor

If you’re looking for a telescope that reflects your passion for stargazing, look no further than the Sky-Watcher EvoStar 120 APO Doublet Refractor. This compact and portable optical tube is expertly matched to deliver incredible color correction with minimal aberrations so you can enjoy stunning images of the night sky with true-to-life color accuracy.

EvoStar refractors are designed to grow with you as your skill set evolves no need to switch out telescopes as your proficiency increases. A smooth 10:1 dual-speed Crayford-style focuser allows for effortless fine-tuning of eyepieces and cameras, making sure that even the faintest details pop into crystal clear view. With the Sky-Watcher EvoStar 120 APO Doublet Refractor, your passion for stargazing will soar past new boundaries.

Specifications

Brand: Sky Watcher

Model: S11130

Objective Lens Diameter: 120 Millimeters

Mount: Equatorial Mount

Dimensions: 44″D x 20″W x 14″H

Weight: 13.9 Pounds

Lens Coating: Metallic high-transmission lens coatings

Pros
  • Get better images with superior color correction.
  • Use the same telescope as your skill set evolves.
  • 120mm aperture.
Cons
  • Not suitable for beginners.

Swarovski Optik HD-ATS-80 HD Spotting Scope with 20×60 Eyepiece

Swarovski Optik HD-ATS-80 HD Spotting Scope

Introducing the Swarovski Optik HD-ATS-80 HD Spotting Scope With 20×60 Eyepiece – an instrument designed to help you get closer to nature! This spotting scope is made with a high-definition aluminum body and a powerful 80mm objective lens diameter for superior light transmission, even in low light conditions or at higher magnifications.

Featuring fluoride-containing HD lenses that minimize color fringing and provide high-contrast images, this spotting scope is designed to bring you the best of both worlds. On top of that, it comes with a 20-60x eyepiece with individual twist-in eyecups – perfect for long-distance observations.

Plus, its compact design measures just 13.98 inches long and only weighs 45.2 ounces; meaning you can take it along wherever the adventure leads. And, it even comes with a lifetime warranty – so you can be assured of its performance and quality, now and over time! Get close to nature and experience nature like never before – order your Swarovski Optik HD-ATS-80 HD Spotting Scope with 20×60 Eyepiece today.

Specifications

Brand: Swarovski Optik

Objective Lens Diameter: 80 Millimeters

Finderscope: Reflex

Weight: 5.6 Pounds

Mount: Equatorial Mount

Dimensions: ‎18.8 x 6.2 x 4.6 inches

Pros
  • Spot game from long distances with ease.
  • Produce clear, crisp images with minimal color fringing.
  • High magnification.
Cons
  • Its accessories can be heavy.

Kowa TSN-770 Series Straight Body High-Performance Spotting Scope

Kowa TSN-770 Series

The Kowa TSN-770 Series Straight Body High-Performance Spotting Scope is the perfect companion for avid outdoorsmen and women. Whether you’re a bird watcher, hunter, target shooter, or all of the above – this powerful and lightweight scope will help you take your outdoor activities to another level.

Constructed from strong polycarbonate materials and boasting an ergonomic rubberized coating for ease of handling and maximum fit, this high-performance spotting scope is tough enough for any kind of weather with waterproof protection to JIS class 7 standards and dry nitrogen gas filling to prevent lens fogging.

The Kowa TSN-770 also comes with the option of several eyepieces (sold separately) so you can customize your spotting experience. With its weight at 53.6 ounces, it’s easily transportable so that you won’t find yourself feeling weighed down while enjoying a day in nature. And as if all of these great features weren’t enough, the Kowa TSN-770 also benefits from the manufacturer’s Limited Lifetime Warranty when purchased only from Authorized North American Dealers. Investing in your outdoor activities never felt better with Kowa’s TSN-770 Series Straight Body High-Performance Spotting Scope.

Specifications

Brand: Kowa Optimed

Sport Type: Hunting

Material: Polycarbonate

Weight: 53.6 ounces

Mount: Cantilever Mount

Dimensions: 16.5 x 6.5 x 7 inches


Pros
  • Spot targets with precision from far away.
  • Use for a variety of activities.
  • Stay safe and dry in all weather conditions.
Cons
  • Less suitable.

Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS Schmidt-Cassegrain 2800mm Telescope

Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS

Are you feeling the call of space? Us too. That’s why we created the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS Schmidt-Cassegrain 2800mm Telescope, a powerful and easy-to-use telescope that is perfect for new and experienced stargazers alike! With its 11″ Schmidt-Cassegrian optics and dual fork arm GoTo mount, the CPC 1100 offers an immersive astronomy experience with 40,000+ celestial objects already built into its database and it’s even compatible with our best accessories like StarSense AutoAlign and SkyPortal WiFi Module.

You’ll also love our telescope’s portable design; you can move or set up the CPC 1100 in a single person no extra help needed. So don’t miss out on your breathtaking night sky journeys; step outside and explore space with one of our strongest telescopes yet.

Specifications

Brand: Celestron

Model: 11075-XLT

Weight: 80 Pounds

Mount: Altazimuth Mount

Dimensions: 36″D x 19″W x 37″H

Objective Lens Diameter: 279 Millimeters

Pros
  • The telescope is easy to set up and use.
  • Experience the majesty of a galaxy far, far away.
  • Imagine the thrill of seeing the rings of Saturn for the first time.
  • Portable design.
Cons
  • Difficult to transport.

Celestron–StarSense Explorer 10-inch Dobsonian Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope

Celestron–StarSense Explorer 10-inch

Do you want to explore the night sky but have limited telescope experience? With Celestron’s StarSense Explorer 10-inch Dobsonian Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope, you can easily embark on a guided tour of the stars! Featuring patented, award-winning StarSense sky recognition technology that pairs with your smartphone, this telescope uses star patterns to automatically calculate its position and precisely find targets reliably every time.

The Dobsonian Base has large diameter bearings and variable altitude tensioning, so you can easily follow the arrows on your phone screen to locate objects. The included StarSense Explorer App generates a list of currently visible items, with planets, brighter nebulae and galaxies, star clusters, double stars, and more clearly discernible – all right from the city! Don’t worry about accessories as it comes with everything you need – including an included 25mm eyepiece. Unleash your own stargazing power today with Celestron’s app-enabled smart telescope.

Specifications

Brand: Celestron

Model: Explorer 10″ Dobsonian

Weight: 81 Pounds

Mount: Altazimuth Mount

Dimensions: 51″D x 21″W x 21″H

Eye Piece Lens: Galilean

Pros
  • No telescope experience required.
  • View planets, brighter nebulae and galaxies.
  • 25mm Plossl eyepiece included.
  • Best for beginners.
Cons
  • Not ideal for advanced or experienced astronomers.

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Buying guide

This telescope buying guide will provide you with important information on what to look for in a telescope as well as features and brands that are worth considering.   

Types of Telescopes 

Before purchasing a telescope, it is important to understand the different types available and which one best suits your needs. The two main types are refractors and reflectors. Refractors use lenses to focus light while reflectors use mirrors. Refractors tend to be more portable, while reflectors offer better image quality. Deciding which type is right for you depends on where and how often you plan on using your telescope. 

Features To Look For 

When shopping for a telescope, there are certain features that can make or break your experience. Magnification power (or power) is one of the most important features when purchasing a telescope because it determines how far away an object appears from Earth. Larger magnification power allows you to see distant objects in greater detail but requires larger lenses or mirrors which increase the cost of the scope significantly.

Therefore, if you are on a budget, aim for higher-quality optics instead of higher magnification power.  Other features such as aperture size (the diameter of the lens), mount type (alt-azimuth or equatorial), and price point should also be taken into consideration before making a purchase decision. 

Brands Worth Considering                      

When buying the Best telescope under $5000, there are several brands worth considering such as Celestron, Meade Instruments, SkyWatcher USA, Orion Telescopes & Binoculars, and ZWO ASI cameras & accessories. Each brand offers unique features so it is important to do your research before deciding which one is best for you. Additionally, these brands offer warranties and customer service which may be beneficial if something goes wrong with your purchase down the line. 

Conclusion:   

With this guide in hand, we hope finding the best telescope under $5000 is easier than ever, Companies such as Celestron, Meade Instruments, SkyWatcher USA, Orion Telescopes & Binoculars, and ZWO ASI cameras & accessories all have excellent telescopes at various price points so be sure to explore all options before making your final decision! Good luck.

FAQs On Best Telescopes Under $5000

Here are some Faqs related to telescopes under $5000.

What features does the best telescope under $5000 offer?
The Celestron NexStar 8SE offers a variety of advanced features including its StarBright XLT optical coatings which provide maximum light transmission resulting in brighter images; fully automatic GoTo mount with 40,000-object database; fast setup with SkyAlign technology; eight user-defined memory locations for customizing your observing sessions; and much more.
How much magnification can I expect from a telescope?
Depending on the eyepieces you purchase, the Celestron NexStar 8SE can give you between 30x to 300x magnification power without any loss of image quality. With optional Barlow lenses or extra eyepieces you can reach magnifications up to 600x or higher without quality degradation.
Does the best telescope under $5000 come with good accessories?
Yes! The Celestron NexStar 8SE comes with a 25mm Plossl eyepiece (1.25” format), StarPointer finderscope for easy object location in the sky, an AC adapter for powering your telescope from wall outlets, two accessory trays for storage of additional eyepieces or other small items and more!
How large an object can I view through the best telescope under $5000?
The NexStar 8SE’s large 8″ aperture allows you to see details on planets such as Jupiter and Saturn’s rings, as well as distant galaxies and star clusters from millions of light years away in space! You will also be able to observe bright comets and asteroids when they make their way into our solar system’s orbit too!
Are there any safety concerns I should know about before using a telescope?
Yes – As with all telescopes it’s important not to look directly at the sun without proper eye protection such as eclipse glasses or other specialized astronomical filters designed specifically for solar observation. Additionally if using camera accessories like DSLR cameras always use an appropriate filter in order to protect both your eyesight and equipment from permanent damage due to excessive sunlight exposure.
Do I need any special tools or expertise to use a telescope under $5,000?
No – The Celestron NexStar 8SE is designed for easy setup even if you don’t have any astronomy knowledge or experience beforehand! You’ll be able to align your scope quickly with its pre-programmed software and start exploring the night sky right away once everything is set up properly.
Is there an app available that I can use with my telescope?
Yes – There are various apps available on iOS & Android devices compatible with many telescopes within this price range including SkyPortal & SkySafari Plus which enable users to control their scopes remotely via Bluetooth/WiFi connection while simultaneously offering helpful resources such as interactive star charts & voice guided tours of nearby wonders in space.
Can I take photographs through my telescope?
Yes – If you purchase an adapter for your DSLR camera (sold separately) then you will be able to take stunning photos of nebulae & star clusters directly through your scope’s eyepiece viewfinder by connecting them together securely before shooting.
Can I find spare parts online if something goes wrong with my telescope? 
Yes – Many stores carry replacement parts online such as various lenses/eyepieces/filters/mounts etc but also it may be worth contacting manufacturer support directly should something go wrong unexpectedly which could result in faster resolution times & better customer service overall depending on where you purchased your product from originally too.

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