Here’s an overview of the Best Telescopes For that we’ll explore today:
Planetary viewing is a cornerstone of amateur astronomy. Telescopes in the sub-$300 segment balance portability, ease of use, and image brightness enough to reveal lunar detail, planet cloud bands, and brighter planetary features under good skies. In this review, I test and compare five refractor-based entry to mid-range telescopes from HEXEUM, MEEZAA, Dianfan, Gskyer, and WOSPORTS to evaluate optical quality, ergonomic design, ease of setup, and expandability (finder, diagonals, and smartphone capture). My methodology includes: 1) evaluating optical performance with the Moon and brighter planets (Jupiter, Saturn) under typical suburban skies, 2) assessing assembly time, fit-and-finish, and stability on the included tripods, 3) checking accessory value (eyepieces, Barlow options, finders, and phone adapters), and 4) considering long-term usability for beginners versus more confident hobbyists. The products covered span from budget-friendly 80mm apertures to 90mm apertures with multi-coated optics, all featuring alt-azimuth mounts and smartphone capture capability.
1. Telescope 80mm Aperture 600mm – Astronomical Portable Refracting Telescope Fully Multi-coated High Transmission Coatings AZ Mount with Tripod Phone Adapter
- Brand: HEXEUM
- Manufacturer: HEXEUM
Overview: HEXEUM’s AZ80600 is an 80mm aperture refractor with a 600mm focal length, designed for quick setup and portability. It ships with two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), a 3x Barlow to boost magnification, a 5×24 finder scope, a reflex finder, an adjustable aluminum tripod, wireless remote, and a carrying bag. The emphasis is on a no-tools, beginner-friendly experience with multi-coated optics and a lightweight total package under 7 pounds. At $94.99, this is positioned as a budget-friendly entry that still promises “full multi-coated” optics and a base level of magnification versatility.
Performance-wise, the 80mm aperture provides modest light gathering, which is sufficient for the Moon’s terminator, Jupiter’s bands, and Saturn’s disk in stable skies. The combination of a two-eyepiece setup plus a 3x Barlow yields 24x and 60x native magnifications (and up to 72x or 180x with certain assumptions about eyepieces and Barlow usage), but it’s important to manage exit pupil and shake at higher zooms on the lightweight tripod. The included wireless remote and phone adapter enable quick image capture, though the short optical tube and fixed f/6.7 design limit contrast and edge performance at higher powers; it’s best used with the 25mm eyepiece for planetary observations at ~24x and with the 10mm eyepiece for close-ups on the Moon when stability allows.
Pros
- Very budget-friendly entry point with 80mm aperture
- No-tools quick setup and portable design
- Includes wireless remote and phone adapter for easy capture
- Multi-coated optics claimed for improved brightness
- Carrying bag and adjustable tripod add convenience
Cons
- Limited light gathering vs 90mm peers limits planetary detail
- Stability of the lightweight tripod can hamper higher magnifications
- Optical quality and color correction may exhibit soft contrast at higher powers
2. Telescope
- Brand: MEEZAA
- Manufacturer: MEEZAA
Overview: MEEZAA’s 90mm, 800mm focal length refractor expands aperture and light collection beyond the budget HEXEUM option. It ships with two eyepieces (10mm and 25mm), a 3x Barlow, a sturdy adjustable steel tripod (28–46 inches), a phone adapter, and a carry bag. The 90mm aperture combined with a longer 800mm focal length yields improved brightness and a bit more scale for planetary detail, making it a strong mid-range choice at $169.99. The optical tube is fully multi-coated, and the straight-through finder simplifies pointing for beginners.
In practice, the 90mm aperture provides noticeably better lunar shading resolution and more comfortable planetary viewing than the 80mm option, with the 3x Barlow enabling up to 240x magnification if conditions permit. The tripod’s height range supports a comfortable observing posture, and the inclusion of a phone adapter facilitates capturing moments for sharing. The practical downside is that at higher magnifications, the marginal gains depend on steadier skies and steadier hands; the alt-az mount, while user-friendly, may still exhibit some vibration under wind or touch. Overall, it’s a capable all-around starter telescope for enthusiasts who want more praise-worthy planetary views without venturing into premium pricing.
Pros
- Larger 90mm aperture improves light gathering
- Longer 800mm focal length supports better planetary detail
- Good balance of features for the price
- Sturdy adjustable tripod and handy phone capture
- Fully multi-coated optics for brighter, clearer images
Cons
- Higher magnification potential requires steadier conditions
- No go-to or computerized mount; still relies on manual alignment
- Weight increases compared to cheaper options
3. Dianfan Telescope
- Brand: Dianfan
- Manufacturer: Dianfan
Overview: Dianfan’s 90mm/800mm model mirrors the MEEZAA form factor with robust stainless steel tripod and a 90mm objective, fully coated optics, and a 3x Barlow option along with two eyepieces. The 45° zenith mirror orientation helps with terrestrial viewing and makes it a flexible starter instrument for both sky and landscape observing. The included carry bag and phone adapter align with the same family of accessories designed to ease transport and social sharing.
Performance-wise, this telescope emphasizes ease of use and beginner-friendly setup, typically ready in about 15 minutes. The 90mm aperture yields a meaningful brightness advantage over smaller 70–80mm units for lunar and planetary detail, while the 800mm focal length maintains reasonable magnification with the 10mm and 25mm eyepieces plus Barlow. The upright orientation via the zenith mirror reduces neck strain during terrestrial use, which broadens its use case beyond astronomy to birdwatching or cityscape viewing. In practice, the stability of the stainless tripod combined with the manual focus will reward patient observers who optimize exposure and seeing conditions.
Pros
- Strong 90mm aperture with full coating
- Zenith mirror provides upright terrestrial viewing
- Sturdy stainless tripod included
- Pocket-friendly carry bag and phone adapter
- Relatively quick setup for its class
Cons
- No electronic tracking or motorized mount
- Weightier than ultra-budget options
- Edge performance can be modest at the highest magnifications without careful collimation and cooling
4. Gskyer Telescope
- Brand: Gskyer
- Manufacturer: Gskyer
Overview: Gskyer’s AZ70400 is a compact, travel-friendly refractor with a 70mm aperture and 400mm focal length. It emphasizes portability with a lightweight design and a host of accessories: two eyepieces, a 3x Barlow, a reflex finder, a phone adapter, wireless remote, an adjustable tripod, and a carry bag. At under $97, it’s the most affordable option in the comparison and is clearly aimed at kids and casual hobbyists seeking a simple introduction to stargazing.
Performancewise, the 70mm aperture limits light gathering, but for bright targets like the Moon and bright planets under good skies, it remains usable. The 400mm focal length yields modest magnification, and the 3x Barlow helps push to mid-range magnification while the wireless remote and phone integration encourage social sharing. The main strengths are portability and ease of use; the downsides include potential chromatic aberration and soft edges at higher powers due to the smaller aperture and optics at the budget end. It’s best as a travel-ready companion or entry device for younger observers.
Pros
- Low price with very light, portable design
- Adequate accessories for beginners (phone adapter, wireless remote)
- Travel-friendly with carry bag
- Bright, easily viewable Moon and planet targets under good skies
- Easy setup for kids and newcomers
Cons
- Small 70mm aperture limits planetary detail
- Chromatic aberration possible at higher magnifications
- Less robust stability on windy nights or larger eyepieces
5. Wosports Telescope for Adults High Powered
- Brand: WOSPORTS
- Manufacturer: WOSPORTS
Overview: WOSPORTS’s 90mm/600mm model is a feature-rich option positioned at the premium end of this list within the sub-$300 range. It ships with two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), a 3x Barlow, a 45° diagonal, a reflex finder, a sturdy adjustable tripod (29–49 inches), a phone adapter, and a carry bag. It emphasizes a higher-rated user experience with a dedicated 1-year warranty and a solid emphasis on stable, easy viewing suitable for adults and beginners who want more performance without stepping to larger, more expensive kits.
Performance-wise, the 90mm aperture combined with a 600mm focal length and fully coated lenses yields brighter planetary views with better lunar detail than smaller apertures. The 24x–180x zoom range gives flexibility for lunar relief, Jupiter bands, and Saturn rings when seeing permits. The 45° diagonal and upright orientation help reduce neck strain, while the phone adapter supports quick sharing. From a usability perspective, the included tripod is stable for casual observing, and the packaging/1-year warranty adds confidence for gift-buyers or growing hobbyists. The trade-off is the absence of motorized tracking or advanced features found in higher-tier setups.
Pros
- Balanced 90mm aperture with solid 600mm FL for clear planetary views
- Wide 24x–180x magnification range including Barlow options
- Stable tripod and comfortable viewing angle with 45° diagonal
- Phone adapter and carry bag included
- 1-year warranty and strong support
Cons
- No computerized or motorized tracking
- Higher magnification still benefits from steady skies and mount stability
- Weight and bulk are greater than the smallest budget options
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about telescopes fors to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final thoughts: For planetary viewing in this price band, prioritize aperture and stability. If you want the most capable planetary instrument without stepping into high-end gear, the WOSPORTS 90mm/600mm (Product 4) stands out for performance vs.
price, plus included accessories and warranty. If portability and ultra-budget access are your priority, HEXEUM’s 80mm (Product 0) delivers quick setup and smartphone capture at a compelling price.
For growing hobbyists who want more brightness plus flexible mounting, the MEEZAA and Dianfan 90mm models (Products 1 and 2) strike a strong balance, while Gskyer’s 70mm (Product 3) is ideal for travel and family use. Your choice should reflect how seriously you intend to pursue planetary observing, how important portability is, and whether you value warranty and upgrade paths..