10 Best Telescopes For Beginners 2025 in the UK

The EACONN 80mm Aperture 600mm Refractor Telescope is designed for astronomy enthusiasts who are starting their journey in stargazing. One of its standout features is the 80mm aperture, which is capable of capturing ample light to provide bright and clear images of celestial objects. The fully coated optics also help reduce light reflection, making it easier for beginners to see clearer images. This telescope offers versatility with its 600mm focal length and comes with two eyepieces, providing 30x to 66x magnification, making it suitable for observing the moon and planets.

Portability is a key advantage of this product. It comes with a backpack, making it easy to transport for outdoor adventures. The included adjustable tripod and easy-to-follow setup guide make it accessible for beginners who may be unfamiliar with assembling telescopes. However, while the weight is manageable at 840 grams, the package weight is heavier at 3.09 kilograms, which might be a consideration for some when traveling.

The rough adjustment and positioning gimbal assist in smoothly adjusting the telescope to desired positions, an advantage for those new to astronomy. Moreover, it includes a mobile phone adapter, which can enhance the viewing experience by allowing users to capture and share images. Nevertheless, the reliance on a manual winding power source means that it lacks some of the conveniences of more advanced models, such as motorized tracking.

As a beginner's telescope, it provides the necessary tools to spark interest in astronomy, but experienced users might find the fixed focus limiting. Despite some minor drawbacks, like the heavier package weight and manual operation, this telescope is an excellent gift for kids and beginners, providing various opportunities for family fun both at home and on-the-go.

The Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescope is a solid choice for beginners interested in exploring astronomy. Its 130mm aperture is large enough to provide clear and bright images of celestial objects, which makes it easier for newcomers to spot planets and star clusters. The focal length of 650mm offers sufficient magnification, especially with the included 20mm and 10mm eyepieces, allowing users to switch between different viewing options.

The mount type is a CG-3 Equatorial, which is more complex than simpler altazimuth mounts found in some beginner models. While this may offer better tracking of celestial objects, it requires some learning to use effectively. The slow-motion control knobs do aid in precise adjustments, which is a definite plus for achieving a steady view.

Portability is a mixed bag for this telescope. Weighing around 17 pounds, it's not the lightest, but the design is compact enough for home use. The quick, tool-free setup is a welcomed feature, making it user-friendly for families or individuals who aren't interested in a complicated assembly process.

Included accessories like the StarPointer red dot finderscope enhance usability by helping locate objects in the sky, and the free download of an astronomy software adds value for those wanting to expand their stargazing experience.

However, the manual focus and power source mean that the telescope lacks some automated features found in other models. The package dimensions might also be a consideration for those with limited storage space.

In essence, the Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ is tailored for beginners who are willing to invest some time in learning to use an equatorial mount. With its sturdy build and quality optics, it provides a rewarding experience for those new to astronomy.