Best Reflector Telescopes of 2025

Alan Eaton Avatar
Alan Eaton
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Reflector telescopes are a popular choice for amateur astronomers due to their affordable price and versatility. They use mirrors to reflect and focus light, allowing for a larger aperture and better image quality than a refractor telescope of the same size. The design of reflector telescopes also makes them great for viewing deep-sky objects such as galaxies and nebulae. They are available in a range of sizes and styles, from tabletop models to larger, more advanced versions mounted on equatorial or Dobsonian mounts. Whether you're just starting out or are an experienced astronomer, a reflector telescope is a great option for exploring the night sky.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Gskyer 130EQ Reflector Telescope Cover #TOP 1
Gskyer 130EQ Reflector Telescope
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ Telescope Cover #TOP 2
Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ Telescope
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Celestron NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope Cover #TOP 3
Celestron NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Reflector Telescopes

#TOP 1

Gskyer 130EQ Reflector Telescope

EQ-130
EQ130650
EQ130650
Gskyer 130EQ Reflector Telescope Cover
Telescope, Gskyer 130EQ Professional Astronomical Reflector Telescope, German Technology Scope, EQ-130 (EQ-130)

The Gskyer 130EQ Reflector Telescope is designed for anyone who wants to explore the beauty of the night sky. With its 5.1 inch aperture and all-glass optical components, this telescope provides enhanced image brightness and clarity, making it perfect for observing the Moon, planets, brighter galaxies, nebulas, and star clusters. With its toothless focusing base, short optical tube design, and fast f/5 focal ratio, it provides a user-friendly experience for both beginners and advanced astronomers. The telescope comes with complete parts, including 3 eyepieces, a 3X Barlow lens, a finderscope, and an adjustable tripod. Additionally, a wireless remote control is provided for taking pictures or videos and sharing them with family and friends in real-time.

What We Like
Enhanced image brightness and clarity
User-friendly experience for beginners and advanced astronomers
Complete parts and wireless remote control included
#TOP 2

Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ Telescope

21049
Black
127EQ Newtonian
Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ Telescope Cover
Celestron - PowerSeeker 127EQ Telescope - Manual German Equatorial Telescope for Beginners - Compact and Portable - Bonus Astronomy Software Package - 127mm Aperture

The Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ Telescope is a manual German equatorial telescope designed for beginners. It features a 127mm aperture, quick and easy no-tool setup, slow motion controls for smooth tracking, and fully coated glass optical components with high transmission coatings for enhanced image brightness and clarity. It comes with a 20mm erect-image eyepiece, 4mm eyepiece, 3x Barlow lens, star pointer finder, equatorial head, 2x slow-motion cables, adjustable-height tripod, counterweight bar, and 7.5 lbs counterweight.

What We Like
Quick and easy no-tool setup
Slow motion controls for smooth tracking
Fully coated glass optical components with high transmission coatings for enhanced image brightness and clarity
#TOP 3

Celestron NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope

31145
Grey
Celestron NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope Cover
Celestron - NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope - Compact and Portable - Newtonian Reflector Optical Design - SkyAlign Technology - Computerized Hand Control - 130mm Aperture

The Celestron NexStar 130SLT is a computerized star locating telescope that can locate and track more than 40,000 stars, galaxies, nebulae, and more. With a large, 130mm aperture and Newtonian reflector optical design, it can capture crisp and detailed images of the Solar System and beyond. It's also lightweight and portable, making it easy to use almost anywhere. The Celestron NexStar 130SLT has a fast setup with SkyAlign technology, and comes with a bonus free Starry Night software download.

What We Like
Compact and portable
User-friendly computerized controls
Impressive views of celestial objects
#TOP 4

Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ Newtonian Telescope

31045
Blue
130EQ Newtonian
Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ Newtonian Telescope Cover
Celestron - AstroMaster 130EQ Newtonian Telescope - Reflector Telescope for Beginners - Fully-Coated Glass Optics - Adjustable-Height Tripod - Bonus Astronomy Software Package

The Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ Newtonian Telescope is a powerful telescope for astronomy beginners. It features a 130mm aperture, a manual German Equatorial mount, 2 eyepieces, a StarPointer red dot finderscope, and a full-height tripod. It also comes with a free download of one of the top-rated astronomy software programs and a 2-year US warranty. Customers have praised its sharp image quality, easy setup, and adjustable mount.

What We Like
Fully-coated glass optics
Manual German Equatorial mount
Sharp image quality
Easy setup and use
2-year US warranty
#TOP 5

Celestron AstroMaster 114EQ Reflector Telescope

31042
Navy Blue
114EQ Newtonian
Celestron AstroMaster 114EQ Reflector Telescope Cover
Celestron - AstroMaster 114EQ Newtonian Telescope - Reflector Telescope for Beginners - Fully-Coated Glass Optics - Adjustable-Height Tripod - Bonus Astronomy Software Package

The Celestron AstroMaster 114EQ Reflector Telescope is a great choice for beginners, offering a manual German equatorial mount with setting circles, adjustable full-height steel tripod, and quick and easy no-tool setup. It comes with a 20mm eyepiece with built-in erect image corrector and a standard 10mm eyepiece, as well as a red-dot finderscope and a download code for the Starry Night Basic Software. With this telescope, you can observe the Moon, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, satellites, open clusters, globular clusters, and nebulas.

What We Like
Easy setup and light weight
Excellent brightness of even faint, distant objects
Produces very bright, vivid images
Comes with a download code for Starry Night Basic Software
Compact and portable
#TOP 6

SOLOMARK 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescope

130EQ
130EQ
SOLOMARK 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescope Cover
Telescope 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescopes for Adults, Professional Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, Comes with 1.5X Barlow Lens Smartphone Adapter & 13% T Moon Filter

The SOLOMARK 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescope is a great choice for amateur astronomers. It features a 130mm large aperture, high-quality optics, a German Equatorial mount, a stable tripod, and multiple accessories. It is easy to assemble and use, and provides a clear view of the moon and planets. However, the finder scope may be difficult to use for beginners.

What We Like
High-quality optics and large aperture
German Equatorial mount and stable tripod
Multiple accessories included
#TOP 7

Celestron StarSense Explorer 114mm Telescope

22480
Celestron StarSense Explorer 114mm Telescope Cover
Celestron – StarSense Explorer 114mm Tabletop Dobsonian Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope – Works with StarSense App to Help You Find Nebulae, Planets & More – iPhone/Android Compatible

The Celestron StarSense Telescope makes stargazing easy and enjoyable for everyone, whether you're a beginner or an experienced observer. With this telescope, you can use your iPhone or Android device to receive a guided tour of the night sky, helping you effortlessly locate stars and planets. Its patented StarSense technology analyzes the star patterns above you, providing real-time positioning. The accompanying app generates a tailored list of celestial objects visible based on your specific time and location, ensuring you never miss out on the best sights. Plus, setting up the telescope is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly design.

What We Like
Smartphone integration
Real-time star analysis
Custom viewing suggestions
Easy setup
#TOP 8

Dianfan 150EQ Telescope

Dianfan
150 EQ Reflector Telescope
EQ-150P
Dianfan 150EQ Telescope Cover
Telescope 150EQ Astronomical Reflector Telescopes for Adults, Professional Manual Equatorial Telescope for Kids & Beginners.Comes with 2X Barlow Lens Phone Adapter,Stainless Tripod and Moon Filter

The Dianfan 150EQ is an excellent choice for both new and experienced astronomers. With a large 150 mm aperture, you can expect bright and clear images of celestial objects, making stargazing more enjoyable. The new equatorial mount is already assembled for your convenience, allowing you to focus on observing rather than setup. Its fully equipped design includes high-quality optics and a sturdy stainless steel tripod, ensuring stability during use. You'll appreciate the included phone adapter for easy astrophotography and a moon filter for enhanced viewing experiences.

What We Like
Large aperture for bright images
Convenient pre-assembled mount
Stable stainless steel tripod
User-friendly and fully equipped
#TOP 9

Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ Telescope

31051
Grey
Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ Telescope Cover
Celestron - AstroMaster 130EQ-MD Newtonian Telescope - Reflector Telescope for Beginners - Fully-Coated Glass Optics - Adjustable-Height Tripod - Bonus Astronomy Software Package

The Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ-MD telescope is designed for astronomy beginners, featuring fully-coated glass optics, a lightweight frame, and an adjustable tripod. With a high-quality 130mm glass optic objective lens and two slow-motion control knobs, this telescope provides smooth and accurate pointing. It comes with two eyepieces, a StarPointer red dot finderscope, and a FREE download of top-rated astronomy software programs. Additionally, the Celestron brand offers unbeatable customer support with unlimited access to technical support from US-based experts.

What We Like
Quick and easy setup with no tools required for assembly
Lightweight frame makes it easy to move and transport
Included accessories such as two eyepieces and a StarPointer red dot finderscope
#TOP 10

Sky-Watcher Skymax 102mm Maksutov-Cassegrain

S11510
Black
Sky-Watcher Skymax 102mm Maksutov-Cassegrain Cover
Sky-Watcher Skymax 102mm Maksutov-Cassegrain - Large Aperture Compound-Style Reflector Telescope

The Sky-Watcher Skymax 102mm Maksutov-Cassegrain, part of the Skymax series, offers expertly matched optics with a contrast-rich viewing experience. With its 94% reflectivity mirror coatings, this telescope ensures outstanding light transmission for clear and detailed images. The Vixen-style dovetail and tripod thread provide easy mounting options, while the fully baffled tube prevents stray light from interfering with your observations. The Skymax 102mm comes with all the essentials to get started, including eyepieces, a finder, star diagonal, and a carrying bag. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a beginner, this telescope offers convenience and high-quality performance for your stargazing adventures.

What We Like
Expertly matched optics
94% reflectivity mirror coatings
Vixen-style dovetail for easy mounting
Buying Guide Image

Choose the Best Reflector Telescopes for Your Needs

Introduction

Are you in the market for a reflector telescope? With so many options available, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. In this article, we will provide some helpful tips to consider when selecting a reflector telescope.

Aperture

The aperture of a telescope is the diameter of its main lens or mirror, and it is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a reflector telescope. The aperture determines the amount of light that the telescope can gather, which in turn affects the clarity and detail of the objects you will be able to observe. A larger aperture will allow you to see fainter objects and more detail, while a smaller aperture will limit the objects you can see.

Mount

The mount of a telescope is the structure that holds the telescope and allows you to point it at different objects in the sky. There are two main types of mounts for reflector telescopes: altazimuth and equatorial. Altazimuth mounts are simple and easy to use, but they do not track the movement of the stars accurately. Equatorial mounts, on the other hand, are more complex but provide better tracking of celestial objects.

Accessories

Reflector telescopes often come with a variety of accessories, such as eyepieces, finderscopes, and filters. These can enhance your observing experience and make it easier to locate and view objects in the sky. When choosing a reflector telescope, consider the accessories that come with it and whether they will be useful to you.

Budget

As with any major purchase, it is important to consider your budget when choosing a reflector telescope. Reflector telescopes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the quality and features. Determine how much you are willing to spend and look for a telescope that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several factors to consider when choosing a reflector telescope. Aperture, mount, accessories, and budget are all important considerations. By taking the time to research and compare different options, you can find the right reflector telescope for your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a reflector telescope good for?

Reflector telescopes are versatile instruments that allow astronomers to explore not only the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum but also the adjacent ultraviolet and infrared regions. They are used to study a wide range of celestial objects and phenomena.

2. Which is better refractor or reflector telescope?

The choice between a refractor and a reflector telescope depends on various factors. Refractors generally offer better image quality due to their lens quality, optical mountings, and lack of central obscurations. However, reflectors have advantages like larger apertures, no chromatic aberrations, and better price to value ratio. The focal length and desired field of view also play a role in the decision-making process.

3. What are the pros and cons of reflector telescopes?

Reflector telescopes have several advantages, including large apertures, absence of chromatic aberrations, and a good price to value ratio. However, they are less portable, have lower contrast compared to refractors, and require more maintenance. These factors should be considered when deciding on a reflector telescope.

4. Can a reflector telescope see planets?

Yes, reflector telescopes are capable of observing planets and other bright celestial objects like the Moon. Their larger apertures, often available at similar prices, make them a better choice for planetary observations in most cases.

5. Do professional astronomers use reflecting or refracting telescopes?

Reflecting telescopes, despite producing some optical aberrations, are widely used by professional astronomers. Their design allows for very large diameter objectives, making them suitable for advanced astronomical research. The majority of major telescopes used in astronomy research are reflectors.

Editor's Notes

During our reflector telescope research, we found 16 reflector telescope products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 137,112 customer reviews through our big data system to write the reflector telescopes list. We found that most customers choose reflector telescopes with an average price of $322.31.

The reflector telescopes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of reflector telescopes, including Gskyer, Celestron, SOLOMARK, Dianfan, Sky Watcher. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Alan Eaton Avatar

Alan Eaton is a seasoned writer whose expertise is in anything related to electronics, such as headphones, monitoring equipment, computer, and so on, built over a 15-year career in the technology industry. Working in the trade during his youth, he accumulated a great deal of knowledge about machinery.