Best Telescope Finder Scopes of 2026

Alan Eaton Avatar
Alan Eaton
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2026

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Telescope finder scopes are a popular accessory for amateur astronomers. These small, lightweight telescopes are used to help locate objects in the sky before viewing them through the main telescope. They are especially useful for finding faint objects or those located in crowded areas of the sky. Finder scopes can be attached to the main telescope or used independently. They come in a variety of sizes and magnifications to suit different needs and budgets. Some even have illuminated reticles to aid in alignment. Overall, a good finder scope is an essential tool for any amateur astronomer looking to make the most of their telescope.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Celestron StarPointer Finderscope Cover #TOP 1
Celestron StarPointer Finderscope
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Celestron 51635 StarPointer Pro Finderscope Cover #TOP 2
Celestron 51635 StarPointer Pro Finderscope
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SVBONY Red Dot Finderscope for Celestron Cover #TOP 3
SVBONY Red Dot Finderscope for Celestron
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Telescope Finder Scopes

#TOP 1

Celestron StarPointer Finderscope

51630-CGL
Black
Celestron StarPointer Finderscope Cover
Celestron 51630 Star Telescope Finderscope, Black

The Celestron StarPointer Finderscope is a simple and low-profile red-dot finderscope that offers easy adjustments for sighting and alignment. This LED-illuminated red-dot pinpoint easily attaches to standard finderscope brackets and is perfect for use with a telescope.

What We Like
Easy to use
Offers precise sighting and alignment
Low profile design
#TOP 2

Celestron 51635 StarPointer Pro Finderscope

51635
Black
Celestron 51635 StarPointer Pro Finderscope Cover
Celestron StarPointer Pro Finderscope, Black

The Celestron 51635 StarPointer Pro Finderscope is designed to help astronomers precisely locate their targets. It features a dual-circle reticle that is more visible than a red dot, and a larger 40 mm optical window that offers a wider field of view. The finderscope also has a brighter LED for easy visibility during the day, and an easy dovetail connection that requires no tools to set up.

What We Like
Precisely locates targets
Dual-circle reticle is more visible than a red dot
Larger optical window offers a wider field of view
#TOP 3

SVBONY Red Dot Finderscope for Celestron

FUSW2299A
SVBONY Red Dot Finderscope for Celestron Cover
SVBONY Red Dot Finderscope, Star Pointer Compatible for Celestron 80EQ 80DX 90DX SE SLT Astronomical Telescopes, Astronomical Telescope Accessories with Slide-in Bracket

The SVBONY Red Dot Sight is designed to enhance your stargazing experience. With its adjustable red LED dot, you can easily align your telescope, making it perfect for both day and night use. The thumbwheels allow you to fine-tune the dot's position both horizontally and vertically, ensuring precise targeting of celestial objects. Plus, you can adjust the brightness to match your surroundings, giving you flexibility in various lighting conditions. This user-friendly sighting device is compatible with several Celestron telescope models, making it a versatile addition to your astronomical equipment.

What We Like
Easy alignment
Adjustable brightness
Compatible with multiple models
User-friendly design
#TOP 4

SVBONY Red Dot Finder Scope for Astronomical Telescope

FW2564A
black
SVBONY Red Dot Finder Scope for Astronomical Telescope Cover
SVBONY Red Dot Finder Scope for Astronomical Telescope Reflex Viewfinder Compatible for Celestron 80EQ SE SLT and so on Telescope, Astronomical Telescope Accessories Two Hole Fixing

SVBONY Red Dot Finder Scope for Astronomical Telescope is a simple, affordable, and effective red dot sighting device that helps you aim your telescope quickly and easily. It is best suited for Celestron 80EQ SE SLT PS Series and Meade Infinity and Polaris series telescopes. The LED dot is projected onto a non-magnifying viewing window, and the elongated mounting holes make it easy to mount the scope from a distance of approximately 5/8 to 1 inch. Additionally, the top part of the scope can be removed and used as a replacement for many other red dot finders found on Skywatcher and Celestron telescopes. The device also has variable brightness levels to adjust as per your need.

What We Like
Simple, affordable, and effective red dot sighting device
LED dot projected onto a non-magnifying viewing window for quick and easy aim of the telescope
Top part of the scope can be removed and used as a replacement for many other red dot finders found on Skywatcher and Celestron telescopes
#TOP 5

SVBONY SV165 Mini Guide Scope for Auto Guiding Cameras

FCAW9125A
Black and Red
30mm
SVBONY SV165 Mini Guide Scope for Auto Guiding Cameras Cover
SVBONY SV165 Mini Guide Scope 30mm F4 Finder and Guide Scope for SV305C Pro, Compatible with Astronomy Telescope and ZWO QHY Orion Auto Guiding Cameras for Deep Sky Astrophotography

The SVBONY SV165 Mini Guide Scope is a compact and powerful tool for astronomy enthusiasts. Its compatibility with mainstream auto guiding cameras and 1.25in and M42 mount interface designed for compatible with SV305 Pro and for Orion ZWO QHY and so on auto guiding cameras. Its ultra-wide band fully multilayer coated lens provides sharp and clear images, while the 30mm achromatic optics prevent irritating reflections. The 45mm back focus distance allows easy and precise focus adjustments, and the f4 aperture optics provides a very wide field of view, making it easy to find targets quickly.

What We Like
Compatible with mainstream auto guiding cameras
Ultra-wide band fully multilayer coated lens provides sharp and clear images
45mm back focus distance allows easy and precise focus adjustments
F4 aperture optics provides a very wide field of view
Quality craftsmanship with high-level CNC metal processing technology
#TOP 6

Astromania Dual Finder Mounting Bracket

SKU_AM_MBDTF
Dual Aiming Devices
Astromania Dual Finder Mounting Bracket Cover
Astromania Dual Finder Scope Mount, Finderscope Mounting Bracket with Double Finder Mount Bracket - Adjustable Metal Aluminum Telescope Finder Bracket Installation of Red Dot Finderscope for Telescope

If you are tired of using just one finder scope, the Astromania Finder Mount is the perfect solution. This mounting bracket allows you to attach two aiming devices to your telescope without any drilling required. The material is alumina, which provides excellent tactility. It's great for both visual observers and astrophotographers, and you can use any combination of two aiming devices you wish, including finder scopes, red-dot reflex sights, green laser pointer brackets, mini guide scopes, and more. With this mount, you can quickly and easily attach two finder scopes or other aiming devices to your telescope. This convenience is especially useful for astrophotographers who need more precise aiming devices. Overall, the Astromania Finder Mount is a great accessory for any telescope owner looking to enhance their observing experience.

What We Like
No drilling required
Allows use of two finders
Great for visual observers and astrophotographers
#TOP 7

SVBONY SV182 Finderscope for Astronomy Telescope

FW9141B
black
SVBONY SV182 Finderscope for Astronomy Telescope Cover
SVBONY SV182 Finderscope, Right-Angle Correct-Image Optical Finder, 6x30 Finder Scope for Astronomy Telescope, with Crosshair and Bracket

The SVBONY SV182 Finderscope is an essential tool for any stargazer. With a 30mm wide aperture and strong light gathering capabilities, it allows you to see even the faintest objects in the sky. Its appropriate 120mm focal length, powerful 6x crosshair reticles, and prism steering system make it easy to line up your target and get a clear, bright image. The 90-degree right angle design ensures a comfortable observation angle and eliminates the need for neck twisting. Its fully multi coated lens coating improves light transmission and provides a sharp, clear view of the night sky.

What We Like
Improves light gathering capabilities for viewing faint objects
90-degree right angle design for comfortable observation
Prism steering system for an erect image
Fully multi coated lens coating for clear and bright images
Ideal 120mm focal length and powerful 6x crosshair reticles for easy targeting
#TOP 8

SVBONY SV165 Mini Guide Scope

FCAW9125B
40mm
SVBONY SV165 Mini Guide Scope Cover
SVBONY SV165 40mm Mini Guide Scope, F4 Finder Scope with Scale, Astronomy Accessories Compatible with ZWO QHY Orion Auto SV305 Pro Telescope Cameras for Deep Sky Photography

SVBONY Mini Guide Scope is a compact and fully multi-coated optical glass that provides clear and sharp vision for astronomical observation and astrophotography. It is suitable for use with telescopes with focal lengths up to 700mm, and it is compatible with guide cameras such as SV305 Pro and Orion ZWO QHY. The front focuser comes with a scale for marking focus positions, which can improve the efficiency of repeating focusing. The locking ring ensures that the focus position remains unchanged during use. The six-point guide ring is angle-adjustable, allowing users to adjust the coaxiality of the guide scope and the main telescope according to their needs.

What We Like
Clear and sharp vision
Compatible with guide cameras
Front focuser with scale
#TOP 9

Celestron FirstScope Accessory Kit

21024-ACC-CGL
Black
Celestron FirstScope Accessory Kit Cover
Celestron 21024-ACC FirstScope Accessory Kit, Black

The Celestron FirstScope Kit is designed to enhance your stargazing experience. It includes two eyepieces that offer 24X and 50X magnification, allowing you to see celestial objects in greater detail. A 5x24 finderscope is also part of the kit, making it easier for you to locate stars and planets in the night sky. Plus, the nylon carry bag lets you take your FirstScope telescope with you wherever you go, adding convenience and portability for your astronomy adventures. This kit helps you get more from your telescope and enjoy exploring space.

What We Like
Multiple eyepieces included
Easy object location
Portable nylon carry bag
#TOP 10

Astromania Finder Deluxe Telescope Reflex Sight

SKU_AM_RSEZ2
Black
Astromania Finder Deluxe Telescope Reflex Sight Cover
Astromania Red Dot Finderscope for Telescope Deluxe Finder, StarPointer Red Dot Sight Metal Reflex Finder Scope for Astronomical Telescope - Red Dot Viewfinder Finderscope with Dovetail Finder Bracket

The Astromania Reflex Sight is a non-magnifying reflex sight designed to make aiming your telescope easier and more accurate than ever, day or night. It features a large viewing window and four different aiming reticle patterns to choose from, as well as five brightness levels of red or green light. The reflex sight includes horizontal and vertical fine-adjustment set-screws that allow precise alignment with the telescope and a dovetail finder bracket that fits most telescopes. With this reflex sight, you can easily aim your telescope at night or during the day, thanks to the small red or green LED reticle pattern projected onto the viewing window. The reticle selector knob allows you to select the reticle you desire, and you can set the intensity at the best position for you. Each click adjustment moves the point of impact by 1 MOA, approximately 1" at 100 yds, 1/2" at 50 yds.

What We Like
Large viewing window
Four aiming reticle patterns
Five brightness levels
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do you need a finder scope on a telescope?

Yes, a finder scope is essential for a telescope. It is a mini telescope attached to the main telescope tube that offers a wider field of view, typically 3-10 degrees. With a finder scope, you can easily locate objects in the sky and navigate your telescope more effectively.

2. What is a reasonable magnification for a very good telescope?

A reasonable magnification for a high-quality telescope depends on its aperture. Typically, a highest useful power of about 200x to 240x is achievable with an 8" scope on an average night. For a 4" scope, it would be around 100x to 120x. The optimal magnification for observing globular clusters and smaller nebulas is about 12x to 15x per inch of aperture, while 8x per inch of aperture is recommended for finding galaxies and observing large nebulas.

3. How do you align a telescope without a finder scope?

Aligning a telescope without a finder scope can be done by roughly pointing the scope in the right direction, then leaning down so one eye is right behind the telescope. Adjust the altitude setting until the object is just in view above the scope, and then adjust the azimuth while looking at the star above the telescope. This method requires some rough estimation and adjustment to align the telescope manually.

4. Can you focus a finder scope?

Yes, most achromatic finder scopes have an adjustment ring that allows you to focus the image for your eyesight. Focusing is achieved by moving the objective (front) lens in or out using the knurled ring near the front of the finder.

5. How do you match a guide scope to a main scope?

The ideal ratio for matching a guide scope to a main scope is historically about 1/3 of the focal length of the primary imaging telescope. This means that the focal length of the guide scope should be approximately one-third of the focal length of the main telescope. This ratio helps ensure proper guiding and tracking when using a guide scope with a main telescope for astrophotography or precise observations.

Editor's Notes

During our telescope finder scope research, we found 16 telescope finder scope products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 32,027 customer reviews through our big data system to write the telescope finder scopes list. We found that most customers choose telescope finder scopes with an average price of $31.46.

The telescope finder scopes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of telescope finder scopes, including Celestron, SVBONY, Astromania. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 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.