Tabletop telescope comparisions and options

Astronomy doesn't have to be an expensive hobby. Gone are the days when owning a telescope meant breaking the bank. Enter the era of tabletop telescopes – compact, affordable, and incredibly capable devices that bring the cosmos closer to everyone. These pint-sized powerhouses are perfect for enthusiasts who are always on the move but still wish to indulge in the wonders of the night sky. Despite their smaller size, tabletop telescopes offer impressive magnification and clarity, making them ideal for viewing planets, stars, and even some deep-sky objects. Their portability means you can easily take them to darker skies away from city lights, enhancing your viewing experience without the need for a large, cumbersome setup.

Personally, even though I own several high-end telescopes and operate an observatory, there's a unique joy in observing with something reminiscent of what Galileo used in the 1600s (only with much better optics today). It connects me to the history of astronomy, reminding me that the essence of stargazing lies in curiosity, not in the cost of your equipment. 

Tabletop telescopes are a compact and versatile option for astronomy enthusiasts of all levels. Their portable design makes them easy to transport and set up, allowing users to enjoy stargazing from virtually anywhere, whether in their backyard or at a remote dark sky site. These telescopes are particularly well-suited for beginners, offering user-friendly features and simplified operation, while still providing powerful optics for detailed observations of celestial objects like the Moon, planets, and star clusters. Additionally, many tabletop telescopes are designed for dual use, allowing for both astronomical and terrestrial observations, making them a practical choice for those who want to explore both the night sky and nature.

Top tabletop telescopes

• Sky-Watcher INFINITY-76: A 76mm aperture Newtonian reflector with a 300mm focal length, featuring aspherical technology and intuitive design, ideal for children.
   
• Sky-Watcher Heritage 100P: A 100mm aperture Dobsonian with a 400mm focal length, providing bright views of deep sky and solar system objects.
   
• Sky-Watcher Virtuoso GTi 150P: A 150mm collapsible Dobsonian with Wi-Fi and GoTo control, designed for versatile use with a 750mm focal length.
   
• Sky-Watcher Heritage 150: A 150mm parabolic Dobsonian with a collapsible tube and Teflon bearings, offering a balance of portability and aperture.
   
• Sky-Watcher SkyMax 127 Virtuoso GTi: A 127mm Maksutov-Cassegrain with a commemorative design, featuring Wi-Fi and access to over 10,000 celestial objects.
   
• Orion FunScope 76mm Tabletop Dobsonian: A 76mm spherical mirror reflector, capturing 60% more light than typical beginner telescopes, with included Moon Kit.
   
• Orion StarMax 90mm TableTop Maksutov-Cassegrain: A 90mm Maksutov-Cassegrain with a 1250mm focal length, providing impressive magnification and detailed views.
   
• Celestron StarSense Explorer 114mm Tabletop Dobsonian: A 114mm Newtonian reflector that uses smartphone technology to analyze the night sky and guide users.
   
• Omegon MightyMak 60: A 60mm Maksutov reflector that doubles as a telephoto lens, offering a compact design for both celestial and terrestrial observations.
   

Sky-Watcher Infinity 76P - Mini Dobsonian

The Sky-Watcher INFINITY-76 telescope features aspherical technology typically found in larger, more expensive models. Its primary mirror is precisely polished to focus light rays onto a common focal plane, producing detailed and sharp images. This telescope gathers 131% more starlight compared to a standard 50mm toy telescope, enabling the observation of many additional celestial objects. The intuitive design, allowing up-down and left-right movement, makes it a user-friendly option for children. The telescope is easy to set up, requiring minimal effort out of the box, allowing children to quickly begin exploring the universe. The telescope includes a 30x erect image eyepiece for daytime terrestrial viewing and comes with a set of stickers for customization.

• 76MM (3") F/300 parabolic Newtonian reflector, children's telescope
• Type of telescope: Newtonian (Dobsonian)
• Designation: Dobsonian mount
• Tracking: manually
• Focal ratio: f/4
• Tube weight: 3.1 lb
• Aperture: 76 mm
• Focal length: 300 mm
   

Sky-Watcher Heritage 100P Dobsonian

The Sky-Watcher Heritage 100P Dobsonian telescope is designed for beginners, offering a straightforward and sturdy Dobsonian table-top mount for an enjoyable user experience. Equipped with a 100mm diameter mirror, it allows for the observation of brighter deep sky objects, as well as clear views of solar system objects like planets and the Moon. The telescope is compact and easy to transport, making it convenient for users. It includes 10mm and 25mm eyepieces and a red dot finder.

• Aperture: 100mm
• Focal length: 400 mm
• Focal ratio: f/4
• Magnification with included eyepieces: 16x and 40x
• Total weight: 3kg
   

Sky-Watcher Virtuoso GTi 150P

The Sky-Watcher Virtuoso GTi collapsible tabletop Dobsonian telescope combines convenience, flexibility, and light-gathering capability, now enhanced with Wi-Fi. This telescope is well-suited for both beginner astronomy enthusiasts and experienced observers seeking a portable option for backyard or travel use. Available with either 130mm or 150mm apertures, the Virtuoso GTi features a larger aperture, faster focal ratio, collapsible optical tube assembly, and built-in Wi-Fi for full GoTo telescope control via a smartphone and Sky-Watcher's SynScan app for iOS and Android.

The Virtuoso GTi is designed for versatile use, drawing on the collapsible optical tube design from Sky-Watcher's Flextube and Heritage Dobsonians. It includes Sky-Watcher’s Radiant Aluminum Quartz (RAQ) coatings on all optical surfaces for enhanced viewing, along with a red dot finder and two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm). The SynScan Pro app provides access to a database of over 10,000 objects, including Messier, NGC, IC, and Caldwell catalogs. The telescope’s internal GPS, coupled with patented Freedom Find technology, allows for manual control while maintaining alignment and tracking celestial objects with precision.

• 150mm aperture for bright, bold views 
• Fast f/5 optics for increased light gathering power 
• 750mm focal length perfect for viewing the Moon, planets, galaxies, and nebulae 
• Built in Wi-Fi and full GoTo performance via the SynScan Pro app
•  Patented Freedom Find  technology uses dual encoders to allow manual control while retaining alignment
• Collapsible optical tube for easy storage and transportation 
• Proprietary Radiant Aluminum Quartz (RAQ) coatings for 94% reflectivity 
• Virtuoso GTi mount accepts V-style dovetail 
• Tracking rates: solar, lunar, sidereal, and alignment-free solar tracking 
• Alignment modes: One-Star, Brightest Star, North-Level Alignment, Three-Star 
• Powered by 8 AA batteries or external 12V power supply (not included) 
• Free SynScan Pro app features a database containing over 10,000 objects, including Messier, NGC, IC, and Caldwell catalogs 
   

Sky-Watcher Heritage 150 Tabletop Dobsonian

In 1668, Sir Isaac Newton invented the first reflector telescope, utilizing mirrors instead of optical lenses to achieve a larger aperture while reducing the overall size of the telescope. The Heritage 150 telescope pays tribute to Newton's design, honoring notable astronomers such as Galileo, Messier, Kepler, and Newton. Featuring a lightweight 150mm parabolic primary mirror and a compact, manual azimuth mount, the Heritage 150 offers a balance of portability and aperture, reflecting Newton's original intentions.

The Heritage 150 collects 363% more light than the human eye and 44% more light than the 130mm model, using the same optics as the Classic 150P Dobsonian, but in a more compact and cost-effective form. The telescope's mirrors are made of durable borosilicate glass with Sky-Watcher’s Radiant Aluminum Quartz (RAQ) coating. The optical tube is designed to collapse for easy portability and storage while maintaining collimation. The lightweight azimuth base, equipped with Teflon bearings and an altitude locking knob, ensures smooth, accurate movement and steady viewing. Additionally, the base's skid-resistant, vibration-suppressing rubber feet provide stability, making the Heritage 150 an ideal travel telescope.

• Large 150mm aperture delivers crisp, contrast-rich views of the Moon, planets, and so much more
• Fast f/5 focal ratio, 750mm focal length
• Borosilicate parabolic primary mirror with Sky-Watcher’s proprietary Radiant Aluminum Quartz (RAQ)
• Collapsible tube design retains collimation while providing increased portability and easy storage
• 1.25-inch helical focuser
• Tabletop design with rubber feet to minimize vibration and increased stability

​​​SkyMax 127 Virtuoso GTi

The 25th Anniversary SkyMax 127 Virtuoso GTi telescope is a powerful instrument and a collector's item, designed to commemorate innovation in astronomy. Housed in a sleek, commemorative design, this telescope features a 127mm Maksutov-Cassegrain optical system known for delivering crisp, aberration-free views. It captures detailed images of celestial objects, including planets, nebulae, galaxies, Saturn's rings, Jupiter's Great Red Spot, its Galilean moons, and lunar craters and mountain ranges.

The Virtuoso GTi mount automatically navigates the night sky, offering access to over 10,000 celestial objects through the free SynScan app, which also includes user-friendly tours and information. With the optional hand controller, this database expands to over 42,000 objects. The patented Freedom-Find technology allows manual adjustments without losing alignment. The optical tube features a Vixen-style dovetail, compatible with most standard astronomy mounts, and the base can be attached to a standard photographic tripod for versatile configurations.

This limited-edition telescope is designed not only for performance but also for an enriched experience. It includes a commemorative anniversary plaque, making it a personalized legacy piece. The 25th Anniversary SkyMax 127 Virtuoso GTi is a powerful observing tool, a conversation piece, and a limited-edition treasure for stargazers.

• SKU: S21225
• UPC: 810098970396
• Optical Design: Maksutov-Cassegrain
• Mirror Coating: RAQ Coatings
• Reflectivity: 94%
• Mirror Type: Conical
• Glass Type: Borosilicate
• Primary Aperture (mm): 127
• F/Ratio: 12.1
• Focal Length (mm): 1540mm
• Secondary Diameter (minor axis): 39mm
• Secondary Obstruction by Diameter: 31%
• Secondary Obstruction by Area: 9%
• Primary Cell Supports: Center Baffle
• Optical Quality: Diffraction limited (1/4 wave)
• Collimatable Cell: Primary
• Focuser Type: Primary
• Focuser Size: 2"
• Focuser Speed: Single
• Compression Ring: No
• Optical Tube Length: 15"
• Optical Tube Weight (with accessories): 10 pounds
• Assembled Base Weight: 11 pounds
• Total Weight (with accessories): 21 pounds
• Bearing Type: Roller
• Hardware Included with Base: Yes
• Collapsible Tube: No
• Tripod Mount: 3/8 thread block
• Required Power: 12v/AAs (8x)
• Power Port Diameter: 2.1mm
• Freedom Find: Yes
• Clutch Type: Hand Clutch
• Adjustable Clutches: Yes
• Built-in WiFi: Yes
• Hand Controller: Optional
• Database: Complete Messier, Caldwell, NGC, IC, and SAO catalogs, user-defined objects, Total 10,000+ objects
• Eyepieces: 28mm 2" LET eyepiece
• Collimation Eyepiece: No
• Included Finder: 9x50 optical finder
• Mounting Hardware: V-style dovetail
• Additional Accessories: 2" diagonal
• Manual: Yes
• Case: No
• Shipping Weight: 28 pounds
• Shipping Dimensions: 23"x17"x16.5"
• Dawes Limit: 0.91
• Rayleigh Limit: 1.1
• Limiting Magnitude: 13
• Minimum Magnification: 18x
• Maximum Magnification: 250x
• Magnification with Included Eyepieces: 55x (28mm)
• Light Gather (compared to next size down): 55 (Compared to Skymax 102)
• Intended Use: Visual
   

Orion FunScope 76mm Tabletop Dobsonian Reflector Telescope

The Orion 76mm FunScope is a practical first telescope for kids and teenagers interested in astronomy. This model features a 76mm (3-inch) diameter polished spherical mirror, capturing 60% more light than typical 50mm or 60mm beginner telescopes, resulting in brighter and clearer views. Despite its name, the FunScope offers above-average performance for a beginner telescope. The included Moon Kit comes with the Orion Moon Map 260, a detailed map of the Moon, aiding users in identifying lunar features.

The FunScope comes with two eyepieces: a 20mm eyepiece for 15x magnification and a 10mm eyepiece for 30x magnification, providing a range of viewing options. It also includes a red-dot aiming tool, making it easy to target celestial objects. The telescope arrives fully assembled, eliminating the need for setup. Additionally, it can be mounted on any tripod with a 3/8-inch or 1/4-inch/20 threaded post, thanks to its built-in 3/8 tripod adapter and included 1/4-inch/20 threaded bushing.

• Aperture: 76 mm (3")
• Camera/Eyepiece Connection: 1.25
• Dawes Limit: 1.53 arcseconds
• Focal Length: 300 mm
• Focal Ratio: f/3.9
• Highest Magnification: 152x
• Light Gathering Power: 118x
• Limiting Magnitude: 13.2
• Optical Design: Maksutov Cassegrain
• Tube Length: 259.1mm
• Tube Weigh: t12.1 lbs
• Warranty: 1 Year Warranty
   

Orion StarMax 90mm TableTop Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

The Orion StarMax 90 TableTop Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope offers impressive views in a compact design, making it an ideal choice for both a first telescope and a portable grab-and-go option. Despite its modest size, this telescope provides substantial magnifying power with its long 1250mm focal length (f/13.8). It includes two 1.25" 3-element eyepieces, a 25mm eyepiece for 50x magnification and a 10mm eyepiece for 125x magnification. The 90mm diameter optical tube collects over 25% more light than the GoScope 80 refractor and up to 225% more light than a traditional 60mm beginner's refractor, delivering detailed views of lunar landscapes, Saturn's rings, Jupiter's moons, star clusters, and brighter nebulas.

The optical tube assembly is attached to a stable table-top swivel base via a quick-release dovetail mount with adjustable altitude tension. The telescope tube can be easily removed from the table-top base for mounting on an optional photo tripod. The swivel base itself can also be mounted on a camera tripod with a 3/8" screw, offering flexibility in observing locations.

• Aperture: 90mm (3.5")
• Dawes Limit: 1.29 arcseconds
• Focal Length: 1250mm
• Focal Ratio: f/13.9
• Highest Magnification: 180x
• Mount Design: Altitude Azimuth
• Mount Weight: 2.8 lb
• Optical Design: Maksutov Cassegrain
• Secondary Obstruction: 29 mm
• Total Weight: 6.5 lbs
• Tube Diameter: 90 mm
• Tube Length: 254mm
• Tube Weight: 3.7 lb
   

StarSense Explorer 114mm Smartphone App-Enabled Tabletop Dobsonian Telescope

Celestron's StarSense Explorer Tabletop Dobsonian telescope introduces a modern twist to the traditional design by incorporating smartphone technology. This 114mm aperture telescope uses your smartphone to analyze the night sky and calculate its position in real-time, making it an ideal choice for beginners. The StarSense Explorer app features a user-friendly interface and detailed tutorials, providing a personal tour guide experience of the night sky.

• Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
• Aperture: 14mm (4.48")
• Focal Length: 450mm (17.71")
• Focal Ratio: f/4
• Focal Length of Eyepiece 1: 17mm (0.67")
• Magnification of Eyepiece 1: 26x
• Focal Length of Eyepiece 2: 10mm (0.39")
• Magnification of Eyepiece 2: 45x
• Highest Useful Magnification: 269x
• Lowest Useful Magnification: 16x
• Limiting Stellar Magnitude: 12.8
• Light Gathering Power: 265x as compared to the human eye
• Optical Coatings: Aluminum with SiO2 overcoat
• Mirror Material: Standard optical glass for primary and secondary mirrors
• Minor Axis of Secondary Mirror: 34.5mm (1.36")
• Tube Material: Steel
• Focuser: 1.25" rack-and-pinion
• Finderscope:  StarPointer red-dot finderscope
• Resolution Rayleigh: 1.21 arcseconds
• Resolution Dawes: 1.02 arcseconds
• Optical Tube Dimensions: 469.9mm (18.5") long x 139.7mm (5.5") diameter
• Optical Tube Weight: 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg)
• Mount Type: Altazimuth Tabletop Dobsonian base
• Base Material: Particle board with melamine surfaces and edge trim, CARB compliant
• Base Dimensions: 381mm x 381mm x 393.7mm (15" 15" x 15.5")
• Base Weight: 8.4 lbs (3.81 kg)
• Slew Speeds: Manual
• Software: Celestron Starry Night Basic Edition Software and StarSense Explorer App
• Total Telescope Kit Weight: 12.6 lbs (5.71 kg)

Omegon Maksutov telescope MightyMak 60

The Omegon MightyMak is a versatile and compact telescope designed for observing both celestial objects and terrestrial landscapes, including the Moon, planets, trees, and animals. Its compact size allows it to fit into almost any bag, making it ideal for those who enjoy both stargazing and nature observation. The MightyMak can also function as a telephoto lens for photography, thanks to a T-2 thread and optional T-Ring, allowing for long focal length imaging.

This Maksutov reflector telescope offers a slightly shorter focal length compared to other models, resulting in brighter images and a larger field of view. The MightyMak is a practical choice for users who want a multi-purpose telescope that is easy to use for both observing and photography.

• Optics Type: Reflector
• Type of Build: Maksutov
• Aperture (mm): 60
• Focal Length (mm): 700
• Aperture Ratio (f/): 11.7
• Resolving Capacity: 2.3
• Limit Value (mag): 11.1
• Light Gathering Capacity: 73
• Max. Useful Magnification: 120
• Tube Weight (kg): 0.6
• Tube Construction: Full tube
• Focuser Connection (to eyepiece): 1.25"
• Focuser Type: Internal
• Mounting Type: Azimuthal
• GoTo Control: No
• Included Accessories: Table tripod
• Eyepieces: 1.25" K 25mm
• Prism Rail: Vixen-Style
• Carry Case: Yes
• Deviating Optics: 1.25", 90° star diagonal
• Total Weight (kg): 1.5
   

Below, Lance Lucero from Celestron to delve into the details of the StarSense Explorer, a tabletop Dobsonian telescope. Lance outlines what makes the StarSense Explorer stand out, and together, they reminisce about their journeys in astronomy education, inspiring the community with their enthusiasm. It's undeniable that the StarSense Explorer by Celestron has captured my affection, standing out as a favored instrument in my current collection.