A good telescope does not have to cost a fortune. Those looking for a cheap telescope between €100 and €300, can already see a surprising amount: from craters on the moon to the rings of Saturn. But the differences in quality are great and, unfortunately, so is the likelihood of a mis-buy.
In this blog you will read what to look out for, what you can expect within this budget, and how to easily find the right models using the filters on Telescoop.co.uk.
View all telescopes under €150, €200 or €300 here
Why a cheap telescope is indeed a good idea (if you know what you're doing)
A cheap telescope is often the first step to stargazing - and that's fine, as long as you know what you're buying. Many models offer enough optical quality to view the moon and planets. Even some bright deep-sky objects are visible under dark skies.
What you can see with an entry-level model of ± €200:
Shadows and craters on the moon
Jupiter as a sphere with moons around it
The rings of Saturn
The Orion Nebula as a light structure in low light pollution
Note that these are visual observations. No colors or photo details - you need other equipment for that. Think of these initial observations as a training ground, and you will get the most out of your starting budget.
-> Want to see immediately which model is right for you? Check out the telescope decision tree.
Which inexpensive telescope is suitable for planets?
For planetary viewing, it's not about “how many times magnification,” it's about:
a good lens or mirror aperture (minimum 70 mm for lenses, 100 mm for mirrors)
a stable mount which does not vibrate
a reasonable eyepiece (no plastic Huygens-type)
In this price range, compact reflectors and entry-level Dobsonians make the most sense. They offer the best optical value per euro.
Click here and go to:
Can you also see deep-sky objects with a cheap telescope?
Yes, but with limitations. Deep-sky objects such as galaxies and nebulae are much fainter than planets. That means: the larger your aperture (in mm), the better.
Within a budget of up to €400, there are models that allow you to find and recognize, for example, the Orion Nebula or Andromeda. Don't expect detail, but think of it as visual exploration: learning to navigate with star charts and practicing with contrast.
For deep-sky applies: dark sky = crucial. Light pollution makes the difference between “nothing” and “blurry but visible.”.
What does a good entry-level telescope cost?
It depends on your goal. An overview:
€100 - €200
For the moon, Jupiter and Saturn. Good to start with. Easy to use, but limited in magnification and sharpness.€200 - €400
Better optics, larger aperture. More detail on planets, first deep-sky possible. Ideal for those who want to advance.€400+
For those who want to immediately invest more in image quality or even consider astrophotography.
Click here to see the models within your budget:
Common question: can you really see Saturn with a cheap telescope?
Yes. Even with a telescope of around €200 you can see Saturn as a small disk with recognizable rings. With calm air and properly adjusted optics, you can also see moons of Jupiter and sometimes distinguish the separation between Saturn and its rings.
You will need the following:
An opening of at least 100-130 mm
A decent eyepiece (e.g., 10 mm or 6 mm)
A stable setup without vibrations
Tips for choosing a good cheap telescope
Determine your goal: moon & planets or also deep-sky?
Avoid claims such as “600x magnification” - that's marketing.
More aperture (mm) = more light = better image.
Dobsonians are the best value for visual stargazing.
Always use the filters: sort by price, opening and type.
Conclusion: a cheap telescope is a smart start
You don't need expensive equipment to gaze in wonder at the moon or Jupiter. What you do need is a telescope that fits your purpose, expectations, and budget. Choose a model that is optically sound, stable, and remains expandable.
Telescoop.com is happy to help you with that: with filters per price category, clear explanations for each product, and a selection guide that will help you know what suits you best within minutes.
View all cheap telescopes here and choose smartly - without regret.
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