5 Best 12 Inch Telescopes (Reviews Updated 2024)

Telescopes are essential for astronomy enthusiasts who want to explore the night sky. A 12-inch telescope offers a good balance between portability and power, letting you see deep space objects clearly. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced stargazer, a 12-inch telescope can provide satisfying views of planets, stars, and galaxies.

When choosing a 12-inch telescope, consider the type of mount it has. Equatorial mounts are great for tracking objects, while Dobsonian mounts are simpler and sturdier. Also, pay attention to the telescope’s focal length, weight, and any included accessories.

These features are key in finding the right telescope for your needs. The next section will discuss the top 12-inch telescopes available today and their various features.

Best 12 Inch Telescopes

Here’s a roundup of the best 12 inch telescopes. These selections were chosen based on their optical quality, durability, and user reviews.

Want to learn more?

Here are our 12-inch telescope reviews.

1. Celestron StarSense Explorer 12″ Dobsonian Telescope

An excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users that utilizes your smartphone to navigate the night sky.

Pros

• Uses smartphone for easy navigation
• Large 12-inch aperture for clear views
• User-friendly app with detailed tutorials

Cons

• Heavy at 83.6 pounds
• Requires a compatible smartphone
• Setup may take some time for beginners

The Celestron StarSense Explorer features StarSense technology that makes stargazing easy. Just set up the telescope, dock your phone, and the app guides you to celestial objects.

This telescope’s large aperture allows you to see faint objects with incredible detail. The accompanying app uses SkySafari to list currently visible objects and provides detailed audio descriptions.

Its 83.6-pound weight and requirement for a compatible smartphone are something to consider. Overall, the Celestron StarSense Explorer is a user-friendly option with advanced features for memorable astronomical experiences.

2. Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 SynScan 12-inch Dobsonian

This telescope offers a great mix of affordability, portability, and features for sky enthusiasts.

Pros

• Large aperture for excellent light gathering
• Collapsible design for easier transport
• Comprehensive accessory package

Cons

• Some users reported issues with the GoTo base
• Occasionally missing components in the box
• Heavy and bulky

The Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 offers a large 12-inch aperture, providing bright and detailed images. The collapsible design allows for easier transport and storage compared to traditional Dobsonians.

This model includes the SynScan hand controller with a database of over 42,000 objects. This makes it suitable for both beginners and seasoned astronomers. You can expect good contrast and minimal vignetting thanks to the borosilicate mirrors.

While it excels in many areas, there have been some reports of issues with the GoTo base and missing components. Be sure to check your package thoroughly upon arrival.

3. Sky Watcher 12-inch Collapsible Dobsonian Telescope

Ideal for those who want a large aperture telescope with easy portability.

Pros

• Outstanding optical quality
• Convenient collapsible design
• Smooth, precise movement

Cons

• Bulky even when collapsed
• Possible issues with assembly
• Heavier than some alternatives

This telescope stands out with its large 12-inch aperture, offering great views of distant celestial objects. The innovative collapsible design makes it easier to transport and store compared to traditional models.

The optical quality is excellent due to the fully multi-coated mirrors, ensuring bright and detailed images. Moving the telescope is seamless thanks to the steel needle bearings, allowing for precise adjustments without hassle.

The package includes all necessary accessories, so you’re ready to start observing right away. Despite its bulk and weight, its portability features make it a solid choice for those who need a big scope they can take on the go.

4. SOLOMARK Telescope 130EQ

This telescope offers impressive optics and stability, perfect for those serious about stargazing.

Pros

• Excellent light collection
• High-quality optics
• Stable and adjustable tripod

Cons

• Complex initial setup
• Heavy
• Expensive

The SOLOMARK Telescope 130EQ is designed with a 130mm aperture, which collects a lot of light, making it ideal for deep space observations. Its sturdy carbon fiber frame ensures durability and lightweight handling.

Equipped with a German equatorial mount, the telescope offers precise positioning and smooth tracking of celestial bodies. This feature significantly enhances your viewing experience by providing a stable platform.

While the setup process can be complicated, seeking help from online video tutorials can simplify it. Once assembled, its performance makes it worth the effort, especially for dedicated astronomers.

The included accessories, such as multiple eyepieces and a smartphone adapter, add versatility to your stargazing endeavors. These additions make it easier to get the most out of this equipment.

5. Celestron PowerSeeker 80EQ

A great option for both beginners and intermediate astronomers who want quality and ease of use in one package.

Pros

• Durable German Equatorial mount
• Easy-to-use controls for smooth object tracking
• Includes multiple accessories like a 3x Barlow lens and Starry Night software

Cons

• Initial setup may be required for best results
• Tripod could be sturdier
• Limited advanced features for expert astronomers

The Celestron PowerSeeker 80EQ telescope offers a reliable and user-friendly experience for those new to astronomy. This 80mm refractor telescope provides clear views of celestial objects, making it ideal for stargazing.

Featuring a sturdy and durable German Equatorial mount, you can accurately pinpoint and track objects in the night sky. The included slow-motion altitude rod ensures smooth navigation, suitable for anyone looking to get detailed views without much hassle.

The package includes useful accessories, such as the 3x Barlow lens and Starry Night Basic Edition software, expanding your learning and viewing capabilities. The telescope is portable, making it easy to take to different observing sites, and is backed by a solid warranty and US-based support.

12-Inch Telescope Buying Guide

When choosing a 12-inch telescope, consider several key factors to ensure you get the best one for your needs.

Aperture

The aperture is the diameter of the main lens or mirror. A larger aperture captures more light, making faint objects more visible and detailed. For a 12-inch telescope, an aperture of 12 inches (305 mm) is ideal for deep-sky observations.

Focal Length

The focal length affects the magnification and field of view. A longer focal length provides higher magnification but a narrower field of view. Look for telescopes with a focal length that suits your viewing interests.

Mount Type

Telescopes come with several types of mounts:

• Alt-Azimuth: Easy to use and set up.
• Equatorial: Great for tracking objects in the sky.
• Dobsonian: Simple and sturdy, perfect for heavy 12-inch scopes.

Choose the one that fits your observational style.

Portability

Consider the weight and size of the telescope. A 12-inch telescope can be bulky. Ensure you have a suitable storage and transportation plan.

Optical Quality

Look for features like fully multi-coated optics, which improve light transmission and image clarity. High-quality optics deliver sharp and clear images.

Accessories

Check for essential accessories like eyepieces, finderscopes, and filters. These can enhance your viewing experience and add versatility to your telescope.

Budget

Set a clear budget. Prices for 12-inch telescopes can vary widely, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Be sure to factor in additional costs for necessary accessories and upgrades.