5 Best Telescope Finder Scopes (Reviews Updated 2024)

Telescopes are amazing tools that let you explore the night sky. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced stargazer, adding a finder scope to your setup can make your stargazing experience even better. Finder scopes help you locate celestial objects more quickly and accurately.

When looking for the best telescope finder scope, you should pay attention to a few key features. First, consider the magnification and aperture size, which affect how much detail you can see. Second, check the mounting system to ensure it fits your telescope and is easy to adjust.

Other factors include the type of reticle and whether the scope is illuminated, which can make a big difference during nighttime viewing. Choosing the right finder scope can enhance your astronomical observations, making it easier to navigate the skies.

Best Telescope Finder Scopes

Below is our full list of the best telescope finder scopes. These products are excellent for accurately locating celestial objects.

Want to learn more?

Here are our telescope finder scope reviews.

1. Celestron StarPointer Pro Finderscope

This finder scope offers ease of use and precision for both beginners and experienced stargazers.

Pros

• Dual-circle reticle makes targeting easy
• Large 40mm optical window
• No tools required for setup

Cons

• Built mostly from plastic
• Performance can vary with alignment
• Some find it pricey

The Celestron StarPointer Pro Finderscope helps you center your targets quickly. Its dual-circle LED reticle is a standout feature, removing the risk of obstruction from traditional red dots.

Attaching the StarPointer Pro to your telescope is hassle-free, requiring no tools. The 40mm optical window provides a broad field of view, making it simpler to locate celestial objects.

You might notice that the construction feels a bit plasticky. Keep in mind that the positioning of the finderscope affects its precision, and some users consider it somewhat expensive.

2. Orion 8×50 Right-Angle Correct Image Finder Scope

A great choice for comfortable and precise stargazing.

Pros

• Right-angle design reduces neck strain
• Correct image view for easier navigation
• 50mm lens shows more stars and faint objects

Cons

• Can be a bit heavy
• Might need adjusting for perfect alignment
• Price may be higher than other models

Viewing through a straight finder scope can be tough on your neck and back. The right-angle design of this finder scope offers comfort and ease. You don’t have to contort yourself to get the correct view.

The built-in Amici prism provides a correctly oriented view. This is a big advantage over standard scopes that show an inverted image. Navigating the night sky becomes much easier with this feature.

The 50mm objective lens allows you to see many stars. It also has a generous 5.5-degree field of view. You can even spot some faint deep-sky objects thanks to its magnifying power.

Aligning the finder scope with your main telescope is simple. The aluminum bracket and thumbscrews make the process intuitive. You’ll appreciate this when setting up for a night of stargazing.

3. Celestron StarPointer Finderscope

If you’re looking for a reliable way to quickly target celestial objects with your telescope, this finderscope is a strong choice.

Pros

• Easy alignment
• Brightness control for day and night use
• Compatible with multiple devices

Cons

• May require new mounting holes
• Some users find it tricky to align
• Battery life can vary

The Celestron StarPointer Finderscope lets you locate celestial targets swiftly and accurately. Its red dot feature is adjustable, allowing you to keep it dim at night or increase the brightness during the day. This flexibility helps you preserve your night vision.

Furthermore, it keeps your views right-side up, making it intuitive to use. You won’t have to deal with the disorientation that sometimes comes with other finderscopes. Also, it’s compatible with a variety of telescopes, astronomical binoculars, and spotting scopes, which adds to its versatility.

One potential downside is that it might require drilling new holes for proper mounting, depending on your device. Some users also note that aligning it can be a bit challenging at first. Lastly, while the battery is long-lasting, its longevity may vary with usage.

4. HEXEUM Telescope for Adults & Beginner

This telescope is a great choice for novices looking for a user-friendly and well-made option.

Pros

• Includes two quality eyepieces for varied magnification levels
• Comes with phone adapter and wireless remote
• Simple, tool-free setup

Cons

• Tripod can be a bit unstable in windy conditions
• Initial setup may take some time to fine-tune
• Limited high-end features for advanced users

The HEXEUM telescope includes versatile eyepieces that provide different levels of magnification. You’ll appreciate how the 3x Barlow lens significantly boosts the power, making it easier to observe celestial objects.

Its portability is a major plus. With an aluminum tripod and a carrying bag, transporting this telescope is hassle-free. The included phone adapter and wireless remote add convenience, especially for capturing images.

Setup is quick and doesn’t require tools, which is great for beginners. The telescope is also lightweight yet sturdy, making it a reliable option for anyone new to stargazing.

5. EACONN Telescopes for Adults

If you are a beginner looking for a clear and portable telescope, this might be a solid choice.

Pros

• Large 80mm aperture allows for bright and clear images
• Easy to assemble and use, even for beginners
• Convenient carrying backpack

Cons

• Tripod may struggle with stability
• Setting up the phone adapter could be tricky
• Might be cumbersome for some users

This EACONN telescope features an 80mm aperture, capturing more light for bright, clear images. You can easily align and adjust thanks to its gimbal with scale. It’s a good tool for looking at the moon or planets.

The included eyepieces and phone adapter make it versatile. With a 30x-66x magnification range, you’ll see plenty of detail. The backpack makes it portable and easy to carry around.

Assembly is simple with the provided manual and video instructions. However, keep in mind that the tripod might not be sturdy enough for some uses. Overall, it’s a good option for those starting in astronomy.

Telescope Finder Scope Buying Guide

When choosing a telescope finder scope, it’s important to focus on key features. Size and magnification are critical. A larger aperture will let in more light, making it easier to see faint objects.

Consider the mounting brackets. These need to be compatible with your telescope. Check for secure and stable attachments to prevent shifting during observation.

Crosshair Reticle helps center your target. A double crosshair can offer improved accuracy.

Think about the optical quality. Look for coatings that reduce glare and improve clarity.

Having an adjustable focus can be beneficial. It allows you to fine-tune the clarity of your view.

If you plan to use the finder for extended periods, consider the ergonomics and design. Comfortable viewing angles can enhance your experience.

Adding an illuminated reticle can be useful in low-light conditions. This makes it easier to align the telescope with celestial objects during night observations.

Ease of installation and durability are also factors. Look for finder scopes made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular use.

By focusing on these features, you can choose a finder scope that meets your needs and enhances your stargazing experience.