Top 5 Best Celestron Telescopes — Complete Buying Guide & Reviews
Celestron is one of the most trusted names in amateur astronomy, offering telescopes that span beginner-friendly rigs to pro-level imaging platforms. Whether you're observing the Moon and planets from a city balcony or collecting long-exposure frames under dark skies, choosing the right Celestron model means balancing aperture, portability, mount type, and smart features.
This guide compares five top Celestron systems — from computerized EdgeHD/Schmidt-Cassegrain instruments to app-enabled Dobsonians and modern smart scopes. For each model we cover optics, mounts, ease-of-use, imaging capability, and who will benefit most.
Aperture remains the single most important spec for light-gathering and resolution, but the mount and software ecosystem (StarSense, AstroFi, onboard imaging) often determine how quickly you’ll get to the good stuff. We also explain practical topics like collimation, focal ratio, eyepiece pairing, and whether a finder or smartphone dock improves your experience.
If astrophotography is your goal, a stable mount with accurate tracking (and the option for polar alignment) is as important as the optical tube. For visual observers or beginners, app-guided pointing and intuitive setup shorten the learning curve and keep nights productive.
Below you'll find a concise expert verdict for each Celestron model, key specs, standout features, pros & cons, and a clear recommendation for the ideal user. Each product box includes the affiliate purchase link pre-tagged for your convenience.
At the end of the page there is a short buyers’ checklist and quick FAQ to help finalize your choice. Use this guide to match a telescope to your priorities — portability, imaging, beginner-friendly setup, or the best view for the budget.
Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100 HD Computerized Telescope
Why choose it: Top-tier 11-inch EdgeHD optics in a stable computerized dual-fork mount — built for advanced observing and serious astroimaging when paired with the HD Pro Wedge.
- Built-in StarBright XLT coatings and EdgeHD optics for flat, sharp fields.
- Dual-fork arm CNC mount with upgraded motors and gears for precise GoTo tracking.
- Supports All-Star Polar Alignment & programmable PEC with a wedge (excellent for long exposures).
Ideal for: Experienced visual observers and astrophotographers who want a large-aperture SCT with robust tracking and professional imaging capability.
Quick verdict: If you need maximum resolving power and professional-level imaging support in a transportable package, this CPC 1100 HD is one of Celestron’s best — premium performance at a premium price.
Buy on Amazon
Odyssey PRO - UNISTELLAR Smart Telescope (85mm)
Why choose it: A modern smart telescope designed for plug-and-play imaging and citizen-science contributions — integrates digital imaging, autofocus, app control, and onboard storage.
- Integrated digital camera + autofocus + motorized alt-az GoTo — set up in under 2 minutes.
- RAW/FITS export and 64GB onboard storage; ideal for beginners interested in science-grade data.
- Portable and battery-powered for remote observing sessions.
Ideal for: Users who want easy app-driven imaging without the complexity of separate DSLR or cooled-camera rigs — great for outreach and automated observing.
Quick verdict: The Odyssey PRO is a strong pick if you prioritize simplicity, digital sharing, and participation in citizen science — excellent first step into modern astrophotography.
Buy on Amazon
Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 5-inch (130mm) Schmidt-Cassegrain
Why choose it: Combines a compact 130mm Schmidt-Cassegrain optical tube with the StarSense smartphone dock to make locating targets quick and beginner-friendly.
- StarSense technology analyzes the sky with your phone for precise pointing and guided "sky tours".
- Good all-round performer for planetary and bright deep-sky views; compact SCT for easy storage and transport.
- Simple manual alt-az mount with slow-motion controls — low maintenance and intuitive.
Ideal for: New astronomers who want a quality optical tube with modern smartphone guidance — excellent for learning the sky fast without complicated setup.
Quick verdict: If you want a compact SCT with clever app-assisted pointing, the StarSense Explorer DX 130 is an outstanding beginner-to-intermediate option.
Buy on Amazon
Celestron StarSense Explorer 8-inch (203mm) Dobsonian
Why choose it: The classic Dobsonian form delivers large aperture at a friendly price; adding StarSense smartphone docking makes object location effortless for beginners.
- 8-inch Newtonian reflector yields exceptional deep-sky performance for galaxies and nebulae.
- Dobsonian alt-az base: simple, rock-solid, and ideal for visual observing sessions.
- StarSense dock guides you to tonight’s best objects with minimal fuss.
Ideal for: Observers who want the best aperture-per-dollar for visual views and who value easy object finding with a smartphone.
Quick verdict: For pure observing value, the 8" StarSense Dobsonian is hard to beat — great deep-sky views plus modern pointing assistance.
Buy on Amazon
Celestron 22203 AstroFi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope
Why choose it: Wireless control via integrated Wi-Fi and the Celestron SkyPortal app makes this Newtonian reflectors an attractive, budget-friendly smart scope for visual observers.
- 130mm aperture with fully coated glass optics for bright planetary and many deep-sky objects.
- Integrated WiFi to control the mount with your phone/tablet (no cables or external hardware).
- Includes useful accessories: two Kellner eyepieces, star diagonal, and accessory tray.
Ideal for: Amateur observers who want a wireless, app-controlled telescope with a large aperture on a budget.
Quick verdict: Great value for viewers who want the convenience of app control and a solid 130mm aperture without breaking the bank.
Buy on AmazonShort Buyers' Checklist
- Aperture: Bigger = better for faint objects, but consider portability.
- Mount: For imaging choose equatorial or wedge-capable mounts; for visual use a Dobsonian or simple alt-az base is often best.
- Focal ratio: Low f/ratio (fast) is good for wide-field imaging; higher f/ratio favors planetary detail and higher magnification.
- Smart features: StarSense/AstroFi/controlled WiFi shorten learning time — great for beginners.
- Accessories & support: Extra eyepieces, a good finder/dock, and robust customer support make the hobby more enjoyable.
Quick FAQ
Q: Which is best for astrophotography? A: The CPC Deluxe 1100 HD with a wedge and guiding gear is the strongest candidate — large aperture, EdgeHD optics, and polar alignment options.
Q: Which is best for beginners? A: StarSense models and the AstroFi 130 provide the simplest path to find and enjoy targets quickly.
Q: Are smartphone-guided scopes accurate? A: Yes — modern StarSense and app-guided solutions reliably point you to targets and are excellent educational tools.
Final recommendation
Choose the CPC Deluxe 1100 HD if your priority is top imaging/visual performance and you’re ready to invest in professional features. Pick the StarSense 8" Dobsonian for the best aperture-for-dollar visual experience. If you want hassle-free digital imaging and citizen-science capability, the Odyssey PRO is a modern, all-in-one choice. For wireless convenience on a budget, the AstroFi 130 provides balanced performance and app control. The 130mm StarSense Explorer DX is the best compact SCT option for those who want classic optics plus modern pointing.