5 Best Computerized Telescopes of 2018

Our list of the best computerized telescopes will bring you top-of-the-line models that use technology to help you focus on constellations. Manual telescopes are a great way to familiarize yourself with stargazing, but the best computerized telescope can introduce you to more objects in the night sky by using hi-tech programs.

We will take you through our top picks for the best computerized telescope models using criteria such as usability, affordability, features, and users’ opinions. You’ll also find some technical specifications for each scope and information on perks and drawbacks.

5. Orion StarSeeker IV0 (13163)

To begin with, Orion’s StarSeeker IV model gives you an outstanding balance between computerized object location and overall price. Although it is a basic model, the StarSeeker IV is still able to provide all the features you might expect in one of the best computerized telescopes out there.

The StarSeeker uses a two-star process to align itself with the night sky. It can take you on a tour of the cosmos from there, pinpointing objects and rotating with them as you use the directional arrows on the remote pad.

You’ll get a full range of azimuth motion and altitude motion up to 90 degrees in total with the StarSeeker IV. Numerous users appreciate the stainless steel tripod legs and note how sturdy they are. We believe the Orion StarSeeker offers an impressive range of versatility for beginners and intermediate-level astronomers.

4. Celestron NexStar 6SE (11068)

Celestron’s NexStar 6Se is another best computerized telescope you can get if you need a model that is both affordable yet high-end at the same time. The NexStar 6 includes the optics and everything else you’ll need to start stargazing right out of the box. Among them, you’ll enjoy Celestron’s usual StarBright coating to ensure clear images. It’s the perfect pick for intermediate stargazers.

The NexStar’s StarPointer finderscope will help you align the telescope accurately to make sure that you can always find the constellations you want. Many users appreciate that it includes its own database with over 40,000 objects already logged and ready to go when you are.

A quick-release mount makes setting up or taking down the NexStar as easy as pie. Best of all, you won’t need any tools to set it up. Our only complaint is that Celestron could have included a charger for the telescope.

3. Orion SkyQuest XT8i (10018)

Orion’s SkyQuest XT8i is the best computerized telescope we’ve found for those who want to stargaze on a budget. It might not be the cheapest computerized telescope out there, but it strikes a decent balance between price and overall quality.

The SkyQuest’s object-location technology has several thousand entries already in its database, and it can help you locate objects with ease. Additionally, countless customers appreciate how much stability the Dobsonian base adds to the SkyqQuest.

Nonetheless, you will need to spend a bit of time assembling XT8i telescope and attaching it to the base. Consequently, it’s a good option for at least intermediate stargazing hobbyists. All in all, the SkyQuest features a durable construction and is easy to operate for most users.

2. Celestron CPC 800 (11073-XLT)

Another model from Celestron contributes to our list of the best computerized telescope options on the market today. With a lightweight and durable aluminum frame, the CPC 800 also has an exceptionally sturdy tripod that won’t wobble under most conditions. While some may be put off by its relatively high price tag, we strongly recommend it for seasoned astronomers.

We like that the 11073-XLT combines ease-of-use with both quality and power. It has a bit of a learning curve, but you’ll soon get the hang of focusing on everything from large planets to distant stars. You’ll also be able to set it up with ease and start viewing stars and planets just a few minutes after unboxing the telescope.

Special SkyAlign technology will help you find and track the celestial objects you want, and you can use the handy remote to make manual adjustments as necessary. The eyepiece is effective, but you can change it to a different one without any trouble.

1. Orion StarBlast (10140)

To wrap up our list of the best computerized telescopes to date, we have another budget-friendly model from industry leader Orion. The StarBlast features a special AutoTracker mount designed to keep track of the object you are viewing until you decide it’s time to move to a different one.

Among the StarBlast’s perks, we identified helpful extras such as a cell phone bracket and extension pieces. Although we recommend the StarBlast one for beginners or intermediate users, even experienced stargazers claim to have fun with it.

Apparently, you may have an issue or two with the tracking software or keeping the camera focused. However, Orion manufactures some of the best computerized telescope models on the market, and we have faith in the world-renowned brand for delivering stunning results.

Conclusion

To conclude, the best computerized telescope models include a broad range of devices that work for beginners and seasoned stargazers alike. They can be more expensive than their manual counterparts, but they are customizable and efficient. Therefore, they can help you pinpoint precise points in space with ease and accuracy.

Also, rest assured that most models will serve you well for decades, and you can use different software packages to meet your needs. As a parting thought, we’d love to hear your thoughts on the best computerized telescope you’ve ever tested with us in the comments section below.