Spotting scopes can really make a difference when you’re out bird watching, hunting, or even just enjoying the scenery. But good glass doesn’t always come cheap. I’ve tested quite a few over the years, and know how much the price tag affects the quality. The goal here is to help you find something that gives you decent performance without emptying your wallet. I’m going to share my top picks for inexpensive spotting scopes that actually deliver.
Here’s a quick look at the spotting scopes we’ll be covering:
- Celestron Ultima 80: A solid all-around performer with good light gathering.
- SVBONY SV28: Great for beginners due to its ease of use and included accessories.
- Emarth 20-60×60: A budget-friendly option that is surprisingly capable for the price.
- Gosky 20-60×80: Offers a larger objective lens for brighter images in low light.
- Barska Colorado 20-60×60: Compact and lightweight, ideal for travel.
Top 5 Best Inexpensive Spotting Scopes
1. Celestron Ultima 80
The Celestron Ultima 80 is a reliable spotting scope known for its decent optical quality and durable build. It strikes a good balance between performance and price. It’s a scope I’ve recommended to friends getting started with birdwatching.
Pros:
- ✅ Good light gathering ability thanks to the 80mm objective lens.
- ✅ Multi-coated optics for enhanced clarity and contrast.
- ✅ Durable and water-resistant construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Tripod not included, which is an additional expense.
- ❌ Zoom can get a little soft at the highest magnification.
- ❌ Eye relief could be better for those wearing glasses.
Verdict: A great choice for those looking for a solid, all-around spotting scope without breaking the bank. It’s a good step up from the most basic models.
2. SVBONY SV28
The SVBONY SV28 is a popular choice, especially for beginners. It comes with a lot of accessories, which means you’re ready to go right out of the box. It’s a scope that I’ve seen recommended in many online forums for its value.
Pros:
- ✅ Comes with a tripod, phone adapter, and carrying case.
- ✅ Easy to use and set up, perfect for beginners.
- ✅ Decent image quality for the price.
Cons:
- ❌ The included tripod is a bit flimsy.
- ❌ Image quality isn’t as sharp as more expensive scopes.
- ❌ Build quality is not as robust as higher-end models.
Verdict: An excellent starter kit for anyone new to spotting scopes. The included accessories make it a great value.
3. Emarth 20-60×60
The Emarth 20-60×60 is an ultra-budget-friendly option. Don’t expect top-tier performance, but it can be surprisingly useful for casual viewing. I was honestly surprised by how much I could see with this little thing.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable.
- ✅ Lightweight and portable.
- ✅ Decent image quality at lower magnifications.
Cons:
- ❌ Image quality degrades significantly at higher magnifications.
- ❌ Build quality is basic.
- ❌ Limited light gathering ability.
Verdict: A good option if you’re on a very tight budget and just need something for occasional use. Just keep your expectations realistic.
4. Gosky 20-60×80
The Gosky 20-60×80 offers a larger 80mm objective lens, which is a definite plus for gathering more light. This can be especially helpful in low-light conditions. I remember using a similar scope on a dusk hike, and it made a big difference.
Pros:
- ✅ Larger objective lens for brighter images.
- ✅ Multi-coated optics.
- ✅ Comes with a smartphone adapter.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit bulky due to the larger lens.
- ❌ Tripod stability can be an issue at higher magnifications.
- ❌ Some users report issues with the focus knob.
Verdict: A solid choice if you need better low-light performance without spending too much. The larger lens makes a noticeable difference.
5. Barska Colorado 20-60×60
The Barska Colorado 20-60×60 is designed to be compact and lightweight. If you plan on doing a lot of hiking or traveling, this is a good option to consider. I’ve always appreciated having a scope that doesn’t weigh me down.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact and lightweight design.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Comes with a carrying case.
Cons:
- ❌ Image quality is not the best compared to other scopes.
- ❌ Limited features.
- ❌ Build quality is fairly basic.
Verdict: A decent option for travelers and hikers who prioritize portability over top-tier image quality. It gets the job done without adding too much weight to your pack.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right spotting scope can feel overwhelming. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Magnification: Most spotting scopes offer a zoom range (e.g., 20-60x). Higher magnification isn’t always better; image quality can suffer at maximum zoom.
- Objective Lens Size: A larger objective lens (e.g., 80mm vs. 60mm) gathers more light, resulting in brighter images, especially in low-light conditions.
- Optical Coatings: Multi-coated optics improve light transmission and reduce glare, leading to sharper, clearer images.
- Build Quality: Look for a scope that’s durable and water-resistant, especially if you plan on using it outdoors.
- Tripod: A stable tripod is essential for steady viewing, especially at higher magnifications. Consider whether a tripod is included or if you need to buy one separately.
- Eye Relief: If you wear glasses, make sure the scope has sufficient eye relief so you can see the full field of view comfortably.
- Price: Set a budget and stick to it. There are decent options available at various price points, but remember that you generally get what you pay for.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about spotting scopes:
What’s the difference between a spotting scope and a telescope?
Spotting scopes are designed for terrestrial viewing (observing things on Earth), while telescopes are primarily for astronomical viewing (observing stars and planets). Spotting scopes typically have a built-in prism or mirror system to correct the image orientation, while telescopes often produce an inverted image.
What magnification should I look for in a spotting scope?
A magnification range of 20-60x is common and versatile for most uses. Start with lower magnifications for a wider field of view and better image clarity, then zoom in as needed.
Is a larger objective lens always better?
Yes, a larger objective lens generally results in brighter images, especially in low light. However, larger lenses also make the scope bulkier and heavier.
Do I need a tripod for a spotting scope?
Yes, a tripod is highly recommended for steady viewing, especially at higher magnifications. Even a slight tremor can make the image shaky and difficult to see clearly.
Can I use a spotting scope for digiscoping (taking photos through the scope)?
Yes, many spotting scopes can be used for digiscoping with the help of a smartphone adapter or a dedicated camera adapter. Check if the scope is compatible with these accessories.
Conclusion
Finding a great spotting scope doesn’t have to break the bank. There are many affordable options that offer decent performance for various activities. Consider what features are most important to you – whether it’s portability, low-light performance, or ease of use – and choose a scope that fits your needs and budget. I hope this guide has helped you narrow down your choices and find the perfect inexpensive spotting scope for your next adventure!
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