If you’re looking for the best Dobsonian telescope to start or upgrade your stargazing hobby, you’re in the right orbit.
Dobsonians are beloved for their simplicity, value, and massive light-gathering power. But when it comes to choosing between an 8” or 10”, or figuring out whether Apertura, StellaLyra, or Sky-Watcher is the better brand, things can get overwhelming fast.
Let’s break down everything you need to know to confidently pick the best Dobsonian for your needs—without wasting money on features you don’t need.
Why Choose a Dobsonian Telescope?
Dobsonian telescopes are Newtonian reflectors on a lazy-susan style base, making them one of the best visual astronomy tools available, especially for beginners. Here’s why:
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Big aperture, low cost
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Super easy to use
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No motors, no power required
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Ideal for deep-sky viewing
They’re not built for astrophotography—but for visually exploring nebulae, galaxies, and planets, few things beat them.
Dobsonian Telescope Size: 8” vs. 10”
Which is better?
8″ Dobsonian:
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F/6 focal ratio is forgiving with budget eyepieces
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Lighter and easier to move (base + tube ~40 lbs)
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Cheaper, and easier to store
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Perfect for urban and suburban astronomers
10″ Dobsonian:
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Gathers 56% more light than an 8”
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Slightly better planetary resolution
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Better deep-sky detail (especially under dark skies)
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Heavier (~55 lbs), bulkier, needs better accessories (like premium eyepieces for f/4.7 or f/5 scopes)
Reddit Verdict:
If you’re under Bortle 6-9 skies (typical suburbs or city), many users agree the difference in performance is not dramatic, but the increased bulk of a 10” might reduce how often you use it. Convenience often wins.
Bottom Line:
“A telescope used often is better than one that’s perfect but stays in storage. Get the 8-inch if portability and ease matter to you.”
Best Dobsonian Telescope Brands (2025)
Here’s what Reddit’s astronomy community had to say about top Dob brands:
1. Apertura AD8 (USA-based buyers)
Pros:
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Excellent accessories included (eyepieces, laser collimator, cooling fan)
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Dual-speed Crayford focuser
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GSO optics = superb performance
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Very little else to buy at the start
Reddit Says:
“The Apertura AD8 is the best bang-for-buck Dobsonian available. Great views right out of the box.”
2. StellaLyra 8″ or 10″ (UK/EU buyers)
Pros:
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Same GSO optics as Apertura
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Includes 30mm SuperView ($100 value), right-angle finder, Crayford focuser
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Excellent support from First Light Optics
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Available throughout the UK and Europe
Why it’s a standout:
“StellaLyra is the clear winner in the UK. Comes with everything an Apertura has—and it’s easier to find in Europe.”
3. Sky-Watcher Classic / FlexTube Dobs
Pros:
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Available worldwide
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Collapsible FlexTube versions for easier storage
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Slightly more expensive for what you get
Things to know:
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Accessories aren’t as generous as GSO-based models
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F/4.7 versions may require better eyepieces
Must-Have Accessories (and Which Ones Are Actually Worth It)
| Accessory | Purpose | Get It? |
|---|---|---|
| Telrad Finder | Zero-power sight to help aim your scope | Yes |
| Cheshire Collimator | Helps align mirrors for best views | Yes |
| Observation Chair | Makes long sessions more comfortable | Optional |
| Laser Collimator | Easier but less precise than Cheshire | Optional |
| Premium Eyepieces | Sharper views, especially needed for f/4.7 or faster | Later |
| Moon Filter | Reduces brightness and glare when viewing the Moon | Yes |
Pro Tip:
Use the Moon Phase Calculator to plan your sessions around darker skies for deep-sky objects.
8” vs 10”: Real-World Examples from Reddit
🔭 User Experience: Apertura AD8
“I’m a firefighter. The 8” is big but manageable—I’ve seen Saturn, Jupiter’s bands, and even Orion Nebula from Bortle 9 skies. The views are stunning. Don’t underestimate it.”
🔭 From a 10” Dob Owner
“My 10-inch shows globular clusters in greater detail, but it’s bulky and I don’t take it out often. The 8” gets 5x more use just because it’s easier to handle.”
🔭 Advice from a Sky-Watcher user
“Go with 8” if your skies are suburban. A tank of gas to a dark site will show you more than the extra aperture of a 10” from a backyard.”
Final Recommendation: What’s the Best Dobsonian Telescope to Buy?
| Best For | Model Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Best Value | Apertura AD8 (USA) | Excellent package + optics |
| Best in UK/EU | StellaLyra 8” or 10” | High-quality + great extras |
| Best Under $450 | Sky-Watcher 8” Classic Dob | Budget-friendly starter scope |
| Deep Sky in Dark Skies | StellaLyra 10” or Apertura AD10 | Bigger aperture, more light |
Conclusion: Go Big Enough, But Use It Often
The 8” Dobsonian is the perfect blend of power, portability, and practicality. Unless you’re regularly observing from dark sites or want maximum brightness, most amateur astronomers find the 8” easier to handle and more enjoyable long term.
Don’t forget to pair it with a stargazing app, a Telrad, and check sky conditions using tools like the Moon Phase Calculator—especially if you want to hunt faint deep-sky objects.
Ready to see Saturn’s rings or Jupiter’s storms? Choose your Dob, grab your gear, and aim for the stars.