10 Best Spotting Scopes Under $100 (2024 Updated)

Spotting scope is a multipurpose optical device, suitable for different activities including birdwatching, long-range shooting, wildlife observing, hunting, target shooting, and more. Regardless of your intended use, there are high-quality spotting scopes available for under $100 to suit all preferences and needs.

Finding the best spotting scopes under $100 can be challenging as each model offers different advantages and caters to specific needs. To simplify your search, here is a curated list of the top 10 affordable spotting scopes under $100 that offer excellent value without breaking the bank.

Following the review section, we will offer advice and guidance on selecting the best spotting scope for under $100, enabling you to determine which one aligns best with your needs.

Best Spotting Scopes Under $100 in 2024

Comparison table of the top 10 best spotting scopes under $100 in 2024.

1. Celestron 52238 C70 Mini Mak Spotting Scope – Top Pick

The Celestron C70 is the top choice among the best spotting scopes under $100. Famous for its versatility, this spotting scope offers exceptional image quality, surpassing other models in its price range. The smooth focusing mechanism, with minimal backlash and low turning force, adds to its appeal and ease of use.

Despite the predominantly plastic construction, it exhibits remarkable sturdiness. The included tripod offers stability suitable for extended periods of long-distance observation. Its compact size allows for easy storage in any range bag. Brightness and clarity are also pretty good if you compare them to the price spotting scope.

The weight is rational, allowing for one-handed use due to its slim body shape. The plastic cap for the objective is snugly secure without being overly tight, ensuring it won’t scratch the optics. While it is heavier than lower-cost 60-mm scopes, it remains manageable and doesn’t become obtrusive.

Celestron C70 spotting scope built-in 25-75x magnification zoom eyepiece and comes with a soft carrying case. It works well out to 1000 yards but that is about the limit. However, the image gets a little dim with full magnification but it is still fine for scoring. Also, when extended to high magnification, the view may experience slight wobbling. However, if used without extending the pier, it is relatively sturdy.

The included tripod has elevation limits: 45 degrees if the scope is mounted as shown, and 60 degrees if you turn it around. You can exceed this by moving one leg inward and tilting the tripod, although this makes the tripod less stable. This model also works with a 90-degree tripod.

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2. Huicocy 20-60x60mm Spotting Scope – Editor’s Choice

I have a pair of Nikon binoculars and use them for daily birdwatching. However, it’s not enough to put it to further use if I want to do more challenging observations. That’s why I decided to buy this model. The Huicocy 20-60x 60  is one of the best professional spotting scopes under $100 based on the value for money. It will deliver wonderful clarity to see nature.

The minimum target focus distance is 20 meters. The length is around 11.8-inch and the width is around 3.54 inches. The BAK-4 prism lens and multilayer optical coatings allow a high refractive index and high optical efficiency thus creating a clear and bright vision.

Huicocy 20-60x 60 spotting scope comes with a cell phone adapter so that you can adapt your phone to the scope when you use it. You can use it for shooting at 25 / 50m. It works great except in very dark weather with little light. The eyepiece is provided with a foldable eyecup.

It weighs around 1.5 lbs and comes with a free table tripod and phone mount kit. The scope’s screw base is standard 1/4-20 tapped hole, which is universal for most floor tripods. That means you can install this device on any floor. You can install this model adequately on your camera tripod. The mount is metal and solid. The swingarm is twisted to tighten and locks the down up and down and side to side movement as you turn the handle clockwise.

The Huicocy 20-60x 60 model focuses quite well out to 200 yards. The focus is on the main barrel and is nice and smooth yet snug, so it absolutely will not move unless you want it to. However, at the maximum magnification of 60, the focal point is short. If untouched, it is pretty solid.

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3. Gosky 20-60×60 HD Bird Watching Spotting Scope

If you’re in search of an affordable spotting scope under $100 for birdwatching, we highly recommend considering the Gosky 20-60×60 HD. It has a powerful zoom magnification range from 20X to 60X power, which is enough for bird watching, wildlife observation, and other similar purposes.

It features a standard 1/4″-20 threaded hole compatible with all tripods and car window mounts. You can easily mount it on a car window using an automotive car window mount for added convenience during observation sessions. The durable construction and high-quality rubber armor provide a non-slip grip, shock-proof grip, and durable external protection.

Gosky 20-60×60 HD spotting scope is waterproof and fogproof, so you can carry it for different outdoor activities. The sun visor greatly reduces glare and protects the objective lens from raindrops. The quality of the lens is also excellent and easy to zoom in on the target.

The objective lens is larger than average at 60 millimeters and the large easy-to-use focus dial makes sharp focusing quick and easy. You will love the phone attachment very much. You can record shooting, take pictures, and share them on Facebook or other social media directly.

You can even use this device with glasses on. However, we recommend you remove your glasses first to have a try. It can still be in focus if myopia or hyperopia is not serious. The Gosky 20-60×60 HD spotting scope is compatible with most cell phones as the holder is adjustable. The package comes with everything you need like a tripod, carrying bag, and smartphone digiscoping adapter.

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4. CreativeXP HD For Long Range Shooting

CreativeXP GlassHawk spotting scopes made in New York. This slim optic device has been designed to be one of the most high-end spotters but without the crazy high price. With heavy-duty construction, this model features an adjustable 17-11mm eyepiece and a wide circular exit pupil of 4-1.3mm.

It allows you to see clearly at a long range even 1000 yards away. You may not see the smallest details like a bullet hole at this range, but you will clearly see details and crisp images, thanks to the BAK4 Prisms and 20-60X Zoom & 60mm Objective Lens. The wide objective diameter is perfect to capture vivid photos of birds and the HD glass prevents any chromatic abbreviation.

CreativeXP GlassHawk spotting scope weighs only 4.3 pounds. The height of the tripod is 14 inches, and the scope is 18 inches long. It is completely waterproof and filled with nitrogen gas, which makes it suitable for all weather conditions as it is a gas that prevents fogging and eliminates the moisture problem.

This model can be attached to a large tripod considering that the bottom tripod screw is a regular size and it will fit most tripods. There is also a phone adapter included. It would work on any phone if the back is not textured and will hold your phone in place with a heavy-duty suction cup.

With good optical quality and wide aperture, it is light enough to be used without a tripod. The presentation and the finish are very neat and clean without apparent defects.

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5. Roxant Authentic High Definition Spotting Scope

After testing it for both sport shooting and nature observation, the Roxant Authentic spotting scope unquestionably deserves a spot in our Top 5. With magnification ranging from 20x to 60x, it offers versatility for various viewing needs. Adjusting and changing the magnification is straightforward, and the scope features a 60mm lens diameter for clear and detailed viewing experiences.

Its weight of just over 1.5 lbs makes the Roxant Authentic one of the lightest spotting scopes in this price range. This is a high-definition spotting scope that provides bright and real color images.

The package includes a high-quality tripod and comes with an aluminum case, which is not only of very good quality but is also solid. This will allow you to transport your spotting scope in full safety. You can attach this device with any standard camera tripod.

The eyepiece has eye relief which allows you to extend or retract the eyepiece based on wearing glasses or not. It is very simple to use and has outstanding surface quality. It is very efficient and light. And with a very good price/quality ratio, the Roxant spotting scope has everything that will satisfy you.

Although the viewing field is a bit narrow, it will give high-quality images. However, we recommend removing glasses when using them. The eyepiece doesn’t rotate relative to the main barrel/tube. Use the eyepiece to view your subject but you use a ring on the eyepiece to zoom in and out, so the ring rotates.

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6. SVBONY SV28 Best Budget Spotting Scope

The SVBONY SV28 is truly an outstanding all-around spotting scope under $100. In fact, it stands out as one of the most versatile spotting scopes of 202 among all models currently available online. Featuring a sealed and waterproof design, it is protected by a smooth non-slip coating.

It has a cap on either end to protect the lenses and comes with a nice nylon bag that keeps it safe from dust, water, and fog when not used. The package includes a very nice padded bag that holds the OTA and a marginal tripod. The compact size and low weight make it very easy to transport.

The lenses are top-notch, and the focus is very sharp at 25x. The 70mm aperture does respectably at its maximum magnification of 75x. All lenses lose the ability to produce a bright clear image at higher magnification, and this is a good test of any lens.

The phone mount fits eyepiece diameter from 25 to 48mm and the width range of the phone from 55-100mm, so it will fit most of the smartphone. The durability is quite good and steady on the tripod. You can hold your camera against the lens by hand and still get a wonderful photo.

SVBONY SV28 spotting scope works well even in low-light conditions. However, if it is in a completely dark state, the spotting scope may not be able to achieve a good working effect. Although this device is a bit shaky at that range, a better stand would help.

We also have worked on the best spotting scope tripod available on the market.

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7. Amcrest AMSS60-G Spotting Scope for Target Shooting

Amcrest is mostly known for its video surveillance cameras, so I was surprised by this offering. Because I’ve had extensive experience with their other products, especially trail cameras, and have always been impressed with their support services. This model is well made with some materials they use on their outdoor cams, which makes it extremely strong.

It is very easy to adjust from 20 to 60 magnification power via the ring below the eyepiece. The whole body has a weatherproof flat dark grey finish, so you can use it multi-purpose. For example, you can use this model for target hunting, wildlife and bird watching, and other outdoor activities.

It has a coating on the outside that makes it easy to handle. This device holds up very well for field use. The eyepiece extends from the top and has a large threaded cap. There is also a quick start guide included with the scope. It took about a minute to read through it.

The lens cap is tight, but it slides on and off easily. The cap on the distance scope is made of metal and twists on to make sure the soft parts of the eyepiece are protected. The phone adapter has the precision adjustment to get the phone settled in the exact right spot.

Amcrest AMSS60-G compact spotting scope is completely waterproof. You won’t notice any particular problems when it rains. I also used it in the snow without any damage. However, the scope doesn’t have audio. Also, there is no night vision attachment for stargazing.

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8. Gosky 15-45×60 Newest for Wildlife Viewing

Gosky is an optics brand that offers always quality spotting scopes at affordable prices. However, the Newest Spotty 15-45×60 is a really cheap spotting scope, but the quality is remarkable with a fully multi-coated 60mm film lens. This model is mainly suitable for those just starting out or for occasional observations of birds, nature, shooting and astronomy.

The materials are high quality and built-in very solid. This device has magnification up to 60 x and 360° of observation. It will allow you to observe birds or any type of wildlife without spooking the animals by getting close.

The dual focusing knob and zoom ring are very fluid and you can turn them very easily. That’s a nice feature because it helps to create high-quality photos and see great detail on the object you are viewing from a great distance.

It comes with a high-end tripod and a carrying bag. Also, the order includes a smartphone or camera holder, a table tripod, a carrying case, a cleaning cloth, and a protective cover. Overall, if you want to get a spotting scope under $100 for occasional use, you can choose the Gosky Spotty 15-45×60. Although it is a budget scope, the quality of the vision makes it simple but effective.

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9. Landove 20-60×62 Compact Spotting Scope

With a compact and lightweight design, the Landove 20-60×62 is one of the best long-range spotting scopes under 100 bucks. It is a Dual Focus spotting scope that has a powerful zoom magnification range from 20X to 60X power. This will meet your different observation needs. Compared to Gosky 15-45×60, this model offers clear views.

This device can be used in many fields like sports shooting, observation of nature, animals, or ornithology. It adapts to all different needs. Do you want to observe in the dark? Don’t worry, because its lens is treated multilayer which is the best to view in the dark. The Landover 20-60×62 spotting scope is waterproof. This will allow you to use it even in the rain and its telescopic visor.

It is also very easy to use; you can adjust the eyepiece with ease. The eyepiece has a great view that works as a high-end model. However, the setting up of the camera on your phone can be quite tricky and you have to get accustomed to it.

The height of the included tripod is 26cm. You can set up the phone bracket in a minute. You can put this up against any of the super expensive brands. This model comes with nice a carrying case for comfortable travel. You will also appreciate its 360 ° swiveling case.

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10. SVBONY SV17 High-Position Spotting Scope

Last but not least, have you decided to observe the stars on the campsite or the animals during a long hike? Then we recommend the SVBONY SV17. It is a powerful device that allows for sharp enlargements even during the worst light conditions, namely dawn and dusk.

The SV17 spotting scope by SVBONY offers a magnification range from 25 to 75x. This device offers excellent performance with an Eyepiece outer diameter of 40.6mm. It is durable with a multi-coated green film objective lens.

It is made of high-quality plastic material, which makes it very sturdy, comfortable, and easy to use. The anti-reflective coating glass enables you to make good observations even in poor lighting conditions.

It has an eyecup, so it can be used by people who wear glasses. SVBONY SV17 spotting scope has a lens cap that protects it from dust and splashes. However, it is quite heavy but remains simple to use. The package comes with a transport bag as well as a tripod. 

The shortest length is 44 cm and the longest can be extended to 138 cm. The tripod stands at full height with spotting scope at about 5 feet 5 to 6 inches. Thanks to its waterproofness, this device can be used in all possible climatic situations and does not let in rain or dust. To ensure quality, the SVBONY SV17 also comes with a lifetime warranty.

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How to choose the best spotting scope under 100 dollars?

Choosing the best spotting scope under $100 requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure you get the most value for your budget. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

Type of spotting scope

There are two types of spotting scopes: straight spotting scopes and angled spotting scopes. Straight spotting scopes are preferable for observing from elevated positions downwards, while angled spotting scopes are more comfortable for observing on flat ground or from the window of a room.

The design of angled spotting scopes ensures robustness, as they are built to withstand small shocks that may occur during hikes or birdwatching. This durability allows them to be used in various climatic conditions without fear of damage from rain, snow, or sandstorms.

Magnification

Consider the magnification range you need. Look for a spotting scope with a magnification range suitable for your intended use. 30x or 40x magnification is usually the recommended choice to avoid spending a ton of money and have an excellent spotting scope. This is because the higher the magnification, the lower the sharpness of the image, and to correct this, very expensive lenses must be used.

Field of vision

While magnification pertains to the range of a spotting scope, the field of view determines the width of the image. It’s crucial to consider the activities you’ll be using the device for before making a purchase decision. For instance, if you’re hunting and need to spot targets from a distance, higher magnification and a smaller field of view may be preferable. Conversely, if you’re birdwatching or hiking, less magnification is required, and a wide field of view can be advantageous.

Field of view is generally measured in degrees or as a unit of measurement at a certain distance (e.g., 40 yards wide at 1000 yards distance).

Minimum focusing distance

A good spotting scope must have a minimum focusing distance of less than 6 meters.

The Eyepiece

This is one of the important factors that should not be overlooked when you buy a spotting scope under $100. It is placed in front of the eye and is in the form of a lens. It enlarges the image captured by the lens. In some cases, this component can be replaced. Indeed, there is a choice between a fixed eyepiece and a zoom. The zoom eyepiece offers the possibility of modifying the magnification, while the fixed eyepiece gives a wide field of vision.

Whether it is animal watching or some other activity, good eyepiece will allow you to get an image suitable for what you are doing. The sharpness of the images will also be seen in the details. You will then enjoy watching the birds, the landscapes, or even an object in the distance.

Objective lens

More commonly known as the objective lens, this component refers to the glass positioned at the opposite end of the spotting scope. Its diameter is indicated by a number in the product description on sales sites, confirming the size of the lens.

To transmit them to the eyepiece, this component captures the colors emitted by objects and animals. There are specimens with a diameter of less than or greater than 70 mm. The quality of the image depends on this characteristic. The higher the value, the better the equipment will capture the light. However, when the opening is wide, the device has a significant weight and takes up a lot of space during transport. So consider these details to find the best spotting scope.

Other Features

In some cases, an individual cannot remove their glasses. So consider purchasing a product with an adequate eye relief value. This part must be at least 115 mm in size to ensure comfort. It is possible to get special glasses. This will promote the transmission of light while reducing chromatic aberration. Of course, the difference is seen when you zoom to the maximum. This helps you during digiscoping or when the lighting is dim.

Robustness is one of the features you shouldn’t overlook. You can find items with a rubber coating that provides effective protection against impact and friction. The structure influences this solidity, which is why the material of manufacture is very important.

Remember to check for leaks. This is a point that will allow you to use the equipment on rainy days. By choosing a spotting scope that resists water, you can use it at any time and even during the snowy period. Also, don’t forget to check the weight to avoid unnecessary clutter.

Brand and warranty

Buying spotting scope from a reputable brand is always good practice. It will give some extra benefits in terms of quality and better customer support. For example, when you buy a spotting scope from a well-known brand such as Celestron, Gosky, or SVBONY, you will get warranties. However, the claim process sometimes could be tougher. Most brands on our list have a decent warranty period.

FAQs

Q1: Binoculars or spotting scope which one is best?

Binoculars and spotting scopes each have their own unique qualities, making them suitable for different purposes. If you desire more detailed images for long-distance views, a spotting scope would be more appropriate. Spotting scopes offer higher magnification, so you can observe distant objects with clarity without disturbing animals.

Also, using a spotting scope is straightforward, although this may not always be the case with binoculars. Ultimately, the choice between binoculars and spotting scopes depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Q2: Which spotting scope is good for shooting?

You can choose a specimen that mounts on a rifle for better aiming. For shooting, you should choose a long-range spotting scope that offers an adjustment of the distance between you and the target. Waterproofing is crucial, especially for shooting, which is practiced in various weather conditions, including rain or snow. Therefore, opting for a spotting scope with anti-fog capabilities is essential to ensure clear visibility. The ideal magnification for this type of activity should be between 25 to 75x.

Q3: Which spotting scope is good for digiscoping?

This method involves taking pictures via a digital camera using the spotting scope. Because of a fashionable concept, digiscoping requires the use of specific equipment. Prefer references offering a wide diameter lens, more than 70 mm. This will increase the amount of incoming light which promotes the quality of the image. Special glasses are essential because they reduce chromatic aberration.

Q4: What spotting scope under $100 should I buy for birdwatching?

For bird watching, you can choose an angled or straight device. For less than $100, Gosky HD 20-60×60 is the best spotting scope for bird watching. It allows you to watch the flight easily, and the other adapts to the vision in the nest or on dry land. The magnification and water tightness of the Gosky HD 20-60×60 is great for having a clear and detailed image at all times and from a great distance.

Q5: What does a good spotting scope cost?

The prices for spotting scopes are 50 dollars for a starter model and up to 2,000 dollars for professional models. Professional spotting scopes are built with high-quality lenses with so many advanced features. Your requirements determine how much you want to spend on a good spotting scope.

If you want a guarantee of top quality, you should put more money into a branded device. If you are a beginner and do not know whether regular observations in nature will become your passion, an entry-level model or a medium-quality device of around 100 to 300 dollars is sufficient.

Q6: How to choose between a 60mm and an 80mm or even 100mm?

The 80mm telescope (typically 20-60x-80) is the king of the instrument. Its bright lens gives clear and defined images even when light conditions are unfavorable. This is probably the best-selling type of spotting scope on the market. Their magnification is greater than 60mm and is ideal for precise mid-range observations. For example, long-range archery, distant target shooting, long-range wildlife, etc.

Finally, the 100mm spotting scope, rarer on the market, is ideal in more extreme conditions: very low light and greater distance. But the performance of a large-diameter lens comes at a price. Heavier and longer, a 100mm scope will be less comfortable to carry and will require a strong and very stable tripod.

Conclusion

As stated above, finding the right spotting scope under 100 can be a daunting task for many of us. In our comparison, we’ve presented 10 different spotting scopes under $100, catering to a variety of needs. We’ve discussed their respective features and suggested the best uses for each model.

We hope you’ve found the perfect spotting scope from our list. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. We’re here to help and will respond promptly to any inquiries you may have.

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