10 Best Spotting Scopes Under $100 in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

Spotting scope is a multipurpose optic device, suitable for different activities including birdwatching, long-range shooting, wildlife observing, hunting, target shooting, and more. It doesn’t matter what you use it for: there are good quality spotting scopes under 100 dollars for all people’s tastes.

However, finding the best spotting scopes under $100 is therefore a little bit challenging because each model has different advantages and corresponds to a specific need.

To help you cut the straw, here is a list of the top 10 best affordable spotting scopes under $100 that are worth buying and won’t empty your wallet.

At the bottom of this article, we will therefore advise and guide you on how to choose the best spotting scope for less than $100 so that you can figure out which one is the best for your needs.

Best Spotting Scopes Under $100 in 2023

Although the Celestron 52238 C70 is one of the top-rated spotting scopes under 100 in 2023, it is not suitable for all purposes. This is why we have tested 30 models and finally make a list of the top 10 options suitable for different uses.

Comparison table of the top 10 best spotting scopes under $100 in 2023.

Best Spotting Scopes Under $100 Reviews 2023

1. Celestron 52238 C70 Mini Mak – Best Overall
2. Huicocy 20-60x60mm Spotting Scope – My Personal Choice
3. Gosky 20-60×60 Spotting Scope – Best for Bird Watching
4. CreativeXP HD Spotting Scope – Best for Long Range Shooting
5. Roxant Authentic – High Definition Spotting Scope
6. SVBONY SV28 – Best Spotting Scope on a Budget
7. Amcrest AMSS60-G Spotting Scope – Best for Target Shooting
8. Gosky Newest Spotting Scope – Best for Wildlife Viewing
9. Landove 20-60×62 Spotting Scope – Compact Spotting Scope
10. SVBONY SV17 Spotting Scope – Best View from High Position

1. Celestron 52238 C70 Mini Mak Spotting Scope

The first choice of the best spotting scopes under 100 dollars is undoubtedly the Celestron C70. It is one of the best versatile spotting scopes on the market. The capturing image quality is better than other models in the sub-$100 categories. We appreciate the smooth focusing mechanism with a little backlash that requires low force to turn.

Although most of the parts of the spotting scope are plastic, it is surprisingly sturdy. Even the included tripod is stable enough for long-distance observation for a long time to settle down. You will like the compact size which fits in any size of range bag easily. Brightness and clarity are also pretty good if you compare them to the price spotting scope.

Celestron C70 spotting scope weight is manageable by using one hand because of its slim body shape. The plastic cap for the objective is securely snug but not too tight and won’t scratch the optics. However, it’s heavier than low-cost 60-mm scopes but not to the point of being obnoxious.

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, the view will wobble a little at the high magnification end if you extend the pier, but if you can use it without doing so it’s actually fairly 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. Celestron C70 spotting scope 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 decide 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 are looking for an affordable spotting scope under $100 for bird watching, we are convincing the Gosky 20-60×60 HD will work well for you. 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 has a standard 1/4″-20 threads hole that fits all tripods and car window mount. You can mount it on an automotive with a car window mount. 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. 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. Highly recommend it if you enjoy bird watching.

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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 will allow 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 having tested it for sport shooting and for the observation of nature, Roxant Authentic spotting scope deserves to be in my Top 5, it is obvious. It allows a magnification of 20 x to 60 x. The choice of magnification is very simple to set up and change. The diameter of its lens is 60 mm.

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 under $100 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 to 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 qualities. It is also very efficient and light. And with a very good price/quality ratio, the Roxant spotting scope has everything that will be pleased 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 Budget-Friendly Spotting Scope

The SVBONY SV28 is an excellent all-around spotting scope under $100. And it is one of the best versatile spotting scopes of 2023 among all the models currently sold online. It is a sealed and waterproof device that is covered with a smooth non-slip coating.

SVBONY SV28  spotting scope 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 also 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 are able to 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 of the device 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. There is also 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 identify birds or any type of wildlife without spooking the animals by getting really 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 pick 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 which meets your different observation needs.

Compare 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, and it adapts to all different needs.

Are 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. Landove 20-60×62 spotting scope is waterproof and allows 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. Landove spotting scope comes with nice a carrying case for comfortable travel. You will also be appreciated 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 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 a good spotting scope under 100 dollars is not very easy. Because some models are more suited to certain areas than others. Based on the following features, you will know how to choose the best spotting scopes for your needs. Of course, performance depends mainly on price and overall quality.

Type of spotting scope

There are two types of spotting scope: straight spotting scope and angled spotting scope. The straight spotting scope is better for observing from elevated positions downwards, and the angled spotting scope is more comfortable for observation on flat ground or for observation from the window of your room.

The design of the angled spotting scope ensures good robustness. Because they are designed to withstand the small shocks that can occur during a hike or during bird watching. You will therefore use them in various climatic situations without fear of damaging them. Rain, snow, or a sandstorm will not come to an end.

Magnification

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 in order to correct this, very expensive lenses must be used.

Field of vision

While magnification refers to the range of a spotting scope, the field of view determines the width of the image. Think about what activities you will be using the device for before you buy.

If you are hunting, will you be using the optics to spot targets from a distance? If so, higher magnification and a smaller field of view may be the best. However, if you are birding or hiking, less magnification is needed and a wide field of view can be helpful.

Field of view is usually shown in degrees or as a unit of measurement at a certain distance (for example, 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 points that should not be overlooked when you get 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. So based on your needs, select the one that will satisfy you.

Whether it is animal watching or some other activity, this 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

Better known under the name of the objective lens, this part is the glass placed at the other end of the spotting scope. Its diameter is generally determined by its name given on sales sites. You will find a number in its main description that confirms 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 this 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 when looking for the best spotting scopes under $100. 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. Because it will give some extra features 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. That’s why we always recommend you choose a product from a reputed brand because it will save you from repair costs in the future.

FAQs

Q1: Binoculars or spotting scope which one is best?

Many people wonder which option to choose. Each has its own qualities, making them unique. However, if you wish to have more detail for each image on long views, then spotting scope would be more appropriate. It has a magnification that avoids disturbing animals because you can stand at a great distance while having a pleasant and clear vision. Using a spotting scope is also simple but this is not always the case for binoculars.

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. Obviously, waterproofing is very important. Because shooting is a discipline that is done in any season, rain or snow. Therefore, an anti-fog model is essential.

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 are great to have 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 that are built with high-quality lenses with 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 yet 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 will give clear and defined images even when light conditions are unfavorable. This is probably the best-selling type of spotting scope on the market. Its 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 presented 10 different spotting scopes under $100 for everyone’s needs. We have dealt with the respective functions and also for what purpose you can best use the individual models.

In our guide, you have received the most important information on this subject so that you can approach the purchase of your individually fitting spotting scope with extensive basic knowledge.

We hope you found the desired spotting scope from our list. If you have any questions leave a comment section below and we will answer them.

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