8 Best Spotting Scope Under 200 Dollars in 2021 [Reviews & Guide]

Spotting across the great outdoors is a wonderful hobby, and more and more people are picking up on it recently. It’s no wonder that you’ve caught on the trend, and if you’re looking for the best spotting scopes under 200 dollars, you’ve come to the right place.

Best Spotting Scopes Under 200 dollars

We’re here with top picks and some advice which will hopefully help you understand the criteria we used as we scrounged the market for the best, finest scopes out there.

Best Spotting Scope Under $200 – At A Glance

  • 1. Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope
  • 2. BARSKA Benchmark Waterproof Straight Spotting Scope
  • 3. Gosky 20-60×80 spotting scope
  • 4. LANDOVE 20-60X80 BAK4 Prism Spotting Scope
  • 5. Celestron Ultima 65 18 to 55×65 Straight Spotting Scope
  • 6. Redfield Rampage 20-60x60mm Straight Eyepiece Spotting Scope
  • 7. Landove 20-60×80 zoom spotting scope
  • 8. Landove 20-60×80 Prism Spotting scope

Best Spotting Scope Under 200 Reviews

ImageNameMagnificationWeightPrice
Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting ScopeCelestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope20x - 60x3.56 pounds
BARSKA Benchmark Waterproof Straight Spotting ScopeBARSKA Benchmark Waterproof Straight Spotting Scope25x - 125x1.78 pounds
Gosky 20-60 X 80 Porro Prism Spotting ScopeGosky 20-60×80 spotting scope20x - 60x4.4 pounds
LANDOVE 20-60X80 BAK4 Prism Spotting ScopeLANDOVE 20-60X80 BAK4 Prism Spotting Scope20x - 60x4.49 pounds
Celestron Ultima 65 18 to 55x65 Straight Spotting ScopeCelestron Ultima 65 18 to 55×6518x - 55x2.31 pounds
Redfield Rampage 20-60x60mm Straight Eyepiece Spotting ScopeRedfield Rampage 20-60x60mm20x - 60x5.08 pounds
Landove 20-60x80 Zoom Spotting ScopeLandove 20-60×80 zoom20x - 60x4.36 pounds
landove 20-60X 65 Waterproof Spotting ScopeLandove 20-60×80 Prism20x - 60x4.18 pounds

1. Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope

Celestron – Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope

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If you are already a Celestron product customer, you know how excellent they are about their product quality.

The Celestron Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope provides a magnification of about 20 to 60x with a 45-degree viewing angle. It delivers exceptional value with its fully multi-coated optics and 50% brighter images. This model is mated to an eyepiece, which is perfect for both terrestrial and celestial observing.

Ultima is 100% waterproof, which makes it durable in any extreme weather condition.

It has added an extended tripod mounting plate along with an integrated T-adapter. Other accessories include an eyepiece lens cap, an eyepiece port cover, a soft carrying case, a lens clothe, an eyepiece pouch, and an instruction manual.

The green rubber optical tube permits subtle observation in any natural environment.

The sturdy frame is made of lightweight aluminum with anti-skid padding on clamping points to secure it to your eyepiece. A clamping system holds the adapter securely on the eyepiece and locks in place. An adjustment system allows for accurate phone camera alignment, which one of the features of best spotting scopes under 200 dollars.

Highlights Of Celestron Ultima

  • Waterproof
  • Compact and portable design
  • 80 mm Refracted Spotting Scope
  • Sight tube for quick targeting
  • Produces a brighter image
  • Limited lifetime warranty

2. BARSKA Benchmark Waterproof Straight Spotting Scope

BARSKA Benchmark Waterproof Straight Spotting Scope

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BARSKA has been producing high-end products for many years; one of those is Benchmark Waterproof Straight Spotting Scope.

It is a multi-purpose spotter that can be used for diverse outside activities. The 25-125x variable zoom range and 88 mm objective lens will proffer splendid details when observing distant birds. Like any other best spotting scopes under $200, it is also adjustable for essential satisfactory adaptations with front focus settings, while visualizing a target object.

We must say the Porro lenses amplify light transmission to offer you bright, clear, high contrast views in high or low light conditions and provide increased magnification with the Dynamic Objective Focusing System. This lens is filled with nitrogen, which protects it against fogging and moisture damage, whereas O-ring seals around the edge give complete waterproof protection. Fully-coated lenses prevent scuffs and scratches. You should bear in mind that if the lens is magnified at high power, the field of view naturally becomes narrow.

BARSKA has come with hard and soft carrying cases together with a tabletop tripod, and ACCU-Grip handles to guarantee steady viewing in any difficult circumstances.

Features Of BARSKA Benchmark

  • Protective rubber coating
  • 88 mm objective lens
  • Waterproof and fog proof
  • 25 to 125x magnification
  • Hard and soft carrying cases
  • Straight eyepiece system

3. Gosky 20-60×80 spotting scope

Gosky 20-60 X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope

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Our last pick is Gosky’s 20-60x spotting scope. It packs multi coated 80mm objective lens and a high-quality prism, variable 20x – 60x magnification, durable rubber armor, and a fully waterproof design. Though it does appear as a relatively basic scope in comparison to our previous picks, it’s very versatile and offers a slightly different set of features.

First of all, the multi-coated 80mm objective lens is absolutely phenomenal. Backed by a quality prism, it provides breathtaking images attributed with pristine clarity and accuracy. The variable zoom spans from 20 to 60x, which is a pretty broad range. It makes it suitable for pretty much every use you’ve intended, from casual spotting, over sightseeing, to hunting.

The durable framework with rubber armor means that this one’s a keeper. It was specifically built to withstand harsh environments and conditions, and with proper care, it will last you for decades to come. Because it’s completely sealed on the inside, it also boasts waterproof qualities. Lastly, this scope comes outfitted with a special digiscoping phone adapter as a complementary feature.

Gosky 20-60×80 spotting scope Highlighted features

  • Multi coated 80mm objective lens
  • Variable 20x to 60x zoom
  • Durable framework with rubber armor
  • Waterproof design
  • Cellphone digiscoping adapter

4. LANDOVE 20-60X80 BAK4 Prism Spotting Scope

LANDOVE 20-60X80 BAK4 Prism Spotting Scope

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LANDOVE is a reputable brand in the marketing field as it does not comprise the product quality. LANDOVE 20-60X80 BAK4 Prism Spotting Scope is no different. They have used top-drawer materials for your enjoyable adventures.

This scope is nitrogen-filled to give it waterproof and fog-proof characteristics. You will admire the non-slip, shock-proof grip and built-in retractable sunshade, which comes with an eyepiece shield.

The distinguished BAK4 prism lessens the stray light from entering the lens and allows the light transmission to provide you with lucid images and brighter views. The fully-coated 80 mm green film objective lens has a dynamic lens focusing system and 20x to 60x magnification for continuous variable zoom in any selected object. If you are crazy about astronomy, hunting, wildlife watching, or camping, you will be amused to do all these things with LANDOVE spotting scope.

It will also let you take images and videos as it has a digiscoping cell phone adapter. The adapter can fit most of the smartphones with or without cases. Your smartphone is easy to install and remove from the scope.

Core Features Of LANDOVE 20-60X80 BAK4 Prism Spotting Scope

  • Waterproof and fog-proof
  • Universal smartphone adapter
  • A metal table tripod, cleaning cloth, two lens covers
  • Durable sealed design with rubber armor
  • AK4 prism for clear and distinct images
  • Lifetime warranty with lifetime money back guaranty

5. Celestron Ultima 65 18 to 55×65 Straight Spotting Scope

Celestron Ultima 65 18 to 55x65 Straight Spotting Scope

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Celestron scopes are favored by many birdwatchers and casual ‘spotters’ mainly because they’re plain and offer premium quality images. Some of the higher end models such as Ultima 65 in particular – this model works like a charm, especially if you intend to go hunting with it since it offers rapid scoping benefits.

First of all, this scope packs a 65mm lens – fairly big and more than enough to capture superb quality images without blurring them at higher magnification levels. Speaking of which, it features a variable 18x to 55x magnification, which is certainly a little lower in comparison to models we’ve reviewed so far, but actually great for casual scoping, hunting, and exploring wildlife and such.

This is also the first ‘straight’ scope in our review, bringing benefits of stability and easy handling onboard. As complementary features, you’ll also get a complimentary carrying case to further boost its compactness and portability. To top it all, this scope is completely waterproof and packs a rigid construction, making it suitable for all kinds of purposes, especially in harsh environments.

Highlighted Features Of Celestron Ultima

  • 65-millimeter lens
  • Multi-coated optics
  • Straight scope design
  • Variable 18x to 55x magnification
  • Comes with a complimentary carry case
  • Waterproof and durable construction

6. Redfield Rampage 20-60x60mm Straight Eyepiece Spotting Scope

Redfield Rampage 20-60x60mm Straight Eyepiece Spotting Scope

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Redfield has responded to your demand for the best spotting scope under 200 dollars, by introducing you to its latest Rampage 20-60x60mm Eyepiece Spotting Scope.

The company has chosen polycarbonates for the body material, which is sturdy yet super light and compact in size. For your preference, it has included the BaK-4 glass instead of BK7 glass for optimum resolution and clarity. Moreover, the glass has multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on all air-to-glass surfaces for superior image quality. It also comes with waterproof technology and twists-up eyecups.

The model is straight with the 20-60X60 specs, though there is an angled 20-60X80 model as well. This design is well suited for hunters and target shooters who need a straight line of sight. At the same time, the angled design is much more comfortable for wildlife watching. You can choose any of these according to your need.

There is an inclusion of tabletop tripod, which is not full-length and does not allow for full-length adjustments. Besides, they offer a wrap-around case to protect the scope from nasty weather as well as ensures fast pack-up in any condition.

Features of Redfield Rampage 20-60x60mm Straight Eyepiece

  • Retractable lens shade
  • Compactable tripod
  • High-magnification performance
  • Black rubber armored
  • Clear viewing with accurate color fidelity
  • Full lifetime warranty.

7. Landove 20-60×80 zoom spotting scope

Landove 20-60x80 Zoom Spotting Scope

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The first spotting scope in our review is Landove’s 20-60×80 spotting scope. It packs a very formidable set of features, including 80mm (in diameter) lens, a 2-inch angled eyepiece, BAK4 Prism, and many more. It’s equally suitable for bird watching, stargazing, and casual scenery observation. This is one of the best spotting scope under $200.

First of all, the variable magnification spans from 20x to 60x, and to top it all, the huge lens makes the picture crystal clear. The angled design of the lens allows you to scope for long periods of time without any substantial eye fatigue.

Furthermore, the Bak4 prism features multi-coated optics and enhances light transmissions, providing pristine clarity, even in particularly dim-light conditions. The design of this scope also rocks nitrogen-filled properties, a high waterproof rating making it suitable for ‘all terrain, all season’ use.

Moreover, the scope along with all of its features is remarkably durable. The outer layer is made of premium quality rubber, boasts non slip qualities, is shockproof, and very easy to use and grip. It’s clearly built to withstand and endure even the harshest environments.

Apart from that, this spotting scope comes with several complementary features, including a tripod and an easy carry bag. The gratis tripod is made of metal materials (and features a built-in mount), and you’ll also receive a cleaning cloth and a couple of lens-protection covers.

There seem to be no downfalls or drawbacks worth mentioning, although several people have complained about the scope getting a bit blurry at maximum zoom settings. Of course, there’s a huge number of factors that could affect your scoping experience, and it’s most likely that people who’ve complained did not take air humidity in the account.

Overall, this is not an expensive scope, but it’s certainly not cheap either. It does a great bang for the buck, and we highly recommend it to beginners and novices who’ve just ventured to explore the world of spotting scopes.

Highlighted Features Of Landove 20-60×80

  • Variable 20x to 60x zoom
  • Dynamic lens system
  • BAK4 Prism
  • Nitrogen-filled & waterproof design
  • Phone adapter
  • Metal tripod & carry bag complementary features

8. Landove 20-60×80 Prism Spotting scope

landove 20-60X 65 Waterproof Spotting Scope

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Next up is another spotting scope from Landove. And though it does bear much semblance to our previous pick, it packs a different set of features and brings different conveniences onboard.

Comparing the two, both of the scopes have a variable zoom spanning from 20x to 60x, fully-coated optics. And 80mm objective lens. The premium-quality eyepiece and prism utilize the same technology, both delivering superbly clear images even at higher magnification levels.

The ends come outfitted with separate dials, so you can easily adjust zoom levels, as well as the amount of incoming light. Elevation and focus dials are both onboard, allowing you to further customize your scope.

As for the body itself, this scope features a full-metal body which is covered by protective non-slip rubber layers. The sealed interior prevents water leaks, but it’s also shockproof and fog proof, making it equally durable as our previous pick. Accidental falls or bumps shouldn’t even graze it, let alone damage it, but it should be noted that the lens is quite frail, so invest extra care while around it.

Another similarity with our previous pick is the smartphone adapter. The eyecup supports it, which means that you can align the phone came with scope’s lens. This is a major feature for beginners, hobbyists, and enthusiasts, although it has almost no value for hunters.

Lastly, the package includes a gratis tripod and a complimentary carrying case. Though not exactly exemplary in any particular way, they do the job quite nicely and add some additional value for your buck.

We did mention that the lens is rather flimsy, but it appears that the only other drawback of this spotting scope is the tripod. It does come for free, but it’s kind of flimsy, so you shouldn’t rely on it too much. Consider an upgrade when you manage to save up some more cash.

Overall, Landove’s Prism scope holds a great value for the cash. It offers much and excels in nearly all fields of performance, and if you manage to look past the flimsiness of the lens and tripod, it could even pass on as a perfect medium-price spotting scope.

Landove 20-60×80 Prism Highlighted Features

  • Variable 20x to 60x zoom
  • Fully-coated optics
  • 80mm objective lens
  • Waterproof and fogproof design
  • Cellphone adapter
  • Carry case, eyepiece & lens-protection covers complementary features

How To Find The Best Spotting Scopes Under 200 Dollars

There are a couple of things you should keep an eye open for, including the magnification span, lens size, scope type, and accessories.

The magnification span is usually indicated by the ‘first two numbers’ (for example, Aurosports 25-75×70 – the magnification spans from 25x to 75x) you’ll often see in the scope’s name. Bigger magnification spans mean that you’ll be able to zoom in further, but you’ll also need a good lens for that.

Huge magnification without a proper lens will eventually give you blurred, unclear images. Ideally, scopes with big magnification spans go nicely with big lenses.

As for the scope type, the most common ones are fixed and angled. Without going too far into details, fixed scopes are preferred by hunters who need to scope in on the target in rapid fashion, in virtually every other scenario an angled scope is welcome. Angled scopes are easier to adjust, provide a more versatile approach to scoping, and are generally better if you intend to share your scope with a friend or two at times.

Accessories aren’t really necessary, as a good scope can still be good even if it doesn’t come with any, but look out for complementary tripods and carry cases. Every model we’ve picked features one or both.

Final Verdict

Picking a good scope shouldn’t be too hard, but picking the best spotting scopes under 200 dollars can be challenging. This price point category is filled with hundreds of relatively similar models. So we’ve taken the liberty of picking only the finest for your convenience.

We hope that you like our selection of the spotting scopes in the budget price range. And we wish you all the luck in finding the one that suits your purposes.

3 thoughts on “8 Best Spotting Scope Under 200 Dollars in 2021 [Reviews & Guide]”

  1. I’m satisfied with the information that you provide about the best spotting scopes under 200 dollars for me and thanks for this because sometimes people face this problem.

    King regards,
    Harrell Cannon

    Reply

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