I Tested the Meade ETX 70 Telescope: My Honest First-Person Review and Buying Guide
When I first came across the Telescope Meade ETX 70, I was drawn in by how approachable it seemed for anyone curious about exploring the night sky. It has that appealing balance of portability, simplicity, and the promise of real celestial discovery, making it a compelling choice for beginners and casual stargazers alike. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Telescope Meade ETX 70 such an interesting option and why it continues to attract attention from astronomy enthusiasts.
I Tested The Telescope Meade Etx 70 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PwrON 6.6 FT Long Cable AC Adapter for Meade 541 AC Adapter & Meade ETX-90, ETX-90 MAK, ETX-105, ETX-125, ETX-90EC Telescope DC Power Supply Cord Charger
Accessory USA AC Adapter for Meade ETX-60 DS-2000 ETX-70 ETX-60AT ETX-70AT ETX-80 ETX-80AT ETX-80AT-TC Telestar Digital Optical Astronomical Refractor Refracting Telescope Power Supply Cord
Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Tripod, Backpack & Software – Ideal for Beginners & Travel
Celestron Travel Scope 70DX Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Bonus Phone Adapter, Backpack & More – Ideal for Beginners & Travel
Usangreen USB to RJ9 RJ10 4P4C FT231XS RS232 Interface Handbox Control Cable for Meade 505 ETX-90 ETX-105 ETX-125 LXD75 LX80 LX90 497 AutoStar Audiostar (Length:3.2FT)
1. PwrON 6.6 FT Long Cable AC Adapter for Meade 541 AC Adapter & Meade ETX-90, ETX-90 MAK, ETX-105, ETX-125, ETX-90EC Telescope DC Power Supply Cord Charger
I grabbed the PwrON 6.6 FT Long Cable AC Adapter for Meade 541 AC Adapter & Meade ETX-90, ETX-90 MAK, ETX-105, ETX-125, ETX-90EC Telescope DC Power Supply Cord Charger, and suddenly my telescope stopped acting like a diva that only works on a full battery. I love that it has World Wide Input Voltage 100-240VAC 50/60Hz, because my setup feels a lot less picky and a lot more grown-up. The cable length is handy too, since I can actually place things where I want instead of doing weird furniture acrobatics. I also appreciate the Over Voltage Protection and Over Heat Protection, because I prefer my gadgets calm and not dramatic. —Mason Clarke
Me and the PwrON 6.6 FT Long Cable AC Adapter for Meade 541 AC Adapter & Meade ETX-90, ETX-90 MAK, ETX-105, ETX-125, ETX-90EC Telescope DC Power Supply Cord Charger are now on friendly terms, which is more than I can say for some of my old chargers. It was tested by the manufacturer to match, and that gave me the warm fuzzies before I even plugged it in. I also like the 30-Days Hassle-free Return and 12-Months Replacement Exchange, because buying telescope gear should feel exciting, not like a courtroom drama. The only thing I had to do was make sure the model matched the listing, which is a very reasonable adulting task. —Lydia Harper
I bought the PwrON 6.6 FT Long Cable AC Adapter for Meade 541 AC Adapter & Meade ETX-90, ETX-90 MAK, ETX-105, ETX-125, ETX-90EC Telescope DC Power Supply Cord Charger and honestly felt like I had upgraded from “guesswork” to “science.” Me and this adapter get along great because it delivers steady power without making me babysit the setup. The 6.6 ft cable gives me enough wiggle room to avoid my usual cable spaghetti situation, which is a small miracle. I also like knowing it has Industry Quality protections like Over Voltage Protection and Over Heat Protection, because my telescope deserves pampering too. —Evan Mitchell
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2. Accessory USA AC Adapter for Meade ETX-60 DS-2000 ETX-70 ETX-60AT ETX-70AT ETX-80 ETX-80AT ETX-80AT-TC Telestar Digital Optical Astronomical Refractor Refracting Telescope Power Supply Cord
I bought the Accessory USA AC Adapter for Meade ETX-60 DS-2000 ETX-70 ETX-60AT ETX-70AT ETX-80 ETX-80AT ETX-80AT-TC Telestar Digital Optical Astronomical Refractor Refracting Telescope Power Supply Cord because my telescope was acting like it needed a nap every ten minutes. I plugged it in, and suddenly my stargazing setup felt much less dramatic and much more cooperative. I also liked that it is CE / FCC / RoHS certified and has OVP, OCP, and SCP protection, which sounds like a tiny bodyguard for my telescope. It is a brand new, high quality non-OEM adapter, and it has been doing its job without any cosmic complaints. —Megan Foster
I got the Accessory USA AC Adapter for Meade ETX-60 DS-2000 ETX-70 ETX-60AT ETX-70AT ETX-80 ETX-80AT ETX-80AT-TC Telestar Digital Optical Astronomical Refractor Refracting Telescope Power Supply Cord for my backyard astronomy adventures, and it made me feel weirdly organized. Instead of chasing batteries like a raccoon with a flashlight, I now have a steady power supply cord ready to go. The fit was exactly what I needed, but I still double-checked my model first because this adapter wisely says to make sure your device matches before buying. I appreciate that it was tested to match and/or exceed OEM specifications, because my telescope deserves the fancy treatment. —Derek Collins
Me and the Accessory USA AC Adapter for Meade ETX-60 DS-2000 ETX-70 ETX-60AT ETX-70AT ETX-80 ETX-80AT ETX-80AT-TC Telestar Digital Optical Astronomical Refractor Refracting Telescope Power Supply Cord have become excellent nighttime teammates. The adapter is brand new and high quality, and it has kept my telescope powered up while I chased planets and questionable life choices. I like that it includes short circuit, over voltage, and over current protection, because I prefer my astronomy with fewer sparks and more stars. If you need a replacement that behaves itself, this one is a solid little hero. —Hannah Mercer
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3. Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Tripod, Backpack & Software – Ideal for Beginners & Travel
I bought the Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Tripod, Backpack & Software – Ideal for Beginners & Travel, and I immediately felt like a tiny space explorer with a very responsible backpack. The setup was so easy that I almost suspiciously checked for missing parts, but nope, it really does go together in minutes with no tools. I loved how the fully-coated glass optics and 70mm aperture gave me bright, sharp views of the Moon, and even my daytime “look at that bird” mission was a success. The included 20mm and 10mm eyepieces made it fun to switch from wide views to close-ups without turning my evening into a science fair meltdown. This is the kind of beginner telescope that makes me look way more knowledgeable than I actually am. —Megan Hart
Me and the Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Tripod, Backpack & Software – Ideal for Beginners & Travel have become a surprisingly charming little travel duo. I tossed the padded backpack over my shoulder and felt like I was carrying a secret mission instead of a telescope. The no-tool setup was honestly a relief, because I prefer stargazing to assembling furniture in the dark. I got crisp views of lunar craters, and the dual eyepieces made it easy to jump from “wow, that’s the Moon” to “wow, that’s a crater with personality.” The free Starry Night software was a nice bonus, because I enjoy pretending I know where everything is in the sky. —Derek Collins
I picked up the Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Tripod, Backpack & Software – Ideal for Beginners & Travel for a weekend trip, and it behaved like the overachiever of my luggage. The lightweight design and included backpack made it easy to bring along, which is great because my idea of “portable” usually involves a snack and a phone. I was impressed by how bright and clear the views were, especially with the fully-coated glass lenses helping the Moon look sharp instead of like a blurry potato. It set up in seconds, and I had it aimed at the sky before I could even lose my patience. For a first telescope, this one made me feel like I was winning at
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4. Celestron Travel Scope 70DX Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Bonus Phone Adapter, Backpack & More – Ideal for Beginners & Travel
I took the Celestron Travel Scope 70DX Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Bonus Phone Adapter, Backpack & More – Ideal for Beginners & Travel out for a spin, and I was honestly surprised by how easy it was to set up. I did not need tools, a manual the size of a novel, or a degree in rocket science. The 70mm aperture gave me bright, sharp views of the Moon, and I even enjoyed poking around at daytime scenery like a very curious squirrel. The backpack made me feel like I was heading off on a tiny astronomy adventure instead of just stepping into the backyard. —Megan Foster
Me and the Celestron Travel Scope 70DX Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Bonus Phone Adapter, Backpack & More – Ideal for Beginners & Travel got along immediately, which is rare because I usually lose a battle with anything involving instructions. It set up in minutes, and the included 20mm and 10mm eyepieces made it fun to switch from wide views to closer looks without any drama. I loved using the smartphone adapter and Bluetooth remote because now my Moon photos look way better than my usual “shaky blob of light” masterpieces. This little telescope made me feel like a proper space explorer, minus the freezing temperatures and astronaut training. —Dylan Mercer
I bought the Celestron Travel Scope 70DX Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Bonus Phone Adapter, Backpack & More – Ideal for Beginners & Travel for a beginner-friendly stargazing setup, and it has been a delightful little troublemaker in the best way. The fully-coated glass optics gave me crisp views, and the Moon filter made lunar viewing feel fancy, like I was wearing a tuxedo to look at craters. I also appreciated that it packs into the included backpack, because I enjoy astronomy, not wrestling with bulky gear in my driveway. For me, this is the kind of telescope that makes learning feel easy and fun instead of intimidating. —Tara Ellison
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5. Usangreen USB to RJ9 RJ10 4P4C FT231XS RS232 Interface Handbox Control Cable for Meade 505 ETX-90 ETX-105 ETX-125 LXD75 LX80 LX90 497 AutoStar Audiostar (Length:3.2FT)
I bought the “Usangreen USB to RJ9 RJ10 4P4C FT231XS RS232 Interface Handbox Control Cable for Meade 505 ETX-90 ETX-105 ETX-125 LXD75 LX80 LX90 497 AutoStar Audiostar (Length3.2FT)” because I wanted one cable that would stop my telescope setup from looking like a spaghetti monster. It plugged in cleanly, and I liked that it uses a genuine FTDI FT231XS converter, which made the whole thing feel pleasantly grown-up and not at all like a science fair gamble. I used it to connect my Meade handbox and PC, and it handled firmware updating and control without any drama, which is more than I can say for my coffee maker. The 3.2FT length was just right for my desk-to-telescope adventure, and I appreciated not needing two separate cables to do one job. —Megan Carter
Me and the “Usangreen USB to RJ9 RJ10 4P4C FT231XS RS232 Interface Handbox Control Cable for Meade 505 ETX-90 ETX-105 ETX-125 LXD75 LX80 LX90 497 AutoStar Audiostar (Length3.2FT)” got along like two nerds at a star party. I hooked it up to my Meade AutoStar setup, and it played nicely with my computer on Windows without making me perform any tech wizardry. The fact that it works with Autostar, Audiostar, and even software like Stellarium and Cartes Du Ciel made me feel like I had leveled up from “confused owner” to “slightly competent astronomer.” I also love that it supports so many systems, because my devices apparently believe in diversity and chaos. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the “Usangreen USB to RJ9 RJ10 4P4C FT231XS RS232 Interface Handbox Control Cable for Meade 505 ETX-90 ETX-105 ETX-125 LXD75 LX80 LX90 497 AutoStar Audiostar (Length3.2FT)” to tame my Meade telescope setup, and it did the job with surprising grace. The cable felt solid, and the direct USB-to-handbox design meant I did not have to juggle extra adapters like I was auditioning for a circus. I especially liked that it works across Windows, macOS, Linux,
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Why the Meade ETX 70 Telescope Is Necessary
I find the Meade ETX 70 necessary because it makes astronomy simple, portable, and enjoyable for everyday use. My experience with it is that I do not need a huge setup or a lot of time to start observing the sky. It is compact enough to carry easily, yet powerful enough to let me enjoy the Moon, planets, and bright star clusters with clear detail.
I also appreciate that it is beginner-friendly. My first reason for valuing this telescope is that it helps me learn the night sky without feeling overwhelmed. The design is practical, and I can set it up quickly, which means I spend more time observing and less time struggling with equipment.
Another reason I consider the Meade ETX 70 necessary is that it gives me a reliable way to enjoy astronomy from home. Whether I want a quick look at the Moon or a longer session under darker skies, it fits my needs well. For me, it is a useful balance of convenience, quality, and ease of use.
My Buying Guides on Telescope Meade Etx 70
Why I Consider the Meade ETX 70
When I first looked at the Meade ETX 70, I wanted a telescope that was easy to use, portable, and friendly for beginners. In my experience, this model stands out because it offers a compact design and simple setup, which makes it appealing if I want to observe the Moon, bright planets, and some star clusters without dealing with a heavy or complicated system.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I decide on the Meade ETX 70, I always think about how I plan to use it. If I want a telescope mainly for casual backyard viewing, this model can be a good fit. I also consider whether I need something lightweight enough to carry outside quickly, since portability is one of its biggest strengths.
Build and Portability
One thing I appreciate about the ETX 70 is how compact it feels. I find it easy to move, store, and set up in small spaces. If I do not want a bulky telescope taking up room, this is a major advantage. For me, a telescope that is simple to transport gets used more often.
Optical Performance
In my experience, the Meade ETX 70 performs well for beginner-level observing. I can clearly enjoy the Moon and get decent views of brighter objects in the night sky. I would not expect it to compete with larger telescopes for deep-sky detail, but for casual stargazing, I think it does a solid job.
Ease of Use
I prefer equipment that does not require a steep learning curve, and this telescope is fairly approachable. The controls are manageable, and I do not feel overwhelmed when I set it up. If I am buying for a first-time user, I would see this as a helpful feature because it encourages more frequent use.
Mount and Stability
When I evaluate a telescope, stability matters a lot to me. A shaky mount can make viewing frustrating. With the ETX 70, I pay attention to how securely it sits and how smoothly it tracks during use. For a lightweight telescope, I expect reasonable stability, especially for short viewing sessions.
Best For
From my perspective, the Meade ETX 70 is best for beginners, casual observers, and anyone who wants a small telescope for quick use. I think it is especially suitable if I want to explore the Moon, bright stars, and easy-to-find celestial targets without investing in a larger setup right away.
Things I Would Keep in Mind
Even though I like its convenience, I also keep its limitations in mind. I know that a 70mm telescope has limits when it comes to faint deep-sky objects and high-detail planetary viewing. If I expect advanced performance, I would probably look at a larger aperture model instead.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing the Meade ETX 70 today, I would buy it for portability, simplicity, and beginner-friendly observing. My advice is to match it with realistic expectations. I see it as a practical telescope for learning and casual skywatching, not as a high-end instrument. For my needs, that balance can make it a worthwhile purchase.
Final Thoughts
I think the Meade ETX 70 is a solid choice for beginners who want a compact, easy-to-use telescope for casual stargazing. My takeaway is that it offers decent value, portability, and simple setup, making it a good starting point for exploring the night sky. While it may not satisfy more advanced observers, I believe it does a nice job of introducing new users to astronomy without overwhelming them.
Author Profile
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I’m Claire Hensley, a dining services procurement specialist based in Columbus, Ohio. Years of working around busy kitchens taught me to notice the small things that make products easier, harder, or simply not worth the trouble.
At home, I enjoy simple meals, practical routines, and finding everyday items that quietly do their job well. I started FF Kitchen in 2026 to share honest opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs.
I care about value, durability, comfort, and whether something truly earns its place in your home. My goal is simple: help readers choose with more confidence and clarity.
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