every person's living conditions are unique, the best advice I can give you is to take the following factors into consideration: Size : Even if the scope has the power capabilities, if you have a really big/bulky scope, you're less likely to take it out, especially if you have to climb up or down stairs.  Smaller scopes, while versatile, generally can't see too much, unless you get a Schmidt-Cassegrain (which tend to be far too expensive for the beginner). Complexity : If you have a great deal of gear that is designed to be easy to use, if you don't know the basics of telescope functions, or if it breaks down, or you can't find a power supply, you will just have an expensive tube with some wires.  Scale up to computerized scopes only when you're ready, don't jump the gun. Price : Scopes cost a great deal less than they used to.  Construction methods are improving, and the savings are being passed onto the consumer. You can get a great starter/student scope for around $300, and it will be a scope that 15 years ago would have cost $1000.  Also, don't get one of those cheap scopes from a department store.  They are terrible, and you will be frustrated: You'll think that you are doing something wrong, but I promise, it's not you, it's the terribly cheap scope that you paid $39.99 for. Mount : Dobsonian mounts are VERY stable and can support a great deal of weight, but