General Info

Class: DS-2000 Series Reflector
Best Uses: Planets, the Moon, Stars, Galaxies & Nebulae (Not Astrophotography)
Recommended Experience: Casual (Beginner – Intermediate)

Overall Rating: 8.2/10
Official Review: If you are looking for a simple reflector telescope that will allow you to check out some cool objects with the family or to get some alone time, but you don’t feel like dropping $500+, the Meade DS-2114LNT is right up your alley! At about $300, this is probably the best scope you’ll find in its class.

Pros: Accurate, comfortable, easy to align, easy to setup, lightweight & portable, SmartFinder & software
Cons: Batteries run out quickly, decent construction (fine for beginner use), not as more expensive scopes

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Important Details

Usability: 8.5/10 – Easy to assemble & use for beginners and pros alike
Comfortability: 7.6/10 – Comfortable eyepiece & adjustable tripod
Durability: 6.4/10 – Being a low-end scope, its durability can’t compete w/ more expensive models
Battery Life: 5.7/10 – They go out quickly, but it’s no problem with the AC Adapter
Computer: 7.4/10 – Has the features, but could use a bigger object database & more options
Warranty: 8.8/10 – Standard Meade warranty & return/exchange policy
Storage: 9.1/10 – Extremely lightweight & easy to store (portable!)
Accuracy: 7.2/10 – Accurate enough for beginner/casual stargazers
Setup: 8.9/10 – VERY easy to setup, excellent manual

Check out more customer reviews of the DS-2114 here!

Tech Specs

Aperture: 114mm (4.5″)
Magnification (Highest Useful): 350x
Focal Length: 1,000mm
Focal Ratio: f/8.8
Tracking: North sensor, level sensor & Red-Dot SmartFinder auto-alignment

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Telescope Construction

Optical Design: Reflector
Viewfinder: Red-Dot Finder
Eyepiece: 1.25″ (SP9.7mm, SP26mm)
Mount Design: Altazimuth DS-2000 mount
Weight: 20lbs (Lightweight & portable)
Tripod: Aluminum; full-length; adjustable with accessory tray
Power Supply: Batteries (AC Adapter highly recommended)
Lens Coating: Multi-Coated
Other Equipment: None
Recommended Accessories: AC Adapter

Extra Features

GoTo: Yes
GPS: No
Computerized: Yes
Alignment: SmartFinder Auto-Align
Remote: Yes
Software: AutoStar Suite™ Astronomy Edition PC-compatible DVD

Summary: If you’re looking for a decent reflector that’s under $500, the DS-2114 LNT will probably end your search. You may as well stop looking, because there just isn’t much better for $300 out there. This scope is a great happy-medium that bridges the huge gap between casual stargazing and professional features.

Click here to order the Meade DS-2114 LNT Reflector from Telescopes.com!