National Geographic · Newtonian
National Geographic NT114CF
A 114mm reflector with fast f/4.4 optics and a portable carbon-fiber tube, all under $150
Price updated Mar 22, 2026
Performance Scores
Overview
The National Geographic NT114CF is a 114mm (4.5-inch) Newtonian reflector built around a short 500mm focal length, giving it an f/4.4 focal ratio. That combination means wide, bright fields of view rather than high magnification, which works well for sweeping star clusters, the Moon, and brighter nebulae like Orion. Planetary detail is possible but modest at this aperture. With the included 26mm and 9.7mm Plossls plus a 2x Barlow, you can reach around 102x, a practical ceiling for a 114mm mirror under typical skies.
The alt-azimuth mount handles casual visual observing well enough, though serious astrophotography will quickly expose its limits, as there is no tracking. The included smartphone adapter is a reasonable bonus for lunar snapshots. At 4.87kg, the whole setup is genuinely portable, and setup time is minimal. The fast focal ratio can be demanding on eyepiece quality, so expect some edge-of-field softness with the stock oculars.
For a beginner wanting real aperture without a heavy setup or a high price, this telescope is a reasonable starting point. Experienced observers will likely outgrow it, but that is true of most telescopes in this price range.
At a Glance
114mm
Aperture
f/4.4
Focal Ratio
4.87kg
Weight
500mm
Focal Length
Specifications
Key Features
- 114mm aperture gathers enough light for clear lunar detail, open clusters, and brighter deep-sky objects
- Fast f/4.4 focal ratio delivers wide fields of view, making it easier to find and frame targets
- Two Plossl eyepieces and a 2x Barlow provide a usable magnification range without additional purchases
- Carbon-fiber style tube keeps the overall weight at under 5kg, making transport and setup straightforward
- Alt-azimuth mount is intuitive for beginners but lacks tracking, limiting longer astrophotography exposures
- Smartphone adapter allows basic lunar and planetary photography without extra accessories
- At $149.99, the aperture-to-price ratio is competitive for an entry-level reflector
Customer Reviews
38 reviews
My nephew loved it!!!
First one we brought we had to send back because it came damage. Received the next one right away fast shipping. It works okay. What do you expect for the price. My son has a hard time adjusting it so I do it for him. It’s not so clear but for fun it’s good
I don't understand all the good reviews. It's very hard to use and the image quality is really bad.