Let's break down the main types of telescopes: refractors, reflectors, and compound telescopes.

Refractors:

Pros:

Simple design, low maintenance.

Good for planetary observations.

Great for beginners due to ease of use.

Cons:

Expensive for larger apertures.

Chromatic aberration (color fringing) can be an issue in cheaper models.

Limited field of view.

Reflectors:

Pros:

Affordable for larger apertures.

No chromatic aberration.

Good for deep-sky observations.

Cons:

Requires occasional collimation (alignment of mirrors).

Slightly more complex than refractors.

May have a longer cooldown time.

Compound Telescopes (Catadioptrics):

Pros:

Combines features of refractors and reflectors.

Compact and portable.

Good for both planetary and deep-sky observations.

Cons:

Can be expensive.

Slightly more complex than refractors.

Considerations:

Aperture: Bigger aperture gathers more light, allowing you to see fainter objects. Reflectors are often the best value for larger apertures.

Portability: Refractors and compounds are generally more portable, while reflectors can be bulkier.

Price: Refractors can be expensive, especially for larger apertures. Reflectors are often more affordable for larger sizes.

Maintenance: Refractors are low maintenance, while reflectors may require collimation. Compounds fall in between.

Recommendation: For a beginner interested in stargazing, a good compromise could be a 6-8 inch Dobsonian reflector. They offer a great balance of aperture, affordability, and ease of use. If you prioritize portability, a compound telescope with a smaller aperture might be a good fit.

Remember, the best telescope is the one that suits your needs and gets you excited about exploring the cosmos!