Reflecting telescopes (called "reflectors") come in five main configurations: prime focus, Newtonian, Cassegrain, Coudé, and Schmidt camera. The Ritchey-Chrétien design is also used.

Refracting telescopes (called "refractors") were invented in 1609. They suffer from chromatic aberration and are no longer in widespread use at research observatories. However, as a result of their superiority to reflectors for visual planetary observation because of slower f-ratios and better optics, the amateur community uses refractors extensively.

Cassegrain Telescope, Gregorian Telescope, Newtonian Telescope, Reflecting Telescope, Refracting Telescope, Ritchey-Chrétien Telescope, Schmidt Camera