Bintel
42 reviews
I had problems with connecting SCT & Camera to NINA - turned out to be power issues that the Bintel crew managed to track down and solve for me. They then went above and beyond the call and replaced my 500W Julio power bank with a top-line 1500W Jupio power bank that solved all my issues. Their after-sales service has been exemplary, and they’ve always had time to chat with other issues I’ve had setting up for astrophotography. Great going guys! Show details
My order has been waiting to arrive after 7 weeks and I still don't have it. Bintel keep telling me to wait after promising to keep me updated, although I've been the sole initiator of any updates. I've never ordered through a more thoroughly useless company with completely lackadaisical staff.
Worst customer service ever – Ordered a product that was showing in stock on 05 Dec 2024 as Christmas Gift. Paid extra for express delivery with a 1-2 day delivery time frame and signature on delivery. Allegedly shipped by them on 10 December, only after I contacted them. Product has still not been delivered more than 3 weeks after I paid. Bintel have not responded to any… Read more
email, chat bot or even the issue I raised through PayPal. I don't believe they ever had the product they have shipped to me as they "magically found one" when I contacted them back on 10 December. Hopeless after sales support If you buy online From them, make sure you pay by PayPal so you have some recourse when you don't get it.
Reviews with attachments
Fast, Friendly and Trustworthy. They stand behind their products – Bintel's knowledgeable, friendly staff provided me with very helpful information, enabling me to choose exactly which telescope I needed. Ordering on-line was easy, safe and secure. Item arrived very promptly and extremely well packed. The telescope and mount were extremely well made and easy to assemble. After 'first light', I noticed a very… Read more
small problem with the focuser. Upon contacting Bintel, they promptly arranged a replacement telescope, no questions asked, with door to door service at no cost to me. I was blown away by how they stood behind their product and their keenness to ensure I was a happy, satisfied customer. I would recommend Bintel to anyone because you can buy with complete confidence.
In-depth reviews
Took A Call From A Guy In Texas – I’ve just bought a Celestron EdgeHD 9.25 and CGX mount. The mount had a bad dec motor right out of the box, so 2 weeks have gone by while the mount was shipped back to Celestron in California, they did a quality check on a new one and then finally shipped it back to me. The first night I get it back it’s 12 degrees below freezing, but the skies… Read more
are clear, so I set it up. I take off the 1.25 inch adapter plate on the back of the OTA and proceed to put on the T-adapter, but it doesn’t fit. I check to make sure I have the right part, and I do, but it doesn’t fit, not even close. Celestron is closed for the day and so is the place I bought it from. I scour the Internet looking for a solution but I really don’t know how to phrase the search to get back results that could explain what was going on. Now I’ve got myself so worked up that I’m freaking out. So, I look at the clock, it’s 9PM in Texas. That means it’s 3AM in London. Crap. But it’s 2PM in Sydney, and that dude on YouTube, from Byron Bay, is always talking about that Bintel place in Sydney. I could give them a call. And I did! I explained my situation to the first guy I talked to, and eventually got transferred to Don. Don knew exactly what the problem was. The baffle lock nut, the part that doesn’t come off the back of the OTA, we’ll, it not only came off, but it got stuck in the adapter plate. He gave me a few ideas of how to fix it, and a little over 24 hour later, it’s fixed. The T-adapter is adapting now, and all is right in my astronomy world. I’ve never been to Bintel, I didn’t buy anything from Bintel, their website doesn’t even allow me to add a shipping address to the US, but they still took the time to help me through a situation, and they gave me a peace of mind when I was at my wits’ end. This is the kind of place that, if I lived there, would totally get my business.
Wade P. Texas, USA
Tech Help – I purchased a Starsense from BINTEL via the online shop. When it arrived it did not connect to my Celestron FI scope. I called the shop and spoke with Ed who knew right away what the issues was (update). I have a Mac computer and was advised that a PC would work better. After a long battle with my out of date PC, I had a further fiddle with the… Read more
Mac version and figured out how to get it to work.
1. Open CFM and allow to upload all packages. Ignore warning message of not finding any telescope etc.
2. On the CFM go to Options and then connections and change from Serial to WIFI under the connection type heading. No other changes needed.
3. Connect Starsense and turn on telescope.
4. Change from your home network to Celestron (connects Mac to telescope) via the fan symbol top right of your screen. The CFM then populates a list of 4 items , Camera, Wifi controller, Telescope & handset.
5. Click on activity UPDATE and off it goes. Handset goes into update mode.
Make sure you have a steady power supply for the scope as it takes a while.
Once it was done the Starsense operated as it should have done on the initial startup.
I called Bintel to advise of the "WIN" with a Mac and they were very happy to receive the information, albeit another member of Staff.
Thanks Again BINTEL for sound advice.
Awesome ! – These guys know their stuff and have helped a novice like me with the best advice and friendly service. I was buying a dobsonian and asked about the 12 inch model thinking it was heaps better and as I live in the city, they explained the size of it making it harder to transport and explained that a good eyepiece on a 10 inch dob would be better… Read more
than a 12 inch dob with a cheap eyepiece not to mention that as I live in the inner city' the lights and pollution would play a part restricting it;s full potential/ They also pointed out that I can put a 10 inch Dob in my car and take it to a cleaner area and enjoy it's full potential where as a 12 inch won;t fit in most cars/ I commented to them that I was amazed at their honesty before profit attitude and they said that their main priority is making sure the customer is happy and hasn't paid more for something they won't need. In all y years in sales. it;s very rare to see a proper sales person who qualifies firs making sure the product suits the person rather than suiting the person to the product.
I wish all other businesses had the same attitude. It's been an absolute pleasure dealing with these guys and I;m a very very happy Bintel 10 inch Dobsonian owner. I feel at ease knowing that I have the great support from a great bunch of guys.
Positive reviews
Astronomy 2024 Australia – As always a great magazine. Was very pleasantly surprised to find the book wrapped in plastic prior to inserting in envelope, thus preventing possible spoilage. Well done!!
Good and prompt service – I needed a replacement part for my binoculars and sent an online enquiry to Bintel. They replied with the details I needed, a quote (very reasonable) and a very easy online process for purchase. Within days, the part had reached me from Sydney. Recommend them.
Great advice and backed up by great service – What a great first time experience I have had with Bintel. Was looking for my first telescope and spoke with John the owner. Very knowledgeable and understands the beginner. Purchased a Meade Refractor Telescope and after speaking with John about adjustments and capabilities, I am hooked. Will definitely be back on line to purchase more. By the way, I live on the Sunshine Coast and Bintel in Sydney. My order was here in 2 days. Amazing.
Negative reviews
Too much trouble – I got a quote for just over $3,000 worth of mono DSO camera back in February when I had a once in a lifetime opportunity to finally purchase a good camera (ZWO) and electronic filter wheel. The camera wasn't expected to be in stock till the end of March. I sent an email suggesting I could deposit the full amount into their account to secure a… Read more
camera when they finally came in. I NEVER heard a word from them again, months went by and I sent a follow up email more as a mild complaint (camera not in stock at that time, may have come in and sold). Too much trouble to reply to me because they just didn't need this pensioners PATHETIC $3,000+.
Last time I checked their site the cameras were in stock, too late, I spent the money elsewhere on other stuff. I wouldn't give Bintel the steam off my S**T
Waste of time – Forget about trying to order online. I ordered a few parts with 1 left in stock, of one of the items. Rang up the next day. They tell me it's out of stock. They have no clue when it will be in. The monotone clown on the phone didn't seem to care at all. First time customer to them, I won't be going back. I'll go find somewhere else to spend my 3k on an upcoming telescope purchase.
The worst to deal with,never again – Avoid dealing with these guys & spend your hard earnt money elsewhere.They could not even deliver a set of $2000 swarovski binoculars via express post after agreeing to send via express prior to the sale which i had in writing.After payment was processed they denied ever agreeing to this and sent via regular snail mail.Resulting in the product not… Read more
getting to me on time,effectively ruining a hunting trip.The lies and drama that followed was beyond belief.Never again.
Find out how Bintel compares to other Sports & Recreation Shops
Know better, choose better.
Recent reviews
Startlingly good delivery – I ordered new binoculars from the online store yesterday around 11.00 am. They have just arrived here in Kingston Beach Tasmania at 12.30 pm. I call that very good service!
The efficiency and quality of service for running repairs to my overworked binoculars was outstanding – My Swarovski's were in need of major reairs and were dispatched to and returned from Europe promptly and are now as new.
Excellent customer service – I purchased some Swarovski spotting scope products online and the following day I received a telephone call to confirm what I was ordering. I was also informed that one of the products that I required was now back in stock and agreed to include it in the shipping. The caller was the store owner who was extremely friendly and competent. The… Read more
package arrived in quick time, and I was delighted with some additional products that have been included at no cost and no doubt as a gesture of goodwill.
In futures, I would not bother shopping around if I need to purchase Swarovski products. Simply go directly to Bintel. Over the years have purchased three Swarovski spotting scope and three binoculars from stores all around Australia. None has made me feel more welcome for my purchase.
Best price and excellent service – First time shopper at Bintel. I bought some accessories for my CPC1100 telescope. Bintel had the best price that I could find online in Aus. The service was excellent and my package arrived in 48 hours. I will be very happy to shop with them again.
Always great solid service from Bintel – These guys are super easy to deal with, always provide lots of care and advice to their customers. Positive reviews consistently on astronomy forums can't be wrong. I think some of the negative reviews here about them are unfair. Not worth sidestepping these guys because they've been in the business for yonks and know what they're doing
Excellent staff – Excellent customer service from the enthusiastic team that are always willing to help. I couldn't be happier with the service/advice I've received since buying my first telescope a year ago.
Best service – Ordered Orion Precision Slow-motion Adaptor on 26/02/202 Was delivered on 28/02/2020 9am. The adaptor works great with my Nikon P1000, to have a go at the Moon and Saturn so now and again, sky&time permitting. I was greatly impressed with the service supplied by both Bintel and out Post. Thank you
Pleasure to do business with! – Ordered a ZWO IR/UV filter and Bintel Reducer for my telescope. Placed my order on Monday and received it in 2 days. Fantastic. Delivery was fast, communication was excellent (order confirmation, tracking details etc.) Will gladly do business with again!
Website is misleading on deliveries & backorders – Website says 2-3 weeks delivery but also stated "In Stock" at the time I placed the order. After waiting 3 weeks, and as specified on the Order Acknowledgement, I wrote to sales@bintel.com.au but after waiting 2 days I did not receive a reply. Having just phoned in the product I purchased is over 3 months delivery. I was advised not to email… Read more
"sales" but rather "support" or "info" as that get answered promptly.........
The website is totally inaccurate, it's just click bait.
Find out how Bintel compares to other Sports & Recreation Shops
Know better, choose better.
BEST Astronomy Store in Australia – The staff at Bintel are very knowledgeable, especially the owner. They have years of experience delivering fantastic customer service and top quality products. I have bought most of my astronomy gear from Bintel, because I know i can TRUST them to give me the right advice and they respond extremely quickly to any warranty issues. 10 out of 10 Bintel.
Great Service – I have been dealing with Bintel for about 10 years and they are always enthusiastic in helping out with any issues. Recently I had an issue with my LX90 and the GPS rollover, Don said no problem bring the hand piece in and I will get the problem fixed for you - dropped it off, got a call within 2 days to say fixed. I collected form the store and Don said no problem - no charge for this. You can t ask for anything more Show details
Very Good Customer Service and Backup – I very rarely write reviews but a recent experience with Bintel has motivated me to do so now. Having purchased a number of eyepieces, filters and other telescope accessories from Bintel over the last year or so, all of which were delivered quickly, of high quality and very well packaged, I also received a Solar Filter which would not fit my… Read more
Dobsonian in spite of supplier advertisements which seemed to indicate the contrary. After some correspondence with Bintel I received a full refund including postage which besides being fair under the circumstances, represented very good customer service and backup for online orders. Particular thanks to Don, John and the team for working through the refund process in a fair and professional way. I'll be going out of my way to purchase products from Bintel in the future with the knowledge that they will fully back their products and services.
Very fast delivery – Needed a camera adaptor for an Az3 mount. Rang Bintel and had the item in my hands 2 days later (I live in regional Queensland). My C90 Mak now sits snugly on the mount.
No manuals at all – I bought my first telescope, collimating eyepiece, telrad and some other equipment from Bintel. None of them came with manuals or any assembly instructions. Although there are videos from others on youtube, I could not find anything that matched exactly the type of equipment I purchased. Eventually, I assembled everything myself, but it took… Read more
longer than it should have. Still, I would like to have a proper manual on how to take care of the equipment etc. I would expect when you pay more than 1000$ for a piece of equipment, it must come with instructions.
Home of the experts – Only place I would purchase a telescope from in Australia. These are the experts who will give you the support you need whether getting started or moving to the next level.
Awesome stuff, mediocre staff – I bought my first telescope from this place i was real excited with the kids. We were standing there ready to be served but the man at the cashier just looked at us with out any interest while he kept on serving other people that just came in. I was mad and wanted to leave. They have enough telescopes but only selected eyepieces.
Great friendly service – I found the staff extremely knowledgeable and more than willing to take the time to discuss how to get the best results with my specific setup.
Excellent Customer Service – The staff at Bintel went above and beyond in ensuring that I received the telescope that a purchased online. After delivery being delayed by Australia Post they were able to ensure it was delivered that same day in time for Christmas. Thank you Don for your help I really appreciate it.
Brilliant service – i just purchased a eq5pro tripod with a go to mount Bintel was and is a great company to deal with I ordered it on Friday and it arrived on the Monday with tracking on the product .it was well packed and delivered with out a scratch.I can guarantee Bintel as a first rate company to deal with and I will buy again from them.
Can't recommend these guys more highly – I purchased my first EdgeHD telescope and NEQ6 mount from these guys. They give great product advice and competitive pricing. I've subsequently bought a number of items from them and they typically get delivered the next day all in secure packaging. John Mills is fantastic and super responsive. I can't recommend these guys more highly.
Fantastic Service! – I have purchased High Quality Telescopes, thousands of dollars of Teleview eyepieces (Ethos & Delos) and numerous accessories. Bintel probably has the best selection of top end astronomy equipment in Auz. I have had many discussions and sound advice from a few advisors but in particular a chap called John Mills who i can't speak highly enough… Read more
for advice, he always make time for me and explains the technical aspects in great detail, some of the best customer service i have had in Australia and great value for money.
The guys ship the gear to me in Perth at very reasonable prices, it always arrives in perfect condition and well packed. I am a super happy repeat customer who highly recommends this supplier.
Poor customer service in regards to responding to emails!! – I have tried to contact BINTEL numerous times regarding there products with a view to buying them and every time they have failed to respond until I begin calling. I am now looking elsewhere for a business that wants to help and get a few sales. I'm not sure who monitors there "contact us" section of there website but they need to be moved on!!!
Extra Information
ProductReview.com.au has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence our content moderation policies in any way, though ProductReview.com.au may earn commissions for products/services purchased via affiliate links.