7x50 are the most powerful binoculars that will be useful without a tripod. The field will “dance” uncontrollably in 10x50s. A good pair of 7x50 binocs is a great first choice. This isn’t what most folks want to hear, but the truth is that inexpensive telescopes are worse than useless-they can actually kill interest in the hobby. There is no $200 scope on the market today that will not be more of a hassle than a pleasure. When you decide to “step up” to a scope, be prepared to spend a bare minumum of $500. $1000 is a more realistic target and will afford you an instrument that will deliver a lifetime of satisfactory service.
I got this telescope from freecycle. It’s a Jason 60x700. Can see saturn’s rings, but very frustrating to find and keep on target.
And yes, cheap telescopes are more hassle than they’re worth. Bring out the huge tripod, try and find something. Then keep moving it. Gets old fast.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKqXN-UFra8