Detailed Look at the Newer and Pro Models

AZ-EQ5 Pro

• Type: Dual-mode mount (Alt-Az and Equatorial)

• Payload: 30 lb (13.6 kg)

• Features:

  • Dual telescope mounting capability

  • Belt drive for smoother slewing and tracking

  • Compact and lighter than the AZ-EQ6

• Good for: People wanting one mount for both casual observing and serious astrophotography.

EQ8-R Pro

• Type: German Equatorial Mount (very heavy-duty)

• Payload: 110 lb (50 kg)

• Features:

  • Massive capacity — handles huge optical tube assemblies

  • Internal cable management (no cable tangling)

  • Belt-driven system for low backlash and silent movement

  • Permanent pier or field tripod options

• Good for: Professional imagers, observatories, serious backyard astrophotographers needing absolute stability.

CQ350 Pro

• Type: German Equatorial Mount (Premium Class)

• Payload: 77 lb (35 kg)

• Features:

  • Advanced version of EQ6-R with bigger capacity and better precision

  • Ultra-smooth belts and stronger gearing

  • Designed with modern large astrographs in mind (like 10–12" imaging Newtonians)

• Good for: Advanced astrophotographers looking for a mount that can grow with them.

WAVE 100i

• Type: Harmonic Drive German Equatorial Mount (new tech!)

• Payload: 100 lb (45 kg) without counterweights

• Features:

  • Harmonic drive technology: no need for heavy counterweights

  • Incredibly lightweight relative to its payload

  • High-precision tracking (perfect for deep-sky imaging)

  • Wi-Fi and app control built-in

• Good for: High-end imagers who want portability without sacrificing stability.

• Fun fact: Competes directly with mounts like the Rainbow Astro RST-135/300 and iOptron HEM series.

Sky-Watcher Advanced Technology Recap

• Belt Drive Systems: On most Pro mounts, giving minimal backlash and whisper-quiet performance.

• Permanent PEC (PPEC): For serious long-exposure astrophotography (especially on EQ8-R and CQ350).

• SynScan GoTo System: Easy firmware updates and compatibility with ASCOM/EQMOD.

• Freedom Find™ Technology (on hybrids like AZ-EQ5/AZ-EQ6): Allows manual movement without losing GoTo alignment.

Simple Summary by Level