5 Best Telescope Mounts For Astrophotography: Budget & Premium
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Getting into astronomy is an expensive hobby.
Getting into astrophotography is even more expensive.
Since the mount is what makes or breaks the quality of the image, you’ll want a reliable option that won’t put you into debt, especially if it’s your first, real imaging mount.
Where to start?
We have done the research and here is a list of the 5 best telescope mounts for astrophotography available in the industry that can fulfill all your needs within your price range!
This mount has a very compact design and is portable. You can simply take it wherever you want because it is very portable. It is made up of metal and is durable.
It can bear a weight of 22 pounds. So if your optical device is bulky, all you need is to buy the Sky-Watcher EQM-35.
Top 3 Mounts We Recommend For Astrophotography
Best Telescope Mounts For Astrophotography
1. Sky‑Watcher HEQ5 Equatorial GoTo Mount
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMPUTERIZED EQUAORIAL MOUNT: The HEQ5 is ideal for beginning astrophotographers, or skilled astronomers looking for a lightweight computerized equatorial mount.
- HEAVY DUTY ROLLER BEARINGS: Heavy duty all-metal roller bearings on both right ascension or declination axis.
- BUILT-IN ILLUMINATED POLAR FINDERSCOPE: Included with the mount is a built-in illuminated Polar finderscope, helping users with quick and easy polar alignment..
- ALL-METAL CONSTRUCTION: Beefy, all-metal construction provides 30-pound payload capacity perfect for all but the heaviest optical tubes.
- 42,000 OBJECT DATABASE: SynScan hand controller with 42,000 plus object database will keep even the most experienced astronomer busy for countless observing nights.
The Sky-Watcher HEQ5 is a well-rounded GoTo equatorial mount that strikes an excellent balance between performance and user-friendliness for astrophotographers. Designed with a sturdy all-metal construction and a payload capacity around 30 lb, it can comfortably support a variety of imaging rigs — from smaller refractors to modest SCTs or Maksutovs — making it versatile for deep-sky imaging or widefield setups.
Its SynScan hand controller includes a database of over 42,000 celestial objects, which simplifies target acquisition and slewing, and you can even integrate it with computer control software for more advanced imaging sessions.
Tracking precision is at the heart of any astrophotography mount, and the HEQ5 delivers well in this regard. Its equatorial design inherently compensates for Earth’s rotation, and the built-in illuminated polar finderscope helps ensure accurate polar alignment — a key factor for reliable long exposures.
While advanced users sometimes add autoguiding for even better performance, many astrophotographers capture sharp deep-sky images with this mount alone when balanced and aligned properly. This reliability is why the HEQ5 has remained a popular choice among amateurs stepping up from basic mounts to dedicated astrophotography gear.
That said, it’s worth noting the mount’s weight and setup considerations. The HEQ5 is more robust than portable star trackers but also heavier and bulkier, which means setup takes a bit more effort — something to consider if you plan to travel frequently to dark sites.
Additionally, performance peaks when the mounted equipment stays well under the maximum payload; overloading it can introduce tracking errors and decrease image quality.
For most beginner and intermediate astrophotography setups, though, this mount offers a trusted, proven platform that will grow with your gear and imaging ambitions.
2. Celestron Advanced VX (AVX)
- INCLUDED - Advanced VX Equatorial Head, Tripod, Accessory Tray, 12 lbs counterweight, NexStar+ Hand Control, DC Power Cable, 2-Year Warranty, and Celestron Polar Axis Finder.
- SUPERIOR STABILITY - The 2" stainless steel tripod legs provide exceptional stability, minimizing vibrations for clearer, more detailed astronomical observations.
- HIGH WEIGHT CAPACITY - Supports up to 30 lbs (13.6 kg), allowing you to mount a wide range of telescopes and imaging equipment securely and confidently.
- PRECISION TRACKING - Features sidereal, solar, and lunar tracking rates, ensuring accurate and smooth tracking of celestial objects for extended viewing sessions.
- ADVANCED COMPUTERIZATION - The NexStar+ hand control boasts a database of over 40,000 objects, making it easy to locate and observe celestial wonders.
The Celestron Advanced VX (AVX) is a versatile computerized equatorial GoTo mount that strikes a strong balance between affordability and performance for aspiring astrophotographers. With a payload capacity of up to 30 lb (13.6 kg), it can support a wide range of telescopes and imaging gear — from small refractors with DSLR or mirrorless cameras to medium-weight SCTs used for planetary and brighter deep-sky targets.
It includes a sturdy stainless-steel tripod, counterweights, and the NexStar+ hand controller with a 40,000+ object database, making locating and tracking targets across the sky straightforward even for users new to equatorial mounts.
For astrophotography, the Advanced VX offers key features that help produce satisfying long-exposure images.
It supports sidereal, solar, and lunar tracking rates, and has an autoguider port for adding guiding cameras that improve long-exposure accuracy — a must for capturing deep-sky objects without trailing stars. Its Periodic Error Correction (PEC) and compatibility with software like CPWI or ASCOM drivers also let you integrate with planetarium and imaging software, boosting your control over long imaging runs.
While it’s not as high-end as some larger, more expensive mounts, many users find that with careful polar alignment and proper balance, the AVX can deliver solid tracking for exposures on many targets.
That said, it’s important to understand this mount’s practical limitations. Although the spec sheet lists 30 lb, that rating really applies more to visual observing; for astrophotography, it performs best when loaded to no more than about half to two-thirds of that capacity to maintain smooth tracking and minimize strain on the drive system. Reviews and user experiences suggest that while the AVX can deliver good results — especially with refractors or lighter telescopes — it may struggle with very heavy optical tubes or very long focal lengths without careful balancing and autoguiding.
For many beginners and intermediate astrophotographers, though, it’s an excellent step-up mount that delivers real imaging capability without a prohibitively high price tag.
3. Explore Scientific iEXOS‑100 PMC‑Eight WiFi GOTO Equatorial Mount
- Integrated Explore Scientific PMC-Eight system that transcends the industry standard single processor by utilizing eight CPUs that operate independently of one another to focus on defined functions, which results in superior responsiveness, efficiency, reliability and astoundingly fast timing intervals.
- Clutched dual-axis worm gears with quiet precision stepper motor belt drives
- Intuitive ExploreStars app, which is available for Apple, Android and Windows tablets, that makes it simple to operate the GOTO system. Through it, users can quickly align their telescope, navigate the stars and learn specifics about tens of thousands of celestial objects
- Clutched RA and Declination axes are smooth and allow for precise balancing which makes the process of repositioning your telescope efficient
- Polar alignment sight hole through the RA axis and precise altitude control for fast alignment without polar scope.
The Explore Scientific iEXOS-100 PMC-Eight is a compact, German equatorial GoTo mount that brings genuine star-tracking capability into a relatively portable package. Unlike simpler single-axis trackers, its equatorial design allows it to follow celestial objects with both right-ascension and declination tracking — a necessity for long-exposure astrophotography without field rotation. It uses Explore Scientific’s PMC-Eight precision motion control system, which spreads mount control tasks across multiple processors for smooth, responsive slewing and tracking.
The system pairs with the free ExploreStars app (via Wi-Fi or wired connection) on tablets or laptops, letting you align and command the mount without a traditional hand controller.
For astrophotography, the iEXOS-100 is best suited to lighter imaging setups — such as DSLR or mirrorless cameras with telephoto lenses, or small refractors up to roughly ~15 lbs total payload when balanced with included counterweights. Users report successful unguided exposures lasting a few minutes on targets when properly polar aligned, making it a good entry point to deep-sky imaging or wide-field Milky Way shots.
Its built-in dual-axis clutch locks and smooth worm gears help with balancing and repositioning, while the small polar alignment aid in the mount base speeds setup in the field.
That said, the iEXOS-100 isn’t a heavy-duty rig — it’s often described as a “grab-and-go” mount that excels in portability and ease of use rather than in handling heavy telescopes or very long focal lengths. Users on astronomy forums note that for larger refractors or heavier imaging gear, performance can be limited without upgrading to sturdier tripods or additional counterweights, and guiding is recommended for best results.
For beginners or hobbyists seeking an affordable equatorial platform that can grow with basic astrophotography gear, this mount delivers solid capabilities with modern app-based control.
4. Sky‑Watcher EQ6‑R Pro Go‑To Equatorial Mount
- PRECISE ACCURATE GOTO: Computerized, motorized GoTo German equatorial telescope mount capable of accurately tracking astronomical objects for both visual observing and astrophotography
- BELT DRIVEN STEPPER MOTORS provide whisper-quiet slewing with renowned precision and accuracy while virtually eliminating Periodic Error
- 44-POUND PAYLOAD: Beefy, all-metal construction provides 44-pound payload capacity, perfect for all but the heaviest optical tubes
- BUILT-IN ILLUMINATED POLAR FINDERSCOPE provides quick and easy polar alignment
- 42,000plus OBJECT DATABASE: SynScan hand controller with 42,000plus object database will keep even the most experienced astronomer busy for countless observing nights. Tripod Leg Diameter: 2".Power Type: 12V (4 amp minimum). Latitude Range (degrees): May-65. Mounting Saddle Type: D/V
The Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro is widely regarded as a workhorse equatorial mount for astrophotography enthusiasts who want a stable, precise platform for long-exposure imaging. With a generous payload capacity of up to ~44 lb (20 kg), it can easily support a wide variety of telescope optics—from medium-size refractors and Schmidt-Cassegrains to larger Newtonians—alongside cameras, guiders, and accessories.
Its SynScan GoTo system with a vast built-in object database lets you locate and track deep-sky targets with confidence, while the belt-driven stepper motors and permanent periodic error correction (PPEC) help deliver smoother tracking with reduced backlash—critical for capturing round stars in long exposures.
For astrophotographers, the EQ6-R Pro shines in both accuracy and expandability. The mount includes an ST-4 autoguider port so you can connect a dedicated guider camera to correct minor tracking deviations in real time, which significantly improves image quality during long integration runs. Its built-in illuminated polar scope and robust mechanical design also make polar alignment more straightforward and stable, helping reduce drift and improve tracking precision over the course of a night.
Combined with its dual saddle plate that accepts both Vixen and Losmandy style dovetails, this mount lets you swap between telescopes easily without needing extra adapters—an advantage for multi-scope imaging setups.
That said, the EQ6-R Pro isn’t the lightest or most portable option out there: its solid steel tripod and hefty mount head reflect that focus on stability rather than field portability.
Some astrophotographers note that it’s best suited to backyard setups or car-to-site use rather than long hikes to remote dark skies, and proper balancing and guiding are recommended to get the best out of its tracking performance. But for users prioritizing reliability, tracking accuracy, and the ability to grow their imaging gear over time, this mount sits squarely in the sweet spot of performance versus value in its class.
5. Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer GTi
- Star Adventurer GTi full GoTo mount head
- Star Adventurer GTi tripod with pier extension
- Built-in polar scope with illuminator
- Counterweight bar
- Built-in wifi
The Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer GTi is a compact, full GoTo equatorial tracking mount designed to bring real astrophotography capability into a lightweight, portable package. Unlike simple single-axis trackers, this mount features true equatorial tracking that compensates for Earth’s rotation — a must for long-exposure astrophotography without field rotation.
Its built-in illuminated polar scope and integrated Wi-Fi/GoTo control (via Sky-Watcher’s SynScan Pro app) make polar alignment and target acquisition easier, especially in dark-sky conditions where precision matters most. With the included tripod, counterweight bar, and pier extension, this kit sets you up right out of the box for capturing breathtaking night-sky images.
For astrophotography, the GTi’s strength is in its balance of performance and portability. It supports roughly 5 kg (11 lb) of payload, which is enough for a DSLR or mirrorless camera with telephoto lens, or a small refractor telescope with guide scope and accessories — ideal for wide-field Milky Way shots or brighter deep-sky targets.
The dual-position counterweight helps maintain good balance even at lower latitudes, improving tracking stability over long exposures. Users find that, when properly polar-aligned, the mount delivers smooth sidereal tracking and reliable GoTo slewing, enabling you to frame and follow objects efficiently across the night sky. Sky-Watcher
That said, the Star Adventurer GTi isn’t designed for very heavy astrophotography rigs or extremely long focal lengths where tracking demands escalate.
Its lighter build prioritizes portability, so while it excels for travel, wide-field deep-sky imaging, and night-landscape astrophotography, serious deep-space photographers might eventually outgrow it in favor of heavier equatorial mounts with higher payload and tighter tracking precision.
Nonetheless, for beginners and intermediate astrophotographers looking for a capable, feature-rich mount that’s easy to set up and versatile in the field, this Sky-Watcher kit represents excellent value and performance in its category.
What To Look For In A Good Astrophotography Mount
Probably the most important and most expensive piece of the astrophotography setup is the mount. We have two main types of telescope mounts, altazimuth(AZ) and equatorial(EQ). The most commonly used mounts for astrophotography are EQ mounts. AZ and EQ mounts can be motorized or GoTo and manually controlled.
So, for astrophotography, it is essential to have a motorized mount that is tracking the stars automatically so we can do long exposure photos.
Alt-Azimuth Mount
AZ mounts are very common for visual astronomy, but they are not suitable for astrophotography even with tracking. You can, of course, take pictures of the moon and planets but to do long exposure photos you need an EQ mount.
You can do maybe 20-second exposure with AZ mount, but longer exposures will suffer from star trailing because of the field of view rotation.
Although you can point an altazimuth mount at any part of the sky, you are going to have to move it both horizontally and vertically to track.
This will cause the field of view to rotate in the eyepiece as you track the star. Altazimuth mounts can be ideal for casual stargazing but will be too inaccurate for astrophotography.
Equatorial Mount
Equatorial mounts are designed to compensate for the rotation of the Earth and to track the motion of stars and other celestial bodies.
The Earth performs a full rotation every 23 hours, 56 minutes, and 4.09 seconds, but fortunately, most celestial objects you will be observing are so far away that this movement is barely noticeable to the human eye.
When it comes to astrophotography, especially long exposure shots, that movement may leave a motion blur, which will appear as star trails.
Equatorial mounts will use a polar axis, or right ascension axis, which is aligned to the same axis of rotation as the Earth.
Hence, most astrophotography experts prefer using equatorial mounts instead of alt-azimuth mounts.
These mounts come equipped with motorized drives that enable them to account for the earth’s rotation and automatically readjust their positions to find the perfect view of the mobile target object.
Avoid Low-Quality Cheaper Mount
Although the low price of the mount may tempt you, I highly recommend going for a mount from a reputed brand if you’re serious about astrophotography.
There are some inexpensive, flimsy mounts out there that would seem appealing to you because of their low price.
By all means, there are some good budget options up for grabs. But even so, you need to make sure the mount you are buying fulfills certain criteria- otherwise, you would be throwing your money away.
Consider Mount’s Payload Capacity
Most manufacturers brag about their mounts being able to hold more than one telescope at a time; if you chose such mounts, be sure to add the collective weight of your telescope (along with the extra eyepieces) before breaking out your wallet. Most telescopic mounts of medium-range only support the weight range of 30-40 lbs.
If a mount advertises it has a payload capacity of, say, 50lbs, it could either mean it can hold a total of 50lbs, or it could hold a telescope 50lbs of the camera and telescope weight and 50lbs on top of that for the counterweight.
You need to know the specifics, or else you might end up breaking your mount.
Autoguiding Capacity
Autoguiding can help your mount to track the object more precisely for a longer period of time. It is correcting the slight movement imperfections of the mount.
However, it is not necessary if you are only starting with astrophotography, you will be fine with the tracking of the mount alone.
But, it is good to keep this in mind for the next upgrade when you learn the basics. I’m pretty sure you will want to shoot very long exposures for the faint deep sky objects.
Portability
It depends on your circumstances but some will want to be able to easily move the mount and set it up quickly.
Sturdiness
You need a strong mount that will give your telescope the desired stability. You can’t afford the telescope to budge in the wind while you are trying to take a photo of something that is drifting across space.
Look for a heavy and well-built mount to serve this purpose.
USB Connectivity
This allows you to directly connect a laptop or similar device to use to operate the mount rather than just the hand controller. This gives you the freedom to use different software of your choice.
Conclusion
The complications involving astrophotography would have been significantly less if the earth stayed still.
You need to use an equatorial mount that can compensate for the earth’s rotation and help you take pictures of distant space objects with desired quality.
In this article, I’ve only reviewed equatorial mounts because they are always the first choices for astrophotography.
You can get some good photos of the cosmos using alt-azimuth mounts too, but it’s nowhere near as simple as using equatorials.
Written by:
Prakash Chandra
I am a science and technology enthusiast who is curious about emerging concepts in spaceflight, aerospace, and robotics. My passion for astronomy started in my childhood, and my craze for writing started when my works got published in my school's newspaper.
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