ZWO Seestar S50 Smart Telescope

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81%
19%
88%
Ease of Use
91%
Portability
85%
App Integration
78%
Build Quality
83%
Performance for Deep Sky Observation
80%
Battery Life
92%
Affordability
89%
Setup and Installation
55%
Planet Observation
75%
App Stability
70%
User Support
90%
Overall Value
More

Overview

The ZWO Seestar S50 Smart Telescope offers a compact, all-in-one design that’s perfect for amateur astronomers. This smart telescope combines an integrated camera, motorized tracking mount, and a manual focuser for an easy and enjoyable stargazing experience. Its lightweight build makes it highly portable, while the Seestar app allows for seamless control and observation sharing. Ideal for deep sky, moon, and sun observations, this portable telescope is best suited for those who prefer simplicity and performance in one package, though it’s not designed for planet viewing.

Features & Benefits

Weighing just 3 kg, the Seestar S50 is incredibly lightweight, making it perfect for on-the-go astronomers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, the intuitive interface and manual focus system make setup a breeze. The motorized tracking mount helps you easily track celestial objects without losing sight of them, while the battery-powered design ensures hassle-free outdoor use. Additionally, the app integration offers a unique way to control, edit, and share your observations, adding an extra level of engagement to your stargazing experience.

Best For

The Seestar S50 is best suited for beginner astronomers or anyone looking for a simple, portable telescope to explore the wonders of the night sky. Its all-in-one design and user-friendly features make it a great option for those interested in deep sky, moon, and sun observations. Stargazing enthusiasts who want to share their discoveries through an app will also appreciate its app integration. However, it’s not the best choice for those primarily interested in planet viewing or needing more advanced features for serious astrophotography.

User Feedback

Many users praise the Seestar S50 for its ease of use and portability, with beginners especially noting how quickly they can get started with minimal setup. The Seestar app integration is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, with many appreciating how it simplifies controlling and sharing celestial observations. However, some users have pointed out that the telescope’s performance is less effective for planet observation, as its design is better suited for deep sky and lunar targets. Overall, it offers great value for the price, especially when compared to other entry-level telescopes.

#Telescopes
#Binoculars & Scopes
#Camera & Photo
#Electronics

Pros

  • This portable telescope offers great value for entry-level stargazers with its affordable pricing and solid features.
  • Its lightweight design (3 kg) makes it easy to carry for outdoor stargazing sessions.
  • The motorized tracking mount makes it easier to keep objects in view during extended observation.
  • App integration allows users to control the telescope, share images, and even edit observations from their smartphones.
  • Perfect for beginners, it requires minimal setup and is user-friendly for both adults and children.
  • Ideal for deep sky, moon, and sun observations, offering a rewarding experience for those interested in these celestial bodies.

Cons

  • The telescope is not suitable for serious planetary observation due to its limited magnification and manual focus.
  • Some users find the manual focuser to be less precise compared to motorized options, leading to occasional frustration.
  • Its build quality may feel a bit flimsy, especially when compared to more expensive models designed for professional use.
  • Battery life could be an issue for extended sessions; frequent recharging is required for long stargazing nights.
  • More experienced astronomers might find the telescope too basic for their needs, as it lacks advanced features.
  • The app’s compatibility can occasionally be buggy, causing connection issues for some users.

Ratings

The ZWO Seestar S50 Smart Telescope has garnered diverse feedback from verified users across multiple languages and platforms. After analyzing genuine reviews, including positive and critical perspectives, we've compiled ratings that reflect both strengths and common concerns. Spam, duplicate, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure authenticity, so these scores provide a reliable overview based on high-quality feedback from real users worldwide.

Ease of Use
88%
Many users appreciate how straightforward this telescope is, especially for beginners. The intuitive controls and simple setup make it easy for anyone to start stargazing, even without prior experience. The user-friendly app integration further enhances the experience, allowing easy tracking and observation.
However, a few users found the manual focusing to be a bit tricky, particularly when trying to get sharp images during more detailed observations. Some also felt that the telescope's overall functionality is limited when exploring more complex setups or specific targets like planets.
Portability
91%
The Seestar S50 stands out for its impressive portability, with a lightweight design that weighs just 3kg. Users love how easy it is to carry and set up in various locations, whether for casual backyard stargazing or more adventurous outdoor excursions. Its compact form factor is perfect for those who want a portable option without sacrificing performance.
A few users mentioned that the compact design might feel too small for those looking for a more traditional, large telescope experience. Some also pointed out that while portable, the lightweight build can feel a bit fragile, especially in harsh weather conditions.
App Integration
85%
The app integration is a major highlight for many users, offering seamless control and easy sharing of observations. The app allows for quick adjustments, tracking, and even editing of images, making the stargazing experience more interactive. This feature is especially popular among tech-savvy astronomy enthusiasts.
On the downside, some users experienced occasional app crashes or bugs, particularly when syncing with different devices. A few noted that the app could benefit from more intuitive navigation, as it can sometimes be confusing to set up on the first try.
Build Quality
78%
22%
While the build quality is decent for a portable telescope, many users find it satisfactory for casual use. The components are functional and provide a solid experience when handling the device for basic stargazing. The motorized tracking mount is generally reliable and helps users achieve smooth movement.
However, some buyers have expressed concerns about the overall sturdiness, especially the focus mechanism and the mount. A few users felt that the materials used could be more durable, as they noticed signs of wear after extended use or under slightly rougher conditions.
Performance for Deep Sky Observation
83%
For deep sky observations, this telescope delivers solid performance, providing clear and detailed views of the moon and distant stars. Many users highlight its ability to capture wide-field images of celestial objects, making it great for those interested in deep space and lunar observations.
However, the performance for certain targets is limited. A few users were disappointed by its inability to focus properly on planets, particularly at higher magnifications. While it excels in deep sky viewing, it's not the best option for those looking to observe planets in detail.
Battery Life
80%
20%
Many users appreciate the convenience of battery-powered operation, especially for outdoor use. The telescope lasts long enough for extended stargazing sessions without needing constant recharging. It offers good power efficiency, allowing for uninterrupted use on camping trips or in remote areas.
However, some users were disappointed by the battery life under continuous use. A few mentioned that it drains faster than expected when using the app or motorized tracking, which can be a hassle during longer observation sessions.
Affordability
92%
This telescope offers excellent value for its price. Many users praise it for being an affordable option for beginners and casual astronomers who want a quality device without spending a fortune. The combination of features like app integration, motorized tracking, and portability makes it a solid choice for the price.
While most users find it affordable, a few buyers felt that some compromises in build quality and performance were made to keep the price low. They argued that spending a bit more could have resulted in a more robust and versatile telescope.
Setup and Installation
89%
The setup process is quick and hassle-free, even for beginners. Users report that it only takes a few minutes to get everything up and running, and the clear instructions make it easy for anyone to follow. The automatic alignment feature helps simplify the setup further.
A few users mentioned that while the initial setup is easy, troubleshooting can be a bit more challenging, especially when trying to adjust fine-tuned settings. Some also pointed out that the instructions could have been more detailed in addressing potential issues.
Planet Observation
55%
45%
For users focused on deep sky and lunar observations, this device performs well and offers great value. Its ease of use and lightweight design make it a great tool for those interested in celestial objects that are less magnification-dependent, like nebulae and galaxies.
Unfortunately, the telescope struggles with planet observation, particularly at high magnifications. Many users found it difficult to get sharp, clear views of planets, and some felt that it wasn't a viable choice for those wanting to explore planets like Jupiter or Saturn.
App Stability
75%
25%
The app allows users to control the telescope and enhance their observations by editing and sharing images. It provides a convenient way to interact with the device and is appreciated by many who enjoy tech-integrated astronomy.
However, the app's stability is a common pain point. Users have reported occasional crashes and connection issues when syncing the telescope with their devices, which disrupts the user experience. Some wish for better software updates to improve its reliability.
User Support
70%
30%
Customer support is available for troubleshooting issues and answering queries. Users have mentioned that they generally respond in a timely manner and provide useful advice on setup and common problems.
Despite the availability of support, several users felt that it lacked in-depth guidance, particularly for more advanced troubleshooting. Some experienced slow response times and found the provided solutions to be less helpful for more complex issues.
Overall Value
90%
For the price, this device offers outstanding features and performance. It provides a versatile experience for stargazing, especially for beginners who want to explore the night sky without a hefty investment. The combination of portability, app integration, and affordability makes it an excellent choice for casual astronomers.
A few users feel that certain aspects, like the build quality and limited performance for planetary observation, could be improved. Despite these drawbacks, most agree that it offers excellent overall value for what it provides at this price point.

Suitable for:

The ZWO Seestar S50 Smart Telescope is an excellent choice for amateur astronomers and beginners who are looking for a user-friendly, portable, and affordable stargazing tool. Its lightweight design and easy setup make it ideal for users with limited experience in astronomy. Whether you're a student with a limited budget, a hobbyist eager to explore the night sky, or someone who enjoys outdoor stargazing with friends and family, this telescope offers an accessible entry point. The app integration adds a modern touch, making it easier to control the device, share observations, and even edit images. It is particularly suited for those who want to observe the moon, sun, and deep sky objects without complex setups or heavy equipment.

Not suitable for:

However, the Seestar S50 may not be the best fit for users who are looking for a high-performance telescope for detailed planetary observations. Its manual focuser and limited magnification capabilities make it less ideal for users hoping to capture sharp, clear images of planets like Jupiter or Saturn. More experienced astronomers who seek precise control over focus and a larger optical tube may find it lacking in depth. Additionally, while the portability and app integration are great for casual users, those who require more robust, professional-grade features or superior build quality might feel restricted by the device’s lower price point and lighter construction.

Specifications

  • Weight: Weighs 3 kg, making it lightweight and portable for easy transport.
  • Optical Tube Length: Features a 50mm optical tube length, providing sufficient light gathering for deep sky observations.
  • Lens Diameter: The 50mm lens diameter allows for good clarity when observing the moon and deep sky objects.
  • Mount Type: Equipped with a motorized tracking mount that helps track celestial objects automatically.
  • Focus Type: Manual focus adjustment provides hands-on control for precise focusing.
  • Power Source: Battery-powered for convenience, making it ideal for outdoor use without needing external power.
  • App Compatibility: Compatible with Android and iOS devices, allowing full control through the Seestar app.
  • Ideal Use: Best suited for deep sky, moon, and sun observations, not designed for planetary viewing.
  • Camera Integration: Integrated camera enables users to capture images of celestial objects directly through the telescope.
  • Finderscope: Includes a straight-through finderscope for easier object alignment.
  • Tracking System: Motorized tracking system ensures smooth following of celestial bodies during observation.
  • Build Material: Constructed with durable yet lightweight materials for easy portability and reliable outdoor use.
  • App Features: App allows users to control the telescope, edit images, and share observations with others.
  • Adjustability: Offers manual adjustments for fine-tuning focus, ideal for users who prefer hands-on control.
  • Ease of Setup: Simple setup process with guided instructions through the Seestar app, ideal for beginners.
  • Portability: Compact design makes it an ideal choice for travelers and casual stargazers looking for a portable telescope.
  • App Integration: Seamless app integration allows for easy sharing and editing of observations on social media.
  • Affordability: Priced competitively, offering good value for beginners and casual astronomers looking for an affordable telescope.

FAQ

The ZWO Seestar S50 Smart Telescope is designed for deep sky, moon, and sun observations. It's ideal for beginners and astronomy enthusiasts who are interested in stargazing, offering an easy-to-use and portable solution for outdoor use.

Setting up the telescope is straightforward. Simply unfold the tripod, attach the optical tube, and connect the motorized mount. The telescope's app (Seestar) will guide you through initial setup, which includes pairing the device with your smartphone or tablet for control.

While the Seestar S50 is excellent for deep sky, moon, and sun observations, it's not designed for high-quality planetary observation due to its manual focus and limited magnification. If you're looking to observe planets, you may need a more advanced telescope with higher power.

The Seestar app is compatible with Android smartphones and tablets, as well as iPhones and iPads. This allows users to control the telescope, share images, and edit their observations directly from their mobile devices.

Weighing just 3 kg, this telescope is lightweight and highly portable. It’s perfect for outdoor use, whether you’re traveling to a dark sky location or simply stargazing in your backyard. Its compact design makes it easy to carry and set up quickly.

The Seestar S50 is battery-powered, providing enough energy for several hours of stargazing. However, the battery life can vary depending on usage, especially if you're using the app frequently for control and image sharing. It's recommended to have spare batteries for extended sessions.

Yes, the Seestar S50 offers seamless app integration for controlling, editing, and sharing your observations. You can capture images and videos of celestial objects, then edit and share them directly from your smartphone or tablet with friends or on social media.

Absolutely. The Seestar S50 is designed with beginners in mind, offering an easy-to-use interface and setup process. The app guides users through telescope control, and the lightweight design makes it manageable for both children and adults to handle during stargazing sessions.

Some users report that the Seestar S50 struggles with high magnification, making it unsuitable for detailed planetary observation. Additionally, while it's great for basic stargazing, more experienced astronomers may find it lacking in advanced features and precision.

No, the Seestar S50 comes as an all-in-one solution, including the motorized mount, manual focuser, and integrated camera. However, for certain advanced users, additional accessories like a more powerful lens may be desirable depending on their specific needs.