Sky-Watcher Wave 100i v Sky-Watcher Wave 150i What one to choose?

Equipment Discussions
1

What are the pros and cons of each of these mounts? I am interested in getting a light and portable mount. How do they compare to each other and also what do they have the ZWO mounts do not?

2

Both the Sky-Watcher Wave 100i and 150i are strain wave drive mounts designed for astrophotographers who want precision without a heavy mount head to carry around. They both have support for ALT-AZ mode which is ideas for visual astronomy and EQ mode which is most commonly used for astrophotography.

They’re direct competitors to ZWO’s AM5 and AM3, but each has its own differences.

Sky-Watcher Wave 100i

Pros:

  • Lightweight (approx. 4.3 kg / 9.5 lbs): Ideal for travel and grab-and-go setups.
  • Payload capacity: 10–12 kg (22–26 lbs) without counterweights—great for small to mid-sized scopes.
  • Dual saddle option: Lets you mount two scopes side-by-side for visual or imaging versatility.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and USB ports: Easy remote control and connectivity.

Cons:

  • Lower payload: Not ideal for heavier imaging rigs.
  • Fewer cable management options than the 150i.

Sky-Watcher Wave 150i

Pros:

  • Higher payload (15–20 kg / 33–44 lbs): Better suited for larger scopes or heavier imaging setups.
  • Improved cable management: More ports and better routing to reduce snags.
  • Same compact form factor as the 100i, with only a slight weight increase.

Cons:

  • Heavier than the 100i: Still portable, but less ideal for ultra-light setups.
  • More expensive: You’re paying for the extra capacity and features.

Compared to ZWO AM5/AM3

What the Wave mounts offer that ZWO does not:

  • Dual saddle support (100i only): ZWO mounts don’t offer this out of the box.
  • More traditional SynScan ecosystem: Familiar to Sky-Watcher users and integrates well with existing gear.
  • Multiple way to interact with these mounts. Hand Controller, EQMOD, GSS (Green Swamp Server),
  • Better cable management (The saddle on the 150i has power connectors which requires its own power supply): ZWO’s AM5 has limited routing options.

What ZWO does better:

  • Lighter overall: The AM5 weighs just 3.9 kg and handles up to 13 kg without counterweights.
  • Tighter integration with ASIAir: If you are already in the ZWO ecosystem, this mount is a good option.
  • Slightly better tracking precision: Thanks to its harmonic drive and encoder system.