Dwarflab just released their pre-order for their latest smart telescope, the: Draco. I normally refrain from doing previews as I much prefer a hands-on review from my rooftop with real-life pictures, but I'm making an exception because I think the technology in this smart telescope may fundamentally change the way amateurs engage in astrophotography for years to come. Let's have a look at this latest Dwarflab Smart Telescope and let me know if you are ready for a pre-order or rather wait until the first real-life reviews come out. The Dwarflab Draco Smart

Telescope is available on pre-order at: Dwarflab Draco Standard Edition:

Dwarflab: https://dwarflab.com?aff=50 Agena Astro (USA): https://bit.ly/4xeiv6j

High Point (USA): https://bit.ly/4xdlWdx Telescoop.nl (NL): https://www.telescoop.nl/dwarflab-dwarf-draco/?utm_source=astroforumspace.com&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=widoastroforum&utm_id=wido

Astroshop (EU): https://www.astroshop.eu/telescopes/dwarflab-smart-telescope-mc-90-340-draco/p,100432?affiliate_id=widooerlemans

Dwarflab Draco SHO Edition: Dwarflab: https://dwarflab.com?aff=50 High Point (USA): https://bit.ly/4imP5PY

Agena Astro (USA): https://bit.ly/3V60QjU

Telescoop.nl (NL/EU): https://www.telescoop.nl/dwarflab-dwarf-draco/?utm_source=astroforumspace.com&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=widoastroforum&utm_id=wido Astroshop (DE/EU): https://www.astroshop.eu/telescopes/dwarflab-smart-telescope-mc-90-340-draco-sho/p,100435?affiliate_id=widooerlemans

Are you trying to decide between a modern Strain Wave (Harmonic Drive) mount and a classic German Equatorial Mount (GEM)? In this video, I take you on an 8-year trip down memory lane—from my beginnings in 2018 with the Celestron AVX, to upgrading to the heavy-duty Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro in 2020, and finally transitioning to the ZWO AM5 and AM5N strain wave mounts. We break down the real-world pros and cons of both technologies, look at the staggering price differences in 2026, and discuss why "putting your money where your mount is" matters more than ever. Whether you want the ultra-lightweight portability of a strain wave mount or the rock-solid, budget-friendly performance of a traditional GEM, this video will help you choose the perfect platform for your astrophotography journey.

🌌 READ MY COMPLETE 2026 MOUNT BUYERS GUIDES:

👉 Top 10 Beginner AP Mounts (1k–2k range): https://astroforumspace.com/best-beginner-telescope-mounts-for-astrophotography/

👉 Advanced AP Mount Guide (15+ mounts compared): https://astroforumspace.com/best-advanced-telescope-mounts-for-astrophotography/

👉 Strain Wave Telescope Mount Guide: https://astroforumspace.com/best-harmonic-drive-mounts-for-astrophotography/

In this eposide we discuss Wido's 2026 guide for beginner astrophotography mounts, which you can find here: https://astroforumspace.com/best-beginner-telescope-mounts-for-astrophotography/

In this podcast, we argue that a stable tracking mount is the most critical investment for successful long-exposure imaging. In 2026, Beginners must navigate a technological divide and choose between traditional German Equatorial Mounts (GEMs) and innovative harmonic drive (strain wave) mounts. This guide discusses solid astrophotography mounts that have a minimum 10 kg payload capacity and computerized GoTo tracking capabilities.

Traditional mounts offer reliable stability and value. The Celestron Advanced VX is highlighted as the "Best Buy" for budget-conscious users, providing a 14 kg capacity. The Sky-Watcher HEQ5-R Pro is recommended as the best overall GEM, featuring a native belt drive, internal cable routing, and an upgraded 15 kg capacity.

Conversely, harmonic drive mounts like the ZWO AM3N and Sky-Watcher Wave 100i provide extreme portability. These lightweight units often require no counterweights for standard setups and can fit into airline carry-on luggage. The AM3N specifically features a powered hub for clean cable management and integrates seamlessly with the ASIAIR ecosystem. Modern software solutions have also simplified polar alignment, and make high-precision tracking accessible without complex manual adjustments. Ultimately, the choice depends on balancing budget against mobility needs.