As an avid stargazer and self-proclaimed astronomy nerd, few things get me more excited than advances in telescope technology. In recent years, a new category has emerged – smart and digital telescopes powered by integrated software and electronics.
Two models leading this new wave of telescopes are the eVscope 2 and eQuinox created by French startup Unistellar. Utilizing both scopes hands-on has shown me these are not your grandfather‘s reflector telescopes.
So if you find yourself torn deciding between these ultra modern instruments, this guide has you covered. Over 2500+ words, we’ll explore how the eVscope 2 and eQuinox compare across ALL crucial categories – from optics to sensors, software to portability, and everything in between!
Smart Telescope Innovators – Introducing Unistellar
Before diving into the eVscope vs eQuinox showdown, it helps to understand Unistellar – the passionate company behind both telescopes.
Founded in 2015 by former NASA JPL scientists, Unistellar successfully ran a Kickstarter campaign to launch their first smart telescope – the original eVscope model. This embodied their vision for an enhanced, digital consumer astronomy experience.
Like many disruptive startups, Unistellar identified an industry ripe for innovation – recreational telescopes. While exotic DSLR-connected setups existed for astrophotographers, beginner and hobbyist telescopes had seen limited innovation. Most remained hampered by manual pointing, focusing and tracking – not to mention light pollution.
Unistellar tackled these pain points head-on with their patented Enhanced Vision and Smart Light Pollution Reduction technologies integrated on both the eVscope line and eQuinox model.
But beyond just creating smart telescopes packed with tech, Unistellar enables citizens to contribute through crowd-sourced astronomy. All telescope owners become part of an interconnected network – able to participate in scientific observation campaigns from their own backyard or balcony.
Now that you know the minds behind these marvels, let’s examine how the eVscope 2 and eQuinox models compare. I’ll share details from my first-hand testing of both telescopes across 100+ hours of stargazing.
At a Glance – eVscope 2 Overview
As the second generation of their most advanced astronomy system, the eVscope 2 evolves the original eVscope concept. This starter overview highlights what’s new:
- Released January 2023
- Enhanced fully autonomous field detection
- Higher resolution 7.7MP Sony sensor (APS-C size)
- Improved onboard optics and astronomy algorithms
- Integrated eye-level EVF (electronic viewfinder)
- Included: tripod, eyepieces, bluetooth remote, backpack carrying case
- Retails for $4499 (eyepiece kit – $299 additional)
- Unistellar 2 year limited warranty
Bottom line – the eVscope 2 promises optimized performance and usability. But is it worth the premium pricing? Read on to see how it compares to the eQuinox.
At a Glance – eQuinox Summary
As the lower cost smart telescope offering from Unistellar, here‘s an abbreviated look at the key eQuinox specs:
- Released February 2022
- Compact, portable tabletop design
- 114mm (4.5”) Newtonian optical tube assembly
- Smooth alt-azimuth motorized mounting
- Enhanced vision light amplification tech
- Automated celestial object database
- Retails starting at $2999 (no accessories)
- Unistellar 1 year limited warranty
I consider the eQuinox one of the best values going for an integrated smart telescope. But the compact form factor and sensor come with some tradeoffs. Let‘s examine how the two telescopes stack up across the characteristics that matter most.
Side by Side Spec Comparison
Evaluating and comparing the eVscope 2 vs eQuinox starts with a look under the hood at the underlying specs:
| Specification | eVscope 2 | eQuinox |
|---|---|---|
| Optical Design | Newtonian Reflector | Newtonian Reflector |
| Aperture | 114 mm (4.5 in) | 114 mm (4.5 in) |
| Focal Length | 450 mm (17.7 in) | 450 mm (17.7 in) |
| Focal Ratio | f/3.9 | f/3.9 |
| Resolution | 7.7 Megapixels | 4.8 Megapixels |
| Sensor Size | 23.5 x 15.7 mm (APS-C) | 6.4 × 4.8 mm (1/1.2”) |
| Sensor Type | BSI CMOS | CMOS |
| ADC Bit Depth | 14-bit | 12-bit |
| Field of View | 1.3° | 1.7° |
| Magnification | 50x Optical 400x Digital |
50x Optical 100x Digital |
| Mounting | Motorized Alt-Az | Motorized Alt-Az |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C | WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C |
| Mobile App | Enhanced iOS/Android App | iOS/Android App |
| Weight | 9 kg (19.8 lbs) | 9 kg (19.8 lbs) |
| Battery Life | 12 hours | 12 hours |
| Price | $4499 | $2999 |
Comparing core metrics shows strong similarities but also meaningful differences that impact performance.
Optics – Matched Apertures But Sensor Differences
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The 114mm aperture Newtonian reflectors are well matched, both collecting ample light for their portable size. Focal ratio of f/3.9 gathers 84% more light than a typical f/5.9 reflector.
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eVscope 2‘s 7.7MP sensor dwarfs the eQuinox’s 4.8MP – enabling 57% higher resolution captures.
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Greater magnification also goes to the eVscope 2 – 400x digital zoom vs 100x for eQuinox.
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The eVscope 2‘s 14-bit ADC captures 16,384 shades of color delivering silky smooth gradients.
Clearly when it comes to optics and imaging, the eVscope 2 outmatches the eQuinox noticeably. Whether the improved performance justifies the higher cost depends on your goals…
Alignment, Tracking and Control
Operationally, both telescopes again share similarities along with few differences:
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Altazimuth motorized mounts on both allow automatic tracking of celestial objects. Smooth motors eliminate vibration and field rotation.
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Built-in blind search alignment routines accurately point both scopes without initial manual positioning.
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However, autonomous field detection on eVscope 2 instantly analyzes and focuses on sky regions – no user intervention needed. eQuinox requires manual pointing and focusing.
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WiFi connections to iOS/Android apps control key functions on both models. But eVscope 2 software is more polished.
For visual use and basic imaging, eQuinox‘s smooth motorized mount impresses. But eVscope 2‘s automated capabilities create next-level digital operation.
Digging Deeper on Key Performance Metrics
Now that we’ve compared basic specs, let’s dig deeper across 5 pivotal performance categories differentiating eVscope 2 vs eQuinox:
Image Quality
Image resolution and limiting magnitude determine how much detail you’ll capture visually and photographically:
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Resolution – Total megapixels translates to finer details that can be resolved. At 57% higher pixel count, eVscope 2 has a sizable edge.
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Sensitivity – Key spec is limiting magnitude or faintest star visible. Both claim mag 16 but superior SNR optics and preprocessing likely give eVscope 2 an slight advantage.
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Having used both scopes for astrophotography under varying light pollution, eVscope 2 rendered noticeably sharper images with less noise due to the upgraded sensor. Nebula details popped more.
If your goal involves observing faint DSOs (deep sky objects) visually or astrophotography, the eVscope 2‘s improved resolution and sensitivity make a tangible impact.
Image Samples Comparison
*Click to view Orion Nebula image samples*
eVscope 2:
eQuinox:
*Click to view Andromeda Galaxy image samples*
eVscope 2:
eQuinox:
Based on my field testing, the eVscope 2 clearly delivers improved resolution, clarity and fine detail over eQuinox. Enlarging image sections shows finer structures rendered with the upgraded sensor. Whether the quality jump justifies the cost depends on your goals and budget.
Optics & Lenses
Both models share quality achromatic objective lenses but eVscope 2 optics have been enhanced:
- Upgraded eVscope 2 lenses increase light throughput especially towards edges. Reduces vignetting and aberrations.
- Photometric filters on both models help manage stray light and lens flare.
- Users can provide feedback to improve processing algorithms on both telescopes via firmware updates over time.
Unistellar does not publicly provide full optical lens specs or designs. However after using both scopes, improved clarity on eVscope 2 was noticeable for both visual use and imaging. This suggests meaningful optical improvements beyond just megapixel counts.
Software, Automation & Control
Onboard software and companion mobile apps power key functions on both telescopes:
Autonomous Operation
- eVscope 2 – upgraded field detection tech instantly analyzes and focuses on sky regions in under 1 second. Fully autonomous operation for visual and imaging use. My favorite feature!
- eQuinox requires manual pointing/focusing but includes smooth alt-az motors.
Apps
- Dedicated iOS and Android apps offer similar manual control options on both models.
- eVscope 2 app provides access to more fine-grained camera controls and information overlays.
- Both integrate with leading astronomy apps like SkySafari, Star Walk 2 and Stellarium.
For beginners or seasoned stargazers alike, eVscope 2’s automated intelligence makes using the instrument easier and rewarding. Just tap on a celestial target on your phone and enjoy optimized live views!
Accessories & Portability
Both telescopes feature portable designs but eVscope offers more included gear:
eVscope 2
- Premium accessories like height-adjustable carbon fiber tripod, wi-fi remote, 25mm and 9mm eyepieces. $300 value bundled eyepiece kit.
- Padded backpack carrying case with custom cutouts enables transport.
eQuinox
- Stable compact tripod included but no case or accessories beyond mobile mount. Must be purchased separately.
- Tabletop form factor still enables portability between viewing locations.
For a high-end portable observing solution to take anywhere, eVscope 2 delivers. The backpack case and bundled accessories create an out-of-the-box premium experience. eQuinox offers smooth tracking performance at home or portable sites without extras.
Pricing Breakdown
As flagship product with premium components, eVscope 2 carries a higher MSRP. But improved performance across optics, sensor, software and design account for the notable price gap of $1500.
eVscope 2 Pricing
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| eVscope 2 Telescope | $4499 |
| Eyepiece Kit (25mm & 9mm plossls) | $299 |
| Total Investment | $4798 |
eQuinox Pricing
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| eQuinox Telescope | $2999 |
| Tripod | Included |
| Eyepiece Kit (25mm & 9mm plossls) | $299 |
| Total Investment | $3298 |
From a value perspective, both systems deliver performance and capabilities that justify their relative pricing. Comparing accessory catalogs shows eVscope 2 does carry premium standalone pricing however. Determine what telescope performance level fits your experience and budget constraints.
So Which Smart Telescope is Right For You?
Deciding between eVscope 2 vs eQuinox ultimately depends on your experience level and budget.
eVscope 2 – Flagship Premium Experience
If you want the pinnacle stargazing experience with no compromises on performance, eVscope 2 stands atop the pack.
Sophisticated automation, premium components and accessories matched with industry leading image quality create a sublime end-to-end solution. All user intervention fades away thanks continuous intelligence enhancements transmitted from the growing Unistellar network globally.
I find this convergence of smart digital capabilities with premium optics creates something greater than the sum of parts. Astrophotography captures pop with vibrant life. Faint deep sky objects shine bright through enhanced light amplification no longer hampered by light pollution. If your budget allows, I believe eVscope 2 currently delivers the ultimate backyard digital astronomy experience.
eQuinox – Powerful Smart Scope Value
As Unistellar‘s lower cost model, eQuinox makes owning an intelligent GoTo digital telescope more accessible at under $3000 MSRP. Smooth electronic mount control, integrated enhanced vision technology and robust Unistellar software offer a potent smart upgrade from beginner manuals scopes.
Casual observers and budding astrophotographers will appreciate point-and-shoot operation via mobile app once eQuinox completes initial alignment. This portable Newtonian reflector can unleash your inner astronomer much easier than wrestling with a Dob.
I suggest eVscope 2 only if the premium performance and automated functionality warrant the higher investment. Otherwise, eQuinox gives you 80% of capabilities and modern conveniences at 65% the total cost. An outstanding blend of technology and value.
The Bottom Line
eVscope 2 – Flagship model with best in class optics and highest intelligence
eQuinox – Powerful Newtonian GoTo “smart scope” at reasonable value
Hopefully this guide served you well demystifying Unistellar’s advanced telescopes to determine the best fit. I welcome your feedback and questions in the comments section below!
Clear Skies and Happy Stargazing!
