Sky-Watcher CQ350 vs EQ6-R Pro comparison: which mount to choose?

Two iconic mounts for demanding astronomySky-Watcher has established itself as a reference in equatorial mounts, thanks to the quality of their tracking and the robustness of their design. Among the most popular models, the CQ350 and the EQ6-R Pro stand out for their performance and their ability to support high-end instruments. While both target an enthusiastic audience—from experienced visual observers to ambitious astrophotographers—their features differ significantly. This comparison helps you make the right choice based on your practice and equipment.Stability and mechanical designThe first notable difference lies in stability. The CQ350, featuring a more massive frame and reinforced tripod, offers excellent rigidity. It handles large-diameter optical tubes effortlessly, even in windy conditions. Its precision-machined aluminum mount head inspires confidence with its assembly precision. In comparison, the EQ6-R Pro, while very sturdy for its class, shows its limits with optics over 12–14 kg, especially in long-exposure astrophotography. However, its balanced design and vibration damping system make it a very stable model for most medium-sized instruments.For portable observers, the weight difference is significant: approximately 19 kg for the CQ350 head versus 17 kg for the EQ6-R Pro. In practice, the CQ350 is more robust but less easily transportable: a key criterion to consider based on your usage.Load capacity: advantage to the CQ350The useful load capacity clearly illustrates each mount's positioning. The CQ350 can support approximately 35 kg of instrumentation (excluding counterweights), making it ideal for heavy tubes: 300 mm Newtonians, 11 or 12-inch SCTs, or large-aperture refractors. In contrast, the EQ6-R Pro tops out at around 20 kg, perfectly suited for 200/1000 mm Newtonians, medium Maksutovs, or 120 mm ED refractors. For most amateur astrophotographers, this capacity is more than sufficient, but those planning for a more substantial future instrument will appreciate the margin offered by the CQ350.Tracking precisionBoth mounts offer high-level tracking performance, but their internal designs differ. The CQ350 uses wider precision-machined worm gear/gear sets and dual encoder mechanics on the axes, improving movement smoothness and reducing native periodic error. Result: more consistent and precise tracking, highly appreciated for long exposures at the focal point of fast tubes. The EQ6-R Pro, on the other hand, benefits from extensive field experience. When properly adjusted and autoguided, it delivers remarkable tracking, sufficient for fine images up to approximately 1000 mm focal length. However, the CQ350 has the advantage in intrinsic precision and thermal stability, ensuring more consistent compensation for load variations.Motorization, GoTo, and connectivityBoth mounts feature geared stepper motors and a GoTo system controlled by Sky-Watcher's SynScan hand controller, compatible with the vast majority of astronomy software via ASCOM. The EQ6-R Pro includes a proven, silent, and smooth control module. The CQ350 features faster and more precise drive, allowing for fine corrections during guiding. In terms of connectivity, both mounts can be controlled via computer or smartphone: Wi-Fi functionality is often included with the CQ350, while it remains optional for the EQ6-R Pro (requiring the external SynScan Wi-Fi module). Portable users will appreciate the ability to fully control the mounts from a tablet without additional cables.Installation and ergonomicsThe EQ6-R Pro has a reputation for being particularly user-friendly. Its altitude and azimuth adjustment system is smooth, and balancing is done quickly. It is therefore aimed at enthusiasts who frequently set up and dismantle their equipment. The CQ350, being more bulky, requires a bit more care in setting up, but offers better long-term ergonomics: the knobs are large, the axes clearly marked, and the mount maintains its position perfectly on a fixed base. In an observatory, its long-term stability makes all the difference.Which user profile for each mount?For visual observation:The EQ6-R Pro remains an excellent choice. Sturdy, practical, and precise enough, it is easily portable for observation evenings. Its load capacity easily covers most amateur astronomers' tubes, and its quick setup allows more time for observing than adjusting.For advanced astrophotography:The CQ350 is the clear choice when you want to practice long exposures with large instruments. Its stability and guiding precision provide significant gains in resolution and tracking comfort. It will also be preferred by those planning a fixed observatory, where its mass is no longer a constraint but an asset.In conclusionBetween the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro and the CQ350, the choice depends primarily on your practice and equipment. The EQ6-R Pro remains the reliable and versatile pillar that has allowed thousands of astrophotographers to progress under excellent conditions. The CQ350, on the other hand, represents an upgrade, offering a valuable reserve of stability and precision for heavy setups and ambitious imaging projects. In both cases, Sky-Watcher offers instruments whose reliability is beyond question—the essential thing is that your mount is up to the level of your observation dreams.