ZWO ASI2600MC Pro Cooled Color Astronomy Camera
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- Upgraded from previous version: lower read noise, higher frame rates, and new matte finish
- 26 megapixel APS-C sensor delivers exceptional detail
- Versatile 3.76µm pixel size works well with many telescope types and focal lengths
- True 16-bit ADC provides 14 stops of high dynamic range
- 80% peak quantum efficiency for greater sensitivity
- High 75Ke- full well capacity captures bright details without bloated stars
- Ultra-low Readout Noise (0.7e)
- Available with a built-in guide sensor (ASI2600MC Duo) or guiding + smart controller (ASI2600MC AIR)
- Power supply (required) sold separately
Watch the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro Quick Overview Video
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro: The Perfect Solution for One-Shot Color Astrophotography
The ASI2600MC Pro is one of the best-selling astrophotography cameras as it hits the sweet spot of versatility, ease of use, and high performance at a reasonable price point! Still powered by the highly sensitive Sony IMX571 APS-C monochrome sensor with 3.76µm pixels, it delivers the outstanding performance, low read noise, and filter-based flexibility that astrophotographers trust for everything from galaxies to faint nebulae.
Many astrophotographers upgrading from a mirrorless, DSLR, or smaller sensor cooled camera will welcome the ultra-high resolution images in stunning color. What sets this upgraded version apart is its expanded full-well capacity, enhanced dynamic range, larger DDR3 buffer, and improved cooling and dew prevention—giving you even more control, reliability, and image quality in a wide range of observing conditions.
Check out Agena Astro affiliate Peter Zelinka's detailed review of the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro, after using it for 6 months. He shares his hands-on experience, highlighting the camera's performance, features, and how it stands up to real-world astrophotography:
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro Highlights
Built-in Dew Prevention
The ZWO ASI2600MC Pro uses a polyimide heater that fits perfectly behind the front cover of the sensor. The heater can be turned on or off depending on your climate. It dramatically reduces frost or dew that can form in higher-humidity environments. The heating element uses 5W at maximum power and can be controlled through any app that uses ASCOM.
512MB DDR3 RAM
The ASI2600MC Pro features 512MB of built-in DDR3 memory, which helps prevent dropped frames during image capture. This onboard cache also works alongside the USB 3.0 interface to eliminate amp glow—an unwanted bright patch that can appear in your images during long exposures, caused by heat and power from the camera’s electronics.
High Speed USB Connection
With its high-speed USB 3.0 port, the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro can download files with minimal lag time! Like all ZWO cameras in the pro series, it also has two USB 2.0 ports for accessories like a filter wheel, guider, or the ZWO Camera Angle Adjuster (CAA).
Essential features of the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro
ASI2600MC Pro Specifications Overview
The ASI2600MC Pro has some of the best technical capabilities of any cooled astronomy camera on the market. Starting with a quantum efficiency (QE) of 91% means that the camera records nearly all of the photons hitting its sensor as data. This means it collects more light more efficiently, so your camera captures faint targets faster and with better detail. This is truly beneficial when imaging faint objects like galaxies and planetary nebulae. Its 3.76um pixels are perfect for a wide range of focal lengths and dynamic ranges too, all of which is complemented by an expanded 73 Ke full well capacity.
Dual Gain Modes
The ASI2600MC’s IMX571 sensor introduces a significant improvement over earlier camera sensor models through its dual gain architecture. When you adjust the gain setting to 100, you'll instantly minimize read noise while enhancing dynamic range. This also boosts sensitivity, enabling you to record subtle details with reduced noise interference.
For most imaging scenarios, ZWO suggests using gain 100 as the optimal setting. The primary exceptions involve bright deep-sky targets or situations requiring brief exposure times, where lower or higher gain settings may prove more effective.
Backside-Illuminated Sensor (BSI)
Sony's BSI CMOS sensor technology enhances sensitivity and reduces noise by positioning electronics behind the silicon layer rather than on top. This creates an unobstructed path for photons to reach the photodiode, rather than traditional CCD sensors, which have the layers reversed. This BSI technology also helps to reduce download speed, and it has proven especially helpful when managing the data output of high-resolution sensors like the IMX571. And even more so with ZWO's full-frame models such as ASI6200MM, ASI6200MC, and ASI2400MC.
Native 16-bit ADC
The ASI2600MC continues to set itself apart with a sophisticated 16-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC). Unlike traditional CCD cameras that might claim 16-bit capability but fall short, this new-generation CMOS sensor delivers a true 14-stop dynamic range. For astrophotographers, this means the ability to capture the faintest wisps of nebulosity and the brightest star cores in a single frame. This isn’t just another stat to pad the numbers - it translates into noticeably sharper images with richer contrast and beautifully smooth tonal transitions, especially when using narrowband filters. This makes the ASI2600 Pro one of the few cameras in its class that can truly handle the extreme brightness range of deep-sky imaging.
Two-stage TEC Cooling
The ASI2600MC Pro employs an advanced dual-stage thermoelectric (TEC) cooling system capable of lowering the sensor temperature by up to 63°F (35°C) below the surrounding environmental conditions. Thanks also to ZWO’s dark current suppression technology, the dark current at 32°F (0°C) is only about 0.0022 electrons of thermal noise per pixel each second; meaning a 5-minute (300 s) exposure contributes only 0.7e of thermal noise, which is typically lower than the read-noise in many imaging setups. At -4°F (-20°C), dark current plunges further, reaching 0.00012 e/s/pixel, a level so low that for at most exposure times, the effect of dark current is so small it doesn’t noticeably add to the overall noise in your images.
Please note: the camera’s TEC cooler requires a 12V external power supply (not included).
Zero Amp Glow
The ZWO ASI2600M Pro shows a major advance with its total removal of amp glow. Amp-glow happens when infrared light leaks onto the sensor, creating unwanted marks that ruin your final images. Amp glow affects many older astro cameras, DSLRs, and even some modern cameras. Sometimes the issue is so severe that dark calibration frames need flat frames to fix it. No amp glow means you get cleaner, high-quality images right out of the camera.
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro: A Six Month Review
Agena Astro affiliate Peter Zelinka shares his thoughts on the ASI2600MC Pro in this detailed review video:
How to Connect the ASI2600MC Pro for Telescopes with 55mm Back Focus
Specifications
- Sensor: Sony IMX571
- Format: APS-C
- Sensor Dimensions: 23.5x15.7 mm
- Diagonal: 28.3 mm
- MAX fps: 3.51 fps
- Back Focus: 17.5 mm
- Resolution: 26 MP (6248 × 4176 px)
- Pixel size: 3.76 µm
- ADC: 16-bit
- Peak Quantum Efficiency (QE): 80%
- Full-Well: 75 Ke
- DDR Memory: 512MB
- Readout noise: 1.0-3.3e
- Backlit: Yes
- Weight: 1.54 lb (0.7 kg)
- Protective Window: D60 IR-Cut
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: China
Watch the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro Quick Overview Video
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro: The Perfect Solution for One-Shot Color Astrophotography
The ASI2600MC Pro is one of the best-selling astrophotography cameras as it hits the sweet spot of versatility, ease of use, and high performance at a reasonable price point! Still powered by the highly sensitive Sony IMX571 APS-C monochrome sensor with 3.76µm pixels, it delivers the outstanding performance, low read noise, and filter-based flexibility that astrophotographers trust for everything from galaxies to faint nebulae.
Many astrophotographers upgrading from a mirrorless, DSLR, or smaller sensor cooled camera will welcome the ultra-high resolution images in stunning color. What sets this upgraded version apart is its expanded full-well capacity, enhanced dynamic range, larger DDR3 buffer, and improved cooling and dew prevention—giving you even more control, reliability, and image quality in a wide range of observing conditions.
Check out Agena Astro affiliate Peter Zelinka's detailed review of the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro, after using it for 6 months. He shares his hands-on experience, highlighting the camera's performance, features, and how it stands up to real-world astrophotography:
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro Highlights
Built-in Dew Prevention
The ZWO ASI2600MC Pro uses a polyimide heater that fits perfectly behind the front cover of the sensor. The heater can be turned on or off depending on your climate. It dramatically reduces frost or dew that can form in higher-humidity environments. The heating element uses 5W at maximum power and can be controlled through any app that uses ASCOM.
512MB DDR3 RAM
The ASI2600MC Pro features 512MB of built-in DDR3 memory, which helps prevent dropped frames during image capture. This onboard cache also works alongside the USB 3.0 interface to eliminate amp glow—an unwanted bright patch that can appear in your images during long exposures, caused by heat and power from the camera’s electronics.
High Speed USB Connection
With its high-speed USB 3.0 port, the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro can download files with minimal lag time! Like all ZWO cameras in the pro series, it also has two USB 2.0 ports for accessories like a filter wheel, guider, or the ZWO Camera Angle Adjuster (CAA).
Essential features of the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro
ASI2600MC Pro Specifications Overview
The ASI2600MC Pro has some of the best technical capabilities of any cooled astronomy camera on the market. Starting with a quantum efficiency (QE) of 91% means that the camera records nearly all of the photons hitting its sensor as data. This means it collects more light more efficiently, so your camera captures faint targets faster and with better detail. This is truly beneficial when imaging faint objects like galaxies and planetary nebulae. Its 3.76um pixels are perfect for a wide range of focal lengths and dynamic ranges too, all of which is complemented by an expanded 73 Ke full well capacity.
Dual Gain Modes
The ASI2600MC’s IMX571 sensor introduces a significant improvement over earlier camera sensor models through its dual gain architecture. When you adjust the gain setting to 100, you'll instantly minimize read noise while enhancing dynamic range. This also boosts sensitivity, enabling you to record subtle details with reduced noise interference.
For most imaging scenarios, ZWO suggests using gain 100 as the optimal setting. The primary exceptions involve bright deep-sky targets or situations requiring brief exposure times, where lower or higher gain settings may prove more effective.
Backside-Illuminated Sensor (BSI)
Sony's BSI CMOS sensor technology enhances sensitivity and reduces noise by positioning electronics behind the silicon layer rather than on top. This creates an unobstructed path for photons to reach the photodiode, rather than traditional CCD sensors, which have the layers reversed. This BSI technology also helps to reduce download speed, and it has proven especially helpful when managing the data output of high-resolution sensors like the IMX571. And even more so with ZWO's full-frame models such as ASI6200MM, ASI6200MC, and ASI2400MC.
Native 16-bit ADC
The ASI2600MC continues to set itself apart with a sophisticated 16-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC). Unlike traditional CCD cameras that might claim 16-bit capability but fall short, this new-generation CMOS sensor delivers a true 14-stop dynamic range. For astrophotographers, this means the ability to capture the faintest wisps of nebulosity and the brightest star cores in a single frame. This isn’t just another stat to pad the numbers - it translates into noticeably sharper images with richer contrast and beautifully smooth tonal transitions, especially when using narrowband filters. This makes the ASI2600 Pro one of the few cameras in its class that can truly handle the extreme brightness range of deep-sky imaging.
Two-stage TEC Cooling
The ASI2600MC Pro employs an advanced dual-stage thermoelectric (TEC) cooling system capable of lowering the sensor temperature by up to 63°F (35°C) below the surrounding environmental conditions. Thanks also to ZWO’s dark current suppression technology, the dark current at 32°F (0°C) is only about 0.0022 electrons of thermal noise per pixel each second; meaning a 5-minute (300 s) exposure contributes only 0.7e of thermal noise, which is typically lower than the read-noise in many imaging setups. At -4°F (-20°C), dark current plunges further, reaching 0.00012 e/s/pixel, a level so low that for at most exposure times, the effect of dark current is so small it doesn’t noticeably add to the overall noise in your images.
Please note: the camera’s TEC cooler requires a 12V external power supply (not included).
Zero Amp Glow
The ZWO ASI2600M Pro shows a major advance with its total removal of amp glow. Amp-glow happens when infrared light leaks onto the sensor, creating unwanted marks that ruin your final images. Amp glow affects many older astro cameras, DSLRs, and even some modern cameras. Sometimes the issue is so severe that dark calibration frames need flat frames to fix it. No amp glow means you get cleaner, high-quality images right out of the camera.
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro: A Six Month Review
Agena Astro affiliate Peter Zelinka shares his thoughts on the ASI2600MC Pro in this detailed review video:
How to Connect the ASI2600MC Pro for Telescopes with 55mm Back Focus
Specifications
- Sensor: Sony IMX571
- Format: APS-C
- Sensor Dimensions: 23.5x15.7 mm
- Diagonal: 28.3 mm
- MAX fps: 3.51 fps
- Back Focus: 17.5 mm
- Resolution: 26 MP (6248 × 4176 px)
- Pixel size: 3.76 µm
- ADC: 16-bit
- Peak Quantum Efficiency (QE): 80%
- Full-Well: 75 Ke
- DDR Memory: 512MB
- Readout noise: 1.0-3.3e
- Backlit: Yes
- Weight: 1.54 lb (0.7 kg)
- Protective Window: D60 IR-Cut
- Soft Case
- Quick Guide
- USB 3.0 Cable (2 meter)
- 2x USB 2.0 Cable (0.5 meter)
- T2 - M48 Extender (16.5mm)
- T2 Extender (21mm)
- M42 to M48 Adapter
- Dust Cover
- Hexagon Wrench
- Upgraded from previous version: lower read noise, higher frame rates, and new matte finish
- 26 megapixel APS-C sensor delivers exceptional detail
- Versatile 3.76µm pixel size works well with many telescope types and focal lengths
- True 16-bit ADC provides 14 stops of high dynamic range
- 80% peak quantum efficiency for greater sensitivity
- High 75Ke- full well capacity captures bright details without bloated stars
- Ultra-low Readout Noise (0.7e)
- Available with a built-in guide sensor (ASI2600MC Duo) or guiding + smart controller (ASI2600MC AIR)
- Power supply (required) sold separately
Watch the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro Quick Overview Video
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro: The Perfect Solution for One-Shot Color Astrophotography
The ASI2600MC Pro is one of the best-selling astrophotography cameras as it hits the sweet spot of versatility, ease of use, and high performance at a reasonable price point! Still powered by the highly sensitive Sony IMX571 APS-C monochrome sensor with 3.76µm pixels, it delivers the outstanding performance, low read noise, and filter-based flexibility that astrophotographers trust for everything from galaxies to faint nebulae.
Many astrophotographers upgrading from a mirrorless, DSLR, or smaller sensor cooled camera will welcome the ultra-high resolution images in stunning color. What sets this upgraded version apart is its expanded full-well capacity, enhanced dynamic range, larger DDR3 buffer, and improved cooling and dew prevention—giving you even more control, reliability, and image quality in a wide range of observing conditions.
Check out Agena Astro affiliate Peter Zelinka's detailed review of the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro, after using it for 6 months. He shares his hands-on experience, highlighting the camera's performance, features, and how it stands up to real-world astrophotography:
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro Highlights
Built-in Dew Prevention
The ZWO ASI2600MC Pro uses a polyimide heater that fits perfectly behind the front cover of the sensor. The heater can be turned on or off depending on your climate. It dramatically reduces frost or dew that can form in higher-humidity environments. The heating element uses 5W at maximum power and can be controlled through any app that uses ASCOM.
512MB DDR3 RAM
The ASI2600MC Pro features 512MB of built-in DDR3 memory, which helps prevent dropped frames during image capture. This onboard cache also works alongside the USB 3.0 interface to eliminate amp glow—an unwanted bright patch that can appear in your images during long exposures, caused by heat and power from the camera’s electronics.
High Speed USB Connection
With its high-speed USB 3.0 port, the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro can download files with minimal lag time! Like all ZWO cameras in the pro series, it also has two USB 2.0 ports for accessories like a filter wheel, guider, or the ZWO Camera Angle Adjuster (CAA).
Essential features of the ZWO ASI2600MC Pro
ASI2600MC Pro Specifications Overview
The ASI2600MC Pro has some of the best technical capabilities of any cooled astronomy camera on the market. Starting with a quantum efficiency (QE) of 91% means that the camera records nearly all of the photons hitting its sensor as data. This means it collects more light more efficiently, so your camera captures faint targets faster and with better detail. This is truly beneficial when imaging faint objects like galaxies and planetary nebulae. Its 3.76um pixels are perfect for a wide range of focal lengths and dynamic ranges too, all of which is complemented by an expanded 73 Ke full well capacity.
Dual Gain Modes
The ASI2600MC’s IMX571 sensor introduces a significant improvement over earlier camera sensor models through its dual gain architecture. When you adjust the gain setting to 100, you'll instantly minimize read noise while enhancing dynamic range. This also boosts sensitivity, enabling you to record subtle details with reduced noise interference.
For most imaging scenarios, ZWO suggests using gain 100 as the optimal setting. The primary exceptions involve bright deep-sky targets or situations requiring brief exposure times, where lower or higher gain settings may prove more effective.
Backside-Illuminated Sensor (BSI)
Sony's BSI CMOS sensor technology enhances sensitivity and reduces noise by positioning electronics behind the silicon layer rather than on top. This creates an unobstructed path for photons to reach the photodiode, rather than traditional CCD sensors, which have the layers reversed. This BSI technology also helps to reduce download speed, and it has proven especially helpful when managing the data output of high-resolution sensors like the IMX571. And even more so with ZWO's full-frame models such as ASI6200MM, ASI6200MC, and ASI2400MC.
Native 16-bit ADC
The ASI2600MC continues to set itself apart with a sophisticated 16-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC). Unlike traditional CCD cameras that might claim 16-bit capability but fall short, this new-generation CMOS sensor delivers a true 14-stop dynamic range. For astrophotographers, this means the ability to capture the faintest wisps of nebulosity and the brightest star cores in a single frame. This isn’t just another stat to pad the numbers - it translates into noticeably sharper images with richer contrast and beautifully smooth tonal transitions, especially when using narrowband filters. This makes the ASI2600 Pro one of the few cameras in its class that can truly handle the extreme brightness range of deep-sky imaging.
Two-stage TEC Cooling
The ASI2600MC Pro employs an advanced dual-stage thermoelectric (TEC) cooling system capable of lowering the sensor temperature by up to 63°F (35°C) below the surrounding environmental conditions. Thanks also to ZWO’s dark current suppression technology, the dark current at 32°F (0°C) is only about 0.0022 electrons of thermal noise per pixel each second; meaning a 5-minute (300 s) exposure contributes only 0.7e of thermal noise, which is typically lower than the read-noise in many imaging setups. At -4°F (-20°C), dark current plunges further, reaching 0.00012 e/s/pixel, a level so low that for at most exposure times, the effect of dark current is so small it doesn’t noticeably add to the overall noise in your images.
Please note: the camera’s TEC cooler requires a 12V external power supply (not included).
Zero Amp Glow
The ZWO ASI2600M Pro shows a major advance with its total removal of amp glow. Amp-glow happens when infrared light leaks onto the sensor, creating unwanted marks that ruin your final images. Amp glow affects many older astro cameras, DSLRs, and even some modern cameras. Sometimes the issue is so severe that dark calibration frames need flat frames to fix it. No amp glow means you get cleaner, high-quality images right out of the camera.
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro: A Six Month Review
Agena Astro affiliate Peter Zelinka shares his thoughts on the ASI2600MC Pro in this detailed review video:
How to Connect the ASI2600MC Pro for Telescopes with 55mm Back Focus
Specifications
- Sensor: Sony IMX571
- Format: APS-C
- Sensor Dimensions: 23.5x15.7 mm
- Diagonal: 28.3 mm
- MAX fps: 3.51 fps
- Back Focus: 17.5 mm
- Resolution: 26 MP (6248 × 4176 px)
- Pixel size: 3.76 µm
- ADC: 16-bit
- Peak Quantum Efficiency (QE): 80%
- Full-Well: 75 Ke
- DDR Memory: 512MB
- Readout noise: 1.0-3.3e
- Backlit: Yes
- Weight: 1.54 lb (0.7 kg)
- Protective Window: D60 IR-Cut
Other Information
- Country of Manufacture: China
- Soft Case
- Quick Guide
- USB 3.0 Cable (2 meter)
- 2x USB 2.0 Cable (0.5 meter)
- T2 - M48 Extender (16.5mm)
- T2 Extender (21mm)
- M42 to M48 Adapter
- Dust Cover
- Hexagon Wrench
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro Cooled Color Astronomy Camera