C10-NGT or SW256?

[B Eloit]

I think I've narrowed a search for a scope between a Celestron C10-NGT and a Sky Watcher 254N-EQ5pro. If anyone has a few words of advice on the following, I'd appreciate hearing from you.

The SW-254 seems to be a bit less expensive and lighter, more transportable than the C10. True? WWPierre advised that the optics should be comparable but I've heard that SW manuals are not clearly written. I downloaded the C-10 manual and find it easy to follow, but haven't found a SW manual available for download. Celestron makes the collimating procedure (using the Celestron collminating tool) sound easy. Any opinions?

Any suggestions for eyepieces (beyond those included) and barlows?

I'm not expecting the Hubble for $1200. or so, but my expectations for either of these scopes is some detail on the nearest planets and a decent look at the more accessible DS objects. Will these two meet those expectations?

Thanks

[AustinPSD]

Here's a link to the relevant manual for the 254N:

[Registered users can see links. ]

Synta is the parent company for both Skywatcher and Celestron. For the most part, these two instruments are optically identical. There are differences in the mounts cosmetically, but they are otherwise functionally identical.

Same OEM, same components, different branding, support and color schemes....

[Bob327]

I agree that optically both should be so close NOBODY could tell the difference... I'm not a fan of BIG Nets on a Gem mount so I have never used either of these mounts ...BUT I'd do as much research into both mounts and buy the mount you feel suits your needs more...

A Newt is a Newt so collimation is NOT going to be any harder or easier with either scope... so again you can dismiss the OTA from your research....

I would NOT even think about buying extra eyepieces at this time...use the scope as is for a few months then start the process of buying what you want .. Personally I good Power source would be my 1st absolutely needed accessory to buy followed by a Good rock solid adjustable chair... Seriously the chair is for your EYES...not your tail end or legs...you just see better when you are relaxed and comfortable...

Bob G