When we first started exploring the idea of guiding telescopes for longer exposure astrophotography, the Sky-Watcher EvoGuide 50ED was one of the names that kept popping up in our research. We had heard about its affordable price tag, compact design, and versatility, and after using it for a while, we can see why it’s so popular among beginner and intermediate astrophotographers.

Here are the main specs for the Sky-Watcher EvoGuide 50ED:

• Optical Design: ED Refractor

• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm

• Focal Length: 242mm

• Focal Ratio: f/4.8

• Glass Type: FPL53 (Extra-Low Dispersion)

• Maximum Useful Magnification: 100x

• Focuser Type: Helical

• Camera Connection: M48x0.75 thread or 1.25” nosepiece

• Mounting: 45mm Vixen Dovetail Bar

• Field Flattener: Available separately

• Tube Length: 220mm (260mm with extender)

• Weight: 865 grams

• Included Accessories: 40mm extender, stop ring for 1.25” eyepiece, collimation rings

• Tube Material: Aluminum

• Backfocus: 60mm

• Filter Compatibility: 1.25” filters

Optical Performance That Impresses

The EvoGuide 50ED packs a punch with its 50mm aperture and 242mm focal length, especially considering it's a guide scope. What really stood out to us was the inclusion of the Ohara FPL-53 glass element, which does wonders in keeping chromatic aberrations at bay. When guiding, having pinpoint stars is crucial, and the EvoGuide delivers sharp, clean stars that ensure reliable guiding throughout long imaging sessions. What surprised us even more is how it handles lunar and planetary imaging. Pairing it with a good planetary camera, many amateur astronomers have been able to capture impressive detail on the Moon, all while avoiding that pesky colour fringing that plagues cheaper scopes.

However, the EvoGuide does have its limitations. When we first tried some deep-sky astrophotography with a DSLR, we quickly noticed significant field curvature—stars at the edge of the frame were elongated and distorted. Fortunately, with a dedicated field flattener (like the Starizona EvoFF or Sky-Watcher’s own flattener), you can correct this and achieve a flatter field, but it’s definitely something to factor into the budget if you plan on doing any serious deep-sky work. We have recently bought the Starizona EvoFF and a review will follow at a later date, but even though this field flattener can handle a DSLR chip, we recommend moving to a dedicated astro camera to reduce weight and strain on the helical focuser.

More Than Just A Guide Scope

What makes the EvoGuide 50ED unique in its price range is its versatility. Yes, it’s primarily marketed as a guide scope, but it can do so much more. It’s compact enough to mount on a portable tracker like the Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer (seen below), which makes it great for lightweight wide-field astrophotography on the go. It even serves as a small refractor telescope for casual observing or imaging when you don’t want to lug around a larger setup.

When we take it on trips to dark-sky sites, we love that it can be used as a grab-and-go scope for wide-field shots of constellations and large objects like the Orion Nebula or the Pleiades. Even though it’s a small doublet refractor, we have been impressed with how well it performs in these cases, especially when using a dedicated astro camera for casual shots. That said, the field curvature still limits its utility for detailed deep-sky imaging and that is why we have invested in the Starizona field flattener (refer to the image below).

Handling and Build Quality

The EvoGuide 50ED stands out in terms of its handling. The helical focuser operates smoothly and offers precise focusing, which is particularly beneficial when working with bright objects such as the Moon or distant stars for guiding. However, we have observed some wobbling in the focuser assembly, especially when attaching heavier cameras or accessories. While this is not a major issue for us, it is worth noting. Another challenge we encountered is that dirt or metal filings from the screw thread can enter the helical focuser, leading to focusing difficulties and stiffness, necessitating maintenance and cleaning. Some users have reported having to adjust the set screws or reconstruct the focuser to accommodate electronic focusers like the ZWO EAF, so some tweaking may be required based on your requirements. We have incorporated our EvoGuide into a Starizona 3D printed ring, enabling us to connect an ASI EAF Focuser, SVBony guidescope, a ZWO ASI120MM Mini, ZWO ASI Pro, and a ZWO EAF Focuser (refer to the image below).

The scope’s lightweight and compact design (weighing just 865g) is one of our favourite features. Whether we are carrying it on its own or as part of my imaging rig, the EvoGuide feels like it was designed with portability in mind. Paired with a small mount like (our main mount) the Sky-Watcher EQ3-2 or even a star tracker, it’s a dream for quick setup and takedown sessions. We have done whole imaging sessions where everything—mount (star tracker), scope, and camera—fits in a small carry bag, which is perfect when we need to be mobile or if we are limited in space.

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

Given its price point, the EvoGuide 50ED offers a lot of bang for your buck. If you’re like us, you’ve probably been looking at pricier options like the William Optics Redcat Z51, and while the EvoGuide can’t quite match the Redcat’s premium imaging performance, it comes impressively close for a fraction of the cost. For astrophotographers on a budget or those looking to get into guiding and wide-field imaging, the EvoGuide 50ED is a no-brainer.

That said, to unlock its full potential, especially for wide field deep-sky work, you’ll need to invest in additional accessories like the field flattener, and perhaps even some fine-tuning of the focuser. For us, the benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks, but it’s something to consider depending on what you’re hoping to achieve.

Conclusion: A Great All-Rounder with a Few Caveats

The Sky-Watcher EvoGuide 50ED has proven to be a fantastic addition to our astrophotography gear. As a guide scope, it’s reliable and easy to use, and as a portable wide-field imaging scope, it punches well above its weight. While there are some limitations, particularly in terms of field curvature and the need for a flattener, We have found it to be a solid performer across the board. If you’re looking for a versatile, budget-friendly solution for guiding and imaging, we definitely recommend giving the EvoGuide 50ED a closer look.

Overall Rating (1 to 5 Stars ) = 4 *Stars

Supply (Gift/Purchased/Loan) = Purchased (Used/Secondhand)

Disclaimer:

The thoughts and impressions shared in this review are based on our personal experience with the product. It’s important to note that everyone’s experience may differ depending on their setup, preferences, and expectations.

In the interest of transparency, we are open about how the equipment is provided for review. If we purchased the item ourselves, borrowed it from a supplier, manufacturer, or another amateur astronomer, or if it was donated or gifted by a supplier or manufacturer, we will clearly state so in the review (at the bottom).

We strive to be objective in our evaluations and do not allow gifts, loans, or financial incentives to influence our reviews or alter our opinions. Our goal is to offer honest and impartial assessments to help others make informed decisions.