Hey good people,
Anyone awaiting ZWO AM7? How do you think it will compare with Warpastron WD-20?
CS,
Kartik
Warpastron WD-20 vs. ZWO AM7?
Since the overall design is almost similar to the AM5 in both shape and size, I really question the mount’s ability to hold it’s stated capacity and perform, especially with the moment arm being so small.
If I’m being honest I would not trust a harmonic mount for high-payload operations simply due to the mount weighing less than the tube. More stress on the system’s pivot points over time.
Concise
Kartik Atre · Feb 10, 2026 at 02:51 AM
Hey good people,
Anyone awaiting ZWO AM7? How do you think it will compare with Warpastron WD-20?
CS,
Kartik
The WarpAstron mounts use direct drives vs the AM series stepper motors - so no belts, less backlash and (if you care) very very quiet ;-)
I think the WarpAstron mounts also have a superior PA system to the AMs.
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Maybe take a look at the UMi20 by Proxisky.
The mount is similar to the WD20 but has some nice improvements, such as no clamping on the PA mechanism.
I like my UMi20 a lot.
Also, the AM7 load capacity of 20 kg is measured at 20 cm from the axis.
The AM5/3 are measured at 25 cm, so when you make a direct comparison at 25 cm, the AM7 is much closer to the AM5N.
There is a nice thread on CN about this.
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The AM7 is the product of pure marketing hype. You know, let’s fudge the numbers so people will think it’s an upgrade and pay more. I use Zwo’s cameras but come on!
My concern is escaping the ZWO sphere of software. The choice to me is: Do you want to be a prisoner of their software, or not?
I’ve chosen not. I do have 3 of their cameras. But after an experience with their service department, I’m heading away from ZWO.
As for Harmonic mounts in general, I think they have potential, But I don’t think they are as good as they could be. They need to improve their tracking and guiding numbers.