ASI585MC/MM Pro Camera Review: High-Performance Imaging for Serious Astrophotographers
The ZWO ASI585MC/MM Pro is a versatile, high-performance astrophotography camera designed for users who demand precision, sensitivity, and a reliable imaging experience. Whether you’re targeting deep-sky objects, lunar detail, or planetary surfaces, this camera delivers exceptional results in a lightweight and affordable package.
🔧 Manufacturer Overview
ZWO is a leading manufacturer in the astrophotography world, known for producing cameras that balance innovation with practical design. The ASI585 series continues ZWO’s tradition of quality, offering advanced sensor technology, reliable cooling (in the Pro versions), and a user-friendly form factor that integrates seamlessly with most astrophotography rigs.
💵 Price and Variants
The ASI585 comes in four configurations, making it accessible to a broad range of astrophotographers:
- ZWO ASI585MC Pro (Color, Cooled) – $599
- ZWO ASI585MM Pro (Monochrome, Cooled) – $699
- ZWO ASI585MC (Color, Non-Cooled) – $399
- ZWO ASI585MM (Monochrome, Non-Cooled) – $499
🔌 Note: Thermoelectric cooling is only available in the Pro models and requires a separate 12V power supply.
🌌 Ideal Use Cases
This camera excels in imaging:
- Small deep-sky targets (planetary nebulae, galaxies, globular clusters)
- Planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Mars)
- High-resolution lunar surface photography
- Solar imaging (with proper filters)
The combination of zero amp glow, high quantum efficiency, and small pixel size makes it a sharp and sensitive tool for detailed astrophotography.
🔍 Key Features at a Glance
- Sensor Type: Sony CMOS, rolling shutter
- Sensor Size: 1/1.2″ (11.1mm x 6.3mm, ~12.8mm diagonal)
- Resolution: 3840 × 2160 (8.3 MP)
- Pixel Size: 2.9µm
- Quantum Efficiency (QE): Peak ~91%
- Full Well Capacity: ~40,000 electrons
- Cooling: Thermoelectric (only in Pro versions)
- Exposure Range: 32μs-2000s
- Shutter Type: Electronic rolling shutter
- Bit Depth: 12-bit
- Interface: USB 3.0 / USB 2.0 Type-B
- Compatibility: Windows, Mac, and Linux
- Weight: 126 grams
⚙️ Performance in Real Conditions
The ASI585MC/MM Pro performs remarkably well under various conditions:
- Deep Sky: Low thermal noise and excellent sensitivity make it easy to pull out details in faint targets with shorter exposure stacks.
- Planetary Imaging: Small pixels and high resolution capture crisp planetary disc details with minimal artifacts.
- Lunar and Solar: High frame rates and low latency data transfer help record fleeting moments of atmospheric clarity.
Cooling on the Pro models ensures stability across long imaging sessions, preventing thermal noise buildup and preserving detail in faint regions.
✅ Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong low-light sensitivity
- Excellent for deep sky, planetary, lunar, and solar imaging
- Monochrome and color versions available
- Thermoelectric cooling in Pro models
- Zero amp glow
- USB 3.0 for fast data transfer
- Compact and lightweight (126g)
- Works across Windows, Mac, and Linux
Cons:
- Some setups require additional accessories (e.g., filters, adapters)
- Firmware/software updates may lag compared to more established cameras
- Separate 12V power supply required for cooling (Pro models)
- Compact design limits onboard features like built-in memory or live stacking
🧠 Final Verdict
The ASI585MC/MM Pro stands out as a cost-effective yet professional-grade camera. It offers superb sensitivity, excellent resolution, and dependable performance for a variety of targets. With its range of cooled and non-cooled options, there’s a version for nearly every type of astrophotographer — from beginner planetary shooters to advanced deep sky stackers.
If you’re seeking a reliable camera to elevate your astrophotography, the ASI585 series is a powerful and affordable tool that punches well above its price point.
