ZWO AM3N Strain Wave Drive Equatorial Mount & Tripod (2025)
Availability: Please contact us for an update
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- Bundle version: Also available for sale as just the AM3N mount head only
- Counterweights not required: The AM3N can accurately track without counterweights for setups under 17.5 lbs (8kg)
- 28.5 lb payload capacity: By adding a counterweight, the ZWO AM3N can support up to 28.5 lbs (13 kg)
- Ultra-lightweight: The mount head weighs just 8.5 lbs (3.9 kg), perfect for travel—even in a carry-on bag
- Seamless integration: Works effortlessly with ASIAIR Plus, ASIAIR Mini, and other ZWO products for easy automation and control
- Premium tripod included: Comes with the ZWO TC40 carbon fiber tripod for a sturdy yet lightweight setup
- Power supply sold separately: The ZWO AM3N requires a 12V / 5A DC power supply, which is sold separately
ZWO AM3N: Powerful. Portable. Precise.
Looking for a mount that’s both ultra-portable and highly precise? The ZWO AM3N combines lightweight portability with professional-grade tracking, making it the perfect choice for deep-sky astrophotographers on the go.
Engineered with strain-wave gears and belt-driven motors, the AM3N delivers exceptionally smooth, accurate tracking in a compact design you can take anywhere. Whether you’re setting up in your backyard or under dark skies far from home, this mount offers the precision and reliability you need—without the bulk.
ZWO AM3N Review
Check out Agena Astro affiliate SarahMaths Astro unboxing video, where she discusses the ZWO AM3 and how it compares to the ZWO AM5.
Equatorial & Altazimuth Modes
The ZWO AM3N’s hybrid equatorial and altazimuth operation gives you the flexibility to track the sky your way! In altazimuth mode, the mount moves up/down and left/right—just like a camera tripod—making it perfect for visual observing, and super easy to set up.
To capture stunning long-exposure deep-sky photos and avoid field rotation, you can adjust the position of the mount to switch to equatorial mode. Field rotation is the trailing effect caused by Earth's natural movement, but in equatorial mode, the AM3 tilts to match Earth’s axis, smoothly tracking along a single path. This ensures your stars stay sharp and your shots remain crisp.
Switching between modes is quick and hassle-free, so you can go from viewing planets to deep-sky astrophotography in no time!
Customized Strain Wave Gear
The ZWO AM3N’s customized strain wave gear gives you the perfect balance of strength and precision for smooth, accurate tracking. Designed specifically for astrophotography, this advanced strain wave gear system uses a flexible spline that deforms slightly as it rotates inside a rigid outer ring.
This innovative design eliminates backlash and minimizes mechanical play, ensuring ultra-precise movement, even with heavier payloads. This results in exceptional stability, so your telescope moves exactly as it should. With its lightweight, compact build, the AM3N delivers all this power without the bulk, making setup and transport easier!
Fully Wireless Operation
The ZWO AM3N’s wireless control simplifies mount operation, reducing cables and setup clutter so you can focus on capturing amazing images. Bluetooth lets you control the mount directly from your smartphone—no hand controller needed—while Wi‑Fi runs through the hand controller. Perfect for travel or field use, you’re ready to observe or image with just your phone. Remote control is also possible via the ZWO SkyAtlas app (iOS/Android) or a computer using ASCOM or INDI-compatible apps like NINA.
The AM3N works seamlessly with the ZWO ASIAIR for automated imaging sessions. A rocker-style hand controller is included, integrated with Wi‑Fi for wireless control, and firmware for both the mount and controller can be easily updated from ZWO’s website.
Upgrades for the AM3N vs. AM3
The ZWO AM3N builds on the proven performance of the original AM3, adding thoughtful upgrades that make astrophotography in the field easier and more reliable than ever.
- Cable Management – A redesigned dovetail saddle with USB-C and 12V DC power ports lets you power accessories directly from the mount while keeping cables tidy and out of the way, even during 360° rotation.
- Wider Operating Range – Engineered for tough conditions, the AM3N runs smoothly from –20 °C to 40 °C, giving you confidence for cold-weather imaging sessions.
- Magnetic Hex Wrench Storage – Keep the included M6 wrench secured right on the mount for quick adjustments whenever you need it.
Powerful Payload Capacity Up to 28.5 lbs
Unlike traditional German Equatorial Mounts, the ZWO AM3N uses a strain wave drive system, meaning it can handle your telescope rig without the need for a counterweight. It supports 17.5 lbs (8kg) right out of the box, which is perfect for wide-field setups and smaller scopes. If you have a heavier telescope, adding a counterweight expands the mount's capacity to 28.5 lbs (13kg)!
Take It Anywhere: Lightweight & Portable
The ZWO AM3N mount weighs just 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg), making it incredibly lightweight and portable. This compact design allows for easy handling and transport, perfect for astrophotographers and visual observers on the go.
While some mounts tip the scales at more than 50 lbs (23kg) when fully assembled, the AM3 keeps things light. Even with the tripod, counterweight, and bar, it weighs just 17.5 lbs (9kg) all together. That means less hauling and faster setup!
Integrated Type-C and DC Power Ports
New for the AM3N are two additional ports on the mount saddle itself: a USB-C and 12V DC port. This lets you connect and power accessories such as a cooled camera without having to worry about snagging a cable on the mount.
Hassle-Free Imaging with ASIAIR
The ZWO AM3 is designed for seamless integration with the ZWO ASIAIR, providing a streamlined and intuitive astrophotography experience.
For users without an ASIAIR, ZWO provides the ASI Mount app for iOS and Android, allowing wireless control of the AM3. Bluetooth lets you connect directly with your smartphone—no hand controller required—while Wi‑Fi is managed through the hand controller, which houses the transmitter. The app also provides easy access to firmware updates right from your smartphone or tablet.
Additionally, the AM3 is compatible with ASCOM, INDI, and SkySafari, offering flexibility across various control platforms.
Connect More: Multiple Ports for Seamless Integration
The ZWO AM3N features a handful of ports on the mount head itself for connecting various accessories. Included ports and indicators are:
- DC 12v power supply port
- Auto-guiding port for connecting a guide camera
- A port for connecting the hand controller
- A USB 2.0 port for connecting to a smart controller like the ASIAIR
- A status indicator light (Red = EQ mode, Green = Alt-Az mode)
Navigate Your Way: Use a Hand Controller or Go Wireless
The ZWO AM3N includes a rocker-style hand controller that allows you to point the mount in any direction. The hand controller lets you switch between equatorial and altazimuth modes, which can also be done via the ASI Mount app.
Backlash-Free Advantage for Precise Tracking
One of the best things about the AM3N’s strain wave drive design is how easy it makes setup. No need to balance your telescope, just mount it, polar align the ZWO AM3, and you’re all set! Plus, there are no clutches to worry about, so you won’t have to remember to lock or unlock anything. This means less time setting up and tearing down, so you can spend more time enjoying your viewing sessions.
And here’s the best part, the AM3N doesn’t suffer from backlash! Backlash is a common issue with traditional worm drive mounts. While strain wave drive mounts do experience some periodic error, ZWO keeps it under ±20 arc-seconds, which is negligible for most imaging. Each mount is tested and shipped with an individual periodic error (PE) curve report, so you can be sure that the mount has been carefully tested at ZWO’s factory before it even reaches you.
Built to last: Durable Construction with User-Friendly Controls
The ZWO AM3N combines a robust yet lightweight design, offering both durability and precision. Its high-quality aluminum alloy construction ensures strength while keeping the mount portable for easy transport. The latitude scale is marked, allowing you to quickly and accurately adjust the mount to your exact location for perfect polar alignment. The latitude adjustment knobs are smooth and responsive, providing fine adjustments so you can easily fine-tune your setup, ensuring accurate tracking every time.
For added stability and versatility, the dovetail saddle supports a wide range of telescope rigs, securely holding your setup in place while providing easy attachment and detachment. The mount also features well-placed buttons and controls, including a power button and USB ports for quick startup and a user-friendly interface.
Complete Your Setup: Power Supply, Tripod & Accessories
The ZWO AM3N requires a 12v/5a DC power supply, which is sold separately.
The mount is compatible with the TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod, which is included in this package. It can also be purchased separately.
If you already have a tripod, you can buy the ZWO AM3 mount head separately.
For added stability, pair the mount with the BC230 counterweight bar. The bar is compatible with both the AM3 and AM5 mounts. Counterweights for the AM3 are sold separately.
If you're using longer telescope tubes, like large refractors, ZWO offers two pier extensions for the AM3:
ZWO AM3N Specifications
- Mount Type: German Equatorial Mount
- Mount Mode: Equatorial / Altazimuth
- Drive: Strain Wave Gear + Synchronous Belt (300:1 reduction ratio)
- Periodic Error: ≤ ±15″
- PE Duration: 288 s
- Payload Capacity:
- 8 kg (17.64 lbs) without counterweight
- 13 kg (28.66 lbs) with counterweight
- Mount Weight: 4.1 kg (9.04 lbs)
- Altitude Adjustment Range: 0°–90°
- Azimuth Adjustment Range: ±6°
- Dovetail Saddle: Losmandy & Vixen
- Counterweight Bar Thread: M12 × 1.75 coarse thread
- Resolution: 0.17″
- Max Slew Speed: 6°/s
- Slew Speeds:
- 0.5×, 1×, 2×, 4×, 8×, 20×, 60×, 720×
- Max in Heavy Load Mode: 1440×
- Power Port: DC 5.5 × 2.1 mm, center positive (12V, ≥ 3A)
- Power Consumption:
- 12V / 0.65A (Standby)
- 12V / 0.8A (Tracking)
- 12V / 1.3A (GOTO)
ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod Specifications
- Weight: 2.3kg
- Load Capacity: 50kg
- Folded length: 500mm
- Adjustable height: 470mm-800mm
- Sections: 2
- Connection: 3/8"
- Pipe leg diameter:
- Upper section: 40mm
- Lower section: 36mm
ZWO AM3N Load Capacity
Based on internal testing:
1. Maximum load without the counterweight: 8 kg (17.64 lbs) (maximum output torque: 16N · m);
2. Supported counterweight: ≤ 5 kg (11.02 lbs). Maximum load capacity with the counterweight: 13 kg (28.66 lbs).
The counterweight should be secured on a counterweight bar of no more than 25 cm (9.84 in) in length.
ZWO AN3N Mount Details
ZWO AN3N Mechanical Diagram
| Manufacturer | ZWO |
|---|---|
| Product Banner Type | new |
| Free Shipping Graphic | Free Contiguous US Shipping |
| Hide Found a better Shipped Price on Frontend? | No |
-
AM3N Mount Head
-
Soft Carry Case
-
Hand Controller
-
2-Meter Hand Controller Cable
-
1-Meter USB 2.0 Cable (Type-C to Type-A)
-
2-Meter USB 2.0 Cable (Type-B to Type-A)
-
Periodic Error Test Report
-
Quick Guide Brochure/Quick Start Guide
-
M6 Allen Key
-
Carbon Fiber Tripod
-
Tripod Head Plate
-
3-Spikes
-
1-Weight Bag
- Bundle version: Also available for sale as just the AM3N mount head only
- Counterweights not required: The AM3N can accurately track without counterweights for setups under 17.5 lbs (8kg)
- 28.5 lb payload capacity: By adding a counterweight, the ZWO AM3N can support up to 28.5 lbs (13 kg)
- Ultra-lightweight: The mount head weighs just 8.5 lbs (3.9 kg), perfect for travel—even in a carry-on bag
- Seamless integration: Works effortlessly with ASIAIR Plus, ASIAIR Mini, and other ZWO products for easy automation and control
- Premium tripod included: Comes with the ZWO TC40 carbon fiber tripod for a sturdy yet lightweight setup
- Power supply sold separately: The ZWO AM3N requires a 12V / 5A DC power supply, which is sold separately
ZWO AM3N: Powerful. Portable. Precise.
Looking for a mount that’s both ultra-portable and highly precise? The ZWO AM3N combines lightweight portability with professional-grade tracking, making it the perfect choice for deep-sky astrophotographers on the go.
Engineered with strain-wave gears and belt-driven motors, the AM3N delivers exceptionally smooth, accurate tracking in a compact design you can take anywhere. Whether you’re setting up in your backyard or under dark skies far from home, this mount offers the precision and reliability you need—without the bulk.
ZWO AM3N Review
Check out Agena Astro affiliate SarahMaths Astro unboxing video, where she discusses the ZWO AM3 and how it compares to the ZWO AM5.
Equatorial & Altazimuth Modes
The ZWO AM3N’s hybrid equatorial and altazimuth operation gives you the flexibility to track the sky your way! In altazimuth mode, the mount moves up/down and left/right—just like a camera tripod—making it perfect for visual observing, and super easy to set up.
To capture stunning long-exposure deep-sky photos and avoid field rotation, you can adjust the position of the mount to switch to equatorial mode. Field rotation is the trailing effect caused by Earth's natural movement, but in equatorial mode, the AM3 tilts to match Earth’s axis, smoothly tracking along a single path. This ensures your stars stay sharp and your shots remain crisp.
Switching between modes is quick and hassle-free, so you can go from viewing planets to deep-sky astrophotography in no time!
Customized Strain Wave Gear
The ZWO AM3N’s customized strain wave gear gives you the perfect balance of strength and precision for smooth, accurate tracking. Designed specifically for astrophotography, this advanced strain wave gear system uses a flexible spline that deforms slightly as it rotates inside a rigid outer ring.
This innovative design eliminates backlash and minimizes mechanical play, ensuring ultra-precise movement, even with heavier payloads. This results in exceptional stability, so your telescope moves exactly as it should. With its lightweight, compact build, the AM3N delivers all this power without the bulk, making setup and transport easier!
Fully Wireless Operation
The ZWO AM3N’s wireless control simplifies mount operation, reducing cables and setup clutter so you can focus on capturing amazing images. Bluetooth lets you control the mount directly from your smartphone—no hand controller needed—while Wi‑Fi runs through the hand controller. Perfect for travel or field use, you’re ready to observe or image with just your phone. Remote control is also possible via the ZWO SkyAtlas app (iOS/Android) or a computer using ASCOM or INDI-compatible apps like NINA.
The AM3N works seamlessly with the ZWO ASIAIR for automated imaging sessions. A rocker-style hand controller is included, integrated with Wi‑Fi for wireless control, and firmware for both the mount and controller can be easily updated from ZWO’s website.
Upgrades for the AM3N vs. AM3
The ZWO AM3N builds on the proven performance of the original AM3, adding thoughtful upgrades that make astrophotography in the field easier and more reliable than ever.
- Cable Management – A redesigned dovetail saddle with USB-C and 12V DC power ports lets you power accessories directly from the mount while keeping cables tidy and out of the way, even during 360° rotation.
- Wider Operating Range – Engineered for tough conditions, the AM3N runs smoothly from –20 °C to 40 °C, giving you confidence for cold-weather imaging sessions.
- Magnetic Hex Wrench Storage – Keep the included M6 wrench secured right on the mount for quick adjustments whenever you need it.
Powerful Payload Capacity Up to 28.5 lbs
Unlike traditional German Equatorial Mounts, the ZWO AM3N uses a strain wave drive system, meaning it can handle your telescope rig without the need for a counterweight. It supports 17.5 lbs (8kg) right out of the box, which is perfect for wide-field setups and smaller scopes. If you have a heavier telescope, adding a counterweight expands the mount's capacity to 28.5 lbs (13kg)!
Take It Anywhere: Lightweight & Portable
The ZWO AM3N mount weighs just 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg), making it incredibly lightweight and portable. This compact design allows for easy handling and transport, perfect for astrophotographers and visual observers on the go.
While some mounts tip the scales at more than 50 lbs (23kg) when fully assembled, the AM3 keeps things light. Even with the tripod, counterweight, and bar, it weighs just 17.5 lbs (9kg) all together. That means less hauling and faster setup!
Integrated Type-C and DC Power Ports
New for the AM3N are two additional ports on the mount saddle itself: a USB-C and 12V DC port. This lets you connect and power accessories such as a cooled camera without having to worry about snagging a cable on the mount.
Hassle-Free Imaging with ASIAIR
The ZWO AM3 is designed for seamless integration with the ZWO ASIAIR, providing a streamlined and intuitive astrophotography experience.
For users without an ASIAIR, ZWO provides the ASI Mount app for iOS and Android, allowing wireless control of the AM3. Bluetooth lets you connect directly with your smartphone—no hand controller required—while Wi‑Fi is managed through the hand controller, which houses the transmitter. The app also provides easy access to firmware updates right from your smartphone or tablet.
Additionally, the AM3 is compatible with ASCOM, INDI, and SkySafari, offering flexibility across various control platforms.
Connect More: Multiple Ports for Seamless Integration
The ZWO AM3N features a handful of ports on the mount head itself for connecting various accessories. Included ports and indicators are:
- DC 12v power supply port
- Auto-guiding port for connecting a guide camera
- A port for connecting the hand controller
- A USB 2.0 port for connecting to a smart controller like the ASIAIR
- A status indicator light (Red = EQ mode, Green = Alt-Az mode)
Navigate Your Way: Use a Hand Controller or Go Wireless
The ZWO AM3N includes a rocker-style hand controller that allows you to point the mount in any direction. The hand controller lets you switch between equatorial and altazimuth modes, which can also be done via the ASI Mount app.
Backlash-Free Advantage for Precise Tracking
One of the best things about the AM3N’s strain wave drive design is how easy it makes setup. No need to balance your telescope, just mount it, polar align the ZWO AM3, and you’re all set! Plus, there are no clutches to worry about, so you won’t have to remember to lock or unlock anything. This means less time setting up and tearing down, so you can spend more time enjoying your viewing sessions.
And here’s the best part, the AM3N doesn’t suffer from backlash! Backlash is a common issue with traditional worm drive mounts. While strain wave drive mounts do experience some periodic error, ZWO keeps it under ±20 arc-seconds, which is negligible for most imaging. Each mount is tested and shipped with an individual periodic error (PE) curve report, so you can be sure that the mount has been carefully tested at ZWO’s factory before it even reaches you.
Built to last: Durable Construction with User-Friendly Controls
The ZWO AM3N combines a robust yet lightweight design, offering both durability and precision. Its high-quality aluminum alloy construction ensures strength while keeping the mount portable for easy transport. The latitude scale is marked, allowing you to quickly and accurately adjust the mount to your exact location for perfect polar alignment. The latitude adjustment knobs are smooth and responsive, providing fine adjustments so you can easily fine-tune your setup, ensuring accurate tracking every time.
For added stability and versatility, the dovetail saddle supports a wide range of telescope rigs, securely holding your setup in place while providing easy attachment and detachment. The mount also features well-placed buttons and controls, including a power button and USB ports for quick startup and a user-friendly interface.
Complete Your Setup: Power Supply, Tripod & Accessories
The ZWO AM3N requires a 12v/5a DC power supply, which is sold separately.
The mount is compatible with the TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod, which is included in this package. It can also be purchased separately.
If you already have a tripod, you can buy the ZWO AM3 mount head separately.
For added stability, pair the mount with the BC230 counterweight bar. The bar is compatible with both the AM3 and AM5 mounts. Counterweights for the AM3 are sold separately.
If you're using longer telescope tubes, like large refractors, ZWO offers two pier extensions for the AM3:
ZWO AM3N Specifications
- Mount Type: German Equatorial Mount
- Mount Mode: Equatorial / Altazimuth
- Drive: Strain Wave Gear + Synchronous Belt (300:1 reduction ratio)
- Periodic Error: ≤ ±15″
- PE Duration: 288 s
- Payload Capacity:
- 8 kg (17.64 lbs) without counterweight
- 13 kg (28.66 lbs) with counterweight
- Mount Weight: 4.1 kg (9.04 lbs)
- Altitude Adjustment Range: 0°–90°
- Azimuth Adjustment Range: ±6°
- Dovetail Saddle: Losmandy & Vixen
- Counterweight Bar Thread: M12 × 1.75 coarse thread
- Resolution: 0.17″
- Max Slew Speed: 6°/s
- Slew Speeds:
- 0.5×, 1×, 2×, 4×, 8×, 20×, 60×, 720×
- Max in Heavy Load Mode: 1440×
- Power Port: DC 5.5 × 2.1 mm, center positive (12V, ≥ 3A)
- Power Consumption:
- 12V / 0.65A (Standby)
- 12V / 0.8A (Tracking)
- 12V / 1.3A (GOTO)
ZWO TC40 Carbon Fiber Tripod Specifications
- Weight: 2.3kg
- Load Capacity: 50kg
- Folded length: 500mm
- Adjustable height: 470mm-800mm
- Sections: 2
- Connection: 3/8"
- Pipe leg diameter:
- Upper section: 40mm
- Lower section: 36mm
ZWO AM3N Load Capacity
Based on internal testing:
1. Maximum load without the counterweight: 8 kg (17.64 lbs) (maximum output torque: 16N · m);
2. Supported counterweight: ≤ 5 kg (11.02 lbs). Maximum load capacity with the counterweight: 13 kg (28.66 lbs).
The counterweight should be secured on a counterweight bar of no more than 25 cm (9.84 in) in length.
ZWO AN3N Mount Details
ZWO AN3N Mechanical Diagram
| Manufacturer | ZWO |
|---|---|
| Product Banner Type | new |
| Free Shipping Graphic | Free Contiguous US Shipping |
| Hide Found a better Shipped Price on Frontend? | No |
-
AM3N Mount Head
-
Soft Carry Case
-
Hand Controller
-
2-Meter Hand Controller Cable
-
1-Meter USB 2.0 Cable (Type-C to Type-A)
-
2-Meter USB 2.0 Cable (Type-B to Type-A)
-
Periodic Error Test Report
-
Quick Guide Brochure/Quick Start Guide
-
M6 Allen Key
-
Carbon Fiber Tripod
-
Tripod Head Plate
-
3-Spikes
-
1-Weight Bag