· Dobsonian
Sky Watcher Flextube 16" 400P Synscan GOTO Collapsible Dobsonian
16 inches of light-gathering power with computerized GoTo convenience, built for serious deep-sky observing on a manageable budget.
Price updated Mar 22, 2026
Performance Scores
Overview
The Sky-Watcher Flextube 16" Dobsonian is a serious instrument aimed at amateur astronomers who want genuinely large aperture without the price tag of a premium observatory-grade scope. The 16-inch primary mirror gathers enough light to reveal faint galaxy structure, globular cluster resolution down to individual stars, and nebula detail that smaller scopes simply cannot access. At f/4.4 and 1800mm focal length, it rewards wide-field eyepieces and performs well on both deep-sky targets and planetary views.
The collapsible Flextube design makes transport and storage more practical than a traditional solid-tube Dobsonian of this size, though at 31kg you will still want help moving it. The SynScan GoTo system carries a 42,000-object database and handles the alignment and slewing automatically, which removes a real barrier for newer observers learning the sky. Worth noting honestly: the included 10mm and 25mm Plossl eyepieces are adequate starting points but most owners will want to invest in better eyepieces to match the aperture.
The 3.8 Amazon rating across 65 reviews suggests some users encounter issues, so careful collimation practice and realistic transport planning are important before purchasing.
At a Glance
f/4.4
Focal Ratio
31.39kg
Weight
1800mm
Focal Length
Specifications
Key Features
- 16-inch aperture provides substantial light collection for faint nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters beyond the reach of most amateur instruments
- SynScan GoTo controller with 42,000-object database automates target finding, reducing the learning curve for newer observers
- Collapsible Flextube design shortens the optical tube for easier storage and transport compared to a fixed-tube equivalent
- 2-inch Crayford focuser accepts a wide range of eyepieces and accessories for future upgrades
- 8x50 erect-image finder scope provides a practical wide-field view for initial orientation
- Two-year Sky-Watcher warranty offers reasonable manufacturer support for a significant investment
- At f/4.4, collimation accuracy matters considerably; budget time to learn and perform this regularly for best image quality
Customer Reviews
65 reviews
Yes, it is big, yes it is awesome. Now for all you fans, something I did not know. Upon opening the box, the first piece of paper slipped out and indicated , "by the way your Sky-Watcher has built in Wi-Fi." I did not know they had started doing this. I almost bought the Wi-Fi dongle with the scope....
I had been thinking of upgrading to this scope for a year before I did it, and I wish I could get that time back and just buy the thing already! NO regrets! Previously I had a 4.5" manual dob; it was a great starter scope. What I love about this one: 1) The tracking! It's great to be able to keep ob...
The box arrived damaged with a hole and scratches. The secondary mirror adjustment screws and center screw were seized and could not be loosened, making the telescope impossible to collimate. The back of the secondary mirror was dented, raising concerns that the product was not new. I had to disasse...