Sky-Watcher · Dobsonian
Sky-Watcher FlexTube 300 SynScan
305mm of light-gathering power with GoTo convenience, in a Dobsonian that actually fits in your car.
Price updated Mar 22, 2026
Performance Scores
Overview
The Sky-Watcher FlexTube 300 SynScan is a 12-inch Dobsonian that solves one of the hobby's oldest frustrations: getting serious aperture without sacrificing convenience. The collapsible strut design reduces the optical tube to a manageable size for transport, while reportedly preserving collimation between sessions, though you should always verify alignment before observing. At f/4.9 with a 305mm aperture, this telescope pulls in enough light to show you structure in galaxies, resolved globular clusters, planetary nebulae, and real detail on Jupiter and Saturn.
The SynScan GoTo system uses DC servo motors with all-metal gearing to locate and track objects automatically, drawing from a 42,000-object database. Built-in WiFi lets you control the mount from a smartphone, which is a genuine convenience for star parties and casual sessions. The package includes a 25mm and 10mm eyepiece, a 9x50 finder scope, and a 2-inch Crayford focuser with a 1.25-inch adapter.
Keep in mind the fully assembled weight is around 99 pounds, so this is a two-piece setup you carry, not a grab-and-go scope. At $2,299, it sits at a reasonable price point for motorized aperture of this size.
At a Glance
305mm
Aperture
f/4.9
Focal Ratio
6.21kg
Weight
1500mm
Focal Length
Specifications
Key Features
- 305mm aperture gathers significantly more light than an 8-inch or 10-inch scope, making faint deep-sky objects genuinely accessible
- Collapsible FlexTube design reduces transport length while keeping the optical alignment stable between sessions
- GoTo and tracking motors allow the telescope to locate objects automatically and follow them as Earth rotates, which matters at higher magnifications
- Built-in WiFi connects to Sky-Watcher's app, removing the need to rely solely on the hand controller
- 94% reflective multi-coated borosilicate mirrors maximize light throughput compared to standard coatings
- Comes with two wide-angle eyepieces, a 9x50 finder, and a quality Crayford focuser, so you can observe on night one without additional purchases
- The 99-pound assembled weight means planning your setup and teardown process before committing to this scope
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...