ZWO ASI2600MC P25 USB 3.0 Cooled Color Camera – 26 MP APS-C

ZWO ASI2600MC P25 USB 3.0 Cooled Color Camera

Advanced Performance in a Compact APS-C Design

ZWO’s ASI2600MC P25 represents the next evolution of one-shot-color astrophotography. Combining the proven Sony IMX571 APS-C sensor with refined electronics, expanded buffering, and even lower noise, this latest Pro-series camera delivers professional-grade imaging in a lightweight, elegantly machined body. It’s designed for imagers who demand both precision and reliability—whether you’re capturing wide nebular vistas or the delicate structure of distant galaxies.

At only 0.7 kg (1.54 lb), the ASI2600MC P25 is easy to integrate into almost any optical system, yet it holds the dynamic range, depth, and color fidelity needed to produce observatory-level data. From first exposure to final stacked frame, the camera performs quietly, consistently, and with remarkable grace.

Optical System / Sensor Performance

At its heart lies the Sony IMX571 back-illuminated CMOS sensor, measuring 23.5 × 15.7 mm with a 28.3 mm diagonal—the ideal APS-C format for today’s imagers. This 26-megapixel array (6248 × 4176 pixels) features 3.76 µm photosites that strike a perfect balance between fine resolution and generous photon-gathering power.

Each pixel holds an impressive full-well capacity of ~75 ke⁻, expanding the usable dynamic range to roughly 14 stops. The true 16-bit ADC preserves subtle tonal transitions and smooth gradients, while ZWO’s low-noise architecture minimizes read noise to as little as 0.7 e⁻ at high gain. Together, these specifications let the ASI2600MC P25 record both the faintest filaments of emission nebulae and the luminous cores of bright stars without clipping or loss of detail.

Color data is handled through a precisely aligned Bayer matrix that maintains high sensitivity—80 % peak quantum efficiency—across the visible spectrum. The result is vivid, accurate color rendering straight from the sensor, reducing dependence on post-processing corrections and preserving natural balance in broadband or narrowband imaging.

Cooling & Noise Control

Long-exposure astrophotography demands strict thermal management, and the ASI2600MC P25’s dual-stage thermoelectric cooling system meets that requirement effortlessly. The sensor temperature can be driven 30 – 35 °C below ambient, lowering dark current to levels nearly undetectable against the sky background.

ZWO’s dark-current suppression circuitry complements this hardware by reducing thermal signal at the source, while the Zero Amp Glow design eliminates the bright corner artifacts that once plagued CMOS imagers. The outcome is clean, uniform data—even during marathon imaging sessions under warm skies.

For consistent performance through long nights, an integrated polyimide window heater prevents dew or frost formation on the protective cover glass. Drawing just 5 W at maximum output, it keeps the optical path clear without introducing thermal turbulence near the sensor plane.

Mechanical & Electronic Design

The ASI2600MC P25 is built for precision alignment and easy integration. A sensor-tilt adjustment plate allows fine orthogonality tuning, ensuring pinpoint star shapes across the full APS-C field when paired with flatteners or reducers. The camera provides a standard 17.5 mm backfocus, achieved through its native 6.5 mm spacing plus included adapters, so it drops seamlessly into imaging trains designed for the 55 mm industry standard.

Data flow and stability are managed by a 512 MB DDR3 buffer, double that of earlier models. This onboard memory prevents dropped frames and maintains image integrity even under heavy USB traffic. The USB 3.0 Type-B port handles primary data transfer, while two auxiliary USB 2.0 ports allow connection of accessories such as filter wheels, guiders, or focusers—simplifying cable management through a single hub.

Power is supplied via a 12 V DC (5.5 × 2.1 mm center-positive) input capable of 3 A. This single line drives the camera, cooler, and heater simultaneously, offering a clean, reliable setup for field or observatory use.

The matte-finished red aluminum housing is both functional and beautiful—lightweight for balance, yet robust enough to protect internal components from temperature fluctuations and vibration. Every surface and thread is precision-cut for secure attachment and long-term durability.

Final Thoughts

The ZWO ASI2600MC P25 Cooled Color Camera exemplifies how far dedicated astrophotography technology has advanced. Its combination of high resolution, generous full-well capacity, ultra-low noise, and impeccable thermal control makes it one of the most balanced and capable cameras in the APS-C class.

For imagers seeking the convenience of one-shot color capture without compromise in precision or depth, the ASI2600MC P25 stands at the top of its field. It transforms faint nebulae into textured, colorful portraits; reveals galaxies with graceful spiral definition; and records wide-field panoramas with clarity once reserved for far larger detectors.

Refined, reliable, and remarkably efficient, the ASI2600MC P25 isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a mature imaging instrument built for those who want their camera to disappear behind the data, leaving only the beauty of the universe in its place.

Who is the ASI2600MC Pro For?

This camera is an excellent choice for astrophotographers at all levels, from hobbyists upgrading from a DSLR to experienced imagers looking for a high-performance color camera. Deep-sky photographers will appreciate its sensitivity and dynamic range, while planetary imagers will benefit from its fast readout speeds. It is also a great option for live-stacking and electronically assisted astronomy (EAA), providing real-time views of deep-sky objects with remarkable clarity.