The red dot finder that comes with the telescope is cheap but functional. If you can, you should get an 8″ Dobsonian. The XT6 Plus has many additional features that are not found on any other telescopes at this price point. But still, SkyWatcher 6″ Dobsonian’s deep space performance is better than any refractor or tripod model you would find at this price range. The mount is the same as other 6″ Dob mounts. It should be excluded from every telescope package to drive the price down. In terms of functionality Nylon pads don’t create any problems, but they feel cheap. Selecting the right tool for the job is half the battle. Priced at the XT6 is over $100 cheaper than the larger XT8 and offers better value and performance than the smaller XT4.5. Until Orion sends a 2″ focuser with the XT6, you should get the SkyWatcher 6″. The focuser also deems the tension adjuster springs useless. Such a combination will provide an f/8 focal ratio, which is why it leans towards planetary detail. I think it is better than slightly more expensive scope type finders, 6×30, for example. Tension Adjuster Springs provide additional friction by holding the optical tube down. ©TelescopesToBuy, 2020 Deep space performance is not the best a 6″ Dob would provide, and this is due to the 1.25″ focuser. But I don’t mind it for two reasons. A 6mm Goldline eyepiece will improve planetary performance drastically. Yes, absolutely. I was able … The optical power is more than enough for a beginner, the mount is solid, it has balance adjustments, and it doesn’t come with useless accessories. The 1.25″ focuser choice is disappointing. It helps to focus by projecting a red dot on a screen. If you are looking for top-notch views for a reasonable price, few telescopes are able to offer what this one can. The images will look vastly better in real life, but this might give you and idea. It is suitable for deep space observations. SkyQuest XT6 gets close to being the perfect beginner scope if not for its one weakness, and that is its 1.25″ focuser. This telescope delivers images of superb quality at an affordable price. The 6" aperture provides good light grasp and mount is simple and easy to use. SkyQuest XT6 is a solid performer, but it is not the best 6″ Dobsonian. The field view it provides is narrow, and it makes it harder to observe larger deep space objects. Orion SkyQuest XT Review (XT4.5, XT6, XT8, XT10) Last Updated: September 22, 2020. Do not forget that this is a Dobsonian, which are made for optical performance and nothing else. Teflon, is the ultimate, butter smooth material, and I don’t understand why Orion uses Nylon. Due to its weight and bulky nature it is rock-solid, so you won’t have any “stability” problems. In fact, it is one of the best starter telescopes you can get in the whole astronomy world. The base is particleboard, which is also a cheap material. But a 6″ will, without a doubt, mesmerize a beginner. It is a simple device. The Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian telescope is a very good 6 inch Dobsonian telescope to invest in with a good quality build, great specs, decent accessories bar the finderscope and of course the great price of around $250 – $300. Focusing and getting detail will be easier compared to other Dobs with the SkyQuest XT6. The XT6 Classic Dobsonian gives you the deep-space thrills without the deep-pocket frills. Firstly, it is not an important part of the telescope. Phases of Venus are easy to observe with the SkyQuest XT6. Reviewed in the United States on June 10, 2018 This is one excellent telescope! It provides 48x magnification with a wide-field view. The problem is there is a better model and that is SkyWatcher 6″ Dob. They are more of a problem at the 10″-12″ range. The 1.25″ focuser is the biggest drawback. You will have to change the focuser eventually, and this will add to the cost. But I don’t mind it for two reasons. Unfortunately, this amazing telescope gets pulled down by its focuser. But, it is not future-proof. I researched reflector telescopes 6" and under for month's before deciding on the XT6 Plus.