
ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera
The ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera offers 9MP resolution, 3.76μm pixels, zero amp glow, 10-stop dynamic range, and efficient cooling for clear, detailed planetary and deep sky imaging with minimal noise.
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An affordable entry-level deep sky camera
The ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera is a great beginner-friendly option for both planetary and deep space imaging. Featuring the advanced Sony IMX533MC square sensor with 9MP resolution (3008×3008) and 3.76μm pixel size, the ZWO 533 delivers exceptional image quality and detail.
As part of the ZWO 533 camera series, the ASI 533MC benefits from zero amp glow, a low 1.0e read noise, and high dynamic range, making it an ideal option for long-exposure astrophotography and capturing faint deep-sky objects. Its modern back-illuminated sensor design enhances light sensitivity and reduces noise compared to traditional front-illuminated sensors.
With built-in TEC cooling, the ASI533MC Pro can achieve a ΔT of 35°C below ambient, helping keep thermal noise under control for consistently clean images during extended imaging sessions. A 256MB DDR3 buffer ensures reliable data transfer during long captures.
Thanks to innovative circuitry, the ASI533MC Pro completely eliminates amp glow even at high gain settings and long exposures, making it perfect for capturing clean, high-contrast astrophotography images.
Camera Performance
QE Graph
The ZWO ASI533MC Pro delivers peak quantum efficiency of around 80% near 530nm (green light) and maintains high sensitivity across the visible spectrum from 450–650nm. It captures faint astronomical targets with excellent performance for both planetary and deep-sky imaging. Sensitivity tapers off below 400nm and above 750nm, as expected for CMOS sensors, while its modern design eliminates amp glow and keeps noise low.
Full Specifications
Type | Colour |
Sensor Type | IMX533 |
Sensor Size | 11.31x11.31mm |
Pixel Size | 3.76 μm |
Read Noise | 1.0e |
Resolution | 9MP (3008x3008) |
Max Framerate | 20 FPS |
Zero Amp Glow? | Yes |
Delta T | 35°C below ambient |
Memory Buffer | 256MB DDR3 |
Shutter | Rolling Shutter |
QE Peak | 80% |
Full Well | 50,000e |
Back Focus | 6.5mm |
ADC | 14-bit |
Exposure Range | 32μs-2000s |
USB | 3.0 |
Adapter | M42 X 0.75 |
Weight | 700 g |
Recommended Accessories
Camera Connection
Mechanical Drawing

About ZWO Optical
Astrophotography has never been easier.
Established in 2011, ZWO Optical is a fast-growing global astroimaging camera powerhouse based in Suzhou China. They focus on building and innovating ground-breaking CMOS cameras such as the iconic ZWO ASI120MM Monochrome CMOS camera (the first-ever planetary CMOS camera to beat a CCD in the early 2010s). ZWO continues to pioneer new astrophotography technology with revolutionary features to capture exceptional quality of images of space that will last you a lifetime. Today, ZWO cameras are recognised by every passionate astrophotographer and are available in over 25 countries internationally.
Product Code: ASI533MC-P
Colour / Monochrome | Colour |
---|---|
Sensor Type | IMX533 |
Sensor Size | 1" |
Resolution | 9MP (3008*3008) |
Pixel Size | 3.76μm |
ADC | 14bit |
Read Noise | 1.0-3.8e |
USB | 3.0/2.0 |
FPS | 20fps |
Shutter | Rolling Shutter |
QE Peak | 80% |
Full Well | 50000e |
Exposure Range | 32μs-2000s |
Back Focus | 17.5mm |
Power | USB |
Cooled? | Yes |
Working Temperature | -5°C—45°C |
Storage Temperature | -20°C—60°C |
Humidity | 20%—80% |
Usage | Deep Sky Imaging |
Camera Weight | 470g |
Warranty Information | 2 Years |
Additional Specifications of Product | Max FPS at full resolution: 14Bit ADC 3008×3008 19.88fps 1920×1080 54.11fps 1280×720 79.74fps 640×480 116.55ps 320×240 216.45fps |
Image | Item | Qty |
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ZWO ASI533MC Pro Colour Astronomy CMOS Camera - Body | 1 |
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Cover | 1 |
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1.25" Nosepiece | 1 |
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M42-M48 Adapter | 1 |
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T2-M48 Extender (16.5mm) | 1 |
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T2-1.25" Adapter | 1 |
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T2 Extender (21mm) | 1 |
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Spacer | 4 |
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USB 2.0 Cable (0.5m) | 2 |
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USB 3.0 Cable (2m) | 1 |
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Instruction Manual | 1 |
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Soft carry bag for camera | 1 |
Q1. What is the standard backfocus distance for ZWO cameras?
All ZWO cameras have a standard backfocus of 55mm. This matches the optical design of most flatteners and reducers. Always check your reducer/flattener manual to confirm the required distance.
Q2. How do I achieve 55mm backfocus with a ZWO cooled camera?
Start with the camera sensor to flange distance, typically 17.5mm, then add spacers and accessories to reach 55mm total. For example: 17.5mm (camera), 21mm (M42 extension ring) or filter drawer, 16.5mm (M42-M48 adapter or OAG). This gives a total of 55mm.
Q3. How do I calculate backfocus when using a ZWO filter wheel?
ZWO’s 5 Position 1.25"/31mm/36mm filter wheels and filter drawers add 20mm-21mm of backfocus.
For a typical setup: 17.5mm (camera), 20mm (filter wheel), 16.5mm (M42 extension or adapter) for a Total = 54–55mm.
Q4. How do I set backfocus when using a ZWO OAG (Off-Axis Guider)?
The ZWO OAG adds about 16.5mm of backfocus. A sample setup might look like: 17.5mm (camera) + 16.5mm (OAG) +21mm (extension ring) Total = 55mm.
Note: The OAG prism needs to be aligned with the sensor for proper guiding.
Q5. How do filters affect backfocus with ZWO cameras?
Filters, especially in a filter drawer or wheel, shift focus slightly—typically 1/3 the thickness of the filter. For a 2mm thick filter, this means reducing the backfocus by about 0.66mm. ZWO already accounts for this in their 55mm recommendation, assuming standard filters are used.
Q6. What if my stars look distorted at the edges—could it be a backfocus issue?
Yes, coma, elongated stars, or blurry edges are common signs of incorrect backfocus. Double-check each spacer’s thickness, make sure components are properly threaded, and measure the total optical path to ensure it equals the required backfocus.
Q7. Do ZWO planetary and guide cameras require a backfocus setup?
No, uncooled ZWO planetary or guide cameras (e.g. ASI178MM, ASI662MC, ASI174MM Mini) are usually connected directly via 1.25" nosepiece and don’t require backfocus spacing unless used with optics (e.g. OAG or Barlow). They are focused by adjusting position in the focuser or OAG helical focuser.
Q8. What software can I use with my ASI camera?
The ASI Caemra range is compatible with a wide range of astrophotography software. You can use:
ZWO ASIAIR for a mobile-friendly, all-in-one imaging solution (requires ASIAIR Plus sold separtely), ZWO’s native Windows/Mac drivers with ASIStudio, third-party software such as NINA, SharpCap, APT, Sequence Generator Pro, and FireCapture, using ZWO’s ASCOM and native SDK drivers.
Make sure your software is updated to the latest version to ensure full support for this full-frame camera.
Q9. Does the ZWO ASI Cameras work with ASIAIR?
Yes, ASI cameras is fully supported by ASIAIR. You can control cooling (for cooled cameras), gain, offset, exposures, filters (if connected via EFW), and guiding through the ASIAIR mobile app. Be sure to keep ASIAIR firmware and the app itself updated for best compatibility.
Q10. What is the recommended gain and offset setting for the ASI cooled cameras?
This varies by target and sky conditions, but ZWO recommends:
Gain 100 for optimal dynamic range and low read noise
Gain 0 for maximum dynamic range in bright targets or longer exposures
Offset typically ranges from 30–50 but should be adjusted depending on your software and histogram.
Q11. Can I use my ASI Camera with a DSLR lens?
Yes, you may be able to use your ASI Camera with DSLR lenses using appropriate ZWO lens adapters (e.g. M54 to Canon EF/Nikon F). You will need to ensure proper backfocus and may need a manual or electronic lens controller for aperture/focus adjustments.
Q12. My software doesn't recognise my camera – what should I do?
Try the following:
- Install the latest ZWO native and ASCOM drivers.
- Check your USB 3.0 cable and port; use a powered hub if needed.
- Test connectivity with an alternative app like ASIStudio.
- Update your software or firmware (e.g. ASIAIR, NINA).