ASIAir - Pro, Mini, Plus | Which is the Best Value?
Peter Zelinka Peter Zelinka
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 Published On May 9, 2023

This video was originally intended to be an ASIAir Mini review. However, @AstroBlender already has a wonderful video that will explain all the new features here:
   • ZWO ASI Air Mini Review  

I wanted to answer some common questions I've received regarding the older ASIAir Pro, and how to improve its WiFi capabilities. As we all know, the ASIAir Pro has pretty awful Wi-Fi range, and it can drop a signal within 10 feet. This can be very frustrating to deal with. (Thankfully the newer gens of the ASIAir include an antenna) There's really two options - an antenna modification, or a Wi-Fi booster. I'd probably go for the Antenna mod myself, or just buy a new Mini. You can find the Netgear Wi-Fi Extender here:
https://www.netgear.com/home/wifi/ran...

Next, we'll look at the differences between the ASIAir Mini and ASIAir Plus. As you'll see, they are very similar, minus a power switch and USB 3.0 ports. In terms of user experience, you won't really see any difference between the two models. They both run the same software, they both have 4 power outputs and 4 USB ports, and they both work well! I've been using the Mini since January and haven't really had any problems. Therefore, I think the Mini is the better choice, considering it costs $100 less than the Plus.

Finally, we'll compare the features and pricing of the Mini, Plus, and the new 256GB Plus model to find the best value. The main difference here is the internal storage. Both the Mini and Plus have 32GB of internal storage. This should be fine for most people. If you find yourself constantly low on space though, you can always add a flash drive to one of the USB ports on the ASIAir. I show how to do this in the video. Now, storage is no longer a concern! You can use the $200 Mini and still have plenty of room to store your high-res Lights, Flats, and Darks. With that said, the latest 256GB Plus does have a few hardware improvements, which could theoretically improve performance. I haven't used one yet though, so I can't say for sure.

As you've seen today, regardless of the ASIAir you choose, you may encounter software problems. I couldn't even use my ASIAir until I reinstalled the broken app on my phone. (This was likely due to the app transfer when upgrading from an old phone) You may encounter similar issues when you're out on-location. This is one of the realities of being an astrophotographer. You need to be a good troubleshooter, as there will always be new problems occurring with your gear. Even if the ASIAir is working flawlessly, perhaps your camera is acting up, or the mount is not performing the go-to correctly. Patience and persistence are key!

You can purchase the ASIAir Mini here:
https://agenaastro.com/zwo-asiair-min...

You can purchase the ASIAir Plus (32GB) here:
https://agenaastro.com/zwo-asiair-plu...

You can purchase the ASIAir Plus (256GB) here:
https://agenaastro.com/zwo-asiair-plu...

00:00 - Intro
01:33 - Increase ASIAir Pro WiFi Range
04:50 - Technical Difficulties Part 1
06:07 - ASIAir Mini vs ASIAir Plus
08:46 - Which ASIAir is the best value?
10:44 - Technical Difficulties Part 2
12:53 - Save Images to Flash Drive
14:35 - Which ASIAir Should I Get?

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