Neither. Take the money, buy a considerably larger set of optics and
build a much larger Dobsonian. Still portable. Much better light grasp
and if the optics are good, better resolution. The EQ mount that comes
with these little telescopes won't do you much good for extensive
astrophotography, so put the $$ into the optics.

IMHO

Bart F.

JG wrote:

Here's another dull one. But please, help me choose my first telescope.

Suppose you're back to buying your first telescope (but without losing any
precious accumulated experience). Your budget is (very) tight but,
nevertheless, you drive to your favourite telescope store.
Side by side are the 2 most expensive models you can afford:

-Newtonian F7, 130mm aperture x 900mm focal length
-Mak-Cass F13, 102mm aperture x 1300mm focal length
Both "Skywhatcher" and both in EQ2 mount.

Which of these would you choose? And why?
Please also take into consideration portability, assembly etc...

Thanks