Refractor or Mak

This is probably a question which has been asked here before, but I'm going to ask it anyway:

Given the same size aperture, which would be the better performer - a refractor or a mak?

Its all about cost really.
If you can afford a big high end refractor then go for it, if not then go for a MAK instead.

Not an easy question to answer.

In general, Maks have long focal lengths and are considered "slow". By that I mean, they have f/ratios of, say, f12 or f/15 or even f/20. This gives a narrow field of view, or piece of the sky to observe. In general, they are aimed at those who wish to observe the moon and planets. In general, they have good colour correction.

Refractors on the other hand don't have a central obstruction, which a Mak does have. This improves the contrast of the image. To get good colour correction, you need a good quality APO. These are expensive. They can come in "faster" f-ratios of say f/6 or f/7. This makes them more suitable for deep sky observing than a Mak. However, they can still be used for lunar and planetary observations.

Alot will also depend on the build quality of the scope. You could get a good quality Mak which could give a much better image than a poor quality refractor and vice-versa. Things like optical quality, build quality, quality of focuser etc all play an important role in the selection of a scope. I've seen some scopes with nice optics let down by silly design flaws in build quality, so it's important that the entire package be considered.

So, no easy answer. This is why both types of scopes are sold as different people have different opinions and have different observation patterns.

Hope this helps to give an honest appraisal of both types of scopes.

It also depends on what you want to use it for. Maks generally have a long focal length - F15 or so. Ideal for visual use or webcamming Planets. Long focal length refractors are not as popular these days due to the popularity of Astrophotography, and a call for low F numbers. Everything is about trade offs, even if your budget is unlimited (although I suppose if your budget is unlimited you can have a Mak, a refractor, a Cass, a reflector and anything else you care for in a nice observatory or three).
Decide what you primarily want to use the scope for first then get the best scope for the money that suits your purpose.

Guys,

thanks for the advice - it's exactly what i was looking for. I'm planning on buying a new scope in the near future and have been trying to decide what's best for me. I'm not going to be spending a fortune because I don't get to spend enough time observing to justify that, however I want to have a shot at viewing some DSO's as well as the planets etc.

So, seems like a refractor would be the best bet for me.

Thanks once again,

Michael.