13 best microscopes

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Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Microscopes allow us to better know the world around us. These devices enlarge a small fragment of an object, allowing a person to examine its structure in detail. For many ordinary people, communication with a microscope at school remains the only experience of learning the interesting world of microorganisms. But someone comes across this device during their daily work, while for someone it becomes an integral part of their favorite hobby. In each case, a device with a set of specific characteristics is required. You can purchase a high-quality expensive model, the capabilities of which will be used by 10-20 percent. And sometimes the equipment and functionality of the device is not enough for professional activities. Our experts will try to help in a difficult choice.

How to choose a microscope

  1. Appointment. One should start by defining the tasks that will face the microscope. It's one thing when a device becomes a cognitive toy for a child, a completely different approach is required when looking for a model for soldering microcircuits.
  2. Eyepiece and lens. The most important elements of any microscope are the eyepiece and objective. If the eyepiece is a system of lenses installed in the upper part of the tube, then the objective is the same lenses located directly in front of the object under study. Eyepieces are often changed to video eyepieces or cameras, which allows examination with transmission to the large screen. Modern devices are equipped with several objectives with different magnifications, their rearrangement is quick thanks to the revolving mechanism.
  3. Backlight. Good lighting is required to thoroughly analyze miniature objects. Daylight is not always enough to get a high-quality picture. Therefore, manufacturers install overhead or combined lighting. Labor productivity often depends on its capacity.
  4. Increase. The magnification of a microscope is determined by the product of the eyepiece and objective zoom. If the eyepiece has 10x magnification and the objective 40x, then the microscope magnification will be 400x. For educational purposes, a maximum value of 800x is enough, for laboratory research – 1600x.
  5. Camera. Digital microscopes are additionally equipped with a camera. To get a clear photo or video picture, you need to pay attention to the resolution of the camera. High resolution HD gadgets will work best.

Our review includes 13 best microscopes. When selecting candidates, the following criteria were taken into account:

  1. the purpose of the device;
  2. technical equipment;
  3. price;
  4. expert opinion;
  5. consumer reviews.

Rating of the best microscopes

Nomination a place Name of product price
The best children's microscopes 1 Micromed Eureka RUB 7,000
2 Bresser National Geographic 20x RUB 7,663
3 Levenhuk Rainbow 2L, Amethyst RUB 8,273
4 Celestron Microscope Kit 44121 RUB 3,489
5 Eastcolight MP-450 1 229 RUB
Best binocular microscopes 1 Levenhuk 850B RUB 62,990
2 BRESSER Advance ICD 10x-160x RUB 62 953
3 Micromed 1 var. 2 LED RUB 12,010
Best digital microscopes 1 Levenhuk D740T RUB 59,990
2 SAIKE DIGITAL SK2500TH2 RUB 14,999
3 Bresser Duolux 20x – 1280x RUB 19,990
Best microscopes for soldering 1 Saike Digital SK2700VS RUB 14,999
2 Andonstar A1 RUB 3,999

The best children's microscopes

Many children are impressed by the study of the simplest sections for a long time. It is enough for the child to cling to the eyepiece so that he is carried away by a useful activity. In the future, it will be easier for the student to master such subjects as physics, chemistry and biology. The following models are perfect for these purposes.

Micromed Eureka

Rating: 4.9

Micromed Eureka

An excellent gift for an inquisitive child will be the Micromed Eureka microscope. With its help, many topics in biology will become clear, skills in working with a magnifying device will appear. The model is widely used in Russian schools, it has become a popular accessory in children's rooms. The main purpose of the microscope is to study slices and smears. The device can work in any lighting conditions thanks to the built-in backlight. The power source can be a household power supply or 3 AAA batteries.

The experts gave the first place in the rating to the microscope for high-quality optics and video eyepiece (2 Mpix). The safety of the device during transportation is ensured by a reliable case.

Advantages

  • high-quality optics;
  • combined lighting;
  • power supply from mains or batteries;
  • wide range of magnifications (40x-1280x).

disadvantages

  • high price.

Bresser National Geographic 20x

Rating: 4.8

Bresser National Geographic 20x

The Bresser National Geographic 20x children's microscope allows you to obtain a three-dimensional image of an object using a binocular. Even a simple study of a leaf will be an exciting adventure for budding biologists. The model is distinguished by its simplicity in operation, even a small child can master the device. The maximum magnification is 20x and the device is equipped with top LED illumination. In these components, the microscope is inferior to the winner of the rating, occupying the second place.

The complete set of the device cannot be called rich, along with the microscope there is an instruction, 12 minerals for research and eyepieces. 2 AA batteries are used as a current source for the built-in lamp.

Advantages

  • Ease of controls;
  • stereoscopic review;
  • reliability and durability.

disadvantages

  • poor equipment;
  • high price.

Levenhuk Rainbow 2L, Amethyst

Rating: 4.7

Levenhuk Rainbow 2L, Amethyst

Children's microscope Levenhuk Rainbow 2L, Amethyst looks very stylish. As a gift, it is perfect for both schoolchildren and students. The model has good optics, which makes it possible to use the device not only for studying a school course in biology, but even in research laboratories. The device is equipped with 3 lenses (4x, 10x and 40xs), and the magnification range is 64-640x. Experts note the possibility of studying both transparent and non-transparent objects. This is made possible by the combined illumination.

Users note the convenient angle of inclination of the eyepiece tube (45 degrees), in addition, the tip is rotated around the axis, which allows multiple researchers to work simultaneously.

Advantages

  • combined lighting;
  • wide functionality;
  • range of magnification.

disadvantages

  • a modest set of samples to study.

Celestron Microscope Kit 44121

Rating: 4.6

Celestron Microscope Kit 44121

The Celestron Microscope Kit 44121 is a good option as the first research instrument for a child. The experts noted the affordable price and good quality of optics, as did the combined illumination. So a novice biologist can study not only thin sections, but also larger objects. Despite the fact that the device is intended for children, it has a wide range of magnifications (40-600x), a revolving system with 3 objectives.

Of course, it is difficult to compete with the leaders of the rating for a microscope due to its modest equipment and configuration. A set of different samples comes with the magnifying device. Users note such a minus of the model as a fragile plastic case.

Advantages

  • affordable price;
  • combined lighting;
  • high quality optics.

disadvantages

  • plastic case;
  • blurry picture at maximum magnification.

Eastcolight MP-450

Rating: 4.5

Eastcolight MP-450

The most affordable magnifying device for children in our ranking is the Eastcolight MP-450 microscope. Any schoolchild is able to become interested in the world of the cell, once glancing at the monocular of the device. The budget model has a complex design. The object under study can be illuminated with natural light or with a built-in lamp. The device is equipped with three objectives, with which you can view objects with a magnification of 100-450 times.

The complete set of the microscope looks quite rich, the manufacturer prepared one glass slide with a specimen, 5 cover slides and 4 specimen slides, as well as 10 clean stickers and 2 flasks for specimens for examination. The model deservedly gets into our rating.

Advantages

  • low price;
  • two types of object lighting;
  • rich set of accessories.

disadvantages

  • too light;
  • a lot of unnecessary items.

Best binocular microscopes

Binocular microscopes are the best option for observing opaque objects (insects, minerals, jewelry). They allow you to get a three-dimensional picture of an object, while the maximum degree of magnification often does not play a decisive role. Experts recommend looking at a few devices.

Levenhuk 850B

Rating: 4.9

Levenhuk 850B

The Levenhuk 850B binocular microscope can be found in various types of medical institutions. This device is designed for serious biological research. Experts believe that a distinctive feature of the device is the ability to study micropreparations using the dark field method. Halogen illumination works from a household network, there is an adjustment of the brightness of the light beam. The model is equipped with 4 lenses that rotate with a revolving mechanism. A Levenhuk digital camera can be installed instead of an eyepiece. The set contains the necessary accessories for connecting the camera to the microscope.

The model becomes the winner of our rating for the excellent quality of optics and ample opportunities for research work.

Advantages

  • wide range of magnifications (40-2000 times);
  • halogen backlight;
  • binocular rotary attachment;
  • built-in darkfield condenser.

disadvantages

  • not detected.

BRESSER Advance ICD 10x-160x

Rating: 4.8

BRESSER Advance ICD 10x-160x

BRESSER Advance ICD 10x-160x is the most powerful of the technical microscopes. The eyepieces are set at a 45 degree angle and rotate around their axis. The device gives a high-quality picture due to optics with multi-layer coating. The microscope is popular not only among biologists and physicians; collectors and jewelers use it in their work. You can increase the contrast of the image using a blue filter.

The experts gave the microscope the second place in the ranking for reliability and durability. The model is inferior to the winner in terms of lighting quality and functionality. But the metal body and smooth focusing mechanism deserve the most flattering words from users.

Advantages

  • metal case;
  • wide range of applications;
  • quality workmanship.

disadvantages

  • high price;
  • weak backlight.

Micromed 1 var. 2 LED

Rating: 4.8

Micromed 1 var. 2 LED

The most affordable binocular microscope in our ranking is the Micromed 1 var. 2 LED. The device is designed for medical, biological and chemical research. It can work with both the brightfield method and the darkfield condenser. Unpainted and painted objects are subject to study. The manufacturer has provided the ability to display images on the computer screen. To do this, you must additionally purchase a video eyepiece. The experts praised the powerful LED backlighting that can be dimmed.

Users are generally satisfied with the performance of the microscope, especially the brightness of the backlight and its wide applicability. Of the minuses, the angle of inclination of the visual attachment (30 degrees) and a limited range of magnification (40-1000 times) are noted.

Advantages

  • low price;
  • wide scope;
  • powerful backlight.

disadvantages

  • limited range of magnification;
  • inconvenient angle of inclination.

Best digital microscopes

Digital microscopes have wide functionality. They are equipped not only with eyepieces, but also with special cameras. The image of the object under study can be recorded in memory or transmitted directly to a computer monitor. Here are some interesting models.

Levenhuk D740T

Rating: 4.9

Levenhuk D740T

A very convenient research device for teaching a group of schoolchildren or students is the Levenhuk D740T digital microscope. Thanks to a powerful camera, the picture is displayed on any screen, at the same time you can explain what is happening to all listeners. The binocular is the main attachment; in addition, there is a tube for mounting a digital camera. The magnification range is 40-2000 times, the Abbe condenser and effective illumination expand the research capabilities. The device is equipped with a blue light filter to increase the contrast.

Experts pay attention to the modern digital camera C 510 NG (5 megapixels), which allows you to study microslides. The microscope comes with a cable and software for connecting to a laptop or personal computer.

Advantages

  • modern camera;
  • LED lights;
  • the ability to connect to a PC;
  • Abbe condenser.

disadvantages

  • not detected.

SAIKE DIGITAL SK2500TH2

Rating: 4.8

SAIKE DIGITAL SK2500TH2

One of the best digital microscopes for instrumental purposes is the SAIKE DIGITAL SK2500TH2. The device allows you to study flat, transparent, volumetric objects. It is capable of working in both direct and reflected light. A distinctive feature of the device is a pancreatic lens. With its help, it is possible to smoothly change the degree of magnification, from 7 times to 45. The rubberized eyecups provide comfortable work for the researcher. The manufacturer has equipped its product with a Sony digital camera, which has a high definition (HD). Therefore, a realistic picture is transmitted to the monitor without distortion.

Forensic and jewelry specialists are satisfied with the quality of the resulting image, good illumination and reliability.

Advantages

  • high-quality picture;
  • effective backlighting;
  • multifunctionality;
  • ease of use.

disadvantages

  • rarely found in the retail network.

Bresser Duolux 20x – 1280x

Rating: 4.8

Bresser Duolux 20x – 1280x

One of the main factors in the popularity of the Bresser Duolux 20x – 1280x microscope is affordability. The device perfectly combines tradition and innovation. It can be used as a classic single eyepiece magnifier. And when a digital camera is connected, the model turns into serious research equipment with the ability to take pictures of the studied drugs. The microscope has a backlight that can be powered by mains or batteries. To transport the product, the manufacturer has provided a convenient bag with a shoulder strap.

The device occupies the honorable third line of the rating for good magnification (800-1280 times), the possibility of teaching both schoolchildren and students. The low image quality at maximum magnification did not allow the microscope to rise higher.

Advantages

  • low price;
  • wide functionality;
  • comfortable bag-case.

disadvantages

  • blurry picture at high magnification.

Best microscopes for soldering

The creation of microcircuits for electronic equipment is not complete without the use of magnifying devices. Most often, microscopes are responsible for the quality of soldering. Also, these devices are used to detect microcracks or defects invisible to the human eye. The following devices have proven themselves well in production.

Saike Digital SK2700VS

Rating: 4.9

Saike Digital SK2700VS

Saike Digital SK2700VS is the winner of the soldering microscopes rating. The electronic device is designed to work with microcircuits, it can also be used to control the quality of soldering. Electronic magnification, powerful illumination of the working area, recording the progress of work are used to accurately perform operations with miniature products. The microscope comes with a cable for connecting the device to a laptop or computer.

Professionals note a large distance to the part, which makes soldering convenient. Good reviews go to the magnification, backlight quality, and clear picture on the screen. But to install the software, you will have to contact a specialist.

Advantages

  • electronic magnification;
  • sharp image;
  • efficient ring light;
  • acceptable price.

disadvantages

  • difficulties with installing software.

Andonstar A1

Rating: 4.7

Andonstar A1

The affordable and simple Andonstar A1 microscope is considered the most unpretentious soldering device. The device magnifies the detail by 1-500 times, adjustment occurs when the height of the lens is changed. The manufacturer has equipped the product with a sensor (2 Mpix), which allows it to be used as a webcam. To provide the necessary illumination of the working area, there is an adjustable LED backlight. The kit includes various attachments, which expands the field of application in the production of electronic components.

Experts praise the compactness and lightness of the microscope, it is easy to use and affordable. Only a frosted mirror evokes negative emotions in users.

Advantages

  • low price;
  • ease of use;
  • good lighting.

disadvantages

  • frosted mirror.


Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

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