Microscopes are an underrated accessory to have.
Not only can you view the microscopic world easily, but it’s also a great prop if you want to add some flavor to your cabinet.
Hence, it’s integral to the overall process that you chose the best hobby microscope.
In this segment, I’ll be taking you over the best choices to get your hands on this year. Let’s dive right into it!
Top 5 Hobby Microscope Reviews
I’ll now briefly introduce my top 5 choices for you.
To make things better and convenient, I have also highlighted a few pros and cons that will make it easier to choose a thorough model.
Without further ado, here are the top 5 hobby microscopes to go for this year!
1. Digital Microscope by Plugable
Let’s start with my first choice. The Digital Microscope by Plugable is arguably one of the best hobby microscopes that you can get this year.
It has a lightweight frame that makes it quite portable and a great choice, especially if you’re looking to have a kit on you for fieldwork.
What’s even better is that along with this, the frame is versatile for handling and can be used for a multitude of the specimen.
However, it’s important to note that this isn’t tech-heavy or anything but would still make a good companion for a day out in the field.
Pros
- Integrated lighting
- Versatile
- Easy handling
Cons
- The gooseneck isn’t good
- Focusing is hard
2. GEOGRAPHIC Dual LED Microscope
The NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Dual LED Student Microscope is my second pick. I’m sure you’re heard of National Geographic.
In the world of the microscope, they have an excellent starter kit that you should look into if you’re just getting started.
It’s also a pretty nice option because it gives you the benefit of being portable and very accessible.
However, you won’t find the manual to be that helpful, so you’ll need to get thoroughly acquainted with the model first before making decent progress.
Pros
- Includes 50 accessories
- Portable
- Beginner-friendly
Cons
- Manual isn’t good
3. USB Microscope Potensic
The third number spot is reserved for the USB Microscope Potensic, which is a unique model that is loved by many.
It has a very slim and interesting frame that is known for providing a good range of modifications.
Along with that, its main takeaway feature is that it has an adjustable LED, which will allow you to switch between light levels.
But be careful; this can cause the tip to warm up from time to time, so you’ll need to take care of that.
Pros
- Aesthetics
- Good magnification
- Adjustable LED
Cons
- Tip of tube heats up
- Old software
4. Celestron 44102 Microscope
The Celestron 44102 Power Laboratory Biological Microscope is one of those models that you see in schools.
It’s a relatively famous one, and due to good reason. Not only is the Celestron easily accessible, but it also comes packed with a multitude of accessories that help with the learning curve.
Along with that, this model also features an adjustable arm that makes it easy to get comfortable.
Overall, this is a great choice if you want something you might have encountered in a lab!
Pros
- Includes accessories
- Adjustable arm
- Includes prepared slides
Cons
- No separate illuminator light
- Heavy
5. My First Lab Duo-Scope Microscope
Last but not least, the My First Lab Duo-Scope Microscope is also a good choice if you’re starting or want to get your child interested in the world of biology.
The model comes packed with a good manual with detailed pictures that paints a complete picture of how a microscope should be.
However, it’s made of plastic, which is a bit of a letdown. But if you’re willing to put in the care, then this is a good choice to start off with.
Pros
- Accessory kit included
- Beginner-friendly interface
- Good instruction manual
Cons
- Plastic frame
- Not that sturdy
Buyers Guide
If you want the best hobby microscope, then you’ll need to keep a few things in mind.
I’ll take you through a few factors that I think are quite important when making the right call.
Here’s what you should look out for!
Type
The first thing that you should seriously consider is if you want a compound microscope or a stereo microscope.
The main difference between the two is that compound microscopes tend to be handier if you’re looking to inspect and deal with smaller samples, such as bacteria and water organisms.
On the other hand, stereo microscopes are more useful when it comes to inspecting things that are relatively big such as rocks, gems, leaves, and bugs.
You’ll need to decide which type of microscope you’re looking to get, and this will help you better understand the path you should take.
Weight
You will definitely need to move your microscope from time to time. They’re conveniently small and can be moved easily.
However, microscopes are also notorious for being heavy. Not only can that be troublesome, but it’s also a hassle, especially if you keep yours stored and take it out from time to time.
Make sure to get a microscope in a range that you’re comfortable with.
Material
Always make sure that you chose a model that is made from a material that is durable and sturdy enough.
This is because there will be moments where the overall structural integrity of your model will be tested. It’s best to have the cards in your favor when that time comes.
Illumination Method
Different microscopes employ different levels of illuminations.
For the beginner level, tungsten is the main agent used and suffices quite well to get things done. Other illumination methods include things such as fluorescent lights, LED, and halogens.
Halogen based models are more geared towards professional use, so I would suggest that you don’t invest more than is absolutely needed.
LED-based microscopes are generally a good option since they’re more common and come with rechargeable batteries.
Furthermore, they’re also quite portable and can be used on the field as well.
This will save you the trouble of travel or storage of specimens since you can literally keep the microscope kit in your bag at all times.
Magnification
Lastly, you will seriously need to look into the magnification power of the model you’re choosing to truly gauge if what you’re getting will be of use to you.
Higher magnification means that you will better be equipped to look into a smaller specimen.
Of course, there’s a positive correlation between magnification and price.
Hence, you’ll need to do your due research in order to make sure that whatever you intend to scrutinize is compatible with the results offered from your microscope.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use a microscope for beginners?
As a beginner, you’ll need to learn a few things and keep them in mind. The first is properly preparing a slide and then placing it in the right place.
After that, use the magnification features to get the picture in focus. This is purely trial and error. And then observe!
What is 3 type of microscopes?
The three main types of microscopes are optical microscopes, electron microscopes, and scanning probes.
Which microscope has the highest magnification?
Electron microscopes have the highest amount of magnification, which can go up to 200,000x.
Though there are definitely higher magnifications available, an electron microscope can get you to give magnification as a beginner.
How powerful does a microscope have to be to see cells?
If your objective is to view cells and things of similar dimensions, then you’re going to need a model that can provide magnification up to 400x.
Which type of microscope is the most widely known?
The most common type of microscopes is optical microscopes. You’ll find these to be widely available.
They’re also fairly easy to calibrate and work with but don’t offer the type of magnification and resources needed to work with smaller and complex systems.
What are the five different types of microscopes?
Generally speaking, there are five different types of microscopes based on functionality and the mechanism involved.
This includes Stereo Microscopes, inverted microscopes, metallurgical microscopes, polarizing microscopes, and compound microscopes.
What can I see with a 1000x microscope?
At 1000x magnification, you’ll be able to view objects which can be as small as 180 microns.
What type of microscope can see bacteria?
To view bacteria swimming, the minimum specifications required dictate that the magnification be at least 400x.
However, if you can go up to 1000x, you’ll be able to see bacteria in unparalleled detail.
Conclusion
Biology is a vast field, and the right microscope is the best way to dive right into it.
If you liked any of the models mentioned above or have any feedback, or have any general recommendations or suggestions, do share them in the comment section below!
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