Microscope selection

[Jenn4a]

Originally Posted by Tindomul

Yes, in fact I did use mine to look for mites once. It will work.

A pocket scope? what was the magnification range, if you don't mind answering?

[Tindomul]

Hi,
I hadn't taken a look at it in a long while. Just looked and realized it was 60x-100x. Not sure how good the resolution is though. Its pretty cheap.

[Jenn4a]

Thanks!
I just found this... I think it's pretty cool that it can be used underwater! I don't know anything about them though...
XCSOURCE 7mm Waterproof 200x USB Microscope Inspection Borescope Endoscope Pipe Inspection Snake Video Camera XCSOURCE 7mm Waterproof 200x USB Microscope Inspection Borescope Endoscope Pipe Inspection Snake Video Camera: Xcsource Camera: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific

Edit: never mind it doesn't actually magnify anything.

So far the two best choices would be the first one I posted (Plugable)... or the Celestron 44302.

[ula]

We bought some digital mini microscopes from Dino-Lite for student field work. The model we have is AM3011 10x-230x mag, equipped with a stand (extra), so you can fix your image, because while hand-held is virtually impossible to focus well. Image quality with this one is so-so, but other Dino-Lites might be better (depending on how much you want to spend). If you're interested check out their product line at dino-lite.com

[plantbuddy]

Before you spend a lot of money, try a 10X loupe. For instance, Amazon has lots for $10 -$20.

I haven't used anything else even though I also have a stereo dissecting mic.

It's all you need to see bugs. And it ain,t held that close to your eye.

[Jenn4a]

Thanks for the replies; I don't know anything about loupes either.
If 10x is all that is needed, could a 10x magnifying glass with a larger view work better than a loupe?

[Tschimm]

I'm using one of those

Works fine for hunting bugs

[Jenn4a]

Thanks!
I think I'll try this before a digital 'scope. It's $8.10
SE - Loupe Set - Dual 10x+20x, 10x, 30x, 3 Pc https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001C9LG60..._4N36ub0WEPAZC

[wintergirl]

I have a loop and I have a "digital microscope" x 500 off of Ebay for $18. I can see way more with the microscope than I can the loop if you are looking for pests or leaf problems. I like the loop when repotting and looking at roots ect.

50 500x 2MP USB 8 LED Light Digital Microscope Endoscope Video Camera Magnifier | eBay

My loop is the hands free type "optivisor" they are on Ebay too with different lens that can be changed,

[ALToronto]

I'm not sure a digital microscope will be any better if it's still handheld. I have the manual 60-120 X pocket microscope from amazon, but I need to cut off the leaf I'm looking at and place it on a table. Even then, since the leaf is not flat, I constantly need to refocus.

With a digital, the movement of your hand will cause a severely shaky image on a screen. You will still need to cut off parts of leaves and examine them on a flat surface, with the microscope on a stand.

You should get a few pieces of thin flat glass and place the leaf sections between them. You will end up looking at squished bugs, but they will still be identifiable.

And btw, false mites are much smaller than regular mites, but just as dangerous. You need at least 30X magnification to see them.

Of course, with a digital microscope, you will be able to post some very cool photos here!