What is the best USB microscope? Depending on the range of magnification and extra features available, there are three types of USB microscopes to be distinguished: basic, professional-grade, and advanced. Basic digital microscopes are portable handheld devices that record images via snapshots and have limited functions. Professional-grade models offer magnifications as high as 1000x, LED lighting, articulated stages, ultra-fine focus, and other useful functions. Generally, these microscopes are tripod-mounted and compatible with smartphones. Advanced USB microscopes boast excellent image quality, high dynamic range, and a greater magnification range (0x-7000x).

1. 7 inch LCD Digital USB Microscope with 16G TF Card
Made with 7" large HD LCD screen, this portable microscope provides a wide field of view. It features 1-1200x continuous amplification, angle-adjustable stand, and 8 LED lights.

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2. Koolertron 4.3-inch 1080P LCD Digital USB Microscope
This model offers 10x-220X continuous magnification, a 4.3" full HD LCD screen, and 8 LED illumination. You can adjust the distance and magnification.

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3. AmScope B120C Siedentopf Binocular Compound Microscope
Made with 6 magnification settings (40X-2500X), this microscope is ideal for professional and educational use. It features a 30° vertical inclination, 360° rotation capability, and a double-layer mechanical stage.

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4. Celestron - 5 MP Digital Microscope Pro
It is a portable handheld digital microscope compatible with Windows PC and Mac. Built with a 5MP sensor, it creates high-resolution (2592 x 1944 pixels) and sharp images.

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5. STPCTOU Wireless Digital Microscope
This portable wireless microscope with a 50x-1000x magnification ratio is compatible with iOS, Android, MAC, PC. It comes with the 2MP 1080P lens and 8-LED light.

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6. Bysameyee USB Digital Microscope
The 40x to 1000x microscope allows you both to capture images and record videos. It features adjustable LED illumination, a metal stand, and a carrying case.

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7. Opti-Tekscope OT-M HDMI Microscope
The microscope provides high-definition images (4032 x 3024 pixels) and the 4x digital zoom. It features an LCD screen, adjustable LED lights, 3MP, and 300x magnification.

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Choosing the best USB Microscope for your hobby or work? Our detailed guide addresses all aspects and features you should consider when shopping for the USB Microscope. Read on to discover the differences between many options of the USB Microscopes available, how the devices work and what technical specifications of your computer or phone you should check before buying the USB Microscope. We’ll cover the TOP Best USB Microscopes from as low as $20 and as high as $262.

Table of Content:

To get students’ attention, a biology teacher streams images to a projection screen or students’ smartphones or computers. Disaster area doctors stream or email images for collaboration, diagnosis, or treatment. Reasonably-priced USB microscopes that attach to your computer allow you to light and examine your specimen, snap a picture of it, or stream a live video to anyone! It has become easier and more affordable to find out what lies beyond what we see and share it in real time.

USB microscopes are considered to be “economical alternatives” to conventional microscopes. They range from basic inexpensive units that attach to your iPhone, Android, or tablet to more expensive, portable instruments and bundled software that allow you to capture and edit images, save files, and stream live videos on your computer of your magnified specimen. They are portable, lightweight, and connect to a computerized device via a USB port. They can examine areas of the large specimen, documents, or objects.

USB microscopes directly connect to your computer. They use standard operating systems (OS) and require specific software to operate. They do not require specific drivers, so microscopy software may be interchangeable between microscopes. Not all advanced software operations are always available through the interchange, however.

Less expensive basic units (less than $50) connect through your computer’s USB. They function like webcams with adjustable viewing lenses.

Mid-range digital microscopes (less than $400) also attach to your USB but offer more features, magnification, and light.

Complex and expensive (exceeding $1000) digital microscopes are typically portable and self-contained and operate like optical microscopes without the need for a computer.

Digital microscopes are compared on the software compatibility, range of magnification, and additional features and options, such as illumination, bundled software, stand, focus/zoom, and precision.

Basic USB Microscopes

Basic digital microscopes record the image via snapshot or moving image. They are typically handheld wand-type units. Lower-end plastic models have limited functions (i.e.: magnification, fixed illumination, and focal distance, etc.).

High-End USB Microscopes

Higher-end, professional-grade microscopes used by researchers and physicians offer magnifications as high as 1000x, LED lighting, interchangeable eyepieces, articulated stages, and ultra-fine focus. They can adapt to smartphones for immediate file sharing. They are typically battery-powered and tripod-mounted. Time-lapse photography, image editing and enhancement, measurement, and other options are often optioned.

Advanced Digital Microscopes

USB microscopes are a subsidiary of advanced digital microscopes’ calibrated image quality, resolution, and dynamic range vary with price. HDR (high dynamic range) systems have fewer pixels, a higher frame rate, and faster processing. Specialized specific-application units typically have a greater magnification range (0x-7000x), are portable, self-contained, and do not require a computer. System construction and image are of higher quality.

Your goal is to be able to view and share (microscopic) images. Connectivity has improved your ability to do this.

  • Power

The camera is plugged into the USB port for power to stream the image. Depending on your need and level of experience, you may need more or less power.

For example, if the USB microscope is for a student or younger child, less power is demanded than if the unit will be used for professional tasks (i.e.: science, forensics, education, etc.).

The more powerful the microscope is the better illumination, range of magnification and resolution, software capabilities, and cost it will have. High-end professional-grade USB microscopes tend to be battery-powered for enhanced portability and use in remote or disaster areas.

  • Software

The USB microscope imaging software allows the user to adjust the camera beyond the operating system’s basic settings. Camera performance, captured images (snaps or video), and image manipulation (editing, stacking, color enhancement, filtering, etc.) are performed through the instrument’s software. Operating systems such as Windows XP allow you to view and record images from your Control Panel “Scanners and Cameras.”

  • Portability

You want the ability to capture sample images or video and send it to colleagues, lab, file or the Cloud when you need to use the microscope outside the lab or office. Any USB microscope can plug into a portable device. However, a full-sized microscope may be difficult to take into the field, disaster area, or remote location. Handheld, wand-type illuminated USB microscopes easily fit into a case, tote, or bag.

Expert Opinion: Mark Bailey, Ph.D., Professor of Education, Pacific University

Mark Bailey, Ph.D., Professor of Education, Pacific University

Mark Bailey, Ph.D., is a Distinguished Professor of Education at Pacific University. He is also the Director of the Child Learning and Development Center. Mark holds a Ph.D. and MS from the University of Wisconsin and a BA from Grinnell College. He has multiple publications on inspiring young children and learning empowering tools.

“A microscope, I believe, is the quintessential early childhood education tool and by that I mean that it really connects with the child and all of us. For young children, it is natural. For adults, it takes them a bit longer to remember but a digital microscope takes the unseen world and it makes it visible. It does so in such powerful ways. It instantiates the idea that we move from the concrete to the abstract. If you hand a microscope to a three-year-old or a 53-year-old, pretty quickly they all do exactly the same thing. They take the microscope and stick it on their body somewhere. It is really interesting for me to be able to observe that. Here is how the tool works. What kind of things would you like to take a look at? After a beginning period of time in recognizing how it focuses and the way it brings things onto the screen, then what naturally emerges next is the recognition that this would be a great time to use that microscope. And once the process of using the tool and using it to investigate is well understood, children would like to use it all the time”.

TOP Best USB Microscopes - Complete Product Review

1. 7 inch LCD Digital USB Microscope with 16G TF Card

An excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals, this Koolertron USB digital microscope is super precise and convenient in use. Made with a large 7-inch LCD screen, it offers a wide field of view in 1080P high resolution. This will allow you to see the tiniest details very clearly. The device features 12MP, 1-1200x continuous amplification, a 16G TF card, and a Micro SD card slot. It operates on a rechargeable Li-ion battery, with the battery life lasting up to 4 hours.

Another strong point of this product is adjustability. It includes an aluminum alloy stand with adjustable height and angle, so you can easily change the distance between the object and the camera. The adjustable angle will help you to overcome the high reflection issue. In addition, the microscope is equipped with 8 LED lights with adjustable brightness level.

Downsides: Some users may not like that the device doesn’t support a connection to a computer. But this is offset by a really big display for comfortable observation. Another disadvantage is a manual that doesn’t explain how to use the unit but only describes maintenance rules and lists specifications.

Recommendations: On the one hand, the microscope will be very useful for educational purposes. With this device, it is easy to view small items, zoom in and out, focus, and take photos and videos. So it really encourages learning and helps students to complete their work more efficiently. One the other hand, it is packed with useful features that will suit the needs of the most demanding professionals.

Koolertron 7 inch: Check the current price

2. Koolertron 4.3 inch 1080P LCD Digital USB Microscope

This is another advanced microscope from Koolertron, with the difference that it has a lower magnification power and a smaller LCD screen measuring 4.3 inches. And yet, the display is full HD with 1080P resolution. Like the previous product, this one can also both take pictures and record videos, has a microSD card, and is adjustable.

That said, this model has some extra features and boasts enhanced flexibility. The height of the stand is adjusted by the controller that comes with the microscope. It also includes a UV filter for lens protection and reflection reduction. The stand is made with two flexible fill lights with adjustable brightness, which is particularly helpful for soldering operations. More importantly, you can transfer the images to a PC monitor as the device can be connected to a computer.

Downsides: First, the microscope gives 10X-220X magnification, which is less than what the above-described product offers. Secondly, it doesn’t support the IOS system.

Recommendations: The product has multiple applications but is especially useful for soldering projects, jewelry, insect examination, watch making and repair, work in antiques, and many more.

Koolertron 4.3 inch: Check the current price

3. Celestron 5 MP Handheld Digital Microscope Pro  — The Best for Hobbyists and Professionals

The low-power Celestron Digital Microscope Pro is a reasonably-priced, plug-in/handheld, USB 2.0 digital microscope with 20x to 200x magnification. Ultimate magnification is determined by the size of your monitor. This microscope has an adjustable LED illuminator. Its 5.0 MP sensor captures and saves high-resolution 2592 x 1944 images and VGA-quality video. High-quality, e-element IR-cut lens, and 1 sec to 1/1000 sec shutter speed ensure distinct images.

This USB microscope is Mac OS X and Windows 7/8/10 compatible. Intuitive MicroCapture Pro software CD that allows measurement is included. The Clestron USB digital microscope also comes with a 2-yr. warranty. Product modification voids this warranty.

The downside of this microscope might be that the latest version of the MicroCapture Pro software must be separately downloaded (using the Support Tab).

Recommendations:

This USB microscope is ideal for hobbyists (coin and stamp collection) and professionals (entomology and component inspection) alike. A high-quality, adjustable-height stand, 4-foot cable, and User Manual are included.

Celestron: Check the current price

4. Opti-Tekscope OT-M HDMI Microscope — good for coins, jewelry, stamp examination with 300x optical zoom

The Opti-Tekscope Microscope is a reasonably-priced, high-definition USB digital microscope with a 3.0 LCD (960x240) display. The optical 300x zoom allows you to fully-view small object details. It operates on 5V DC from the USB and has dual LED illumination. Its large, non-interpolated HD CMOS sensor and 4x digital zoom capture high-resolution 3MP, JPG 1920 x1080p images and 30f/s video and MOV movie format. Images and video are saved on a 32GB micro-SD card.

This USB microscope uses the Windows 10 plug-and-play Camera app. Bandicam software is recommended for other PC applications. Product warranty information is available on the manufacturer’s website.

Downside: this microscope does not support direct use with Mac. It is intended for large-screen (lab, classroom, etc.) HDMI monitors. The 32GB mini-SD (image-saving) card is not included. Rather, “Kingston Class 10 is preferred”). You are also advised to contact Opti-Tekscope for the complete instruction manual and warranty information.

Recommendations:

This USB microscope is well-suited for PCB repair, small part inspection, jewelry, stamp, and coin examination. A high-, industrial-quality, adjustable-height locking stand is included.

Opti-Tekscope: Check the current price

5. Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope — for hobbyists and students

The Plugable USB 2.0 digital microscope has a max. 250x magnification, which relates to the size of your monitor. It has 4 diffused LED lights with a halo brightness adjustment control and OTG adapter. The adapter may be used (with the stand) for lower magnification. It may be placed directly over the object or specimen for higher magnification or handheld for point-and-click examination. Its CMOS sensor produces 1600x1200 snapshot and 640x480 video results.

This USB microscope’s webcam chipset is supported by operating systems that use standard webcam software. It is compatible with Mac, Window 7/8/10, newer Androids, Chrome, and Linux. Mac users can use PhotoBooth or Plugable’s companion software. Chrome users may use the default Camera app and Linux Raspberry Pi users must have the current Raspbian Jessie version.

The downside is that the camera is not compatible with iOS devices (i.e.: iPhone, iPad), select Androids, and those using Oculus Rift systems may require additional setup.

Recommendations:

This USB microscope’s durable plastic body makes it suitable for hobbyists, kids, and professionals alike. A flexible-arm stand and observation pad with graduated markings for the simple measure and a 4-foot cable are included.

Plugable: Check the current price

6. Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope — cheap USB microscope for students and kids

The Jiusion Magnification Endoscope is an inexpensive USB 2.0 digital microscope with 40x to 1000x magnification. It operates on 5V DC from the USB. It has 8 built-in LED lights and a mini camera with OTG adapter. Two adjusting knob operate the focus and brightness (10mm -250mm). It produces JPEG/BMP images and the AVI video frame rate is 30f/s at maximum 600 Lux brightness.

This USB microscope is compatible with Mac, Window 7/8/10, Android, and Linux. Bundled MicroCapture software and Amcap professional Windows software are included (CD or link download). Mac users can use PhotoBooth or Quick Camera to operate the microscope. Android users should scan the GooglePlay app installation code. Chrome users may use the default Camera app and Linux Raspberry Pi users must have the current Raspbian Jessie version.

The downside is that this microscope’s magnification only supports Android smartphones that have OTB function. It is not compatible with iPhone. Because the program is written by Jiusian, the SNAP and ZOOM button is ONLY recognized on the Window OS. The Android app cannot recognize it and the Mac system does not require software.

Recommendations:

This USB microscope is intended for students, kids, etc. and works best on Pentium computers with min. 700M Hz with 20M HD space. This usb microscope might be a good option for your biology class where you can use it to see bacteria and cells. A rotating metal tripod and micro-measure CD are also included.

Jiusion: Check the current price

7. OMAX 40X-2000X LED Biological Binocular Compound Microscope — the most expensive USB microscope with measurement software

The OMAX 40X-2000X Microscope is a sturdy, high-end 1.3MP USB digital microscope with a 30 degree inclined, 360-degree swiveling Siedentopf binocular head. The 3D double-layer mechanical stage and multiple magnification settings (40x, 100x, 250x, 400x, 1000x, and 2000x) allow fine and coarse focusing. Image and live video resolutions may be set simultaneously.

This USB microscope includes user-friendly, advanced editing, processing, and measuring software that is compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10, Mac OS X, and Linux. This software includes stitching, video recording, extended depth of focus (EDF), and measurement functions.

The downside is that this microscope is not compatible with iOS devices (i.e.: iPhone, iPad) if there is no 30-pin adapter or driver.

Recommendations:

This USB microscope is designed for students and professional environments such as clinical and laboratory applications and training demonstrations. It comes with a UL-approved AC/DC adapter, 6-foot cable.

OMAX 40X-2000X: Check the current price

10 Best-Selling USB Microscopes Comparative Table

What First-Time USB Microscope Users Should Know

If you are unfamiliar with choosing a USB microscope, buy a less expensive one first. You can upgrade to a more portable optioned microscope later.

FAQ – People are asking:

How do you connect a USB microscope to your device?
Connect your microscope to your device using the USB cable plugged into the device’s USB port. USB runs on 5V power. Microscopes (cameras) are connected to mobile devices using a USB OTG (On-the- Go) connection or adapter.

Do digital microscopes work on Chromebook?
Yes with third-party apps.

Can I take a video with a USB microscope?
There are the camera and video buttons located on the microscope camera. Click to cue the on-screen application. Click for a snapshot or video.

Is a USB microscope good for Trichome?
A digital microscope with LED light and zoom lets you magnify trichome 250x-500x.

Are USB microscopes good for taking pictures of snowflakes/coins/parasites, etc.?
Digital microscopes with 60x-250x work for coins, parasites, snowflakes etc.

How easy are USB microscopes to set up? Can an old guy work it out by himself?
Plug in the USB cable. On your device access Settings, (Privacy & Security) Content Settings, and Camera to get started.

Can I use USB microscopes for soldering?
Yes, you can. However, most likely that usb microscopes intended for students and classroom use will not work for soldering. Don’t look for high magnification ratios, 10x or 20x would be enough.

How can I connect USB microscope to TV?
Plug your USB microscope into a USB port on the television. The image should be visible on the television screen.

Can I use usb microscope to see bacteria or for any other project in my biology class?
Yes, you can. All usb microscopes will allow you to see bacteria and can be used for other purposes in various biology projects.

Tips for Using USB Microscopes

USB microscopes are precision instruments and should be handled as such. Their settings can be altered if the unit is jostled or roughly handled, which then requires recalibration. Some things to keep in mind, if you have never used a USB microscope before:

  • Do not wear glasses when using the instrument;
  • Place your sample directly over your light source;
  • For best results, learn how to set the microscope’s options (i.e.: magnification, focus, light, etc.).

Conclusion

There is a wide variety of USB digital microscopes to choose from. Many models have stands and can be stationary or removed and handheld for closer magnification. Not all models connect to all mobile devices, so research brands and models to ensure if you need portability, your selection connects to your mobile device and capably shares files and communications as you need.

If you are a student or hobbyist, or this is your first digital microscope, you may choose a less powerful, less expensive model. Professionally-used or industrial USB digital microscopes are powerful, have optical and digital zooms, and can cost thousands of dollars.

Basic USB microscope magnification begins at 10x. Higher-end models well exceed 400x. Image and video resolution also vary according to the level and quality of the microscope you select.

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