10 Best USB Microscopes for Hobbyists and Professionals | Complete and Updated Buyer’s Guide 2022
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).
USB Microscopes Compared
| 1. 7 inch LCD Digital USB Microscope with 32G TF Card | |
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| 2. AmScope B120C Siedentopf Binocular Compound Microscope | |
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| 3. Celestron - 5 MP Digital Microscope Pro | |
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| 4. USB Digital Microscope | |
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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 5 Best USB Microscopes from as low as £20 and as high as £262.
Table of Content:
- TOP 5 Best USB Microscopes - Complete Product Review
- 1. Celestron 5 MP Handheld Digital Microscope Pro — The Best for Hobbyists and Professionals
- 2. Andonstar ADSM201 OT-M HDMI Microscope — good for coins, jewelry, stamp examination with 300x optical zoom
- 3. OMAX 40X-2000X LED Biological Binocular Compound Microscope — the most expensive USB microscope with measurement software
- 4. Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope — for hobbyists and students
- 5. Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope — cheap USB microscope for students and kids
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.
TOP 5 Best USB Microscopes - Complete Product Review
1. 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
2. Andonstar ADSM201 OT-M HDMI Microscope — good for coins, jewelry, stamp examination with 300x optical zoom
The Andonstar 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 Andonstar 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.
Andonstar: Check the current price
3. 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
4. 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
5. 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
10 Best-Selling USB Microscopes Comparative Table
Most Popular
Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED by Yoosoon
- Jiusion portable magnification is a useful and funny microscope for students, engineers, inventors, and others who need to magnify and explore the micro world.
- Be compatible with Mac OS X 10.5 ,Window 7, Linux kernels 2.6.26 and above. 【This microscope is not compatible with iPhone/iPad.】
- This magnification only support Android smartphone which has OTG function.(How to Check OTG? Download the free app"USB OTG Checker")
Jiusion 2K HD 2560x1440P USB Digital Microscope by Yoosoon
- 🔬【2K HD】Compared with WiFi microscope whose pixels need to be compressed to launch WiFi transmission, this 2K usb microscope can easily transmit 3.7 million high-definition images through the data cable and input to mobile phones and computers in seconds.
- 🔬【Reliable Design】Wired connection can ensure fast data transmission and no jams. Since the lithium battery of wireless products generally can only support 100-500 recharges, it cannot be as durable as this scope. We have been told by our customers from time to time that their wired Jiusion microscope has been working as usual for 3-4 years.
- 🔬【Easy to Use】Plug and play. No additional settings are required. Just plug the microscope into the device and open the app to get the image. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android and Linux devices. 【Note that this device is not compatible with iPhone or iPad.】
USB Digital Microscope, Bysameyee Handheld by Jsingda
- Strong Function: 1000X USB magnifier, comes with 8 LED light, the illumination of inspection area can be adjusted by the brightness wheel. Capture screenshot and record video of the micro world, this brings clear and stable image when using.
- Wide Application: Powered by USB, this digital microscope is widely used in collections/coin inspection, educational purpose, skin examination, hair examination, Plant dissection/examination, textile inspection, jewelry inspection, printing inspection, PCB or PCBA inspection and so on.
- Easy to Use: Easily operate with the software provided (for free), you can even use it as a measurement tool (only for Windows). One key taking pictures and zoom the objective.
Other Popular
Bysameyee HD 2MP USB Microscope, 40X to 1000X Magnification Digital Microscope Camera Inspection Endoscope with...
- Real HD 2MP Microscope Camera: 1080P HD 2MP Camera with 8 adjustable LED lights, provide excellent detail and optimal clarity. It is good for any inspection environment and ensures the magnified images are clear and bright. 40X more magnification can meet your daily needs.
- Capture, Record & Measure: Connected this handheld microscope to devices, you can capture screenshot images by the SNAP button and record a video with installed software/App. Please note that the measurement software only works for WINDOWS users.
- Where It Can Be Used: This is a digital microscope, not a traditional microscope, Not suitable for professional serious biologists! Perfect for learning and exploration, skin examination, hair examination, plant dissection/examination, textile inspection, jewelry inspection, collections/coin inspection, printing inspection, PCB or PCBA inspection, and so on.
- Broad Compatibility: Support Windows 7 8 10, Mac OS and OS X, Linux, Chrome OS, and Smart Android phones (with OTG function). Select Android devices may not work, and it's up to the device manufacturer to support external cameras.
- Easy to Use & Carry: Install the software, plug it into your device, now you can explore the microscopic world with this microscope camera. Univeral bracket, 2 OTG adapters, ruler, driver & carrying case are provided for multi-purpose application. The portable carrying bag is really a bonus for outdoor use.
Digital Microscope,WADEO 1000X 4.3" LCD Display Electronic Video Magnifier USB Microscope Magnifier with 8...
- 【4.3 inch LCD Digital Microscope】Amazing images and videos on a 4.3-inch screen.The magnification of the microscope is 1000, which is standard for the best quality microscopes.Its head rotates smoothly, making it easy to use the microscope.Precise focusing allows the specimen to be focused quickly and clearly.
- 【Suitable for PC】Connect it to your computer via a USB cable.The accompanying PC software simplifies the process of recording hd video, allowing you to accurately measure specimens.Depending on your screen size, you can achieve up to 1000 times magnification to see up close specimens such as stamps, bugs, plants, skins, circuit boards, etc.
- 【Convenient Design 】High quality adjustable bracket, anti-skid design at bottom of microscope, can be charged by 18650 battery or USB, support to insert 32GB TF card to take photos and videos for network sharing and computer saving.
- 【Built-in 8 LED Lights】The LCD digital microscope with 8 adjustable LED lights make it possible to see clearly in areas with insufficient light. The accompanying metal stand provides steady shooting and is useful for viewing at higher power, minimizing shaking and keeping the specimen in clear focus.
- 【Wide Usage】Portable Microscope Cameras suitable for learning detection, mobile phone maintenance, identification of jewelry, print detection, circuit board repair, textile industrial and biological inspection.
USB Digital Microscope with Polarizer, TOPNISUS Real 5MP USB Electron Microscope 8 LED for SMD Soldering Work...
- Exclusive Technology - microscope with polarizer. The polarizer can anti reflected light and will make it easy to observe reflective objects like SMD board, diamond, metal etc.,
- USB output, 5M photo resolution, 5MP video resolution, 250x magnification, support photo and video recording by computer software.
- Driver, software and user guide are available to download from the website, you can find anything you need even your papery user manual is lost.
- Compatible with Window 7/8/10; macOS 10.14 and later. Support plug and play.
- Package content: Microscope, USB cable, Quick start guide, Calibration ruler, Stand.
Plugable USB Digital Microscope with Flexible Arm Observation Stand Compatible With Windows, Mac, Linux (2MP,...
- HOBBY FOCUSED - Useful and fun for students, collectors, testers, and anyone interested in exploring the microscopic world. Cannot be used as a document camera.
- HIGH DEFINITION - 2.0 Megapixels, up to 250x magnification (Note: Final magnification corresponds to monitor size)
- BROAD COMPATIBILITY - Electronic microscope uses a webcam chipset and sensor to support nearly any operating system using standard webcam software. Users with an Oculus Rift may require additional setup
- INTEGRATED LIGHTING - LED halo light with brightness adjustment control. Flexible arm stand with observation pad includes graduated marks for easy measurement or use as a handheld microscope
- 2 YEAR WARRANTY - We love our Plugable products, and hope you will too. All of our products are backed with a 2-year limited parts and labor warranty as well as Seattle-based email support
USB Microscope Camera 40X to 1000X, Cainda Digital Microscope with Metal Stand & Carrying Case Compatible with...
- Digital Microscope Camera: Connecting this microscope to your devices via USB, you can see the microworld image on your PC or phone screen. Support screenshot and video recording function. Please note that the measurement software only works for windows user.
- Compatibility: Windows XP/7/8/10, Mac OS X 10.5, Linux kernels 2.6.26 and above, Android smart phones with OTG function (How to check OTG? Download the free app"USB OTG Checker"). This microscope doesn't work with iPhone.
- Wide Application: Our usb Microscope is a great science tool for educational purpose, personal interests and research. Suitable for kids, students, engineers, inventors, collectors to magnify the plants, insects, coins, circuit boards, jewelers, skin, hairs and more.
- Easy to Use: Install the software, plug the USB microscope into your device, then you can explore the microscopic world. Plug and play, no need to charge first. Built-in 8 dimmable LEDs to provide lighting as required.
- User-friendly Accessories and Service: Come with the stable metal stand, OTG adapter, ruler, driver and microscope carrying bag, make your operation more convenient. Contact us if you have any question. You would get the fast professional reply.
Jiusion WiFi USB Digital Microscope 50 to 1000X Wireless Magnification Endoscope 8 LED Mini HD Camera with...
- 【WiFi Microscope New Model】Jiusion new model WiFi Microscope is much more useful and funnier for kids, children, students, engineers and others who need to magnify and explore the micro things like circuit board, coin, jewelry, skin and insect.
- 【Broad Compatibility】It is compatible with iOS iPhone, iPad, Android Phones and tablets, Mac, Windows XP 7 8 10 and even Linux system. Work wirelessly on cellphone and wire-connect to work on PC.
- 【New Updated】 Use new generation WiFi chip, which makes high definition video wireless transfer on phones possible. NO LAG on computers (original pixel 1280*720P) and mobiles (digital zoom 1920*1080P) when full charged. Come with an updated aluminum alloy bracket which is the most stable and top-rated base in the microscope market. It is the first wide angle WiFi microscope in market which is able to view a larger area.
- 【More Features】Built-in 8pcs bright LED lights, digital microscope's 2 adjusting knob can change the focus and brightness. The zoom in and out buttons allow for 1.2/1.4/1.6/1.8/2.0X magnification on your phone(not for PC). The carrying case is included in the package.
- 【Widely Used】With this usb microscope, you can use the software to record the micro world, capture screenshot and record video even in the wood without data services. On Windows computer, you can use the software's measurement function to measure the least bit.
Bysameyee USB Digital Microscope 40X to 1000X, 8 LED Magnification Endoscope Camera with Carrying Case & Metal...
- Capture, Record & Measure: Connected this handheld microscope to devices, you can capture screenshot image and even record a video with installed software. Please note that the measurement software only works for WINDOWS user.
- Wide Range of Application: Bysameyee USB microscope is a useful & funny tools for kids, students, engineers, inventors, collectors to magnify the micro things like coins, skin, PCB, hairs, etc.
- Strong Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.5, Windows XP, Linux kernels 2.6.26 and above, Android phones with OTG function. (How to check OTG? Download the free app"USB OTG Checker"). This microscope doesn't work with iPhone/iPad.
- Light Adjustable: Built-in 8 LED lights, you can control the light brightness easily with the LED dimming wire control knob. Shine through a diffuser, the LED light is soft and not dazzling across the object being viewed.
- Easy to Use & Carry: Install the software, plug in to your device, now you can explore the microscopic world with this microscope camera. Metal stand, OTG adapter, ruler, driver & carrying case are provided for multi-purpose application.
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.
