Microscopes come in a variety of styles depending on their intended niche and speciality. Some are high-powered magnifying machines, capable of enhancing bacteria specimens thousands of times over. Others yield much less magnification power and are designed for dissecting or working with small electrical components.
Take a look at our diverse reviews of some of the best models suitable for beginners and teenagers alike.
Best Microscopes for Teenagers
Here are our reviews of the best microscopes for teenagers
1. OMAX 40X-2500X Full Size Lab Digital Trinocular Compound LED Microscope
Capable of magnification up to 2500x, this microscope is suitable for examining even the smallest germs and microorganisms with fine detail.
- Features a dual viewing system—eyepiece viewing and digital viewing
- Long lasting LED lamp
- Specially designed digital camera included
2. AmScope 40X-2500X LED Digital Binocular Compound Microscope
This microscope, from AmScope, is great for viewing cells and tissue samples. With its low price, features and capabilities, this machine is a perfect choice for any teenagers trying to save a few dollars.
- Built-in digital camera
- Comes with its own advanced editing, processing and measuring software
- Professional Siedentopf binocular head for comfortable viewing
3. Celestron MicroDirect 1080p HD Handheld Digital Micro Viewing Digital Microscope
This digital microscope comes highly recommended for teenagers but can also be enjoyed by adults. Simply connect it to your laptop or monitor via the HDMI port for big-screen viewing.
- Software and accessories included
- Records high definition images and video
- Great choice for group viewing
4. Dino-Lite USB Digital Microscope
This pocket microscope is one of the most popular on the market. Its compact size coupled with a 5.0-megapixel camera makes this device perfect for viewing objects on the go, in high definition.
- Bright LED light
- Simple operation and easy to maneuver
- Easy-to-use focus knob
5. Celestron – LCD Digital Microscope II – Biological Microscope with a Built-In 5MP Digital Camera
No need for eyepieces with this digital microscope from Celestron. Impress your friends and family with live, high definition viewing.
- Built-in LCD screen
- Records images and videos
- Multiple accessories included
Microscopes for Teenagers Buyer’s Guide
As mentioned above, microscopes are made with specific niches in mind. For this reason, it’s important to have an idea of what you plan on viewing with your device. If you are interested in the unseen world, then a compound microscope capable of at least 1000x magnification will be your best bet. If intricate electrical repair or even dissection is your hobby, then a quality stereo microscope would be best.
Take a look at our buyer’s guide for some tips and features to keep an eye out for when making your purchase.
High/low power
This factor completely depends on what you plan on viewing and refers to the magnification capabilities of the microscope. If you want to view microscopic objects that cannot be seen by the human eye, then you’ll need a high-powered device that is capable of at least 1000x magnification. However, if you simply want a closer look at objects that are already visible, then a low-powered device will do the trick.
Structural integrity
As with most products, keep an eye out for a device that is built with quality and durability in mind. A cheap design will easily break if accidentally nocked over by tripping on a power cord. Selecting a model with an extended warranty is always a good idea.
Illumination system
Depending on what you intend to view, it is recommended that you choose a microscope with either transmitted illumination or reflected lighting. If possible, opt for a device that contains a light source above and below the viewing platform.
Portability
Is your microscope strictly for home use only, or do you plan on using it outside of the home too? Some models are compatible with batteries, making them great for observing on the go. Other models are much heavier and bulkier, making them unsuitable for constant transportation.
Another option to consider is a hand-held digital microscope. Keep in mind however that these models have limited magnification capabilities and are only suitable for viewing larger objects and specimens.