11 USB Digital Microscopes – In-Depth Reviews

A re you an observer, a tester, a collector, or a student who likes exploring the world? If the answer is yes, we’re glad to have you here. If you love analyzing objects you’ll certainly need a special gadget that can help you do that. Digital microscopes are fun and handy, exactly what you need to to the job. They just require computer or phone connectivity in order to project the image on the screen. You’ll be pleased to know they are very pocket-friendly, as well, affordable for everyone. We’ve searched for the best models, so check them out!

Top 11 USB Digital Microscopes Compared

Photo	Product Name	Magnification Rate	Frame Rate	Resolution	Lighting	Connection Type	Operating System	Price
Best Overall	1. Dino-Lite AM2111	10x – 50x, 230x	30 FPS	640 x 480	4 LEDs	USB 2.0	Windows XP, Vista 7, 8, 10, Mac OS 10.5 and above	Check Price
Our Choice	2. AOMEKIE A1016	200x	30 FPS	640 x 480 / 1600 x 1200	8 LEDs	USB 1.1/USB 2.0	Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, Mac	Check Price
	3. Sunnywoo SUNS004003	40x – 1000x	30 FPS	1080	8 LEDs	USB 2.0	IOS iPhone, iPad, Android Phone and tablet, Mac, Windows XP 7 8 10, Linux, Chrome OS	Check Price
Best for Students	4. Plugable USB2-MICRO-250X	40x – 250x	40x – 250x	1600 x 1200	4 LEDs	USB 2.0	Windows 7 8 10 Vista, Mac, Linux, Chrome, Android	Check Price
Best for Soldering	5. Koolertron AS-SMXW33	10x – 220x	30 FPS	1080	8 LEDs	USB 2.0	Windows XP SP2, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10	Check Price
Best for Coins	6. Jiusion-1000x	40x – 1000x	30	1000	8 LEDs	USB 2.0	Windows 7 8 10/Vista/XP/2000, Mac OS X 10.5 or above, some of Android mobiles, Linux, Chrome	Check Price
	7. Celestron 44308	10x – 200x	30	2592 x 1944	1 LED	USB 2.0	Windows 7/Windows 8/Windows 10, MAC OS	Check Price
	8. DigiHero USB Microscope	40x – 1000x	30	1080	8 LEDs	USB 2.0	Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10 or later, Mac 10.5 or later, and Android 4.2 or later	Check Price
	9. Sunnywoo SUNS004002	40x – 1000x	30	640×428	8 LEDs	USB 2.0	Windows 7 8 10/Vista/XP/2000, Mac OS X 10.5 or above, some of Android mobiles, Linux	Check Price
	10. Opti-Tekscope OT-HD	200x	30	1600 x 1200	8 LEDs	USB 2.0	Windows 10, Mac, Chromebook	Check Price
Best for Kids	11. Learning Resources Zoomy	54x	30	1600 x 1200	8 LEDs	USB 2.0	Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10 & Mac	Check Price

1. Dino-Lite AM2111

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Functionality

This item will provide you with the best image you need, due to all its performing features. We are discussing a handheld design, with a magnification up to 220x and a resolution of 640 x 480. The maximum frame rate is 30 FPS, while it’s compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. Concerning the image save formats, there are BMP, GIF, PNG, JPG, TIF, PNM, TGA, while the video formats are: WMV, FLV, SWF. Enjoy your hobby with this innovative device that will work at its highest capacity. Furthermore, the product is backed by a 2-year warranty.

Efficiency

If you love observing things closer, if you are in love with science or you just want to make a surprise for someone, this model might be the best choice. You will enjoy observing all that you want with its most significant features. We can discuss its trigger sensor that offers a great snapshot ability without moving the image. Also, now you can use simple tools to draw lines, shapes and also to write texts on an image. Another feature is the Polarization one that diminishes glow on reflective areas. The product comes with interchangeable caps to use the adequate one for each application.

Facility

You will totally love this item as you can take it anywhere you go. This model includes all the needed things in order to have a great experience. Except for the product itself, in the package, you will find a Dino Capture Software CD so that you can easily install it, a calibration target so you can use the calibrating measurements and a set of front caps.

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2. AOMEKIE A1016

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This multifunctional USB device suits various types of applications. This means you can use it for multiple purposes, so it acts like a traditional microscope with a magnification power of up to 200x, as well as an endoscope that lets you examine skin. This is not all, as it will impress you with other ability, that of performing as a USB cam. Among its most important features we can discuss the clear, HD images it’s able to produce, considering that it has a maximum resolution of 1600×1200 pixels, while the frame rate is 30 FPS. There are eight lights, which ensure lighting adjustment so you can properly observe the content. The gadget is compatible with both Mac and Windows systems. You’ll also enjoy its portability features, as well as the durable construction made from tough aluminum, which ensures years of performance.

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3. Sunnywoo SUNS004003

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This one is another of our favorite products especially for its most relevant features such as the high definition, 8 LEDs, and the Wi-Fi feature. You’ll be pleased by the 2-in-1 design it brings, as it can perform both as a microscope, as well as an endoscope. The zoom power can reach up to 1000x, so it’s definitely a good choice to take into consideration, especially if you want to clearly notice the tiniest elements. Furthermore, let’s mention it works with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems, as well as iOS and Android. In order to facilitate its use, it comes with an adjustable stand, for added convenience. Enjoy your hobby with this product that will offer you all that you need for a great experience.

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4. Plugable USB2-MICRO-250X

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Either a student, or a collector, you will totally fall in love with this one. It has a wide amplification range of up to 250x, while the cam resolution is 2.0 MP. Therefore, you’ll get the best images, even with the tiniest objects. There are also 4 lights that ensure better lighting conditions. You will be pleased by its 1600 x 1200 snapshots and the 640 x 480 videos. An important feature of this gadget is the capture button that will take a blur-free picture. Additionally, for more comfort, you’ll get and adjustable stand to properly place it for excellent views. Note that it works with both Windows and Mac, as well as Linux, Android, and Chrome.

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5. Koolertron AS-SMXW33

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This one is an excellent pick for multiple purposes, the main is that of exploring micro-objects. Among its most important peculiarities, we should discuss its 1000x magnification power, the eight lights for a better performance, as well as the frame rate of 30 FPS. With this model, you’ll also get a free stand so that you can place the gadget as desired and observe all the objects at the desired angle. It will provide photos in JPEG or BMP format and videos in AVI format. Plus, it works with both Mac and Windows system, as well as with Linux.

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6. Jiusion-1000x

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This item will be a great investment for students, engineers, inventors, and others who like exploring micro-objects. Among its most important peculiarities, we can discuss its 1000x magnification ratio, 8 LEDs light for a better performance, 30 FPS frame rate, and also the adjustable stand that allows you place it in the most comfortable way for analyzing the products. It will provide photos in JPEG or BMP format and videos in AVI format. This device is compatible with Windows 7 8 10/Vista/XP/2000, Mac OS X 10.5 or above, some of Android mobiles, Linux, Chrome.

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7. Celestron 44308

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This one’s another of our recommendations for those who love analyzing and observing objects closer. It’s a hand-held product with a 5MP sensor so that you can obtain and save high-resolution pictures and videos. As it works with both Mac and Windows, you can effortlessly pair it to your PC. What’s great about it is the measuring feature that lets you take measurements and make notes on the pictures you take. Maneuverability is worth considering, too, as the tool can be mastered with one hand. Plus, consider that it can be simply focused, with the built-in wheel. There’s a weighted stand that has many adjustments and also a lock to assure constant picture viewing. The box also includes a software CD, calibration ruler and cleaning cloth.

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8. DigiHero USB Microscope

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DigiHero comes to your attention with impressive features, such as remarkable zooming power of up to 1000x. It’s a great tool for a various range of people who are keen on discovering the microscopical world at their own home. It has a wide compatibility range with multiple operating systems, so you won’t have to deal with pairing issues. More than this, it’s both easy to install and use. Among the essential features worth considering are also the key-focus, together with the eight lights that allow for a more practical operation. In addition to this, you’ll enjoy adjustable zoom, another feature that’s worth your attention. The company also ensures the product for a period of 12 months in case of potential inconveniences.

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9. Sunnywoo SUNS004002

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Sunnywoo comes to your attention with another great product to consider if you love closer examination. The most important feature of this model is that it features 40x to 1000x magnification, able to provide you with clear, sharp, and high-quality images. Furthermore, it comes with 8 built-in LED lights with brightness adjustment control in order to improve images quality. Thus, you will examine everything you desire, in a more professional manner. Thanks to the adjustable stand, you can easily analyze the surface of objects at any angle by just positioning the stand exactly where you need and want. The Sunnywoo device is compatible with all operating systems. The only restriction is that it doesn’t work with Apple phones.

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10. Opti-Tekscope OT-HD

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If you want to clearly observe the micro world, you’ll surely want to discover more about this model. It uses professional sensors, which ensure HD images, to a resolution of up to 1600×1200 pixels. Therefore, you’ll be able to observe even the finest details. It’s equipped with eight lights, which assure ideal lighting conditions so that you can attain the desired results. The focal range can reach up to 30mm, which is another convenience worth looking at. The major benefit is that it’s compatible with both operating systems, Mac and Windows, so you won’t deal with pairing issues. The 3-in-1 design will please you, too, considering that it can be uses as a basic microscope, an endoscope, or USB cam.

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11. Learning Resources Zoomy

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The Learning Resources tiny device is another one worth considering especially for your beloved discoverers. Specially designed for young learners, this portable unit is an excellent matter to expand their curiosity and introduce them to the scientific world. The unique design is maybe the first that gets noticed, as it’s egg-shaped so that it can easily fit in a child’s hand. Plus, it can be positioned in any angle over objects, exactly how they want. Able to magnify up to 54 times, it offers crisp and clear images that can be seen on the PC, projector, or even a whiteboard. The peak photo resolution is 1600×1200 pixels, while the unit will also please you with 8 LED lights, and 2 lens adapters. The head adapters have different lengths and they can broadly zoom various objects. Zoomy is ideal for children aged 4 + and it’s compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, but also with Mac devices.

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How To Choose It?

These digital devices are different from the traditional ones that usually use a camera and optics to produce a digital image. As said before, these innovative products are more practical and less expensive than the regular ones. Nevertheless, the range is wide. Are there any criteria in order to make the best decision when purchasing one? Here’s a list with the most relevant principles when buying such an inventive product:

• Easy usage – Facility is a very important feature when purchasing any kind of device. Nobody wants a gadget that has a difficult way of use. It is important to be simple and intuitive in order to simply install and use it. Nobody will read a 200/300-page user manual so to install this tool.
• Material – This type of device is easy to mismanage so this is why it is relevant to be well-designed. Their construction has to be durable and sturdy so that they can resist when using it. Obviously, you have to be careful when managing them but they should not be easy to break.
• Lens – Lens and image quality are other factors to take into consideration when purchasing this tool. They should offer a qualitative and sharp image that does not suffer modifications when zooming it. In this case, we recommend a product with a higher level of magnification.
• Operating System – These tools commonly come with software that allows you to take pictures, make videos and see them on your computer. Usually, users want simple, fun softwares. Therefore, you have to carefully read the specifications before acquiring it.
• Expenses – It’s alright to invest in an item that is more expensive than others. But ensure it will provide you with a better and more qualitative image. Most of these products cost $30 – $150 and if they cost more assure that they offer a high-caliber image. Some of the most expensive models are not worth regarding their specifications.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

Considering all the products reviewed above, now it’s easier to choose a suitable microscope for your needs. Even so, applications differ so it’s important to take care when choosing one. The range is wide and characteristics differ, as well. Thus, the first factor is to determine exactly what you need. For more aid, just consider again the following options:

Best Overall : Dino-Lite AM2111
If you are interested in purchasing a premium microscope, then you should consider this model. Featuring a great magnification power of up to 230x, it will help you observe even the tiniest objects. You can use it for coins, plants, hair, and many other more tiny elements. More than this, it’s compatible with a wide range of operating systems and comes backed by a 2-year warranty in case of manufacturing defects.

Our Choice : AOMEKIE A1016
Worth looking at is also this little device. With an impressive 1600×1200 resolution, it’s an effective option to take into consideration if you want to discover the micro world. Able to zoom the image up to 200x, you will precisely observe even the tiniest objects. Another benefit it comes with is the adjustable light system, as it increases visibility. Additionally, it’s a lightweight, portable device, easy to carry at classes either if you’re a teacher or a student.

Best USB Digital Microscope for Soldering : Koolertron AS-SMXW33
Soldering is one of the most common applications that require a microscope. Even so, it’s important to choose a proper one, suitable for the task. In this case, we reliably recommend the Koolertron device as it’s designed with a base plate where you can put the articles that are going to be soldered. Additionally, the 8-LED adjustable lighting is another aspect worth considering, as it enhances functionality.

Best USB Digital Microscope for Coins : Jiusion-1000x
Explore the microscopical world with Jiusion, a device designed for everyone interested in discoveries. It’s flexible and practical, a stunning acquisition for home-use. With this model, you can see even the tiniest details on coins, so if you’re a coin collector, you should consider this one.

Best USB Digital Microscope for Students : Plugable USB2-MICRO-250X
Portable, fun, and practical, this is the best option for students. The stunning resolution and bright LEDs are just a few of the traits that best describe this product. It’s an excellent choice for exploring micro-objects in classes while having fun together with your team.

Best USB Digital Microscope for Kids : Learning Resources Zoomy
If your little one is a science passionate, the Learning Resources microscope will help them improve abilities and discover a wide area of microscopic elements. It’s an educative item, specially created for young learners. More than this, it has a unique design, an egg-shaped one, which makes it even more interesting for your beloved ones. Zoomy is perfect for children aged 4 years old and above.