Reddit mentions: The best microscopes

I had a toy microscope as a kid -- it was a fun idea but not so good since seeing truly small things well requires more budget. I'm now in a business where microscopy is critical and have some nice hardware I can use to see truly small things, but there's a lot of fun in looking at larger objects. This can be done with cheap hardware and I use an older pen-style scope like what you posted even for "serious" business-related work (https://www.amazon.com/Supereyes-Portable-Microscope-Endoscope-Magnifier/dp/B0066H7H1Q ). These come with software a lot of the time but it's maybe not very good, so I use something called "SharpCap" which is meant for astronomy but is actually just an easy program to display USB camera images in real time so it works nicely for USB camera microscopy. I'd recommend getting this kind of setup (USB camera that plugs into a computer for display) since the display will be nicer and my instinct is that 80 dollars/euros is too little for a microscope/display/storage/stage that will work to anyone's satisfaction.

I found this one on Amazon ( https://www.amazon.com/Opti-Tekscope-Microscope-Advanced-Definition-Industrial/dp/B0184CCOY0/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=usb+microscope&qid=1567129440&s=gateway&sr=8-10 ). It has LED lighting (important for illuminating objects from the top) and looks solid, with metal construction that seems nicer than the one I have. Something like this would plug into a computer and display in real time, allowing you a large working distance from the object while being steady enough to watch the screen while focusing. There are lots of them like this for sale, some with higher magnification, but I think anything like along these lines would be a great toy microscope.

I know this is late, but I'll answer anyway. I'm a 14-year-old. A few months ago I did chores and saved for a compound microscope. It is my prized possession and has inspired me to dabble in AP biology on my own time. I believe if your child is already inspired by the wonderful world of microscopy, the type does not matter, as long as it works well. Although, if you combine it with slides and accessories/stains to prepare your own slides, your child could learn more about lab skills. This would be ideal for kids who can be delicate with such instrument, as microscopes of any kind require optics in satisfactory condition. There is a microscope made of sturdy cardboard that I briefly looked into called the Foldscope. It's not digital, although you can put a phone up to the lens. Because it is small, it is portable. I don't have too much knowledge on the digital ones because I don't have one. the most popular one on Amazon looks to be this one. It is important to note that digitals will only look at the surface of the specimen, so if you're looking at, say, the cells of red onion membrane, you'll need a bottom light like that on a compound microscope. They are also constrained by USB cables. Choosing the right one for me was time-consuming since I wanted a cheaper one but also a high-quality one. It took maybe a full day of research to decide. I think children (me included) want the highest magnification possible. Some companies will say they have 2000x magnification, but in reality, the image is enlarged without increasing the resolution of the image. If you zoom in on a picture, it does not become more detailed. Be wary of this when looking at the specs. I realize most of this information is not about digital microscopes but I thought I could contribute.

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http://www.reddit.com/r/askscience/comments/e1sa0/my_kids_asked_santa_for_a_microscope_for/ Some not bad advice in that thread. Let me second a stereo-microscope. The stereomicroscope in my lab is easily my favorite to play with. I'd start by reading this

I think something like this or something like this which are, as far as I can tell, modified dermatologist scopes, might be good for a 5th grader. (Reviews are pretty good indicators on this, though don't trust zoom numbers most zoom 20-30x and the rest is all digital.) I spent a summer volunteering at a place with something like these, they are fun. Also if you want something that doesn't take pictures but is a pretty neat field scope you should check out, this, this, or this (note, jeweler loupes do not have lights built in). If you want something kind of medium range, most sites recommend Celestron scopes as pretty good. If you really want a compound microscope (and you know how to operate a microscope, I can't emphasize this enough, otherwise it will not work!) this is recommended by the microscope buying guide. (Also as someone else said, you will run out of stuff to look at pretty fast with a compound scope.) Though that site has a number of nice compound microscopes.

When to harvest. So first off, get yourself something to take a really close look at the trichomes. I just ordered this usb microscope https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WD843ZM?ref=ppx_pt2_dt_b_prod_image and its only $20, well worth it for all the other stuff you can zoom in on too, but now let's look at those trichomes. As they grow and start appearing they will be clear, they will then turn white over the weeks of flower and then turn amber and brown by the end of flower. Each of these colors has massive effects on the trichomes and how the high will feel. Clear/milky white will give a more alert, energetic, uppity high. While amber/brown give a more sedated, narcotic type of feel. If you want a more energetic high, harvest while they're milk white. For a more sedated high, harvest at amber. If you want a mix of both, keep an eye on them as they transition from milk white to amber and harvest when you're comfortable with them. It's not recommended to harvest with clear trichomes, or many of them at least, and by the time they get dark brown they will actually start to fall off and you DO NOT want that. Lastly, make sure you flush your plants for a week or 2 at the end of flower to get the nutrients out of those buds. And be sure to let them dry slow, this will yield the best results. I'd recommend to dry trim in order to keep the buds drying slower

So I'm really interested in buying a microscope as a hobby item. I've always been fascinated by biology and when I was little I had a cheap slide to focus 40x microscope that was given away to younger cousins. I've been on the verge of purchasing a new microscope for a year and a half. I'm looking at three different price brackets:

$80 (The scope this article links to.)

Cordless LED biological compound microscope offers five magnification settings: 40X-100X-250X-400X-1000X
Widefield glass optics and optical glass lens condenser provide high resolution sharp clear images
45 degree inclined 360 degree rotatable monocular head with locked-in eyepiece
Cordless LED illumination with three AA batteries and wall-power adpter/recharger included
Sturdy solid metal framework with dual side focus



$130 Here

45-degree Inclined 360-degree Rotatable Monocular Head with Four Magnification Settings 40X-100X-400X-1000X
Precise Optical Glass Lenses; All-Metal Framework and Mechanical Parts
Separate Coarse and Fine Focus and Abbe Condenser with Disc Diaphragm
Built-in Tungsten Light with GS and CE Approval
5-Year Warranty Including Parts and Labor against Manuafcturing Defects



$195 Here and here. 8 settings up to 2000x

1st link:

High quality professional optical glass elements; 45degrees;inclined 360degrees;swiveling binocular head
8 levels of magnification: 40x-80x-100x-200x-400x-800x-1000x-2000x
4 achromatic objectives DIN 4x, 10x, 40x(S), 100x(S,Oil); 2 pairs of eyepieces: WF10X and WF20X
Sliding interpupillary distance adjustment; Ocular diopter adjustable on both eyetubes; Stage upward moving lock protects objectives and slides
Variable intensity illumination; Coaxial coarse and fine focus adjustment; Focusing knobs on both sides; Stain-resistant double layer mechanical stage; NA1.25 Abbe Condenser with iris diaphragm and filters; Rack and pinion adjustment condenser

2nd link:

Binocular Sliding Head with Adjustable Ocular Diopter on Both Eyetubes
Eight Magnification Settings 40X, 80X, 100X, 200X, 400X, 800X,1000X & 2000X
Graduated X-Y Mechancal Stage and Tension Adjustable Separate Coarse & Fine Focus
Precise Ground Glass Lenses and Sturdy Metal Framework
5-Year Warranty against Manuafcturing Defects


Here's what I'd use it for:

Looking at pond scum, amoebas, blood, sperm, insect parts, pollen, etc.

The $80 scope shown is an awesome value. Is it silly to consider paying $115 more for 1000x more magnification?

Is 2000x magnification complete overkill for these applications?

How can expect the 2000x magnification to compare to the 1000x? Is oil immersion required for 2000x?

Between the two $195 scopes, which one is best? I'd really appreciate some advice on this one.

How important is the apparent lack of a fine control knob on the $80 scope?

Would it be worth it to get the $130 scope when all it adds is a fine control knob, or would it be better just to choose between the $80 and $195 scopes?

These are my suggestions - feel free to ask more questions if you need anything!

Read these guides (not by me) - I wish I had had something like this when I started: http://homegrow-pro.com/quantum-board-build-grow-tent/ And this one: http://homegrow-pro.com/the-3x3-grow-tent-setup/

The links and suggestions below are oriented for Canadians, so feel free to ask for alternatives.

Essentials

• Grow Tent: 3 ft x 3 ft x 6 ft is the size you'd probably want. This is the one I bought: https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Hydroponic-Observation-Window-Growing/dp/B01DXYMKIO
  
• Light: https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Pre-assemabled-Kingbrite-2019-newest-samsung_62123342418.html?spm=a2700.icbuShop.41413.14.161358f6VLfhlM This light is a fantastic LED quantum board that is very easy to assemble - I got the 3000K one with the epistar, but this one has the better CREE version
  
• Fabric Pots: Head to Amazon and grab yourself a 5-pack of 7 gallon fabric pots https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Gallons-Thickened-Nonwoven-Handles/dp/B00TF9E9PY/
  
• Also get yourself a saucer (you can get this at any garden store) and a pot elevator for each pot (pot elevator example: http://amazon.ca/Gro-Pro-725675-Level-Elevator/dp/B01J37FHF8/)
  
• Soil: Get yourself a bail of Pro Mix HP with mycorrhizae (it's cheap, reliable, and hard to overwater) from Canadian Tire, Rona, any store really and get also a bag of earthworm castings. Cover the bottom of your fabric pot with the castings (2-3 inches deep) https://www.homehardware.ca/en/20l-organic-worm-castings/p/5025712
  
• Nutrients: Gaia Green Dry Amendments (All Purpose and Power Bloom) Mix the All Purpose in with your Pro-Mix HP and then top dress your "soil" every month, changing it to Power Bloom during flowering https://www.canadiangardensupply.com/gaia-green-all-purpose-4-4-4.html https://www.canadiangardensupply.com/gaia-green-power-bloom-2-8-4-power-bloom-2-8-4-2kg.html
  
• Ventilation: Get the AC Infinity Cloudline T4 - it's absolutely worth it. Then purchase a 4-inch carbon filter and 4 inch tubing from Amazon (branding doesn't matter for these two things) https://www.amazon.ca/AC-Infinity-CLOUDLINE-T4-Ventilation/dp/B06ZXWN3BG https://www.amazon.ca/AC-Infinity-Dual-Layer-Aluminium-Ventilation/dp/B071LHCFZ8 https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Australia-Charcoal-Pre-filter-Included/dp/B01DXYMBU6
  
• Timer: You can go cheap on this, but also consider a smart timer (like a Wemo) https://www.amazon.ca/Insight-Switch-Enabled-Compatible-Amazon/dp/B00EOEDJ9W
  
• Seeds: Jahseeds.ca - Canadian breeder, amazing beans, amazing price! Go with feminized seeds for your first round. https://jahseeds.ca/shop?olsPage=t%2Ffeminized-seeds
  
  
  Extra accessories
  
  
• 2 fire extinguishers (one for just outside tent, one for outside the room, where the tent is located)
  
• Pruning shears (seperate ones for trimming live plants and ones for harvesting) https://www.amazon.ca/Pruning-Gardening-Straight-Stainless-Precision/dp/B076HL5JJM
  a lighter (for sanitizing)
  
• a set of tweezers, for planting your sprouted seed
  
• some garden gloves
  
• rope ratchets for your lights
  
• zips ties for protecting things
  
• binder clips (for low stress training)
  
• plant ties (soft rubber and wire kind)
  
• watering can
  
• two pairs of measuring spoons for dry amendments
  
• a clip on fan and rotating fan (for air circulation over and under the canopy)
  
• markers and a pack of tag plant markers for identifying plants
  
• soil moisture https://www.amazon.ca/Soil-Moisture-Sensor-Meter-Hydrometer/dp/B014MJ8J2U
  
• paper towels (for germination)
  
• Bucket Head Wet Dry Vacuum Powerhead Lid for 19 Litre (5 Gal.) Multi-Use Buckets great for gathering up the excess water and tipped soil) https://www.homedepot.ca/product/bucket-head-wet-dry-vacuum-powerhead-lid-for-19-litre-5-gal-multi-use-buckets/1000666690
  
• 3 five gallon buckets (1 for the buckethead vacuum and 2 for extra water reservoirs) and two lids
  
• 3 surge protector power bars
  
• Various AC power extension cables
  
• 1 trellis net (for ScrOG training)
  
• USB microscrope (used to check the trichomes at harvest - if you want you can also get an adapter so it plugs directly into your smartphone, as opposed to plugging it into a computer) https://www.amazon.ca/Jiusion-Magnification-Endoscope-Microscope-Compatible/dp/B06WD843ZM
  
• 62% Boveda packs for curing
  
• Mason jars for curing and storage
  
• hanging rack for drying (you can substitute this for a hanger and some plant ties)
  
• Duct tape
  It's a little more expensive at the start, but this setup will pay for itself within two harvests.
  
  
  With this setup you can expect to yield between 8 to 10 oz every run (even with autos), once you grow accustomed to the cycle.

The three finger test is a great test, but only once you have properly calibrated your fingertips against a knife that is truly sharp. If you don't know what a sharp knife feels like on your fingertips, it isn't going to be a whole lot of help here.

Until you get to that point, here is a much better guide:

http://knifegrinders.com.au/Manuals/Sharpness_Chart.pdf

Also, while a 8x - 10x jewelers loupe is certainly helpful, one of these is much more helpful:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078N34WZR

And one of these is much more helpful still:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XNYXQHE

Saved this comment from a fella in micro grocery to start my set up

These are suggestions - feel free to ask more questions if you need anything.

Read this guide - I wish I had had something like this when I started: http://homegrow-pro.com/quantum-board-build-grow-tent/ Read this guide too: http://homegrow-pro.com/the-3x3-grow-tent-setup/

Essentials

• ⁠Grow Tent: 3 ft x 3 ft x 6 ft is the size you'd probably want. This is the one I bought: https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Hydroponic-Observation-Window-Growing/dp/B01DXYMKIO
• ⁠Light: https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Kingbrite-240W-samsung-lm301h-288v3-quantum_62120261175.html?spm=a2700.7803241.0.0.31d73e5fhFxf6a This light is a fantastic LED quantum board that is very easy to assemble - I got the 3000K one with the epistar
• ⁠Fabric Pots: Head to Amazon and grab yourself a 5-pack of 7 gallon fabric pots https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Gallons-Thickened-Nonwoven-Handles/dp/B00TF9E9PY/
• ⁠Also get yourself a saucer (you can get this at any garden store) and a pot elevator for each pot (pot elevator example: http://amazon.ca/Gro-Pro-725675-Level-Elevator/dp/B01J37FHF8/)
• ⁠Soil: Get yourself a bail of Pro Mix HP with mycorrhizae (it's cheap, reliable, and hard to overwater) from Canadian Tire, Rona, any store really and get also a bag of earthworm castings. Cover the bottom of your fabric pot with the castings (2-3 inches deep) https://www.homehardware.ca/en/20l-organic-worm-castings/p/5025712
• ⁠Nutrients: Gaia Green Dry Amendments (All Purpose and Power Bloom) Mix the All Purpose in with your Pro-Mix HP and then top dress your "soil" every month, changing it to Power Bloom during flowering https://www.canadiangardensupply.com/gaia-green-all-purpose-4-4-4.html https://www.canadiangardensupply.com/gaia-green-power-bloom-2-8-4-power-bloom-2-8-4-2kg.html
• ⁠Ventilation: Get the AC Infinity Cloudline T4 - it's absolutely worth it. Then purchase a 4-inch carbon filter and 4 inch tubing from Amazon (branding doesn't matter for these two things) https://www.amazon.ca/AC-Infinity-CLOUDLINE-T4-Ventilation/dp/B06ZXWN3BG https://www.amazon.ca/AC-Infinity-Dual-Layer-Aluminium-Ventilation/dp/B071LHCFZ8 https://www.amazon.ca/VIVOSUN-Australia-Charcoal-Pre-filter-Included/dp/B01DXYMBU6
• ⁠Timer: You can go cheap on this, but also consider a smart timer (like a Wemo) https://www.amazon.ca/Insight-Switch-Enabled-Compatible-Amazon/dp/B00EOEDJ9W
• ⁠Seeds: Jahseeds.ca - Canadian breeder, amazing beans, amazing price! Go with feminized seeds for your first round. https://jahseeds.ca/shop?olsPage=t%2Ffeminized-seeds

Extra accessories

• ⁠Pruning shears (seperate ones for trimming live plants and ones for harvesting) https://www.amazon.ca/Pruning-Gardening-Straight-Stainless-Precision/dp/B076HL5JJM
• ⁠a lighter (for sanitizing)
• ⁠a set of tweezers, for planting your sprouted seed
• ⁠some garden gloves
• ⁠rope ratchets for your lights
• ⁠zips ties for protecting things
• ⁠binder clips (for low stress training)
• ⁠plant ties (soft rubber and wire kind)
• ⁠watering can
• ⁠two pairs of measuring spoons for dry amendments
• ⁠a clip on fan and rotating fan (for air circulation over and under the canopy)
• ⁠markers and a pack of tag plant markers for identifying plants
• ⁠soil moisture https://www.amazon.ca/Soil-Moisture-Sensor-Meter-Hydrometer/dp/B014MJ8J2U
• ⁠paper towels (for germination)
• ⁠Bucket Head Wet Dry Vacuum Powerhead Lid for 19 Litre (5 Gal.) Multi-Use Buckets great for gathering up the excess water and tipped soil) https://www.homedepot.ca/product/bucket-head-wet-dry-vacuum-powerhead-lid-for-19-litre-5-gal-multi-use-buckets/1000666690
• ⁠3 five gallon buckets (1 for the buckethead vacuum and 2 for extra water reservoirs) and two lids
• ⁠3 surge protector power bars
• ⁠Various AC power extension cables
• ⁠1 trellis net (for ScrOG training)
• ⁠USB microscrope (used to check the trichomes at harvest - if you want you can also get an adapter so it plugs directly into your smartphone, as opposed to plugging it into a computer) https://www.amazon.ca/Jiusion-Magnification-Endoscope-Microscope-Compatible/dp/B06WD843ZM
• ⁠62% Boveda packs for curing
• ⁠Mason jars for curing and storage
• ⁠hanging rack for drying (you can substitute this for a hanger and some plant ties)
• ⁠Duct tape

It's a little more expensive at the start, but this setup will pay for itself within two harvests. With this setup you can expect to yield between 8 to 12 oz every run, once you grow accustomed to the cycle.

At 100x you'll see individual cells, but erythrocytes are really small, and 400x is ideal. For pond life, larger microorganisms like paramecium might be viewable, but euglena for example will be small with minimal detail.

You could try the Carson microbrite, I have one, but I know it's quite limited as a student microscope: (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LAX52IQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_M8PBCb65642MJ)

The OMAX M82ES has great features and produces great images, costs considerably more though and realistically is only good to 400x (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LAX52IQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_M8PBCb65642MJ)

Hope this helps get you on the right track!

Video is going to be your problem, most cheap scopes won't do a very good job, depending on what you're looking for.

I've been using one I got off Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XNYXQHE/ or similar, there are several identical ones from different brands there). Picture quality is OK, good enough for basic work, but it doesn't seem like it would do video well (though it can).

A few example pictures:

https://imgur.com/J49ZBFM

https://imgur.com/ocAlHr6

https://i.imgur.com/N90jTHI.jpg

Not great, but decent magnification and perfectly acceptable for basics (could use some better lighting). That's going to be your baseline, and at $40 you're pretty limited (you can probably pick up a version of that for a bit under $40 if you look around).

Anything past that and your price is going to pop. The one /u/Thebillyray linked is a similar but slightly better option, but at twice the price. Anything higher quality than these will start to push you well over $100.

I don't own one yet but I've got my eye on this one since I want something fairly inexpensive and easy to use for my first purchase:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XNYXQHE?psc=1&redirect=true

It's only 2mp and uses a flexible arm to hold it instead of a sturdy, straight stand so not sure how great is for photography. I think I'm going to use it mainly for viewing a lot of coins vs. photographing a few ones so might fit the bill.

But if I'm being honest, I hope I can get cool pics as well :)

Crystals aren't magical because of hocus-pocus ghost magic, but because they are a macroscopic manifestation of the microscopic interactions between chaos, order, and growth. The magic they give is fuel for creativity/curiosity (same thing,) the most powerful force in the universe. Many natural objects provide such enrichment, pretty much all, but crystals have a unique ability by virtue of being physically manifested fractals.

Rule #1 of magic: the physically mundane is the most profound, the metaphysical is the most mundane. Ghost shit is normiesville.

For the low price of $12.99 with free shipping you can purchase a Carson Microbrite Plus pocket microscope and reap all the rewards of observing the microscopic for the price of a fast food meal. But that's not all, observing the cosmos directly with a telescope, binoculars, or even the naked eye will give you incredible boons as well. Explore and observe your world on all levels and you will find limitless beauty and inspiration. Naturalism, it isn't just for nerds anymore.

Dove from Carson is so sexy. *_*

Sure - was 20 dollars off amazon. This is the best quality pics I've gotten with it so far, bit hard to focus just right but 1000000 X easier than a hand held loupe that drives me nuts trying to hold it still close up to a bud. With this I just cut a small sample, bring it inside, set the cam over it and plug the usb into my mac. View the feed using an app store app called quick cam - or can even use photobooth but i think that degrades the video quality a bit

Note: with this usb scope, it might look like the trichs are clear on the outside, but it's more of a reflection / due to the white background and bright light. Notice how the trichomes in front of the actual green plant matter are cloudy - it's because the green contrasts, while the outside trics over the white look clear, they are almost certainly not so.


Link to product: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N4K22OA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I haven't used a usb microscope but my understanding is that depth perception can be a real problem. I use an AmScope binocular stereo microscope. It does have a port for a camera that blocks one lens. If I want to record, I would use a separate usb microscope. This is rather pricey and I just happened to get a great deal at an auction. There are cheaper options, but that may give you an idea of the ideal optics. The barlow lens helps with the wider field of view and the lights are great. Another option is a headband magnifier like this. It may be enough an even if not, would still come in handy when the scope is overkill.

Let me recommend this microscope to get a better view of the trichromes.

http://www.amazon.com/SE-MW10087L-Brass-Microscope-Illuminator/dp/B002E0MU70/ref=sr_1_11?rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1343331439&sr=8-11&keywords=microscope

It's only $5 but its awesome. You can easily adjust the focus. It has some small LEDs that shine perfectly on what you're trying to see. I've seen it at some shops for $15-20 but it's only $5 dollars on Amazon. If you can stay steady enough you can also take pictures with it and a cellphone.

Yes.

But it's not about the camera nearly as much as it is about lenses. For example, you can get a Canon 65mm macro lens that reproduces the images 5x bigger than lifesize. (In other words, 5x zoom). Next, you can 'crop to zoom' meaning you can just take the middle of your image to zoom in more.

A top-of-the-line professional digital camera these days is 36MP or 50MP (full-frame, or medium format, respectively). Consider that your average facebook photo is, what, 0.5 megapixels? You can zoom in quite a lot with cameras like that by just cropping and still have an acceptable image.

Also, there are digital microscopes like this one that offer 20x to 200x zoom.

http://www.amazon.com/Celestron-Handheld-Digital-Microscope-Pro/dp/B00CMJ1I08/

Their image quality is far lower than that of a professional digital camera with a macro lens, but they are in fact digital cameras.

Now, you might say: "Yes, but they accomplish this by using a lens with a large magnification. I meant just using the digital camera itself." All digital cameras need some sort of lens in front of the sensor to focus light, just like a normal camera; just like any microscope. (They don't necessarily have to be lenses, you could use mirrors and other things as well.) So it's less about the high resolution of the sensor and more about the lens, but a high resolution sensor does help to letting you crop to zoom.

From cheapest with the least amount of features to the most expensive with the most features.

SE400 Inspection Scope
-

Cheapest Option, no zoom, but large working distance at .5x Very limited and similar to getting a 250cc bike when you need atleast 1000cc. Great to learn how to scope with, but a waste of money after a month when you could have put the money to a better unit.

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SW-3T24Z Trinocular Stereo Microscope
-

Trinoc without simufocal so you lose depth of field when the cameras on, ( you can only see out of 2 of the 3 ports at once ) and you cannot pull the scope out, so its got limited rage.

---

SM4B Stereo Boom Scope
-

Basic Binoc scope with decent features, zoom and reach. Decent working area around 5.5 to 6 in

---

SM4TP Simufocal Stereo Boom Scope
-

Best of the best for the price, has capabilty to have cmount camera attached for 3rd viewer on a tv for training or for youtube livestreaming, ect

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Good luck! and dont forget to buy a ring light!

Those picture are so perfect to watch how amber glandes are !

That rockstar is almost 80% amber - 20% milky !
Really nice macro !

If anyone would like to see their buds up close like that, i got Carson 60x-120x for cheap
https://www.amazon.ca/Carson-60X-120X-Lighted-Pocket-Microscope/dp/B00LAX52IQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521695650&sr=8-1&keywords=carson

Work super great , lots of fun ! Maybe not for taking picture with ur cellphone (can be done but better get a 30x-60x like this one for picture :https://www.amazon.ca/Zorvo-Jewelers-Loupe-Illuminated-Magnifier/dp/B01MEEEXET/ref=sr_1_sc_2?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1521695747&sr=1-2-spell&keywords=60x+jewel )

Okay, here it is. I guess it's more than I originally remembered, but is on sale for ~200. We brought these to the USA Science and Engineering Festival back in October and they proved to be fantastically durable enduring two days of kids handling them. Like I said, we were looking at termite guts, and were able to see protists and spirochetes very well with it, but were not at high enough magnification for real bacterial observation. It can even record video of what you're seeing. We were very impressed with the quality of these low-cost microscopes.

i have one of these but its been a little difficult for me to see them clearly or even try and take a picture, it moves around so damn much lol. I'm going to try again and post an update.

I checked it last night and i'm pretty confident that i saw a mix of clear and cloudy with very few amber.

My only gripe is the image quality (there's definitely better quality but more expensive options) but it's not unusable by any means.

Other than that, it's nice having a huge "viewfinder" and being able to snap pictures without trying to hold a camera and loupe. I find it's easier to take a picture (or several) then analyze it/them later, that way I can pull them into Lightroom or similar and adjust the lighting to get a better look at what's going on.

I have that $10 phone clip on microscope that you see a lot of on amazon. It actually works well. Shows amber. have a nice phone screen is so much better than a loupe - just need to steady your hand. its not really a digital microscope. Its just a 60x lens that you put in front of your phone cam lens and you use your phone to zoom in. it gives me the best view of trichomes out of all the devices I have, including an old lab grade ziess microscope. and the LED light does not mask out amber.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0748FMBNC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is the one that causes me issues. going to send it back. And it has built in zoom and is a true digital scope.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00XNYXQHE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

If you're planning on getting a camera just stick with a monocular. I have a binocular and it's really nice for viewing especially doing the long count method but if you can just get a camera. It's so much better.

There are plenty of decent ones on Amazon. Omax is a good brand.

Promotion Set: OMAX 40X-2000X Lab LED Binocular Compound Microscope with Double Layer Mechanical Stage + 100 Glass Blank Slides & Covers + 100 Lens Cleaning Paper https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0094JTZOU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_SDnwxbS0A9GYK

For a hemocytometer... Don't buy the shitty $30 one on Amazon. It fucking sucks giant donkey balls. I had that one and I seriously wanted to crush it repeatedly with our forklift. Buy nice or buy twice. Get the $130 one from sigma Aldrich. Bright line. Make sure you have the proper coverslips. Not your regular ones that come with the microscope. The sigma one comes with 2 I believe. Don't lose them or break them!!! You can order more though if it happens.

Looking close for sure, but it’s hard to say from just the picture.

Get yourself a jewelers loupe or a usb micro-scope like this one —

Wireless Digital WiFi USB Microscope 50X To 1000X Magnification Mini Handheld Endoscope Inspection Camera with 8 LEDs with Metal Stand, Compatible with iPhone, iPad, Android Smartphone, Mac, Windows https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PVMRZQH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qDJXDb8ASFQDX

This is honestly the best way. You can try to estimate by color, pistils, and time...but you’ll never really know until you look at the trichomes.

This one is pretty great:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00XNYXQHE/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1510971757&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=usb+microscope&dpPl=1&dpID=41NWME3Ne%2BL&ref=plSrch

You plug it into a laptop. Has great range and takes great photos.

You might want to start with a simple compound microscope and get a cell phone adapter to view with. A stereo microscope is great but it's difficult to view "together". Buying a microscope used will cut the price a lot, but beware the objectives could be dirty and need cleaning. also, high magnifications like 1000x can be difficult to use, because of low field of view, high light levels required and may be difficult for a kid to focus. A few hundred dollars isn't going to cut it for those magnifications. Stick to a scope that has 4x, 10x and maybe 20x objectives.

This type of basic microscope is great for learning, has LED lights for both reflection and transmission viewing, works on batteries, easy to use. https://www.amazon.com/TELMU-Microscope-Magnification-Illumination-Microscopes/dp/B07DQQKJNZ/

Cell phone adapter I've used with great success: https://www.amazon.com/Gosky-Universal-Phone-Adapter-Mount/dp/B013D2ULO6/

This is basically what I picked up. Just a cheap Chinese-made digital microscope with decent reviews. It only came with software on a mini-disc thing and... well I don't have a cd-rom anyway (whatyearisit.jpg) but luckily it works mostly plug-and-play with the default 'camera' program on windows. It's hard to get a good placement with nothing moving, magnification set properly, etc. but I really wanted to be able to check my trichomes (and my hand lens really wasn't cutting it). Worth the $20 for sure!

That's some good looking flower I'd say they're close but the only way you're going to be able to tell when's the perfect time to harvest is by looking at the trichomes with a loupe. You can get one on amazon for ~$10.

I have this pocket microscope 60x is even almost too much because you get a very narrow view of the flower, I have to move it around a lot, but you can definitely clearly tell what stage the trichomes are at with it

Depends an awful lot on what type of scope you're looking to pick up; compound or stereo?

If stereo, this is a really nice scope for the price. I picked it up for entomological use, and it is really a better scope than its price would have you believe. The light is really nice, too, though it could be brighter when using the 2x barlow lens to push mag to 90x. Again, for the price point, it's one hell of a scope.

If compound, I'd look at Amscope's offerings (just because I'm so impressed with my stereo scope from them). Check out their website, you can put together a scope specifically for your needs.

I'd say the $300-$400 range is perfectly reasonable for a compound scope. For example, this scope (again recommending AmScope just because I'm so happy with mine; I'm sure there are other good "budget" manufacturers out there) seems quite capable; 40-2000x, bright/darkfield, trinocular (makes hooking a camera up to your computer a lot more convenient).

You might have already made your decision, but one of the best tools I've bought is this $13 microscope - it takes all the guesswork out for me. Great looking plant!

​

*Edited to include the UK link on Amazon

I just got THIS USB Microscope from Amazon today. No complaints from me. I am not sure how accurate the color with this thing is but it seems to give me a clearer glimpse of the trichomes than those little 60x magnifiers that go for 10 dollars on amazon. It even has a button on the back that you press to snap pictures instread of having to click on a mouse or on the phone screen. Oh yeah, the coolest part about this microscope is that it can also plug in directly to an android phone/tablet and be used on the phone!

Anyway, this is my first grow and i would like to get a second opinion on my trichomes. It appears I have a lot of cloudy trichome heads and i THINK it may be time to harvest. Would appreciate you guys' inputs.

AND THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE HELPED ME GET THIS FAR!!!!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006MX03Q0/?coliid=IGTKAK9Q261QH&colid=2FMX9BJI3OTTN&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

I've used these before. They work well and they are well made really. I have an Amscope that cost $200 more than this one and I'd trade it in a heart beat. Hands down my recommendation. Been in my shopping list for years...

I'd recommend getting some kimtech wipes too and making sure you know all the care instructions. Keep it covered when not in use and all those things.

Best way is to get a 20x scope. Something like this will work fine.

http://www.amazon.com/Carson-MM-200-Micromax-60X-100X-Microscope/dp/B000P8AUMU/ref=sr_1_cc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290463704&sr=1-1-catcorr

You can even get a jewelers loupe which is even cheaper.

The trichs convert from THC to CBD's. A higher ratio of THC to CBD will give a more cerebal "head" type of high. A higher ratio of CBD to THC will create a more body type of high. The first is more like a sativa and the second will resemble more of an indica. I believe that 40% amber gives a good representation of what the plant is.

You won't be able to see molecules like antibodies, at least not with a light microscope. If interested in why, you should check out pages such as this one explaining the limits of resolution (about 3/4 down the page).

You won't be able to diagnose health disorders via blood draw and light microscopy without the proper tools (you might see evidence for super obvious ones that depend on morphology or cell counts, but that's not a diagnosis). I'm not a clinician, but my guess is clinics use stains, qPCR, ELISAs, things like that, to diagnose.

That said, you should be able to see things like cheek cells or RBCs, with a decent 20x or 40x light microscope. It's likely you won't be able to see more. I had one when I was a child, and it probably didn't cost more than a few hundred $. Here's one that's not wonderful quality, but it looks like you can get some decent magnification and it even has a phase add-on (except one review says the add on is unuseable).

Not much experience, but I had good luck right out of the box with this one:

https://www.amazon.com/Awarded-2018-Best-Compound-Microscope/dp/B0094JTZOU

I recommend getting some sample pre-prepared slides as well so you can focus on the scope usage at first.

I used a cheap macro clip-on for my phone. I ordered one for like 6$ on amazon as a small set containing 3 different types...

Something like this:
https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B01I9J21WI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I also ordered a cheap USB Microscope but that needs to be connected to a laptop, but it has some good magnification, but a VERY limited field of depth.

https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B00N4K22OA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

For the USB one...

To check out some shots look here:
https://growdiaries.com/diaries/1387-try-number-2/week/8120

Hope that helps

P.s.: usable shots with the USB one were obtained by cutting of a popcorn bud ;)

link it’s 15$ for one (when i bought it, they had a 2 for 20$ deal) but still well worth it. The perfect tool for telling exactly when your harvest is ready.

Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope with Flexible Arm Observation Stand for Windows, Mac, Linux (2MP, 250x Magnification) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XNYXQHE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_oXpMAbACVS1BF


It doesnt zoom... At least how im using it but it does have a focus which is nice. Easy to use and take pics. I dont use the stand it comes with, just hand held

A microscope will help tremendously. Get one with an LED light and an adjustable viewpiece. This is the microscope I use at work. It does pretty well.

Grab some kapton tape and a good vise or very solid pair of helping hands.

A multimeter, quick alloy, desoldering braid, solder sucker, a collection of tips would be my next purchases in your shoes.

EDIT: Spend the money on the soldering iron. A good soldering iron will give consistent heat for quicker, cleaner work.

Here ya go! 🤘🏻

• works great for the price! (Hardest Part is keeping it Steady 🤣🤣 )
  
  
  Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android Linux https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iXqXCbZSFT3VH

I'm happy using this one. Plugs into a usb port and takes up to 200x photos and videos.
I also use it to view compost tea microbes, so I know my brew is alive and correct. Plus viewing springtails under a scope is super cool looking.

Plugable USB 2.0 Digital... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XNYXQHE?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I own this one. The manual focus takes a bit to perfect and the post is not long enough to get anything bigger than a small cent in the frame (I bought a dowel to extend the crap out of it and can get Morgans and bigger in the frame now), but it takes some amazing shots. Will need a light ring setup in order to photograph slabbed coins but all in all it is a really good microscope.

Sure thing! I bought this one from Amazon last year. https://www.amazon.com/Awarded-Best-Compound-Microscope-2016/dp/B0094JTZOU I love it. It's perfect for every day use. Here's a video I took last year of pond water with cell phone camera. https://youtu.be/WALjNaX9WYg

It should be fairly easy. If you want portability, buy some Smart Pots, they worked much better than the standard plastic pots I was using before. Spend some money on some good nutrients for the N-P-K phases. I used the Fox Farm Trio for my first grow, but I will be moving onto more organic products next year. Make sure to feed them less than what the bottles tell you to. Good soil is very important, I used Roots Organic. Then get some Molasses and feed it about cap full once every couple of weeks while it's vegging, and once a week when it flowers.

One mistake I made on my first grow, was ignoring pesticides. Next year I will be using Azamax once a week when it's vegging. Caterpillars can ruin a good amount of your crop in no time.

I think that's pretty much all you need for a cheap, and low-maintenance grow. Buy some Fiskars trimmers, and a microscope when you think they're ready for harvest.

There are a few things I feel should be corrected.

>You will want to harvest when at least 50% of them have turned amber. Some people prefer to wait until 80% are amber

I disagree and think that is WAY to much amber. Personally I feel around 10% amber is perfect and if you look around most people will actually recommend 20%

>Some people use the 3:1 ratio (Use 3 gallons per gallon container). This will remove all the salt buildup from the nutrients.

This is more of an emergency flush that you would use if you start seeing alot of nutrient burn or if your soil PH is off (IE getting very low or high runoff PH)

An end of cycle flush normally refers to withholding nutrients but watering the same amount.

>A scope with 30x to a 100x is perfect. Radio shack sells a nice scope with a light on it for around 10 dollars.

I have a 30x scope and feel it is very difficult to get an accurate look at your trichs with it. I would actually recommend 45x or higher. I also own the radioshack scope, and it is near impossible to use it without taking a cutting of a leaf to use on a stable surface. This is the 60x I now use and highly recommend (it also has a light and can be used without taking a sample from your plant), it is only $4 with free shipping.

> Just keep in mind THC degrades into CBD's the longer you let it grow.

THC degrades into CBN not CBD (source)

Thank you. Its this one https://www.amazon.com/Plugable-Microscope-Flexible-Observation-Magnification/dp/B00XNYXQHE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1486744202&sr=8-1&keywords=plugable+usb+microscope

Pretty damn good for 35 bucks id say. The flex part is metal, and the suction cup is really sturdy. No need to hold it in your hand and try to be super steady, or take "bud samples". I just suction cup it to the wall next to the plant, push it up against a bud and then adjust the focus ring. It also has adjustable LED lights, and the software is excellent. Its probably made in China, but the software and tech support is all american, and very legit

There are some decent Amscope scopes on Amazon. I got something like [this one] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004QEFO1Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1500439482&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=B007LBETCQ%7CB004UMDLAA%7CB00AM5XB5O%7CB005O0XVTS%7CB00AZOICT2%7CB009JROROU%7CB004QEFO1Q%7CB007LBETCQ&dpPl=1&dpID=41a90GOXjiL&ref=plSrch) a few years back and I actually prefer it over my clinical lab scope at work. It's really quite heavy and sturdy, so I don't hesitate to let my sons play with it. We go "bear hunting" in the backyard after it rains. You can connect a digital camera to the trinocular piece on the top. Amscope sells those, too, but they are usually a low mp. I got the Canon converter and attach my Canon 6d to it.

I'm sure your daughter would love it! My kiddos are always bringing random things home to look at under the microscope. They could spend hours with a little cup of pond water.

Hey man, didn't catch you in the chat. My bad.

You gonna harvest the Cheese? I can't see it past day 29 man. I wouldn't be surprised. Nirvana are very shit and i've had plenty of seeds turn out to be runts. Probably about 60% i'd say!

If the loupes are not working for you then consider a USB microscope? This is a good branded one but you could a cheap Chinese one if you want a budget one.

Really great plants man and a nice fat full tent for a first grow. What plant is your favourite would you say? Also, how you finding that light? First grower here using that one I think.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PVMRZQH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Just got this in. Wifi Compatible, pretty easy to use. Pictures are way better with a stable surface though.

I think it’s this one but I’m not 100%. There’s a few users in this sub that have posted some pretty amazing pictures using those and it isn’t expensive either

It's pretty awesome. I was on the fence until I actually tried it out. So much easier than a jewelers loupe.

plugable microscope

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_e3vFDbHQEP90Q

That and an old Win Laptop. Love the device!

​

Edit:



Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android

Hey, Im having trouble finding my other scope, but it looks similar to this one:

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B002E0MU70/ref=as_at?slotNum=6&linkCode=g12&imprToken=QksG4RjHMZlKeg9OhpHmeA&creativeASIN=B002E0MU70&tag=impexion04-20

Anyway, best of luck in your search!

Thanks! Ya I haven't been here in quite some time, but this post has made me want to pick it up again.

As for what gear I use, it's an OMAX 40x-2000x Microscope and a digital camera which I can't remember nor have anymore.

And did you mean x-post to r/MicroPorn? I read the guidelines and it seems they don't want albums. But thanks for the info, I'll definitely post there when I start doing some more.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00LAX52IQ?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

I bought this 2 years ago and used it successfully with 2 harvests.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00004SD76/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1525838527&sr=8-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=fiskars+scissors&dpPl=1&dpID=311tbl6Gx4L&ref=plSrch

I'm a big fan of fiskars, and these are priced great as an add on item.

Hello Henry, i use this USB Scope (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Veho-Magnification-interpolated-flexi-stand-measurement/dp/B002JCSCYI) and it works perfect on my mac book pro, you just download the drivers from their website for free. hope this helps

Wow, one of the first setups I've seen in a while where I didn't have a major suggestion. Very nice.

Add a pair of Fiskars, a hygrometer for curing, trich microscope and something for tying things down if you're going to LST.

I had to really think just to think of those. Good job.

Nice video! We did a science fair project using a cheap endoscope on amazon to get a similar zoom level. It's a ton of fun to see things up close!

Here's a (non affiliate) link to the one we used, there are a ton of similar ones too: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WD843ZM

Smithsonian Handbooks: Rocks & Minerals, looking through the sample pages this seems to have great pics and good info.

I find myself still going back to my 30 yo Golden Guides or other Field Guides for IDs on various creepy crawlys and plants.

This USB Microscope looks really cool too.

in the top center of the first macro shot you can still see clear trichs. I would wait and in the mean time order a cheap usb microscope for like 15 bucks off amazon to get a better pic

That is awesome that your gal wants to share in the hobby! I've been contemplating my own yeast ranching operation and on several times have nearly bought this microscope. Since it takes pictures and I'm lazy, it seems like it would be fairly easy to export the pictures and have a computer do the counting for you.... plus, yeast pictures would be instant karma.

The scope I used has a 250x magnification and I could see the russets and eggs easily. I don't recall seeing poop, but I don't think I was looking. Yes, you can see dead russets -- they look just like live ones but don't move.

Under my handheld 30x scope the mites looked like little worms and I could not see eggs. I think I mentioned that I used this scope -- it looks like there are some cheaper ones available now.

Edit: Here's my post from 5months ago when I had russets. At the bottom are pics and videos that I took with the usb scope. I can't remember if I had it at 250x or not with these close ups. Here is a pic of russets and eggs. You can see that the eggs are spherical and shiny. Not to be confused with sessile glands seen here and here.

This is the one a lot of people on Reddit tend towards. It's not perfect, but it's pretty good for the price! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XNYXQHE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This one. It's fun. You can't focus, only zoom. But it takes great shots and is cheap.

Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android Linux https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_zzCMBbJX09JJK

Do you know what strength magnification would be needed to see the microbes? Literally looking at amazon right now lol. Do you think this would work?

I ordered here this one. Got good reviews and says that you can buy an optional camera attachment to plug into a computer. Which sounds awesome to me.

I have this one and it is pretty neat.

This one is a little better though and still cheap.

Same, I had a 60x joulers loupe but it never felt right, so i picked up one of these

Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_YIPkDb1RVJGFW

Have taken some awesome pics with it, plugs in to your phone too

The best and only true way to tell is to get something similar to this.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WD843ZM/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3RWIXDOQ27037

I'm guessing this would work as well.
http://www.instructables.com/id/10-Smartphone-to-digital-microscope-conversion/

I just hooked up this one for the first time tonight. Seemed pretty easy to get good shots of the trichromes.
https://www.amazon.com/Plugable-Microscope-Flexible-Observation-Magnification/dp/B00XNYXQHE

It's too quiet in here!

This would make my daughter happy. It is a teeny tiny microscope. She can look at bugs to her heart's content and try to convince me that they are cute.

I played with something similar to this for an old job. They're pretty cool but not quite as good as a regular microscope.

I was able to see all of the tiny security features on my driver's license like microscopic letters on the ridges of mountains.

Hello dear Jessa,
congrats at your team and yourpersonality,
i post a question about hot air station, you and Luis used this 2 machine, weller and jvc but it's very expensive. do you know other ways? i have heard a lot of people use the station AOYUE Int 2703A+, what do you think about this?
another little question:
i need to change my microscope and in your tech store you use a sm-4tp,
i have see on amscope website the sm-4tz (3.5X-90X) it's better than 45X? https://www.amazon.com/AmScope-SM-4TZ-144A-Professional-Trinocular-Magnification/dp/B004UBNIMC/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1472747068&sr=8-1&keywords=SM-4TZ

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XNYXQHE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5x-uCbPZ7VPE4

I bought that one. Nothing special and I don’t know shit about microscope but after getting it really close and playing with the settings this was about the best I could do. I have no idea what I’m doing though. Lol

yea, keith is who i bought my first jnat from. hes incredibly knowledgable and alot of what i know is learned from his site. i literally learned to hone w/ jnats from a method he told me.

if you arent getting edges that are similar to what pros are giving you off a 12k then ill give you a few tips:

for starters i heard you have to lap a bit off the 4k/8k sides because they are a bit harsh to start(dont own one so im not 100% on this) but if you dont already have a good loupe or a pocket microscope get one. after you get the bevel set(this is really where it all begins. it has to cut hair along the length of the bevel) make sure you remove all scratches from your previous hone. after the 8k you should have a very polished bevel. you will need to know what to look at though so its going to take some practice. hit your 12k and do about 20~ or so x strokes, only enough weight to keep the razor on the hone. then check the bevel. if it looks rough still you needed more work on the 8k. your 12k edge needs to be highly polished with no large scratches and definitely no chips. id say if you cant get that look off your 12k within 30 x strokes, you didnt spend enough time on the 8. best of luck.

it really just takes a good bit of practice. to start with dont worry about overhoning. thats a load of shit anyway. as long as you arent doing uneven amount of strokes on each side and developing a burr then dont worry about overhoning. tbh stroke counting is kind of pointless anyway. i only say 20-30 as a general guideline it may take less it may take more. let the scratch pattern dictate where to go.

I use a 30x/60x loupe with LED lighting. Super cheap and does a fine job. Loupe $11 now, same as when I bought it.

For coins or anything I need a finer, more stable look at, I use a 60x-120x LED-lit microscope. Microscope $13 now, bought it for $6.60 a couple years ago.

Personally i feel the pistils are a terrible way to determine harvest, many different strains produce pistils in a variety of ways, my suggestion is to look at the trichs themselves and when most of them are milky white (not clear, and not amber) its time to harvest. Here is a link to a real cheap and effective jewelers loupe that i myself use, i love it and have about 5 of them, i keep one in my room, one in my bong bag, one in my stash jar ect.

http://www.amazon.com/SE-MW10087L-Brass-Microscope-Illuminator/dp/B002E0MU70/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1347998961&sr=8-5&keywords=jewelers+loupe

Hope this helps bro

Get a few of these. Super cheap and they work fantastic.

Get a pocket magnifier. Trichromes turning ~50% amber is the best way to tell. You can pick one up on amazon for around $5. Like this one Also that plant looks like it's a few weeks out yet.

I bought a pocket microscope, but its a double A battery instead of a USB, and it does a better job of showing the actual trichome heads clearly than any other handheld I've had.

http://amzn.to/2sYh4xD

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Veho-VMS-004-Discovery-Microscope-Magnification/dp/B002JCSCYI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1318002424&sr=8-1 Gettem whilst they're hot. It's honestly great: http://twitter.com/#!/Periphereality/status/122318269637070849/photo/1

Pic of a bees eye. (I got it in the sale for the price listed above)

Sounds like a cool project! This is the one i use at home- i don't know if it's available in the US (just guessing thats where you are) but i cannot recommend it enough. They have their own site too.

This is an alternative availble in the US - i have no experience with it but it seems okay, also has a connection to your laptop to make it easier to share your results!

Here is my most interesting item. I think it would be awesome to have it do I can look at everything in its smallest form. It would be incredible to be able to have this ability in my own home (although I'm not expecting it to be gifted!)

A single pixel consists of one red one green and one blue sub pixel. Together they make a single pixel.

Get a pocket microscope from amazon.

Something like this

https://www.amazon.com/Carson-MicroBrite-60x-120x-Microscope-MM-300/dp/B00LAX52IQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1502395056&sr=8-3&keywords=pocket+microscope

It's quite amazing down there.

I got this and it didn’t break the bank. Also, it’s super fun to look at other stuff.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Carson-MicroBrite-Lighted-Pocket-Microscope/dp/B00LAX52IQ

I recommend grabbing that dude, check your bud under a microscope. It's definitely worth doing so you don't smoke bad bud!

Absolutely! And thank you. :)


Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Q.7pDbXATTQT2

Number 1: What is a "Crafle"?
Number 2: Make sure it is a real Crafle. There are a lot of fake Crafle's running around. It is one of the more commonly made fakes and there are numberous versions. Take the Crafle out of the sleeve and ensure that it feels like a normal card (compare it to another rare from the same set, preferably a known real Crafle, or another land). Also, use the light test, it is the easiest one to do. A jeweler's loupe or a small microscope would be good too.
Number 3: Seriously? I would trade in some goyfs for a Crafle any day of the week. Crafles are on the reserved list and will likely only go up. Goyf is practically on the "print 'til you can't cash in anymore" list.

Just got this one, its great and easy to use.

I'd recommend getting a usb microscope over a jewlers loupe.
They run about $30 but are much easier to see with and take pictures.

Since i bought this one my jewlers loupe has been gathering dust:
Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_HlX1Db121Z8WJ


Ps, if you check my profile the last pic i posted was taken with mine.

Better than the loup, you can get a 40x-1000x microscope that plugs into your cell phone for about $22 on Amazon. Ill try to find a link. Its great.
Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android Linux https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_JM2VCbZAWYAF3

How did you come to that conclusion? Did you put it under a microscope? Was there no smell on the material pre-blast? Smell would be a major indicator to me, I mean terpenes are boiling off at room temp and you get smell, no terps =nothing to extract.
A buddy of mine suggested picking up one of these to inspect material before bringing it home to run, haven't done it yet but it seems like a good idea.

I don't know enough to say that isn't a good deal. The scope could be very well made or sought after for the precision assembly or something else I could only guess at.

But considering the fact that you can buy a brand new warrantied scope for that price which includes USB outputs for digital imaging and recording (link)...

It's pretty hard for me to imagine this is a particularly good deal.

This loupe looks like the best one out there
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002E0MU70/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android Linux
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WD843ZM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The stand it comes with isn't the best quality, but the software and lens itself are great for the price.

That is pretty nifty. I've wanted to do microscopy on the spore prints I've taken, but microscopes tend to be quite pricey. That user that occasionally posts some of his microscopy posted a link to this which is about the same price as a nice smartphone if you don't already have one.

Looks like edema. Typically means you're watering too much. The pepper plant cant get rid of the excess water, and you end up with those bumps on the undersides of the leaves, in particular close to the stems.

If you want to be sure, get a cheap handheld microscope, like this one: link.

The 'cure' is typically watering less. Unfortunately, I'm growing hydroponically, so that's not really an option for my case, but if you're growing in soil, water less - don't let it dry out completely - but peppers do well in soil that is a bit on the dryer side.

i like a nice chilled couch lock, great for films and munchies..

I got a cheap cam from amazon its abit dodgy while plugged in to your phone.. seems to disconnect alot, but seems ok while plugged in to your pc.

This USB Microscope: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XNYXQHE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Beautiful, crystal clear images.

Have both. 1st one much more user friendly


Check this out at Amazon.com
USB Microscope, Teslong Portable Multi-Function Soldering Magnifier Camera with 10-200 Magnification IP67 Waterproof for Android, Mac and Windows PC https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IV0TV50/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_AdeBCbPY8WZJ1


Check this out at Amazon.com
Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android Linux https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_CceBCbTYPT346

It works reasonable well, but it isn't completely free of issues. The focus wheel is kinda janky, the focus depth could be better, but it gets the job done. When you move the material to the left, it will move in the viewer to the right. Kinda weird, but one gets used to it.

Bottom line: There are better ones, but this thing gets the job done.

(German Link) https://www.amazon.de/Carson-MM-300-MicroBrite-Plus-60x/dp/B00LAX52IQ

The same one /u/sleepyminion has other folks hooked on. It's really great, especially for the price, but I can't get gold to show up in the correct color yet. As you can see in this picture, it looks more like a nickel.

Here's the link to the microscope

Carson Microbrite Plus

I got one of these about a year ago, probably the best $12 I ever spent. Of course you can't see microscopic life or anything like that, but I was and am still blown away by the details I can see with it. I suppose it's not what you're looking for, but still a cool little gadget.

I did some searching last week to find the answer to the same question. I used this digital microscope: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XNYXQHE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I had a little difficulty getting clear pictures at first because it was pretty much impossible to prop the camera in the right position using the provided stand - there's really nowhere to rest a plastic base like that above a plant. Also, the camera is by default in 640x480 resolution and the picture quality was crap, but when I turned it up to the max of 1600x1200 there were severe image wobble issues from any movement whatsoever due to the camera using progressive scan. I grabbed my old camera tripod (a Quantaray QSX 9002TM) and found that by unscrewing the male fitting from the detachable baseplate, I could screw the bottom of the flexible camera arm into the baseplate and have a tripod mounted digital microscope, which worked perfectly. I just brought my laptop into my grow room and used the app supplied with the camera and the "take photo" button on the back of the camera to take those pictures.

Anything with a magnification from 40-100x. They are easiest to see in the dark so the magnifier would need a light. this is what you want. Other things will work but that'll be the easiest to see things accurately with.

"Hey, I'll tell you what. You can get a good look at a butcher's ass by sticking your head up there. But, wouldn't you rather to take his word for it?"
Just kidding, something like this could be very satisfying on a budget of about $75. I don't think you would want to go much cheaper.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N4K22OA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
XCSOURCE 20X-800X 8 LED USB 3D Digital Zoom Microscope Endoscope
This is the microscope. For $18, its not top quality. The focal point is inside the clear plastic area, I had to shove the nug about 1/2 inch up inside it. I may take a hacksaw to it. But for the price, its rather amazing.

👌🏼 I got this one...

Seesi WiFi Microscope USB Digital... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PVMRZQH?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Stunted growth with twisted, blistered leaves...it could be broad mites or russet mites. You need a 60x scope to identify them. If you don't have one, this is a great little scope: https://smile.amazon.com/Plugable-Microscope-Flexible-Observation-Magnification/dp/B00XNYXQHE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1521478377&sr=8-3&keywords=usb+microscope

It's worth checking anyway. If it is broad mites or russets, and not a deficiency, you don't want them spreading to your healthy gg4s.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000P8AUMU/ref=s9_acsd_hps_bw_c_x_11_w/152-9326175-3560950

that ones pretty good for the price

They are fairly resistant plants, continue to feed and water (maybe even water change/flush) As long as they are not scorched, they should bounce back.

[This is pretty good too] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005GLQVV0/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 )

Hi there. I'm using a usb microscope. It does a pretty good job.

Jiusion 40 to 1000x Magnification Endoscope, 8 LED USB 2.0 Digital Microscope, Mini Camera with OTG Adapter and Metal Stand, Compatible with Mac Window 7 8 10 Android Linux https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_t0lvDbZGHJR1H


I have it, works great.

It's a $20 usb microscope that I bought on amazon. For the price it takes great photos!


https://www.amazon.com/Jiusion-Magnification-Endoscope-Microscope-Compatible/dp/B06WD843ZM?ref_=Oct_CABSellerC_2742273011_1&pf_rd_p=0e0fdee8-f97d-5962-9e6b-930f433270f2&pf_rd_s=mobile-hybrid-5&pf_rd_t=30901&pf_rd_i=2742273011&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=PGC2MGEHRNK5YEDZ2MXF&pf_rd_r=PGC2MGEHRNK5YEDZ2MXF&pf_rd_p=0e0fdee8-f97d-5962-9e6b-930f433270f2

Carson MicroBrite Plus 60x-120x LED Lighted Pocket Microscope https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LAX52IQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_rHyLDb5X9M3W7

Check this cheap and works super well usually snip a little sugar leaf

It's just a cheap little guy from Amazon. I love playing around with it, though. Here's a very small album of other stuff I've looked at so far: https://imgur.com/a/ofHno

Here are some of my favorite things to do:

1. Listen to Music (especially psychedelic/trippy music)
   
   
2. Watch Nature Videos (Heres a great one following a closed ecosystem of some micro life paired with some tasty classical music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PsUkQGY8vR0)
   
   
3. Play an instrument
   
   
4. Lay on the floor and stare at the ceilings/walls with the lights off
   
   
5. Take showers (Feels absolutely orgasmic)
   
   
6. Look at things with this surprisingly amazing cheap microscope https://www.amazon.com/Carson-MicroBrite-60x-120x-Microscope-MM-300-x/dp/B00LAX52IQ/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1540931635&sr=8-9&keywords=microscope.
   
   And a lot of other things, but those usually come from just me going with the flow of whatever is happening!

I don't have one, but this looks like it's in your range. It looks to be well rated.

I was here to ask the same question. I'm gonna order one of these and hope it works out. Recommendations welcome if anyone knows anything about digital microscopes.

I bought this little digital microscope from Amazon. Best $30 purchase I've made.
https://www.amazon.ca/Jiusion-Magnification-Endoscope-Microscope-Compatible/dp/B06WD843ZM

Instead of a loupe get this. Nothing beats being able to take a good picture of the goodness.

It was my microscope and I'm a she* lol :)
and this is the exact one I got.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014YNGCK/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00

Cheap: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005C75IVM

Better: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X9C2VJW

With "Better" one, you also need this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016NBASBK

Even better: used "nikon smz-u" from ebay (~$1500)

Also, if you havent already, check Louis Rossmann's YouTube channel, he talks a lot about equipment for soldering and micro soldering: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCl2mFZoRqjw_ELax4Yisf6w

Microscope Somewhat random, but I want it for a weird reason. To inspect sperm, yup.

Never did one. Laxative cupcakes would be hilarious.

I have a fish tattoo on my left foot and it looks like it has a wiener.

Yeah, second that loupes aren't good enough. These are great. http://www.amazon.com/Carson-MicroMax-60X-100X-Microscope-MM-200/dp/B000P8AUMU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397836126&sr=8-1&keywords=100x+microscope

I was skeptical how a microscope that cost less than the jar I had would work but I'm very surprised. It can plug into computers and androids. I recommend it for anyone who wants to take a closer look at the life inside your jar.

https://www.amazon.com/Jiusion-Magnification-Endoscope-Microscope-Compatible/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=microscope&qid=1572091142&sr=8-7

I went with one of these :

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00LAX52IQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Thanks for the tips. I think this will be much easier for me

what?
A microscope is exactly what you want.
You can also get a super cheap - i'm talking less than ten dollars - microscope or loupe just for this.


something like this - they make even cheaper ones. You don't need a anytign fancy at all
http://www.amazon.com/Carson-60X-100X-MicroMax-Microscope-MM-200/dp/B000P8AUMU/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1413068212&sr=8-11&keywords=loupe

Sweet, ok, this is sorta making sense. This? https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B005TJ5CEG/ref=pd_gwm_psimh_0?pf_rd_p=68979bf7-088b-4ac5-855a-4158ad0ce6aa&pf_rd_s=blackjack-personal-1&pf_rd_t=Gateway&pf_rd_i=mobile&pf_rd_m=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&pf_rd_r=T3BPR4QF6JZ64WNGBSPE&pd_rd_wg=YW4cv&pd_rd_r=T3BPR4QF6JZ64WNGBSPE&pf_rd_r=T3BPR4QF6JZ64WNGBSPE&pf_rd_p=68979bf7-088b-4ac5-855a-4158ad0ce6aa&pd_rd_w=chRnZ&pd_rd_i=B005TJ5CEG

>In the next few days I'll upload a couple more of my collection!

Please do. I'd be interested in seeing more posters posting, say, a whole gallery of their collection even if on a throwaway for security reasons.

I'm trying to get around to photographing my own collection, but I'm not happy with the lighting conditions that I have. May have to buy some cheap-ish USB microscope for the task, something like this.

If your provide pictures of the plant then people can guess.

if you cant get pictures of the trichomes then any answer someone gives you will be a guess.

amazon has a few cheap options you should look into if you really want an accurate assessment of your plants time till harvest.

https://www.amazon.com/Carson-60X-100X-MicroMax-Microscope-MM-200/dp/B000P8AUMU/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1474124932&sr=8-3&keywords=60x+magnifier


https://www.amazon.com/illuminated-Jeweler-Kare-Kind-package/dp/B015RINTFM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1474124921&sr=8-1&keywords=loupe

hope this helps.

If for nothing else other than the cool factor of watching your pistils develop, you should probably pick up a pocket scope. Here's one that looks pretty decent/cheap on amazon

I just got this one and I'm happy with it. I've seen it recommended a lot here

Take a look at a bud under a microscope. If you don't have one, you can get a 120x for like $15 on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LAX52IQ

If the trichomes are amber and/or cloudy then it's harvest time, but if they're still clear then give it more time.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WD843ZM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 pretty cool lil gadget. Worked with my samsung S7.

Sure thing. Its called Plugable USB 2.0 Microscope for about 35 bucks. If you want to start seeing things at a cellular level I've heard you need about 400x. My 2 year old daughter loves looking at the images the USB scope makes and I won't lie, it's kind of fun to do! I recommend it to anyone who is tired of trying to use a jewlers loup. For about 35 bucks I feel like I'm getting something that isn't pro quality but should last a little while.


https://www.amazon.com/Plugable-Microscope-Flexible-Observation-Magnification/dp/B00XNYXQHE/ref=sr_1_4?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1498244149&sr=1-4&keywords=usb+microscope

Yeah, that is pretty money.

I personally use this one that has a built in light on it.

http://www.amazon.com/SE-MW10087L-Brass-Microscope-Illuminator/dp/B002E0MU70/ref=pd_rhf_se_s_cp_4

I’m trying to write a reply that doesn’t look like a bot wrote it 😂
It’s a really cheap all in one microscope camera. Didn’t expect it to work so well, the link is this : https://www.amazon.ca/Jiusion-Magnification-Endoscope-Microscope-Compatible/dp/B06WD843ZM/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_dt_b_asin_image

I just got this one 2 weeks ago. Works great!
Dimensions 5.4 x 5.1 x 1.9 inches
Item Weight 7 ounces

Get you a pocket microscope like this one https://www.amazon.com/Carson-60X-100X-MicroMax-Microscope-MM-200/dp/B000P8AUMU
And check out the trichomes during the dark cycle. If most of your trichomes are a milky/cloudy white instead of clear then you are good to harvest. If they're still clear give it some more time to finish. If more of the trichomes have started turning amber you've let the plant flower too long but it's still going to be smokable it will just have more of a couch lock effect.

I bought this based on someone else's post and it works pretty well

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002E0MU70/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Looking good- I would hazard to guess you still have a few weeks though based on all the white pistils. Are you checking trichomes? thats the sure fire way to know when to harvest. get something like this to look at them.

this guide should help

I just got this one from Amazon. It's a bit of a pain to try to do it while holding the scope in your hand but I just cut off a tiny piece of bud leaf and put it on the table which works out great.

This is the one I was thinking about:

Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope with Flexible Arm Observation Stand for Windows, Mac, Linux (2MP, 250x Magnification) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00XNYXQHE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_sZxMAbRBC4P1P

It’s a bit cheaper on amazon.com, but there are plenty of others if you just search for USB microscope, then pick something with 4 stars or better

Yes, it is on a stand and has a built in light that can be adjusted to be brighter and darker. It is this one to be specific.

https://www.amazon.com/Carson-MicroBrite-60x-120x-Lighted-Microscope/dp/B00LAX52IQ. This is the one I have and it love it

Carson Micro Brite Plus 60X-120X... https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00LAX52IQ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Best bang for your buck IMO

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2425596

https://www.amazon.ca/Carson-60X-120X-Lighted-Pocket-Microscope/dp/B00LAX52IQ

edit:
I have now realized I way over engineered my original design, here is a single print design that works just as good: http://imgur.com/a/ORnYA

Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope with Flexible Arm Observation Stand for Windows, Mac, Linux (2 MP, 250x Magnification) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XNYXQHE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_FelACbRY5NNM9 This is what I use, it is easy to store has magnification capability lights up and you can even tap the end of it to capture the image to your computer. Insane how well you can see.

> Jiusion Magnification Edoscope

Thanks!

This one?

https://www.amazon.com/Jiusion-Magnification-Endoscope-Microscope-Compatible/dp/B06WD843ZM

Thanks! I got a cheapo $35 USB microscope on amazon! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XNYXQHE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Looks like the same one I have on my bench. I got mine here. It's not the greatest, but it does it's job nicely.

I bought this one years ago as my starter microscope and it works great.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0094JTZOU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-Re8CbGJQ0N2S

But i order this yesterday, gonna make great picture
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00LAX52IQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have a digital microscope I got for Christmas last year that's awesome. This one.

Here are some pictures.

this is what I use
It’s hard to use but it’s cheap and it’s pretty decent

Without arguing about "free" ...

All those tools are pretty cheap, if you're into electronics or making you may already have them, you might be able to avoid a stereo boom microscope you may be able to get away with a magnifying visor like this (even then Amscope x5/x10 boom scope models aren't expensive in the US - e.g. $185).

Anytime. FWIW, I've got one of these that I use for my own DIY bio projects around the house. It's not the greatest in terms of optical quality but I was really impressed with the build quality/value since I think I paid about $150 for it.

https://www.amazon.com/AmScope-T490B-Magnification-Illumination-High-Resolution/dp/B004QEFO1Q

I really like these celestron usb scopes . The image quality is good for the price and they are robust enough to take a beating.

+1 for the shot!

Something like this im guessing?

Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope with Flexible Arm Observation Stand for Windows, Mac, Linux (2MP, 250x Magnification) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XNYXQHE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_BOs8AbNR9TNR1

Fun-Home Left Angle USB 2.0 Micro Male to USB Female Host OTG Adapter for SamSung i9100 i9300 With Power Features https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013ENUF0Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_6Ps8Ab9RAYPP4

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vaultmicro.camerafi