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Any opinions out there about the best entry-level microscopes? I'm looking for something $250 or less that would inspire an interest in science among children and teens at home.

Hi,

There are sure to be dozens of opinions as to which is the best way to go here so I will offer my opinion. For young students and teens the best microscope is one that is simple to use and of suitable quality so that they will actually be able to see something. A scope that has a 4X, 10X, and 40X objective with a 10X eyepiece and a condenser in the stage with a disc or iris diaphragm and a simple illuminator is a good place to start. A coarse and fine focus are essential. Do not buy a microscope with no fine focus. There are a variety of focusing designs and which ever the microscope has it must operate smoothly with out backlash and drift. I do not think there is need to purchase a scope with all sorts of extra features until you are sure the users are developing an interest and the skills to move to a more sophisticated microscope.

g2b2

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A pixel is worth a thousand words but it takes a thousand words to explain a pixel. g2b2

That is great advice. I would add that if your budget allows, you might consider getting a microscope with a four-hole nosepiece. You can purchase the 4x, 10x, and 40x objectives now with a plug in the fourth hole so you can add the 100x later. The 100x adds to the price of the microscope, and younger children probably don't need it. But once they reach high school or college level, they'll need the 100x oil objective, so it's great to be able to add it. Also, make sure the objectives are DIN standard (some less expensive microscopes aren't) --that way you can easily add the 100x later from most any microscope supplier.

Good luck!