We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links

Top 7 Best USB Microscopes To Buy In 2023 Review

Digital documentation and displays are the new normal when it comes to showing your collections or making a presentation. Therefore, in this review, we are going to look at some of the best USB microscopes that will make it easy to create your own portfolio or presentation.

Not only can you have fun with digital microscopes, but many of them can be used for fine work on jewelry and on circuit boards. So, let’s look closer at the details, talk about some of the applications, and find the best USB microscope for you…

Top 7 Best USB Microscopes To Buy In 2023 Review

Best USB Microscopes To Buy In 2023 – Top 7 Rated Review


1 Celestron 5MP Digital Handheld 20-200x USB Microscope – Most Detailed USB Microscope

A perfect tool for collectors, science teachers, or other enthusiasts, the Celestron Digital Microscope Pro is a versatile 5MP viewing camera. Connect the microscope to your PC or Mac with the provided 4’ long USB 2.0 cable and use it hand-held or locked in the accompanying stand to view your objects and collections.

The Celestron may appear to have a low resolution with a magnification of only 20-200x, but the resolution comes from the use of a true 5MP sensor and five IR glass elements in the lens. The sensor resolves the finest details while the glass elements in the lens keep the image sharp and free of distortion. So, you will be able to see far more detail than you can imagine.

Excellent design…

The Celestron Pro is well designed and easy to use. The only control on the lens is the focus ring, which is nicely set into the barrel and can be worked with the use of a finger. The image capture control is placed within the cable, ensuring that the lens remains stable when you release the shutter. The shutter operates between 1 second to 1/1000th of a second, so you will be sure of getting a clear and sharp image.

Micro Capture Pro software…

Get more out of the Celestron than just magnifying objects by using Micro Capture Pro software. This allows you to create high-resolution images, VGA video, and time-lapse effects. You can even add notes and measurements while doing a lecture or for documentation purposes. The software has been updated and can be downloaded for both Windows and Mac OS platforms.

The stand is solid, well balanced, and adjustable so that you can look at both 3D and flat materials. And metal clips are placed on the base for holding slides and keeping materials flat while you are viewing them.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 9 x 7 x 5 inches
  • Magnification: 20 – 200x
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS

Celestron 5MP Digital Handheld 20-200x USB Microscope

Our rating:4.1 out of 5 stars (4.1 / 5)

Pros

  • IR glass elements in the lens.
  • A true 5MP image sensor.
  • Easy to use.

Cons

  • Have to download the software.

2 Koolertron 12MP 1 – 1200x Digital USB Microscopic Video Camera Recorder with 7” LCD Screen – Best Standalone USB Microscope

No computer or other device is necessary when using the Koolertron 12MP Digital Microscopic Video Camera. Built with an internal rechargeable battery and a 7-inch LCD, the Koolertron can be used both in and outdoors without taking too much space.

Digital magnification between 1-1200x makes it an ideal tool for a jewelry maker or for inspecting or working on circuit boards. Young kids can have fun taking it outside and exploring the natural world around them in great detail.

Using the Koolertron…

Controls for the camera are set along the bottom of the LCD screen. From there, you can choose between 1080p or 720p resolution for video, adjust the focus, and take still shots of your viewing material.

Still shots can be done in single or continuous (three frame bursts) modes with the choice of 1.3MP, 2MP, 5MP, 8MP, 10MP, or 12MP image sizes. Recordings and still shots can be saved to a micro-SD card (up to 64G), where the slot is located in the back of the LCD.

Brighten up your day…

The camera also comes equipped with eight adjustable LED lights that can be dimmed or brightened to suit your needs and prevent reflections. The camera arm is adjustable, moving back and forth to get to different angles, and has a sliding bracket that moves the camera up and down.

The rechargeable batteries have about a 4-hour life span before needing to be recharged. To work beyond four hours, simply use a USB charging cable plugged into a wall outlet to power the camera and recharge the batteries.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 9.69 x 8.23 x 3.23 inches
  • Magnification: 1 – 1200x
  • Compatibility: None

Koolertron 12MP 1 - 1200x Digital USB Microscopic Video Camera Recorder with 7” LCD Screen

Our rating:4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

Pros

  • Great with 3D objects.
  • Records still shots and video.

Cons

  • Not good for coins, stamps, or slides.
  • The battery has about four hours of continuous use.

3 Plugable USB 2.0 Digital 2MP 250x Digital Microscope – Best Fun USB Microscope for Youngsters

Surprisingly fun and useful, the Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope is a great tool for young learners. Made of durable plastic, the camera is safe to be hand-held by younger, less careful users. However, it is not just a learning toy for youngsters; the 40-250x digital enhancement is good for inspecting stamps and coins for the serious collector.

The Plugable is true to its name, as it uses the video and camera programs of most operating systems, including open-source, to work. Simply plug it in using the USB cable, and you are ready to begin.

Features…

Take snapshots or video of your subject matter from all sides and angles. The Plugable microscope comes packaged with a flexible gooseneck arm stand, which allows you to position the camera at any angle. Images are captured at 1600 x 1200 pixels, while the video has a resolution of 640 x480.

Plus, there is no need to worry about losing focus when taking a snapshot, as the Plugable has a capacitive capture button. This means that you simply have to touch and not push on the button for it to work.

Nicely diffused lighting…

The camera also has halo LED lighting, which can be brightened or dimmed by the dial at the top of the camera. Unlike most microscopic cameras, the LED lighting on the Plugable is diffused, acting like a softbox to reduce glare.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 2 inches
  • Magnification: 250x
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Tablets

Plugable USB 2.0 Digital 2MP 250x Digital Microscope

Our rating:4.3 out of 5 stars (4.3 / 5)

Pros

  • Can use on all common operating platforms.
  • 4’ USB cable.
  • Capacitive capture button.

Cons

  • Not true magnification.
  • Not that good for documentation purposes.

4 STPCTOU Digital Wireless Handheld 50-1000x Mini WiFi Microscope Camera – Best Smartphone USB Microscope

Next up, in our Best USB Microscopes reviews, go and explore anywhere untethered with the STPCTOU digital wireless mini-WiFi 50-1000x microscope. Download the Inskam app to your phone, tablet, or computer, and you are ready to work. Use it to explore, get close-ups of skin, nails, and hair or show details of your work without being tied to a cord.

Use it hand-held or connected to the stand; the WiFi microscope gives you high-resolution images and video, so you have a clear view of your subject matter.

Highlights…

The STPCTOU comes equipped with a 2MP CMOS sensor and chipset for processing high quality 640a480 up to 1920×1080 MP4/AVI videos and high-res JPEGs. A built-in eight LED adjustable halo light makes sure that you are able to get the correct amount of light on your subject of study. Simply adjust the dial at the top end of the camera to dim or brighten.

Focusing the camera is simple and can be done with a single finger. The focusing ring is built into the front of the barrel for easy access and to prevent camera shake.

The precise angle…

The microscope comes supplied with a flexible arm stand and graduated viewing platform. The arm stand is able to rotate 360* and bend in any direction, making it easy to get the viewing angle of your choice.

When not using the USB cable, the STPCTOU operates off of an internal rechargeable battery that will provide about three hours of usage before needing to be recharged.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 7.4 by 4.6 by 1.9 inches
  • Magnification: 50 – 1000x
  • Compatibility: Mac OS, Windows, iPhone/iPad, Android

STPCTOU Digital Wireless Handheld 50-1000x Mini WiFi Microscope Camera

Our rating:4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

Pros

  • Untethered easy movement.
  • High-resolution CMOS sensor.

Cons

  • Instructions are difficult to read.

5 Bysameyee USB Digital 40-1000x Microscope w/Endoscopic Camera – Best Windows USB Microscope

With its sleek carry case and multi-USB-A/C/micro plugs, the Bysameyee digital 40-1000x microscope camera is a great tool for the serious collector or hobbyist. Take it with you to convention shows to help inspect the wares.

The microscope works with most android phones and tablets as well as Windows, Linux, and Mac OS computers. For android devices, you must download ‘OTG View,’ and it will allow you to see a live stream video of what you are looking at.

Other uses…

The Bysameyee is also a great tool for documenting your collections. The camera comes equipped with a halo light consisting of eight separate LEDs. Each LED is diffused to reduce glare and can be adjusted for brightness.

Working on a Windows platform, you will be able to use the SNAP and ZOOM functions on the camera, as well as the available measurement software. On Mac OS and Linux platforms, the camera will work with the pre-installed camera and video programs. However, some functions will not be recognized.

A great accessory…

The Bysameyee comes equipped with a small solid metal stand to hold the camera in place. The stand arm moves back and forth and can be locked into the perfect position using the bolt lock. The camera clip extends far enough from the arm to make documenting and measuring an easy task.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 7.01 by 4.53 by 2.13 inches
  • Magnification: 40 – 1000x
  • Compatibility: Mac OS, Windows 7/8/10, Linux, Android

Bysameyee USB Digital 40-1000x Microscope w/Endoscopic Camera

Our rating:4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

Pros

  • USB A/C/micro connection.
  • Diffused LED lights.

Cons

  • Many functions only work in Windows.

6 Jiusion USB Digital WiFi 40-1000x Endoscopic Microscope Mini Camera – Most Versatile USB Microscope

Connect to almost any computer, phone, or tablet with the versatile Jiusion WiFi 40-1000x endoscopic microscope mini camera. Use the provided USB-A/micro plug to connect to computers and android devices or the portable Wi-Fi magic box to connect to iPhones and iPads.

Great for use indoors and out, the Jiusion digital microscope is a terrific learning tool for the classroom and enthusiastic explorer.

What’s in the box?

The Jiusion USB digital microscope camera comes complete with an adjustable solid metal stand, operating software, carry case, and a Wifi magic box. The box enables connection to iPhones and iPads as well as allows you to explore without data service.

The camera is complete with an easy to use focus ring in the barrel and snap and zoom buttons near the top. The LED halo light can be brightened or dimmed using the wheel control on the USB connection cable.

Practical and versatile…

You can view live-stream and take snapshots with most devices. To document collections and fabric or other creations, the measurement software is only able to work on the Windows platforms.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 7.17 by 5.39 by 2.24 inches
  • Magnification: 40 – 1000x
  • Compatibility: Mac OS, Windows, iPhone/iPad, Android

Jiusion USB Digital WiFi 40-1000x Endoscopic Microscope Mini Camera

Our rating:4.1 out of 5 stars (4.1 / 5)

Pros

  • Magic WiFi box.
  • Easy to use.

Cons

  • Measurement software is only available on the Windows platform.

7 Sunnywoo USB + micro USB Digital 40 – 1000x Microscope Handheld Endoscopic Camera – Best USB Microscope for Nature

The Sunnywoo hand-held microscope camera is a nice all-around tool that is meant to be fun and do some light inspection work. Use it to explore nature, different fabrics, and oddly shaped subjects in detail.

Compatibility…

It is compatible with all Mac OS, Windows, and Linux computer platforms. To connect to an android phone or tablet, simply download the OTG View app, and you are ready to go.

The camera functions are dependent on the computer platforms camera and video programs. To get full use of all functions and software applications, it is best used on the Windows platform.

Functionality…

The Sunnywoo comes with an adjustable halo light consisting of eight individual LEDs. The focus ring is mounted in the front along the barrel for easy access and adjustment. The snap and zoom controls are set near the top of the camera to help prevent shifting of the focus.

The stand for the microscope camera is solid and versatile, rotating 360 degrees at the base, and the arm flips 180 degrees to give you the flexibility you need.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 5.4 x 5.2 x 1.9 inches
  • Magnification: 40 – 1000x
  • Compatibility: Mac OS, Window 7/8/10, Android, Linux

Sunnywoo USB + micro USB Digital 40 - 1000x Microscope Handheld Endoscopic Camera

Our rating:4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

Pros

  • Works with some 3rd party apps.

Cons

  • Bad software app.
  • Poor customer service.

Best USB Microscopes Buying Guide

Digital microscopes are fun and can be very useful items, but it is important to understand that these are not true microscopes. They work in the same way that a point and shoot camera with a zoom function does. That is to say that the magnification is a cropping of the picture, and the details come from the number of megapixels and your viewing screen.

Considerations…

STPCTOU Wireless Digital Microscope USB 50X-1000X 1080P Handheld Portable Mini WiFi Microscope Camera

You need to decide on how and where you will use the endoscopic microscope camera. If you are using it in the classroom or as an inspection device, it is more important to look at the compatibility with computers and mobile devices.

If you are doing documentation of collections for a portfolio, it is more important to get a camera with a larger image processor, controllable diffused lighting, and check what programs are available in the software.

Compatibility…

Many of the microscopes can connect to your computer without any problems. Simply install the driver, plug the camera into the USB port, and you can see an image or video, just the same as you would through your computer’s video camera.

If you want to do documenting and editing, there are many programs and apps available. Check to make sure that the microscope works with these programs and that the microscope and that the program can be used on your operating system.

Please note that some digital microscopes have their own applications and may not work or be fully functional on all operating platforms.

Lighting…

Most cameras will be equipped with LED halo lights that have brightness and dimming controls. If you are planning to do serious documentation work, it is best to look for a camera that has diffused lights to prevent glare. You will also want to make sure the lighting control is on the cable and not the camera itself. This prevents the possibility of shifting the camera and creating a bad image.

Good luck with finding the best USB microscope for your needs!

Looking For More Superb Imaging Options?

7 inch LCD Digital USB Microscope,Koolertron 12MP 1-1200X Magnification Handheld Camera Video

Then check out our in-depth Best Cameras for Low Light Photography Reviews, our Best Mirrorless Cameras Reviews, our Best Waterproof Camera Reviews, our Best Camera for Beginners Reviews, and our reviews of the Best Point and Shoot Cameras currently on the market in 2023.

Or how about our Best Instant Cameras Reviews, our Best Compact Cameras Reviews, our Best Camcorders Reviews, our Best Camera Phone Reviews, or our Best GoPro Camera Reviews.

But What Are The Best USB Microscopes?

All the endoscopic cameras, in our review, do what they are meant to do well, and, in fact, most seem very similar. The differences are in the smaller details, and they can have a great effect.

Therefore, we based our decision on these small details and overall usability. Our choice for the best USB microscope is the…

Celestron 5MP 20-200x Digital Microscope Pro

The Celestron’s 5MP image processor and use of IR glass in the lens make all the difference for very fine detailed quality images and good video. The software also adds great features. Highly recommended.

Happy microscoping!

About Paul S. Brunet

Known as the "Tech Lover", Paul is an expert of current and trending technology. Here at TinyGrab, he makes "tech" easy to understand for the average person.

Leave a Comment