The Best Magnifying Glasses for Every Type of Job

There is an undeniable beauty hidden in every facet of this world, from the words we print in books to the leafy greens we plant in our backyards. However, they can be frustratingly hard to see sometimes.

With a magnifying glass, you can get that much closer to whatever text or object catches your attention. It’s a portable microscope, allowing individuals to explore the curiosities of their world. If you’re in the market to see a bit clearer, then here are a few hand lens options we think you should take a peek through.

What to Look For in Your Next Magnifying Glass

When you’re ready to read, view, and examine in a new way, let these factors guide your purchase:

• Objects of Observation: First and foremost, it’s important to single out what purpose your magnifying glass will serve. Are you seeking a lens for everyday reading? Botany? Jewelry work? You should narrow this down before making a decision, as different magnifying glasses are used to accomplish different tasks.
• Magnification: On the heels of understanding the intended purpose of a magnifying glass, there is magnification power. What you’re using your lens for and its magnification level go hand-in-hand. For those seeking a lens to accomplish moderate tasks, like reading and everyday observations, look to options that provide no less than 3x power. For a user who needs to be aware of the details at every level, seek out options that start at 10x and reach as high as 45x magnification.
• Ergonomical Use: Finally, you should pick a magnifying glass that won’t bog you down after minutes or hours of use. Whether you’re scanning text or examining the soil of your garden, it’s important that you’re holding, or wearing, a device that does not bring discomfort and promotes easy use over time.

Best Overall: SeeZoom Lighted Magnifying Glass

Illuminated for clarity but packing plenty of augmentation power behind its 3x and 45x magnification, this SeeZoom Lighted Magnifying Glass allows users to observe the smallest text and the tiniest details, whether it’s midday or midnight. This hand lens provides crystal clear image presentation over time, and that won’t ever change, thanks to its anti-scratch glass. Additionally, its improved LED lights are 30% more powerful than standard lights while consuming 50% less energy, too.

Best for Reading: MagniPros Jumbo Size Magnifying Glass

Designed to magnify more text than traditional circular choices, this MagniPros Jumbo Size Magnifying Glass features a wide rectangular frame to capture items of interest in a horizontal or vertical view. Its ergonomic handle and 5-ounce frame make it easy for users, specifically those who are older, to read for a longer duration of time. Despite its light frame, this lens is still capable of taking plenty of damage, thanks to two shockproof design housings on both sides of the glass.

Best for Gardening: Wesley’s Magnifier Hand Lens

Measuring 2.16 by 1.06 inches when closed and 4.13 inches long when fully extended, this Wesley’s Magnifier Hand Lens is the perfect choice for observing all things nature. Its small frame packs more than enough proficiency, as its optical lens is capable of a 40x magnification that’s accentuated by dual LED lights. However, the device’s small stature is still a worthwhile design feature, too, given its easy portability and storage, with or without the included EVA case.

Best Lamp Magnifier: Brightech LightView Magnifying Glass

Requiring only minor adjustability, this Brightech LightView Magnifying Glass is a no-fuss, stationary choice that provides unmatched magnification power. This lens’s flexible 13.5-inch gooseneck allows users to point the glass and LED lights, which last up to 20,000 hours of use, in any direction that feels most comfortable. The lens itself is constructed from 3 inches of genuine diopter glass that lasts longer than plastic alternatives, nor does it warp with time or heat.

Best Headset Magnifier: Dicfeos Headband Magnifier

A choice that provides as close to hands-free operation as you can get, this Dicfeos Headband Magnifier requires no more fuss than a quick slip onto your head before you start observing. This headband includes five lenses of varying magnifications (1.0x, 1.5x, 2.0x, 2.5x, 3.5x) to accomplish every kind of task. Its headband also features a handful of adjustable settings to achieve more comfort between a user’s eyes and the lens, in addition to dual LED lights that are built into the frame of the glasses.