Best Pocket Microscopes

(Image credit: Bysameyee)

Use the more significant magnification power of a pocket microscope to provide instant analysis. When a magnifying glass won’t do, a portable microscope is a perfect option. Closely analyze and identify tiny features in items like jewelry by taking a close-up view of an object that’s far too small for the naked eye to see. Be prepared with a microscope that fits in your pocket by following our top picks.

Staff pick

(Image credit: Carson)

Carson MicroBrite Plus pocket microscope

Small and powerful

Get a compact and lightweight pocket microscope with a powerful 60x-120x magnification range. Measuring in at 1.2 by 2.25 by 3.5 inches, the MicroBrite comes with a built-in LED light, which is powered via a single AA battery. Receive exceptional optics from an aspherical lens affixed into a rugged molded plastic assembly that’s small enough to carry in your pocket. The only extra thing you’ll need is to buy the battery, and you’re ready to explore.

Computer connections

(Image credit: Pluggable)

Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope

For connecting to your computer

Plug this pocket microscope directly into your computer and use the webcam software to get a close-up view on your monitor screen. A built-in LED light has an adjustment setting to illuminate the object for maximum clarity. It measures in at 9 by 6 by 2 inches and renders up to 250x magnification. This microscope is equipped with a flexible arm and an observation stand, and it is compatible with most computers.

To see or not to see

(Image credit: Roxant)

Roxant High Definition Ultra-Light Mini Monocular Pocket Scope

The one that can be used to pretty much see everything

This high definition pocket microscope measures in at 4 by 5 by 1.5 inches and it features a molded grip for a sturdy hold and clear viewing. Because this microscope is so versatile, its small size makes it perfect for camping, hiking, and carrying with you on the go.  Conveniently, it is equipped with a cleaning cloth, strap to wear around the neck, and a carrying case. The lens is made from premium glass that makes viewing easy even in dimly lit environments.

Don't glare at me

(Image credit: Bysameyee)

Bysameyee USB Digital Microscope

See clear images without the glare

Connect the pocket-sized Bysameyee microscope to an Android smartphone or a monitor to record or screenshot a close-up and get from 40x to 1000x magnification. A built-in cluster of eight LED lights shine onto the object you're observing through a diffuser and controller that work toward dramatically reducing glare and adjusting the luminosity. This pocket microscope measures in at 6.9 by 4.2 by 2.1 inches, and is great for professional use. A metal stand, carrying case and an on the go adapter comes with the microscope.

Currency detector

(Image credit: Amazon)

Nykkola New Silver Portable Mini Pocket LED UV Light Microscope Magnifier

Tiny microscope with huge abilities

With this pocket microscope, you can easily check the authenticity of paper money. You get 60x magnification with a LED and ultraviolet light source. Measuring at 2.7 by 2.1 by 1.2 inches, this microscope is great for store owners to check the legitimacy of cash or valuable items such as jewelry. Get crystal clear vision with a high-quality glass lens to magnify any object. This microscope comes equipped with a black faux leather carry pouch, but be careful, this unit is so small you may need a magnifying glass to find it! 

Best for jewelers

(Image credit: Amazon)

Mini Portable Microscope

Comes with a high definition optical lens

This Mini Portable Microscope delivers 50x magnification with its built-in durable anti-scratch resistance high definition glass lens. A built-in ultraviolet and adjustable LED lamp provides uniform light for a crystal-clear image, reducing stress on the eyes. This makes this pocket microscope perfect for jewelers or other professionals who require examining objects at close range for long periods of time. Measuring in at 1.89 by 0.51 by 1.42 inches, you can store the microscope in your pocket or put it away in the accompanying small pouch.

The bottom line

A pocket microscope reduces eye strain by expanding and magnifying the smallest details that you are trying to observe. Their small size allows for you to bring them with you wherever you go. The Carson MicroBrite Plus Pocket Microscope is compact and lightweight while being rugged and durable. This microscope magnifies up to 120 times and is easy to use.

The Roxant High Definition Ultra-Light Mini Monocular Pocket Scope is the one that you'll want if you're engaging in activities like camping or hiking. It comes equipped with a neck strap so you can wear it while you're exploring nature.

If you want to measure and record what you see, then the Bysameyee USB Digital Microscope is a great choice. With this pocket microscope, you can connect directly to your Android phone or computer and save what you see to analyze again at a later date.