What is a Stereo Microscope?
A stereo microscope is a type of optical microscope that's designed for examining 3D objects at much lower magnification. They use light reflected from the surface of an object rather than light shining through it (like a compound microscope does). It's often called a stereoscopic or dissecting microscope.
Read more about stereo microscopes.
Why Choose a Stereo Microscope?
Our stereo microscopes are used for examining larger specimens in 3D that are unable to fit on a slide. The specimens are usually opaque meaning light cannot pass through them. They can be used to view insects, crystals, plant life, circuit boards, and other samples. This is compared to a compound microscope, which is designed when specimens can fit on a slide.
Types of Stereo Microscopes for Sale
Zoom Stereo Microscopes - for Hobby, Education, or Light Industrial
Our zoom stereo microscopes are already equipped with a stand, viewing head/pod, eyepieces, and illumination. They’re ideal for education or hobbyist use, but the zoom stereo microscopes can also be appropriate for light industrial use.
Modular Stereo Microscopes - for Customization, Advanced Application, and Industrial
This type of system will allow one to configure stands and illumination systems. With the proper modular stereo microscope, supplemental lenses, and eyepieces, magnifications approaching 400x can be achieved.
Digital Inspection Microscopes - Live Video for Inspection and Quality Control
These are stereo microscopes combined with a digital microscope camera to be used for inspection and quality control, offering a live video and/or computer screen that’s fully equipped with comprehensive software.
Stereo Microscope Prices
A basic stereo microscope costs anywhere from $79. The stereo microscope price range changes if you add features, and at the high-end price, a stereo fluorescence microscope can cost upwards of $18,000.
Best Stereo Microscopes for Sale
Here are our top picks for each type of stereo microscope.
- The Labomed Luxeo 2S Microscope is a modular, 2-step binocular microscope with a superb optical system. Sturdy focusing controls and ergonomic magnification toggle controls ensure the efficiency and safety of the microscope’s users. A feature-rich system, a modern design, and an economical price culminate in unparalleled value in the world of routine macro-inspection microscopy.
- The Meiji EM-33 Trinocular Zoom Microscope meets the demands for an advanced, entry-level, Zoom Trinocular style microscope, featuring a built-in 0.7-4.5x zoom objective that gives the user 7.0x-45x magnification with the standard 10x eyepiece. This stereo microscope comes equipped with LED illumination in a stable, large-footprint design and a comfortable carrying grip for easy portability. The stand is made out of metal cast alloy and has a rack and pinion design with coarse adjustment and tension control.
- The UNITRON Z730 Binocular Zoom Microscope on a Flex Arm Stand is an ideal choice for industrial inspection, assembly, quality control, OEM integration, research, and education applications. Featuring outstanding optics and a large field of view with a high depth of focus, the Z730 reduces sample handling times, allowing for faster inspections and a more efficient work process.
- The ACCU-SCOPE 3052-GEM Stereo Gemological Microscope is compact and easily transportable, making it ideal for the gemologist on the go. It’s a simple, cost-effective solution for the discerning gemologist looking for great value at an affordable price. You can easily observe loose stones with the included wire stone holder, or view rings with the optional ring holder (sold separately). The included wire stone holder swings out for easier gemstone changing and rotates for viewing at any angle.
- The OPTIKA MS-2 Monoscope Monocular Microscope is designed to satisfy every educational and hobbyist need. It was assembled according to the best technical standards. Thanks to its transparency, quality, and depth, the optical system is at the top of its category.
Best Stereo Microscope for Hobbyists and Education
The ACCU-SCOPE EXS-210 Stereo Microscope represents excellent value and ease of use. It offers sharp images, rechargeable LED illumination, and effortless focusing. The stand is sturdy and has a built-in handle for easy portability. This is a great choice for students of all levels and light industrial inspections.
Best Stereo Microscope for Advanced Applications
The Meiji EM-60 Binocular Stereo Zoom Microscope consists of a 10" pole stand, 360° rotatable head, and 16" dual-arm LED illumination. It offers 7x-45x magnification with a zoom ratio of 6.4:1 and a working distance of 100mm (4"). The flexible design and quality construction make this stereo microscope a great choice for a variety of applications.
Best Stereo Microscope for Live Video
For live video and image capture, the Scienscope SSZ-II Stereo Zoom Microscope is a cost-effective solution. The microscope features a dual-arm boom stand, 1080p HDMI/USB camera, high-intensity LED ring light, and a 23" HD monitor. Every component is designed for high performance and durability.
Stereo Microscope FAQ’s
Here are some common questions you may also have when buying a stereo microscope:
What is the difference between a stereo microscope and a compound microscope?
The difference between a compound and a stereo microscope comes down to magnification level and sample type. A compound microscope is usually used for samples that you can’t see with the naked eye, displayed on a slide. Whereas a stereo microscope tends to use a large sample that’s often opaque and is used to see 3D objects in more detail.
What is the smallest thing a stereo microscope can see?
Stereo microscopes can see items like coins, mineral specimens, fossils, insects, plants, and more. Some of our stereo microscopes have the ability to view electrical components like circuit boards. You can achieve a magnification of 400x if you configure a stereo microscope the right way.
How does magnification work with a stereo microscope?
There are two types of magnification systems in a stereo microscope, Fixed and Zoom. Fixed magnification is achieved using a paired set of objective lenses with a set degree of magnification. Zoom magnification is capable of a continuously variable degree of magnification across the set range of the stereo microscope. You can also adjust magnification by changing the microscope eyepiece.
What magnification do you need on a stereo microscope to see bacteria?
In order to view bacteria on a stereo microscope, you need to achieve a 400x level of magnification. While compound microscopes are typically useful for this type of application, you can achieve higher magnification when you use the ocular lens.
What kind of lenses does a stereo microscope use?
A stereo microscope consists of the ocular lens (the eyepiece that you look through) and the objective lens (the main optical lens that’s closest to the sample). Our stereo microscopes give users a three-dimensional view with lenses that have two optical eye paths.
What are the limitations of a stereo microscope?
The main limitation of a stereo microscope is the low level of magnification when compared to a compound microscope. Our compound microscopes for sale can achieve higher levels of magnification than our stereo microscopes.
Can I take a picture through a stereo microscope?
If you have a stereo microscope that can connect to a microscope camera, then it can be used to take a picture of your sample. See all of our available microscope cameras that can be purchased separately to be used with our stereo microscopes for sale.
Custom Quotations for Stereo Microscopes
Let our experts create a custom quote just for you with our best pricing and terms on stereo microscopes. Simply tell us your requirements, and we'll do the rest.
If you need product advice, technical support, or to enquire about quantity discounts, feel free to contact us by email or call us at (877) 877-7274.
New York Microscope Company is the only microscope company to offer a Free Service Protection Guarantee with the purchase of every stereo microscope. Visit our Free Service Protection page for more details.