Guide Picks - Best 10x Magnifiers

When it comes to handheld magnifiers, all authorities agree that a magnification of 10x is as much as anyone needs. The triplet magnifiers I tested for this page yield crisp images with clear focus, a flat visual field, and dazzling true colors. In contrast, my old yard-sale two-lens 10x showed imprecise focus, warped images, and chromatic fringes. You can use these with your glasses on.

1) Belomo 10x Loupe High-quality 18-mm lens and rugged metal housing from a Belarusian military supplier. Twice the viewing area of the Bausch & Lomb. Can be fully disassembled for cleaning. Black finish is easy on the eyes. Not designed for a lanyard, but you can string it on your neck easily enough. Buy two!

Manufacturer's Site

2) Bausch & Lomb 10x Hastings Magnifier
B&L is the gold standard for optics with its "Hastings" triplet design. Nickel-steel case, tough plastic lens housing. High-quality 14-mm lens can feel small. Riveted construction; has lanyard loop. Prices on the Web range widely—shop around, and look for the free lanyard.

Widely Available

3) Edmund Scientific 10x Hastings Triplet
Edmund's optics have a good reputation; lens is the same size as Bausch & Lomb's. Construction details—metal lens housing with threaded retaining rings, brass case and lanyard ring—promise quality equal to B&L.

Manufacturer's Site

Related Guide Picks		Related Resources
		• Before You Buy Handheld Magnifiers • Before You Buy Rock Collections

Important product disclaimer information about this About site.