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Best magnifying lamp

Last Updated: 19.04.24

 

Magnifying lamps – Buying guide & Comparison

 

If you’ve ended up here looking for the best magnifying lamp, it’s very likely that this paragraph might assist you in finding just the right one for your needs. As these devices prove their worth under a broad array of circumstances, they’ve become more and more popular. Based on our research, it seems that the unit that’s most worthy of your consideration is the Brightech Light View. This unit is convenient, easy to utilize, and comes with an adjustable swivel arm that gives you all of the freedom you might require in order to perform your tasks. For crafts and other hobbies, this choice is a perfect alternative as it can magnify the size of the objects by up to 2.25 times. Plus, the bulb that it’s equipped with doesn’t get too hot. If the Brightech Light View isn’t available, check out the Carson DeskBrite200 LM-20MU.  

 

 

Comparison table

 

The Good
The Bad
Verdict
Price

 

 

Getting your hands on a quality magnifying lamp that doesn’t force you to break the bank nowadays can be quite an adventure. On the one hand, there are so many models available for sale that you might feel a bit baffled as to which one best suits your application or preferences. On the other, have you thought about just what features you need? Check out the guide below to make the right call. 

What do you need a good magnifying lamp for?

Regardless their design, all magnifying lamps are convenient and somewhat easy to utilize. However, they are not all the same. What this means is that, with some handheld models, you will only be able to utilize them for activities such as reading.

By comparison, some units are outfitted with adjustable or flexible goosenecks or swivel arms that can enable you to focus the light on the exact area where you need it. It stands to reason that such models are better suited for applications like DIY and crafts, soldering, and a variety of other things where you need both of your hands.

We suggest making an analysis of your requirements before setting out to find a pricey or  cheap magnifying lamp. Once you’ve figured out your specific preferences, you can continue by going through as many reviews of magnifying lamps as your time allows you to.

 

Portability, ease of use, and power

As we have mentioned above, not all such lamps are made the same, and that’s why they speak to the needs of various users. For example, some units are compact and lightweight enough for you to carry them in your backpack or purse, but others are cabinet models, so you need to place them on your desk and leave them at home.

Does portability matter a lot for you? If you intend to use your magnifying lamp for reading in public transportation, it probably does. But if you want a such a product strictly for your weekend DIY activities, you’re likely to use it while you’re at home.

As for ease of use, you should consider two things. One of them is the amount of customization you’ll be able to take advantage of, and the other is how you’re going to supply the power to the device.

While some products can only be used with batteries, others can also be plugged into an outlet. Just make sure that those that come with batteries are compatible with standard ones. You’ll be able to carry an extra pack with you in case of anything.

 

Magnification-related capabilities

One thing that we do have to make clear is that magnifying lamps aren’t even similar to USB magnifiers or microscopes, so don’t expect them to offer a lot in terms of magnification.

Some models can increase the size of the objects or letters by 1.5 times while others are a bit better on this account and can do the same by 3 times. You can always customize the magnification by moving the lamp closer or farther from the subject.

Yet in the end, you do need to understand that these devices have certain limitations, especially when compared to microscopes.

 

5 Best Magnifying Lamps (Reviews) in 2024

 

For your consideration, we have showcased some of the highly sought-after choices we were able to track down nowadays. All of the models below have received rave reviews as they seem capable of doing what they’re designed to do.

 

1. Brightech LightView Pro LED Magnifying Glass

 

It really shouldn’t be a surprise that this unit is probably one of the most popular ones ever to have seen the light of day, and that’s because everything about it implies enhanced usability. The model is capable of increasing the size of the focus objects by 2.25 times. But that’s not what’s so impressive about it.

In actuality, the long and adjustable swivel arm that the Brightech model is equipped with is by far the most convenient feature it comes with. With the help of this product, you can finally reduce eye strain, even if what you love most in the world is needlework.

The clamp of the magnifying lamp can be attached to virtually any surface and it takes little to no effort to do so. Besides, the 9-watt LED light boasted by the model is long-lasting, so much so that you won’t ever have to replace it.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

2. Carson DeskBrite200 LED Lighted 2x Magnifier

 

What seems to set this product aside from the rest is the fact that it is outfitted with a 5x power spot lens. The rest of the lens has a 2x magnification capability, so you can use it for a variety of applications ranging from crafts to reading. Sure, compared to other units out there, the design of this one might look somewhat basic.

Nevertheless, the performance of the Carson DeskBrite200 is one of its most important selling points. Despite being extremely good at what it’s supposed to do, the unit is also rather budget-friendly. It’s even backed by a Carson limited lifetime warranty.

This affordable magnifier and desk lamp has received over one thousand favorable user reviews in the past. Given this amount of appreciation, we say that it might be worth looking into. It’s just that it speaks to the needs of prospective buyers who need a somewhat smaller product.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

3. Carson Desk Brite Mini 3X LED Lighted Magnifier

 

If what you are in need of is an even smaller alternative, then don’t hesitate to check out the specifications of this particular model. It is outfitted with a 2.25-inch lens with a 3x magnification capability, so you can use it for reading and a wide array of other activities.

The main difference between this choice and some of the other we have come across while performing our research is that this one can only be utilized with batteries. It needs 3 AAA ones to do its job, but in a sense, this detail is a benefit as such standard batteries are available for sale anywhere.

Something else that has to be added in relation to this Carson model is that it boasts a collapsible design. Therefore, you can make it compact enough to carry it in a backpack or purse, depending on your requirements.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

4. Daylight UN1040 Naturalight Table Magnifying Lamp

 

Another model you may want to take into account is the Daylight one. It’s versatile and convenient and has been found to be highly usable. While this particular aspect might be less important to some people, it comes in a white design, which means that it integrates perfectly in minimalistic environments.

The unit is outfitted with a 12-watt tube that can supply all the light you may require for your activities. To ensure that you are able to utilize the magnifier for as long as possible, the manufacturing brand is offering a complimentary dust cover.

Compared to other choices available today, the Daylight unit has minimal magnification capabilities. It can increase the size of the objects or letters on a page by a maximum of 1.75 times. However, it does come with a 4x bifocal lens, so that might be worthy of your consideration.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

5. Tartek Recheargeable

 

If a desk magnifying lamp is what you need, we also suggest this Tartek model. It is fitted with a clamp with the help of which you can use it in a variety of places throughout your house. The optical magnifier glass lens is capable of increasing the size of the letters or item you want to see up-close by up to 3 times.

The neatest thing about this product, though, is the fact that it boasts three adjustable brightness levels. In case you haven’t noticed, this particular feature doesn’t show up in many of its competitors. As you probably know, some people like a lot of light when they work on their DIY projects or when they read, but other folks’ eyes are a bit more sensitive.

The gooseneck that the Tartek model is equipped with is flexible, which means that you can set the light and rely on the magnification as you deem fit.

 

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

Bibliography:

1) What is a magnifying glass

2) Do I need a “lighted” magnifier?

3) Light Intensity Decreases

4) Magnification and Resolution

 

 

 

Ioana Moldovan

Ioana’s professional experience in the optics field has helped her understand the value of passing her knowledge forward. Her curious personality helps her gather useful information for her readers and her goal is to make technical information fun and accessible to everyone.

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