What strength magnifying glass do I need?
Using a magnifying glass is a great way to make small items appear larger. When it comes to shopping for this product, the first question you are probably asking is: What strength magnifying glass do I need?
How to Find the Right Magnifying Glass
Finding the right magnifying glass for your wants and needs will depend on a variety of different factors, including what you will be using the magnifier for, how large you need it to make whatever it is you’re looking at and the size of the device.
Typically, the right magnifier will be lightweight, have a large viewing area and increase the size of objects without any distortion. You may think that any magnifying glass will do, but that’s not true. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all magnifying glass.
Some of the things that you’ll need to consider when looking for a magnifier include the following:
- Working Distance
This refers to the distance from the magnifying glass to the object that is being viewed. If you are using this item to read small print, then the working distance would be relatively short. Should you need to use tools while also using your magnifier, then you need to increase the working distance.
To ensure that you can still see the objects clearly, you need to find a magnifier that gives you the required amount of working space and still makes the object large enough for you to see clearly. - Eye Relief
In addition to working distance, you also have to consider how close your eye will be to the magnifier. Typically, the longer the eye relief, the more comfortable the working experience will be for you.
- Field of View
This is the area that is seen through the magnifying glass. As the strength of the magnifier increases, the smaller the field of view becomes. If you are looking at large objects, you can get a magnifier that has a lower power and a larger field of view (think about the handheld magnifiers from detective movies), but small objects require high power for better viewing and have a small field of view (think about jewelers looking at precious stones).
- Magnification
Magnifying glass strength, also called magnification, refers to how much larger the magnifier will make the object when viewed through the lens. The most common magnifying strengths include 2X and 3X, and they will make the object two to three times larger than normal. If you are doing work on tiny items, then getting a magnifying glass with 10X magnification (or more) might be necessary. While this magnifier will make the object 10 times larger, the field of view is also decreased. The other thing you need to consider when looking at magnification is that it will vary depending on how far away the glass is from the object and your eye. It may have a specific strength, but if the working distance or eye relief is too great, it may not magnify to its full capabilities.
The Best Way to Reduce Eye Strain
If you are looking for a magnifying glass to help you reduce eye strain when working with small items, then you are probably wondering how to determine the strength of a magnifying glass. It will come with a strength already assigned (2X, 3X, 10X, etc.), but whether or not it actually magnifies to that specification will depend on different factors.
No matter what, having a magnifying glass can be incredibly beneficial, and you can find the one that will help you with all of your needs at Q Source. Check out our magnification system selection!