Best magnifying glasses (loupes) for 2020

The development of modern technologies by "leaps and bounds" permanently leads to the fact that in many professions people have to work with small objects, which causes additional stress on the organs of vision. Unfortunately, today, not only the elderly are faced with the difficulties of poor vision - they are increasingly found in their middle-aged and even very young segments of the population, and this trend is difficult to ignore.

At the same time, some professional industries in which a person works with small objects - from medicine to jewelry - require improved visual qualities. It is possible to achieve the desired result with the help of special magnifying glasses, which currently exist in many types.

Magnifying glasses: general information and purpose

It should be noted right away that the described device is not a means of full-fledged vision correction, but only carries the function of an auxiliary ophthalmic accessory for professional and domestic use. Such glasses may be needed both for reading texts written in small print (for example, instructions on various aerosols), and for full-fledged operations with small objects (for example, watchmaking).

In terms of functionality, magnifying glasses are a combination of a magnifying glass and standard ophthalmic eyepieces, respectively. For ease of use, they have a universal frame, but their lenses have a diopter for multiple magnification (up to 160%), which is absolutely impossible to find in classical devices. Moreover, with such an increase, the constant wearing of such optics will only lead to a deterioration in vision and the development of myopia.

Therefore, this optical device should be used only once and in certain situations when it is impossible to perform any painstaking work without its help. This includes some types of needlework (for example, embroidery with small black beads on the same dark background), watch repair and jewelry repair, ultra-thin engraving, assembling / soldering microcircuits and small parts, and, of course, reading small texts (as a rule , from the technical sphere, this includes, for example, the marking of transistors on electronic boards).

At the same time, one should not think that such devices are needed only for people with poor eyesight - they will prove to be an irreplaceable assistant for all categories of people.At the same time, people with vision problems can wear loupe glasses over their regular glasses or use them together with contact lenses. The frames used in magnifying glasses are securely fixed on the head and do not fall off when the head is turned sharply or when the head is tilted. In addition, hands remain constantly free to perform small operations. Summing up, we can say that the main purpose of such devices is the free performance by a person of painstaking work without undue stress of the visual organs.

General device

The binoculars are based on magnifying lenses that provide a wide viewing angle. To expand the capabilities of the device, LED illumination can be integrated into the tool holder. Its on / off switch is often located on the left arm. The standard adjustment on the vertical axis is up to sixty degrees, and on the horizontal axis up to twenty-five. Usually the device is powered by AAA or AA size batteries. The total weight of the tool with batteries is approximately one hundred grams.

Classification and types

They can be classified by the type of attachment. Today, the following designs are commonly used:

• Fastening on the temples;
• Fastening with an elastic band;
• "Clothespin" for the visor of the headdress;
• Massive plastic adjustable rim (it has large dimensions and is used for medical purposes).

Separately, we can mention cosmetic binoculars, with the help of which dermatologists scrupulously examine the surface of the skin. They are needed for cosmetic operations, for example, electrolysis, eyelash extension, laser tattooing.

By types, these instruments are divided into only two categories - conventional and backlit.

The first are most suitable for home use and are very similar in design to prescription glasses. They have a comfortable frame, have a nose pad made of silicone, and are designed with traditional temples. All that distinguishes them from classical models is the optical elements (lenses) with a multiple magnification effect. Such models are widespread among philatelists and numismatists, needlewomen, radio amateurs and, of course, pensioners.

Second the devices have a complex design, backlit, and are intended for professional use. The backlight is intended for local illumination of the working area, the magnifying glasses themselves have several sets of interchangeable lenses in the kit. The backlighting process is carried out by means of battery cells. Tools of the second type can be folding and forehead mounting. They are quite common in medicine (dentistry, microsurgery, vascular surgery) and among specialists in radio engineering and electronic equipment, jewelers and watchmakers. Backlit devices are much more expensive than ordinary household appliances, so it is not advisable to purchase them for home use due to the lack of the need for most of their functions.

Main advantages and disadvantages

Most of the regular users of magnifying glasses highlight the following undoubted advantages:

• A positive effect on vision. Medicine knows cases when the drop in vision, when applied, noticeably slowed down or stopped altogether. In addition, when using such devices, the eyes have a rest from constant overstrain. Magnifying glasses are completely safe for both myopic and farsighted people.
• Maximum wearing comfort. The overwhelming majority of samples have comfortable temples, the position of which can be easily adjusted. Therefore, the size of almost any sample is universal. At the same time, due to the arches, a reliable fixation is provided - they are unlikely to fall off during work, even if you make sharp tilts or turns of the head.
• Undoubted effect. Devices give up to 160% increase.Such indicators are usually enough to carry out the most painstaking and petty work. Standard glasses obviously will not provide such an effect.
• Free hands. Equipping with magnifying glasses greatly simplifies any work - they hold so comfortably that a person can simply forget about them, because they do not need to be constantly held with their hands. Moreover, the fusion original form provides a wide view without image distortion.

IMPORTANT! This tool can be used in conjunction with ordinary glasses or contact lenses. This factor is especially important for those people whose vision is already in critical condition. And the combination of two optical devices will provide the highest quality image for the eye.

The existing disadvantages of the considered equipment, its regular users include the following:

• Quite a complex process of selection and purchase. It is almost impossible to find them in retail stores (especially in small towns). And not everyone will dare to place an order on Internet sites - it is impossible to try them on in advance.
• Even if some online store provides the opportunity to exchange / return ordered magnifying glasses, this procedure is always carried out for a separate fee, which carries additional shipping costs for the buyer;
• Some samples may not have the most durable material of manufacture, therefore, if broken, it can be very difficult to repair them.

However, the number of "pluses" significantly exceeds the number of "minuses" (and even those of a technical nature), so if a person really needs such glasses for work or for home use, then it is better to buy them than to continue to worsen their eyesight.

Magnifying glasses for older people

These products can become completely irreplaceable for people who, due to age characteristics, have begun to lose their eyesight. It is perfect for many routine household chores - from banal reading to threading a needle. The main effect of using these glasses is to relax the muscles of the eyeball, which means not only maintaining the current level of vision, but even improving it somewhat. Ophthalmologists note that after using loupe glasses, most patients noted an improvement in their well-being, lack of fatigue and tension, as well as a multiple reduction in cramps and pain in the eyes. Confirmation of these words of patients was recorded during annual examinations, in which in 15% of cases noticeable improvements were revealed.

Difficulties of choice

The industry in the field of optics today produces a lot of models of magnifying glasses of various types. When making a purchase, a potential buyer must pay close attention to a number of basic performance characteristics, such as: design features, optical parameters, functional application. At the same time, the choice must be made based on the following very specific values:

• Working distance is the spatial dimension between the lens and the object under study. The value of this distance should be determined based on the most frequent operations performed. If it is necessary to constantly use additional tools and manipulate small parts, then a large working distance will be required. If the glasses will be used only for reading or inspecting small objects, models with a short working distance will do.
• Field of view - this parameter indicates the area of ​​the object visible through the device lens. The field decreases with increasing magnification of the lens.
• The multiplicity of magnification - this parameter will also depend on the functionality. For everyday work in watchmaking, jewelry, radio engineering workshops, where manipulations with small objects are required, a larger magnification is better suited. For home reading, you can get by with medium or lower frequency.
• Focal length - this is the name of the distance between the human eye and the lens, at which the full coverage of the visual field is carried out.As a rule, the longer this distance, the more comfortable you can use the optical instrument, however, such models will cost more;
• Depth of field is the distance between the distant and the nearest points of the studied subject, at which focus is not lost. This parameter can decrease with increasing the increasing power of the lenses installed in the glasses.

All of the above values ​​are interrelated, therefore, a change in some values ​​will affect others.

General overview of popular manufacturers

All over the world, the following brands are especially popular, having long and positively proven themselves in this specific segment of the optics market:

• The German company "Weber" - the model range provided has a very wide range. Both a home needlewoman and a professional jeweler will be able to select the required sample of an optical instrument.
• The products of the Leomax company do not differ in a wide range and are mainly aimed at professionals. However, the high-quality performance of the main component of magnifying glasses - lenses, served as the basis for great confidence in the company on the part of buyers. According to reviews, the lenses do not distort the image at all, leave a wide viewing angle and do not strain the organs of vision. In addition, users separately note the high-quality frame made of high-strength plastic.
• Magnifying glasses from Zoom HD are characterized by a reliable design, have unique anti-reflective lenses, new models use an original design that is versatile. Users describe the devices of this company as “light, reliable and convenient”;
• The German company Ischenbach is the oldest player in the specialized optics market (founded in 1914). All products are characterized by the highest quality and breadth of assortment, however, the prices for them will make the potential buyer fork out.

It is also worth mentioning the producers of the "middle hand", whose products can also become reliable assistants: "Ash Technologies", "Rexant", "Bigger", "Schweizer"

Rating of the best magnifying glasses (loupes) for 2020

Budget segment models

3rd place: LPO-01

Perfect for home use: Provides excellent picture magnification while relieving eye strain. All small objects become visible more clearly and better, this device will be an indispensable assistant when sewing. Can be used in conjunction with contact lenses.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Weight in grams	20
Diopter increase	1.6
Price, rubles	460

• Do not restrict the view - have an improved panoramic view;
• Thoughtful design (flexible frame);
• Contact lens compatibility.

• Frailty of the frame.

2nd place: Kromatech headlamp with illumination MG9892G / GJ

The binocular magnifier glasses are specially made for professional use. Great for working with small objects and in low light conditions (has a dual LED backlight). The set immediately comes with four sets of lenses - from 10 to 25 times. Very lightweight.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Weight in grams	90
Diopter increase	6
Price, rubles	670

• Budget price with great functionality;
• Good staffing;
• Light weight;
• Adjustable distance between eyepieces;
• One year warranty.

• Works only with specialized coin-cell batteries;
• The lenses are made of optical plastic.

1st place: Levenhuk Zeno Vizor G1

This model has a variable design, which means that you can use one or two eyepieces on the frame. The included lenses have a 20x magnification for easy work with fine details. The eyepiece lens is movable, can move horizontally or tilt up. An LED for illumination is located directly on the eyepiece.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Weight in grams	60
Diopter increase	20
Price, rubles	850

• Mounting variability;
• Lifetime warranty;
• Famous brand.

• Heavy eyepieces;
• Scarce package bundle ("pills" batteries are not included).

Middle class models

3rd place: Levenhuk Zeno Vizor G0

The sample has convenient additional lenses that are mounted on a plastic bracket with a clip. The device can be mounted both on the cap visor and on a special rim. The set comes with three pairs of detachable lenses. There is a tilt adjustment of the lens center-to-center bracket.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Weight in grams	50
Diopter increase	35
Price, rubles	890

• Good equipment;
• Ease of fastening;
• Good diopters.

• A lens center-to-center distance of only 70 mm is not quite enough.

2nd place: Bestex MG81001-A with LED backlight

Not a bad example for household use, which perfectly combines sufficient functionality with an adequate price. Light in weight and low maintenance. The set includes three sets of interchangeable lenses at once. The rim is made of durable plastic, and the forehead is equipped with a special soft silicone gasket.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Weight in grams	50
Diopter increase	25
Price, rubles	1300

• Good value for money;
• Low weight;
• Decent kit set.

• The LED backlight is too high (does not help in the work).

1st place: Kromatech headband MG9892B

Another universal sample from a world famous manufacturer. Due to its good equipment, it is suitable for professional activities and for home use. The set includes as many as 5 sets of interchangeable lenses. The design includes backlighting from two bright white LEDs. Classic spectacle frames are an additional advantage.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Weight in grams	30
Diopter increase	25
Price, rubles	1500

• Light weight;
• Comfortable spectacle frame;
• Sufficient magnification;
• Good completeness.

• Plastic lenses (extremely unstable to mechanical damage).

Premium models

3rd place: Veber 7102L

This model from a famous German brand uses the traditional Galilean optical design. The glasses are intended exclusively for amateur use: it is convenient to watch theatrical performances in them, monitor sports events from the tribune, and the like. The temples are made of durable acrylic plastic and have an anatomical shape. Each arm is equipped with a wheel for adjusting the diopter of its own lens.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Germany
Weight in grams	40
Diopter increase	21
Price, rubles	1600

• High-quality workmanship material;
• Separate diopter adjustment;
• Classical optical design.

• Small functionality.

2nd place: Levenhuk Zeno Vizor G7

A professional piece specially designed for jewelers and watchmakers. Due to the use of plastic lenses, the load on the beholder's head is reduced. The mounting rim is adjustable in length with good ease. The model is equipped with a tilt and backlight control.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Weight in grams	30
Diopter increase	25
Price, rubles	1900

• AAA batteries are used;
• Convenient mount;
• Reduced weight.

• Not found.

1st place: Eschenbach maxDETAIL

Magnifier glasses from a veteran of the German optical industry. Only high quality materials were used for the manufacture - from the plastic of the case to the glass of the lenses. Designed for use in the medical field - from surgery to cosmetology. The lenses use the Cera-Tek technology, which means their special resistance to fogging and mechanical damage.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Germany
Weight in grams	49
Diopter increase	40
Price, rubles	6200

• Used innovative technologies;
• Individual setting of ametropia;
• Adjustable working distance and focus.

• Extremely high price.

Instead of an epilogue

Magnifying glasses are undoubtedly a necessary thing for both professional and everyday activities. Their acquisition is an indicator that a person cares about his health and his vision. The use of such devices will have a beneficial effect on the general well-being: you do not have to take unnatural postures, strain your eyes, and make unnecessary manipulations. The main thing is to purchase a high-quality model that is necessary for all functional features, while not overpaying extra money. To achieve the best result in the buying process, it is preferable to purchase glasses directly from the manufacturer via the Internet, even if shipping from abroad will cost a lot. In the end, it's not worth saving on health.