The best magnifying glasses (loupes) for 2022

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 it is not only the elderly who face the difficulties of poor vision - they are increasingly found in middle-aged and even very young segments of the population, and such a 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, of which there are currently many types.

Magnifier glasses: general information and purpose

It should be immediately noted that the described device is not a means of complete 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 their functionality, loupe 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 classic 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, embroideries with small black beads on the same dark background), watch repair and jewelry repair, ultra-fine engraving, assembly / soldering of microcircuits and small parts, and, of course, reading small texts (usually , from the technical sphere this can include, for example, the marking of transistors on electronic circuit boards).

At the same time, one should not think that only people with poor eyesight need such devices - they will be an indispensable 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 with contact lenses. The frames used in loupe glasses are securely fixed on the head and do not fall off when the head turns sharply or is strongly tilted. In addition, the hands remain constantly free to perform small operations. Summing up, we can say that the main purpose of such devices is the free performance of painstaking work by a person without undue strain on the visual organs.

General device

The base of the binocular is made up of magnifying lenses that provide a wide viewing angle. To expand the capabilities of the device, LED lighting can be integrated into the tool frame. The on/off switch is often located on the left arm. Standard adjustment along the vertical axis is up to sixty degrees, and along the horizontal axis - up to twenty-five. Typically, the device is powered by AAA or AA batteries.The total weight of the tool with batteries is approximately one hundred grams.

Classification and types

They can be classified according to the type of attachment. To date, the following structures are commonly used:

• Mounting on the temples;
• Fastening by means of an elastic rim;
• "Clothespin" for the visor of the headgear;
• Massive plastic adjustable rim (differs in large dimensions and is used for medical purposes).

Separately, cosmetic binoculars can be noted, with the help of which dermatologists scrupulously examine the surface of the skin. They are needed for cosmetic surgeries, such as electrolysis, eyelash extensions, and laser tattoo removal.

By type, these tools are divided into only two categories - regular and illuminated.

First are most suitable for everyday use and are very similar in design to corrective glasses. They have a comfortable frame, have a nose pad made of silicone, the design includes traditional temples. All that distinguishes them from classical models is optical elements (lenses) that have a multiple magnification effect. Such models are widely used by philatelists and numismatists, needlewomen, radio amateurs and, of course, pensioners.

Second devices have a complex design, equipped with a backlight, and are designed for professional activities. The backlight is intended for local illumination of the working area, the loupe glasses themselves come with several sets of interchangeable lenses. The illumination process is carried out by means of batteries. Tools of the second type can be folding and head-mounted.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 conventional household ones, so it is not advisable to purchase them for home use due to the lack of need for most of their functions.

Main advantages and disadvantages

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

• Positive effect on vision. Medicine knows cases when the fall in vision during their use noticeably slowed down or stopped altogether. In addition, when using such devices, the eyes rest from constant overstrain. Magnifying glasses are completely safe for both nearsighted and farsighted people.
• Maximum comfort while wearing. The vast majority of samples have comfortable arms, the position of which can be easily adjusted. Therefore, the size of almost any sample is universal. At the same time, due to the arms, reliable fixation is ensured - they are unlikely to fall off during operation, 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 magnifying glasses greatly simplifies any work - they are so comfortable to hold that a person can simply forget about them, because they do not need to be constantly held by hands. Moreover, the fused original form provides a wide view without image distortion.

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

The existing shortcomings of the equipment in question, its regular users include the following:

• Quite a complex selection and purchase process. It is almost impossible to find them in retail stores (especially in small towns). And not everyone dares 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 fee, which incurs additional shipping costs for the buyer;
• Some samples may not have the most durable material of manufacture, therefore, if they break, it can be very difficult to fix them.

However, the number of "pluses" significantly exceeds the number of "minuses" (and 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 your eyesight.

Loupe glasses for older people

This product can become absolutely indispensable for people who, due to age-related characteristics, have begun to lose their sight. It is perfect for doing many routine household chores - from banal reading to threading a needle. The main effect of the use of these glasses is the relaxation of the muscles of the eyeball, which means not only the preservation of the current level of vision, but even its slight improvement.Ophthalmologists note that after using loupe glasses, most patients noted an improvement in well-being, the absence of fatigue and tension, as well as a multiple reduction in pain and pain in the eyes. Confirmation of these words of the patients was also recorded during the annual examinations, in which in 15% of cases noticeable improvements were detected.

Difficulties of choice

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

• The working distance is the spatial dimension between the lens and the object being studied. The value of this distance should be determined based on the most frequent operations performed. If you need to constantly use additional tools and manipulate small parts, you will need a large working distance. If the glasses will be used only for reading or examining small objects, models with a short working distance are also suitable.
• Field of view - this parameter indicates the area of ​​​​the object visible through the lens of the device. The field decreases with increasing magnification of the lens.
• The magnification factor - this parameter will also depend on the functionality. For everyday work in watch, jewelry, radio engineering workshops, where manipulations with small objects are required, a large magnification is better. For home reading, you can get by with an average or smaller multiplicity.
• Focal length - this is 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 greater this distance, the more comfortable you can use an optical instrument, however, such models will cost more;
• Depth of field - the distance between the remote and nearest points of the object under study, at which focus is not lost. This parameter may decrease when increasing the magnifying power of the lenses installed in the glasses.

All of the above values ​​are interrelated, therefore, changing 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 provided model range is distinguished by a very wide range. Both a home needlewoman and a professional jeweler will be able to pick up the desired sample of an optical instrument.
• Leomax products do not have a wide range and are mainly aimed at professionals. However, the high-quality performance of the main component of loupe glasses - lenses, served as the basis for great confidence in the company on the part of customers. According to reviews, the lenses absolutely do not distort the image, 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.
• The magnifier glasses from the Zoom HD company are characterized by a reliable design, have unique anti-reflective lenses, the new models use an original design that is distinguished by its versatility. Users speak of the devices of this company as "light, reliable and convenient";
• The German company "Ischenbach" is the oldest participant in the specialized optics market (founded in 1914). All products are characterized by the highest quality and breadth of the range, however, the prices for it will make a potential buyer fork out notably.

You can also note the manufacturers of the "middle hand", the goods from which can also become reliable assistants: "Ash Technologies", "Rexant", "Bigger", "Schweizer"

Rating of the best magnifying glasses (loupes) for 2022

Budget segment models

3rd place: LPO-01

An excellent sample for home use: provides excellent magnification of the picture, while relieving eye strain. All small items become visible more clearly and better, this device will be an indispensable assistant when sewing. May be used with contact lenses.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Weight in grams	20
Increase in diopters	1.6
Price, rubles	460

• Do not restrict the view - have an improved panoramic view;
• Thoughtful design (flexible frame);
• Compatible with contact lenses.

• Frame fragility.

2nd place: Kromatech illuminated headband MG9892G/GJ

The binocular loupe glasses are made especially for professional activity. Great for working with small objects and in low light conditions (has a dual LED backlight). The kit immediately comes with four sets of lenses - from 10 to 25 times. Has a very low weight.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Weight in grams	90
Increase in diopters	6
Price, rubles	670

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

• Operates only on 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 one or two eyepieces can be used on the frame. The included lenses have a 20x magnification, which means you can easily work on fine details. The eyepiece lens is movable, can move horizontally or tilt up. Directly on the eyepiece is an LED for illumination.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Weight in grams	60
Increase in diopters	20
Price, rubles	850

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

• Heavy eyepieces;
• Poor equipment (batteries-"tablets" 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 attached both to the visor of the cap and to a special rim. The set comes with three pairs of removable lenses. There is an adjustment of the inclination of the bracket for the center-to-center distance of the lenses.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Russia
Weight in grams	50
Increase in diopters	35
Price, rubles	890

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

• The lens center distance of only 70 mm is not quite enough.

2nd place: Bestex MG81001-A with LED backlight

A good sample for domestic use, which perfectly combines sufficient functionality with an adequate price. Light weight and low maintenance. The kit comes with three sets of interchangeable lenses. The rim for fastening is made of durable plastic, and the forehead part is equipped with a special soft silicone gasket.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Weight in grams	50
Increase in diopters	25
Price, rubles	1300

• Good value for money;
• Light weight;
• Decent kit.

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

1st place: Kromatech headband MG9892B

Another universal sample from a world famous manufacturer. Thanks to its good configuration, it is suitable for both professional activities and home use. The set includes 5 sets of interchangeable lenses. The design is backlit by two bright white LEDs. Spectacle classic frame is an additional advantage.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	China
Weight in grams	30
Increase in diopters	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 well-known German brand uses a traditional Galilean optical design.The glasses are intended exclusively for amateur use: they are convenient to watch theatrical performances, follow sporting events from the podium, and the like. The temples are made of durable acrylic plastic and have an anatomical shape. Each temple is equipped with a wheel for adjusting the diopter of its own lens.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Germany
Weight in grams	40
Increase in diopters	21
Price, rubles	1600

• High-quality manufacturing material;
• Separate diopter adjustment;
• Classical optical scheme.

• Little functionality.

2nd place: Levenhuk Zeno Vizor G7

A professional specimen specially designed for jewelers and watchmakers. Due to the use of plastic lenses, the load on the head of the beholder is reduced. The rim for mounting 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
Increase in diopters	25
Price, rubles	1900

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

• Not detected.

1st place: Eschenbach maxDETAIL

Loupe glasses from a veteran of the German optical industry. Only high-quality materials were used for manufacturing - 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 Cera-Tek technology, which means they are particularly resistant to fogging and mechanical damage.

Name	Index
Manufacturer country	Germany
Weight in grams	49
Increase in diopters	40
Price, rubles	6200

• Innovative technologies are used;
• Individual adjustment 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 positive effect on general well-being: you will not have to take unnatural poses, strain your eyes, or perform unnecessary manipulations. The main thing is to purchase a model of high quality and necessary for all functional features, while not overpaying extra money. To achieve the best result in the purchase process, it is preferable to purchase glasses directly from the manufacturer via the Internet, even if shipping from abroad will cost a considerable amount. In the end, saving on health is not worth it.