Better stereoscopic microscope than the Chinese ones (with camera)

[slavoy]

Popular stereoscopic microscopes from China provide very good image quality through the eyepieces, but they often have issues when working with cameras if we aim for the best possible image. It is often necessary to experiment and find suitable adapters. Microscope cameras also come in a range of prices and with highly varied specifications. I am wondering if it is possible to find something better 'one level higher,' with an integrated camera and perhaps a greater focus range and working field, from reputable manufacturers and, of course, at the lowest possible price 

I found, for example, the Leica Ivesta 3 with an integrated camera, but the price of this microscope is around $9000. A bit too much for me. 
https://www.leica-microsystems.com/products/light-microscopes/stereo-microscopes/p/ivesta-3/

Is there a solution in the price range between that and China's $500 ones?

[jfiresto]

If you are buying new, I do not think you could go wrong getting a Meiji Techno microscope. You might consider a model with a standard c-mount camera port as then you can change the camera if or as the technology improves and your needs change (which Meiji Techno supports). Going with an add-on camera also tends to be less expensive.

Another approach, and what I have been doing, would be to get a good, used microscope made in the 1980's and 90's. They were much better built than what is made today (the somewhat old fashioned Meiji Techno being an exception) and if they were not abused, will give many more decades of service.

But it all depends on the application and your wishes and requirements. Could you write about what those might be? And what camera issues are you trying to address?

[joeqsmith]

Used.  Mine is a old Olympus.

[thm_w]

You won't find anything with a good integrated camera that doesn't cost a fortune, because that is new tech and scientific companies overcharge for any basic tech in their product.

- If the eyepiece quality is good, use the eyepiece to take photos.
- Or buy a used unit and a good quality camera as mentioned.
- Or buy a good digital camera and C mount microscope lens. Since you just care about pictures and not soldering, use that to take the photo. No need for a trinocular.
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805999978440.html (just a random example, do your own research)

Asked to move to the correct forum: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/

[F1GWR]

As a retired MD that has been resident in a hand surgery dept when I was a student, I opted for a refurb Zeiss OPMI6SF operating microscope. With such a tool, we used to place 6 stitches around a 1 mm diameter artery anastomosis! Got mine for around 1000 €. Apart from aesthetical considerations (this one is quite old ~ 40 years) but is much less expensive than newest models and is quite as good. Check for Zeiss, Leica or Leitz Wetzlar operating (or surgical) microscopes.

It has two binoculars and it will be quite simple to add both a still and/or a movie cam via adapters you find on Ali and the fourty thieves. This microscope is heavy and bulky with a floor stand and a foot remote control (X-Y-Z-zoom-focus), fiber optics coaxial lighting. But trust me: you will never find such a quality and wide vision field elsewhere. Although I already owned Olympus, Nikon and Bausch&Lomb table binoculars, this one is way better.

I will replace the halogen lamps in the light box by power LEDs in the future.

HTH 

Meta-analysis here:   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7780882/

[slavoy]

Thanks for the input and for this link. Need to find some time to read it 

Meta-analysis here:   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7780882/