Plugable Technologies
Great for hobbyists and professionals, the Plugable 250x USB 2.0 Digital Microscope (USB2-MICRO-250X) allows you to work quickly and effectively at the microscopic level. Common uses include exploration, stamp or coin analysis, micro-soldering, garden parasite identification, and much more.
This adaptable tool can be used either with the included stand for lower magnifications, handheld for quick point-and-click inspection, or placed directly on subjects for the highest magnifications. The rugged plastic body makes it ideal for many scenarios including industrial applications.
The Microscope includes built-in LEDs that can be dialed through a range of brightness levels to properly illuminate your subject. Unlike many other USB microscopes, these LEDs shine through a diffuser to combat glare.
This is especially useful when viewing reflective objects like coins. Instead of harsh glare, the diffuser gives even light distribution across the object being viewed.
We used a capacitive touch button to initiate image capture rather than a physical push button. When observing small objects at microscopic levels, a small bump can offset an image to an imperceptible state. With a capacitive button, the lightest touch snaps a blur-free image.
Image capture can also be initiated from within the downloadable companion software, along with video or configurable time-lapse capture.
Easily analyze the surface of objects large and small at any angle by positioning the flexible gooseneck precisely where you want it. With a suction cup mount and a graduated observation stage, you can attach the microscope to any smooth surface and use the various graduation marks to measure specimens.
If the stand doesn't quite meet your needs, no problem! All fittings have 1/4"-20 TPI threads, which almost all camera mounts use. Create your own stand for your specific purpose.
We love our Plugable products, and hope you will too. All of our products are backed with a 2-year limited parts and labor warranty as well as Seattle-based email support
Windows
USB Video Class (UVC) support is built in to all versions of Windows 11, 10, 8.x, 7, Vista, and XP. Companion software is available on our website for finer control of the device, or any other video capture software can be used
macOS and OS X
Mac computers with OS versions 10.4.2+ have built-in support for USB Video Class (UVC) devices. Companion software available on our website for finer control of the device, or use any video capture software, including Photo Booth (with limitations)
Linux
Linux distributions with kernels 2.6.26+ have built-in support for USB Video Class (UVC) devices. Works on Raspberry Pi with Raspbian Jessie. We recommend Cheese or GTK+ UVC Viewer
Chrome and Android
Works on all Chrome OS devices with the built-in Camera application. Many newer Android devices support the microscope using an OTG cable and viewing application. Select Android devices may not work
iOS
iOS devices (iPhones, iPads) are not compatible
Start by viewing objects at 40x magnification with Plugable's Digital Microscope. Look to the next image to see the resolution calibration at 250x.
Adjust to 250x magnification to see the microscopic world! See cells and particles not visible to the human eye.
- 1x Microscope body
- 1x Observation stage
- 1x Suction cup
- 1x Gooseneck
- 1x C-clip
- 1x Quick start guide
| Interface | 4ft USB 2.0 Cable |
| Magnification | 0x-250x |
| Lighting | 4x 5050 SMD LEDs with diffuser |
| Resolution | 1600x1200 Snapshots, 640x480 Video |
| Sensor | 2/3in (11mm) CMOS |
| Controller | EtronTech eSP570A |
Pros: - Cheap! - Does a pretty good job considering the price - The LED lights really help. I'm glad they are adjustable.
Cons: - The suction cup mount with the flex arm works okay, but is not very rigid. You will bump it when you turn the focus ring. There is no electronic focus. You don't need the flex arm if you just place the camera on top of something flat for up-close viewing.
Overall Review: On Windows 10, USB video drivers from Microsoft install automatically. Also, the Windows 10 'Camera' app works fine with this microscope. The 'Digital Viewer' app from Plugable works, too, but is nothing great. The DV app gets confused by the presence my Logitech USB webcam but it still works. I just have to select the wrong camera! Both apps can take snapshots or video clips. Windows also installs audio drivers because it thinks this is a webcam but they don't really do anything. I use mine with Windows, but I also tried it with my Android 7 tablet and my Android 9 phone. I went to the Google Play Store and searched for "USB camera". The first app I tried works fine. Magnification is related to how far the camera is from the subject. Rather than constantly bending the flex arm, it's easier to use a book (or something similar) under the object you're viewing to raise it closer to the camera.