AmScope SE305R-A Forward-Mounted Binocular Stereo Microscope, WF10x Eyepieces, 10X/30X Magnification, 1X and 3X Objectives, Upper and Lower Halogen Light Source, Arm Stand, 120V

I am a retired science teacher and have used many brands and types of scopes. Regular microscopes are difficult to use, require the user to be at least 12-13 and slides are difficult to make and use. An eight year old can't see the difference between striated and soomth muscle cells. The stereoscope is a much better choice for kids that are not yet in high school. You can look at coins, small insects, crystals, your finger... The best student scope I used was a Swift that cost about $365 15-20 years ago. This scope is of the same quality at about 1/3 of the price. I was skeptical before I received it, but was pleasantly surprised at the results. My grandkids think it is great. Highly recommended.

Bought this for my 8 year old for Christmas. She loves it. Even now, every little thing she finds has to go under the scope. It is set up in her bedroom so she can use it whenever she wants. Had to replace the build once but that was no big deal.

I bought this as a Christmas present for myself. The focusing rack was jammed and didn't work when I received it. Even after I called customer support and followed their directions to loosen it up, it was still jammed. I was really disappointed when after reading the fine print of their warranty. They don't pay for shipping the defective unit. After shipping it back it took over a month to get a replacement. At first, Amazon didn't take responsibility for shipping costs because I bought it from AmScope rather than Amazon. After asking to speak to a manager at Amazon they gave me a store credit to cover my shipping costs. The focusing rack worked fine in the replacement unit but there is dirt or something in the optics that is a slight distraction while using it. I don't want to bother getting a replacement with clean optics.

I am very impressed with the bright, clear image this unit has. It has made up-close detail inspection simple and easy. It feels solid built and the focus pulls firm but smooth.