"Magnification Lamps" Topic

Anyone using a magnifier lamp out there? I'm going to pull the trigger on a purchase but am mostly unsure if I should get 1.75x or 2.25x.

Can anyone give some guidance there?

Personally, I prefer an Optivisor. I had trouble keeping the right distance for the best focus using the lamp.

My eye doctor said it would be better for long term eye health if I was viewing a larger image (magnifier) versus having the image enlarged in the eye via reading glasses (visor).

I tried using a visor years ago, but it gave me a headache.

I suggest searching the message boards using the keyword magnifier. There are several threads addressing this topic you may find useful. I would suggest buying a model that uses the circular fluorescent tube rather than a standard light bulb. I love my magnifier and couldn't paint without it due to aging eyes.
Industrial supply stores usually have a wider selection than craft and hobby stores. link

That's interesting to know Private Snafu!

@MAD MIKE

Thank you. I ran the search and went through the threads that came up.

No real consensus there and no real surprise. Lots of helpful and valid insight. It seems everyone finds something to their liking and goes with it. Most commentators go with a visor type setup or simple reading glasses. It seemed the minority were using magnifying lamps. I want to go with the magnifier so those first two options mentioned are off the table at present for me.

No real talk about the amount of magnification or mechanics from those who are using a magnifier. My dilemma is that I am willing to pay 100 or so for something but if it sucks i'll be seriously bummed.

My willingness to pay may go as high as 300 if I can get a really good one. It must be very stable. No floppy arms and wimpy springs. Black is a must because white would be obnoxious with my decor. I'm torn on what lens to get.

I've got two in mind:

qsource.com/p-20555-dazor-mc150-bk-circline-magnifier-wclamp-base-22w-3-diopter-28-reach-black.aspx

qsource.com/p-2017-daylight-company-u22091-esd-safe-ultra-slim-magnifying-lamp-3-diopter-lens-w12-diopter-swing-arm-black.aspx

The first seems like it would fit the bill but I don't know if its "floppy" or not.

The second is the Mercedes and would fit all my needs but is rather expensive and has features i'd rather not pay for.

There is also the budget model which may be completely adequate:

amazon.com/Ledu-L745BK-Fluorescent-Magnifying-Swing/dp/B000RWJ1QK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1412224921&sr=8-1&keywords=Ledu+L745BK+Fluorescent+Magnifying+Swing+Arm+Clamp+Mount+Lamp%2C+42+Reach%2C+BlacksubheadingMcWong73

I bought something like the Ledu (your last link) for around $60 USD in Australia, so you should be able to find it cheaper.

I'm perfectly happy with it, it does everything I need it to do – I daresay you may find the first two are over investing in a magnifier. The Ledu isn't "floppy" in that you can tighten the articulated joints. You want a fair bit of give in the movement anyway, you'll find you're moving the darn thing a lot.

If you use sunlight or it shines on the lamp, you can have the lens burn holes in various items. I cover the lens with a Kleenex or a piece of paper. I really liked that book that got scorthed.

Upgrade complete. I went with the Ledu. So far so good. Lens size is fine, 1.75x seems ample. Stability is decent. Sturdiness is moderate.