What is a Compound Microscope?

A compound microscope uses multiple lenses to obtain a high-magnification image. They are particularly valuable for studying tiny organisms in biological research. The objective lens provides the initial magnification (usually 4x, 10x, 40x, or 100x), while the eyepiece lens compounds it (typically magnifying a further 10x). Visual clarity is assisted by the microscope’s fine focus capabilities and illuminator. Whether you are a scientist or a student, compound microscopes are straightforward to use. Simply place your specimen onto a glass slide, cover it with a coverslip, put it on the mechanical stage, adjust your focus, and explore!

What Can You See with a Compound Microscope?

Compound microscopes are mainly used to view cells and other biological specimens. In fact, they’re sometimes called biological microscopes for just that reason. A good compound microscope offers you the chance to view the structure of a cell, including the cell wall and nucleus. You may have even used a compound microscope in junior high or high school when studying biology. Compound microscopes are extremely valuable in the fields of microbiology and bacteriology. 

Compound Microscope Parts

A compound microscope has an objective lens, an ocular lens, and a small stage on which the specimen is placed. Adjustment knobs are located on the side of the microscope, one for coarse adjustment (coarse focus knob) and another for fine adjustment (fine focus knob). Most microscope models will also have a brightness adjustment feature that will help light up the stage to better see the specimen.

Types of Eyepieces

There are several different types of eyepieces you can find on compound microscopes, including:

Monocular: A single eyepiece for one eye to look through.

Binocular: Two eyepieces for both eyes to look through.

Trinocular: Three eyepieces for one person to use a single eyepiece while another uses two. 

How to Find the Best Compound Microscope for You

AmScope carries a variety of compound microscopes for researchers, teachers, and hobbyists. We offer bundles that include slide preparation kits and a comprehensive book to help you learn about microscopy. 

Not sure which microscope is right for you? If you’re looking for a professional instrument, you can filter by application on our left navigation. 

If this is your first compound microscope or you’re buying it as a gift, consider magnification power, head type, stage type, price, and other factors to find the product best-suited for your purposes. Consult our comprehensive guide to choosing a microscope for more tips.