How much magnification is overkill?

[OzBud]

When buying a microscope to look at trichomes in amazing detail, assuming price is not an issue, how much magnification is overkill? I understand the resolution of the pictures plays a big part but was just wondering about the magnification part.

 

[Clear Haze]

I bought a 60-120 handheld and the 60x is sufficient and easier to view than 120x although 120x is pretty interesting to view with. So anything over 120 is overkill IMO.

 

[South Sierra Dude]

I use this and love it. https://goo.gl/images/jOZzKx

 

[kingfish]

That is pretty much what I have. Same magnification. Works for me.

 

[insomniaczzz]

TOO much magnification and you won't be able to focus. Or you would have to back off to make it focus, so what is the point of that?

 

[Flockshot]

Above 60x I need to hold my breath or I can't keep it still enough. But I am old..

 

[NebulaHaze]

I use the same hand-held magnifier as South Sierra Dude when doing a quick check. It's actually really effective, especially considering the price! It works better than a lot of the handheld ones that cost more.

I also use a digital microscope called the Carson Zorb to take videos when it gets close to harvest day. I think it's easier to truly examine the trichomes when looking at a video after the fact, as opposed to when you're still looking at the plant. However, you have to connect the Zorb to a computer to take video, which won't work if you don't have a laptop handy. There are lots of different types of microscopes that take video and none of them is the "best", but I like the Zorb because it's small so I can hold it in one hand, and relatively cheap.