When it comes to digital USB handheld microscope, Celestron 44302 obviously know what they are doing.
From hobbyists to the likes of circuit board inspectors, almost everyone who has used it before has great things to say about it.
The (almost) limitless applications (looking at human hair, an inspection of dental crown implant, etc) it can be used on as well as the picture quality of its 2MP image sensor is more than worth the price of the microscope itself.
This digital microscope from Celestron has indeed earned its reputation for manufacturing excellent quality microscopes at such an affordable price point.
Check out our in-depth review of Celestron 44302 below and see for yourself if it is something that would serve its intended purpose for you.
If you are at a loss and not knowing how to go about picking one that suits you, you may want to read up on our microscope buying guide.
Product Core Features – What’s to Like?
Built-in 2MP Digital Camera
Once Celestron 44302 gets connected via USB to your computer, its 2MP camera will allow you to capture images of up to an impressive 1600 x 1200 pixels.
The options are truly limitless on what you can view and inspect from your computer screen with such clear and high resolution.
You will now be able to capture and record intricate details of specimens or perhaps inspect circuit boards with vivid colors like never before.
6 LED Ring Illuminator
With a 6 LED ring illuminator, there is no longer an excuse not to be able to check out the tiniest details of stamps or printed circuit boards. You will now be able to check out the sharpest and clearest views of an insect’s legs or maybe trichomes. 🙂
Press and Shoot
Conveniently located at the top of this Celestron handheld microscope, capturing and saving high-resolution images directly to your computer is just a thumb press away.
Adjustable Metal Stand
Although the adjustable metal stand may not be of the highest quality, it does provide stability. This will help with reduced shaking for image capture during the viewing and inspection of your specimens.
Besides that, the metal stand is also able to provide a steady hold of the handheld microscopes at various positions.
Software with Built-in Measurement Tool
The microscope software suite from Celestron is can be installed on both Windows Operating systems and Mac OSX 10.4.9 and above.
The free camera software facilitates the capturing of images and recording of video and it also comes with a note-taking feature.
On top of that, if you are someone who requires measurement features, you are in luck. You will love the fact that the software also provides a built-in measurement tool.
Unfortunately, it is only available for the Windows platform.
Single Hand Use and Easy focus
Not everyone likes using the adjustable metal stand that is provided. If so, you will be happy to know that this Celestron 44302 handheld microscope can be operated using one hand.
Plus the ability to use the conveniently located barrel focus wheel to zoom in and out of your specimen while viewing it on your computer screen.
Options are limitless for magnifying and examining random objects from artifacts to a piece of coral.
- Hobbyists
- Medical professionals
- Quality control
- Inspecting trichomes
- Any type of soldering works
- many more
Celestron 44302 Product Specification Table
| Celestron 44302 | |
| Dimension: | 1.2 x 1.2 x 4.2 inches |
| Shipping Weight: | 12.8 ounces |
| Item Weight: | 1 pound |
| Batteries: | 1 Lithium ion batteries required |
| Computer Requirements: | UVC Plug and Play with Windows 7, Vista, and XP and MAC 10.4.9 and later, CD/DVD Drive and open USB Port |
| Resolution: | 1600 x 1200 pixels |
| Video Format: | VGA – 25 FPS |
| Megapixels: | 2MP |
| Magnification Range: | 10x to 40x magnification (up to 150x on some monitors) |
| Operating System: | UVC plug-and-play with Windows 7, Vista, and XP. Also compatible with Mac OSX 10.4.9 and above |
| Included Software: | Digital Microscope Suite 2.0 |
| Connection Type: | USB 2.0 |
| Warranty: | 5 years |
Who should buy it?
The application for this Celestron handheld microscope is practically limitless. If you need a microscope that is lightweight, convenient and easy to use, and is able to capture images with good quality, this is probably a digital microscope worth considering.
Most importantly, Celestron 44302 is affordable and can be your daily travel companion to work or school.
Who shouldn’t buy Celestron 44302?
You should not be considering Celestron 44302 if you are someone who has high expectations in terms of quality and precision.
This affordable handheld microscope is ideal for people who need it mainly to magnify and capture footage of objects and specimens.
Is The Price of Celestron 44302 Reasonable?
For what it is worth in terms of convenience, portability, thoughtful design and image quality, I would vote that this Celestron microscope is worth a shot – whether you are going to use it for education, discovery, work, or just for fun. 🙂
Reviews from Existing Buyers
Some buyers mentioned that the USB cord is rather stiff and the metal stand could be rather hard to adjust at times. Personally, I feel that these are just minor issues that may go away after some repetitive use.
It was also mentioned that there was a 2 to 4 seconds delay during the capturing of images. I believe it may have to do with the processing speed of the computer used.
Beyond that, the majority of the buyers are pretty happy with this Celestron handheld digital microscope.
Final Thoughts – Should You Buy it?
With so many positive reviews online, it is not hard to believe that Celestron will continue to upgrade the features of this digital microscope and make it even better.
p/s: In fact, Celestron did come out with a newer 44302-C version, check it out here.
What Else to Know?
Videos from a couple of happy customers
Product FAQ
Yes, the software does work with Windows 10.
Yes, so long the TV supports USB connection. By doing so, do note that you will have to ability to capture and save images like what you could on a computer.
