Duo-Scope STEM Microscope for Kids & Students - 50 Piece Science Lab Accessory Kit with Slides, Specimens & Tools - Perfect for Classroom Experiments, Homeschool Learning & Science Fair Projects

I read quite a few reviews on microscopes because we wanted to get my 8 year old one for Christmas. We bought one at Toys R Us but when I read the reviews on it they were all 1 stars. After finding a website that reviewed them this was the second best one that was recommended and was cheaper than the top one so I figured it would be a good purchase. We took the one back to Toys R Us and I quickly ordered this one. It was about 25 dollars more than the toys r us one but I am so GLAD we upgraded to this one. This thing is really cool. It has 2 light settings. One for clear/transparent objects and another for solid objects. I could not be happier and I love messing with this thing as well. My daughter likes it as well. We found an earwig and we were able to zoom in on it and look at the legs and antennae and see the tiny hairs and appendages. Since we live in a cold climate we have not found any ponds but there is one close by where we live and we will be going to get some water when the weather warms. The products seems durable and the tray is easy to move up and down to get focused. I do like that it is battery powered so it can be taken on the move. After using this with my daughter for 2 days I can't find anything I do not like about it. It comes with a one year warranty which is nice.Pros: Fun, objects are clear if focused, easy to use, durableCons: No educational booksSo if you are looking for an educational tool that is fun and interesting buy this now. If you are looking for a cheap item that is more of a toy then get something cheaper. I'd say this is more for the kid that likes science. For the value this one can't be beat.