Microscope Camera Buying Guide

Camera resolution refers to the quantity of pixels on the chip. Higher resolution means larger resultant images, some applications require larger image sizes (such as histology) for the finer details but applications such as fluorescence will require larger pixel sizes which mean you need to trade off resolution for pixel sizes.

Pixel size refers to the size of each individual pixel, larger the pixel the more sensitive the camera. For general bright-field imaging a smaller pixel size is fine (1.25-2.5 microns), but for lower light scenarios a larger pixel size should be considered. For fluorescence applications a pixel size of 4-6 microns will give much better sensitivity for low light applications with really low light applications requiring 6+ microns.

Some applications such as live cell imaging or live imaging of experiments require fast FPS cameras. These cameras often require better sensitivity, most cameras make use of binning (reducing resolution) to increase frame rates.

Monochrome cameras are designed for fluorescence and low light applications where colour is not needed. Colour cameras come seemingly more complicated with a Bayar filter (red/green/blue filters) over the pixels where each pixel detects one colour. 

​Bit depth is related to the colour of the camera , the higher the number the greater the quantity of colours in the image. 8 bit -> 256 colours, 12 bit -> 4096 colours, 16 bit -> 65,536 colours. For general microscopy 8 bit is fine but if you require the detail (fluorescence) look for 12 bit cameras. If a camera says 16 bit ensure to check that it is true 16 bit and not 10/12 bit wrapped into 16. Be cautious that colour cameras generally have lower bit depths and will have red, green and blue in these colours meaning the file size will be larger.

A microscope camera can good but with software can turn amazing. A lot happens in software to enhance and improve your images and experience, cheaper cameras often overlook this (not always). When choosing a microscope camera be sure to choose one that has a good software package and useable. Some manufacturers cater to Windows, Mac & Linux so be sure to check this. It is also worth checking what features are behind a pay wall, as with modern times subscriptions and paywalls add a layer of complexity in software decision. It is also worth noting to be on the look out for features you may require such as stitching, measurement, counting etc as well as integration into software such as IMagic.

Cameras will vary in cost, often confusing the buyer. Some microscope cameras will cost <£1000 others well above £10,000. The reasoning for this can be not only specification but sensor quality, cooling and software. It is worth understanding this as two models with seemingly similar specifications can produce widely different results. For example if you wanted a camera for teaching a cheaper alternative may be ideal, but in a lab setting a research grade camera may be a must, but will ultimately cost more. As a general rule under £300 is for hobbyists & tik tikors, £300-£1000 budget microscopy, £1000+ research grade. Dont be intimidated by price but be sure to look around for the best fit for your application.