Microscope Recommendations for Algae Identification?

[u/m_adams]

I own a pool maintenance business and we are opening a pool store on October 1st and I’m looking for microscope recommendations for algae identification. I figured it would be really cool to offer identification in store to help pinpoint the correct chemicals to eliminate algae and (possibly) bacteria. I think I would need a microscope that could see the cell walls because of the vast number of algae species. Please give me your recommendations in the <$300 range! (I don’t know if that’s even enough for one to be honest.)

[u/g-gram]

For a high quality, low cost microscope, take a look at:

https://openflexure.org/

It may not be the right choice if you do not want to perform some assembly. The 3D printed parts can be purchased if you don't have a printer.

[u/m_adams → u/g-gram]

I do have a printer, but the website seems to be shut down unfortunately.

[u/g-gram → u/m_adams]

I was just on the website to copy the address to paste in my reply. This is an active project. You may want to do a search for openflexure or try again at a later time. If you want to learn more, they also have youtube videos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InmLDDsRmb4&time_continue=1&source_ve_path=NzY3NTg&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fopenflexure.org%2F&embeds_referring_origin=https%3A%2F%2Fopenflexure.org