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This $11 gadget is a must-have for aging eyes

If your eyes aren't what they used to be, this is for you.
SE Illuminated Dual Lens Magnifier
SE/Amazon

Everything seems to be getting smaller, while my eyes are getting worse and worse.

If you spend any time squinting at small things, this is for you -- a dual-lens head-mounted magnifier that takes the strain out of working with tiny things. 

SE Illuminated Dual Lens Magnifier features:

  • The headband is comfortable and easy to adjust
  • The twin-LED lights can be panned left and right, so you can shine the light exactly where you need it
  • Three high-quality lenses -- a fixed 1.9x stereo lens, a drop-down 1.9x stereo lens, and a 4.5x loupe
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Can be worn over glasses
  • Only $11

This is everything I want from a head-mounted magnifier. To start with, it's cheap. 

At $11, it seems too good to be true. But this time, it really is true!

Also: This $60 tool was a total game-changer

I've got a far more expensive Donegan OptiVisor, and the quality of the SE magnifier build is just as good and it comes with a broader range of lenses for a fraction of the money.

The visor from the side

Good-quality lenses

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

Another big positive is that the headband is nice and comfortable, making it great for prolonged wear. In fact, it's so light and comfortable that I can forget that I'm wearing it. 

Also: This must-have screwdriver has two cool hidden tricks

It's also very adjustable, suitable for heads both big and small.

Top view showing the full headband

Comfortable headband

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

I also love the adjustable LED light. It can be panned left and right, making sure it drops the light exactly where you want it.

Front view showing the LED light

Adjustable LED light

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

The only downside to this magnifier is that you have to supply your own AAA batteries for the LED light. But you can't have everything, and I suggest using rechargeable AAA batteries rather than disposable alkaline batteries. 

Also: The best rechargeable batteries

I use this for all sorts of applications -- putting together circuit boards, repairing devices, hobbies and crafts, and also to read fine print in instruction manuals. 

For $11, this is a great buy, and it's one of my most-used gadgets!

Also: The perfect mini electric screwdriver

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