That was an excellent review. I have been looking at the Andonstar suspecting that they have cheapened out in lots of areas of construction. Now I know, thank you so much. It is hard choosing when one has only a picture of the product in front of you. Definitely going to look at the Lapsun.
First you dislike the up/down mechanism with the knobs, which you operate from the wrong direction and thus are not up to your standard. From the front, without seeing them even, they look to operate fine. Then you dislike the standard going to roughly up and down. I seem to think you don't understand the three adjustments working together. The screw in the standard is the first rough height adjustment for your object. The knobs are there for a less rough adjustment, and then you adjust the lens itself for perfection..
Thanks for your comment. Can you elaborate on the "wrong direction" please? The knobs are stiff to operate and only adjust a few centimeters. I'm sure you noticed that to magnify to full magnification you have to move the whole microscope up and down quite a bit. By all means you can also use the head knobs to do some "fine adjustment" - of which I don't see the purpose as it would change the magnification very little - it might help a bit with the focus but, again, they are stiff to operate. Of course if I don't like it, it doesn't mean you don't have to like it! Reviews are always a bit subjective. I hope I have presented the facts and the difference between the Joyalens and a C-mount item. It's then up to you to make the final decision. Thanks for watching!
@@tony359 The knobs are meant to operate while viewing the screen. Since you were focusing on the standard itself, your body and arms had a weird angle towards the knobs. @9.26 your operating the left knob with your right hand. When sitting behind the screen, operating it with your left hand, would look much more logical and quite do-able. I agree one of them doesn't feel perfect since it is not free of obstacles, but as a lefty I appreciate the option nonetheless. Also I don't know how much finger tip force is needed to adjust the knobs, but again, I really think the 3 adjustment options are meant to work together. Screw on frame for initial height estimation, knob adjustment for getting in focus, lens adjustment to fully optimize the focus. This does mean that you need to start with the knob and lens adjustment roughly in their middle position. I really enjoy your video's and knowledge, so don't take this criticism too hard :) Thumbs up!
I'm not taking it too hard - in fact I appreciate any feedback. I see your points. All I can say is that I have another scope on my desk of similar price (yes, it needs a monitor indeed!) and its knobs are **WAY** better than the Joyalens'. What you say is doable - but I am afraid the Lapsun does the same much better. Re. using the right hand to turn the left knob... can happen when you have a camera in the way! It doesn't mean I normally use the left knob with my right hand! :) Thanks again for your comments, they are always welcome.
The Lapsun seems like the clear winner here, if you're not afraid of searching for the right kit of all the parts. Thats maybe the only benefit of the Andonstar - everything just comes with it.
I am glad I found your channel. I was planning to get the 249S-M. But you pointed out things that I never thought of. So thank you for that. Definitely going to look for other alternative. The thing that got me most worry about is wobbling and shaking.
I went through different iteration of hdmi/usb microscope and finally settled on the Inspectis 4K microscope. Working distance is approx 70cm and remote control zoom makes it possible to solder even the smallest parts. Unfortunately, it's $12K...
Did you try the "UP" and "DOWN" arrow keys on the bottom of the screen? Those arrow keys provide you with Increased and decreased magnification. You don't need to turn or move anything. Just push the arrow key.
Bought this microscope (the main brand) a week ago and NOW finally the correct review pops up, despite the fact that I was looking for such a review before. Anyway Andonstar either uses the better Metalwork for its main brand or maybe I had simply luck because I have thankfully not that tilting problem and it even included a additional ring to "preset" a nearer inspection height. Have to see how it works out after a little bit more use.
Very informative, the mechanical issues paint a pretty bad picture for this model(&brand). It's like they just slapped some random parts together without actually test the function. I wonder if you'll get any flak for the honest review?
Yes, with a good stand it might have got a chance - still I dislike the constant "up and down" thing but I guess one could live with that. I was very clear with them about my review, so I will be ok. One thing for sure, this is the last microscope I'll ever receive from them LOL :) Thanks for watching!
I prefer a deskmounted arm as well. I have yet to find a microscope that meets my requirements without modification or adaptation. Currently I am using a "plugable" brand usb 2.0 microscope because it can be screwed into a camera mount and is reasonably cheap. But the optics are poor, there is no autofocus, and the field of view is limited. Really I would something that would allow me to scan methodically over something up to atx motherboard size for damage and solder inspection. I must say that was an excellent and thorough review :)
I'm glad you liked it and thanks for watching! I was in the same situation when I was selecting my microscope and most people ended up with the Andonstar which has those very well known limitations. I am not really affiliated with Lapsun (and I am not impressed that you end up with a CMOS sensor lottery...) but have you considered a C-mount lens type with the stand I got? If you contact them directly they can send you the mount without the base (at a lower price) and you get better price than some platforms. You can still pay by Paypal so I hope there is some sort of protection. Again, I am not affiliated with them :)
I have the 7 inch Version (since I'm using an external monitor anyways) and I'm somewhat happy with it. The interchangeable lenses are a must for my since I mostly working with printing machines. The quality ain't the best, but its OK. Especially since for something actually good you'd have to spent at least twice as much.
This review has very good details and same problems I find when microsoldering with these types of monitor microscopes. I ended up going with an AmScope Trinocular Stereo Microscope for my workshop and much better, no wobble and good working distances. Also, upgrade to a fiber optic ring light for better lighting and no shadows. I repaired iPhone 14 boards with it at ease now and then done large PS5 boards with zero issues. I don't recommend these monitor/microscope they are not good as what you explain in detail in the video. Just the wobble alone is bad enough. Then the shadows. The lapson seems really good
Thanks for watching and for leaving a comment! I only used an optical scope once and I couldn't get used to it - but I'm aware it's also a matter of personal preferences.
I have been looking at similar kinds of microscopes for a bit now and there are alot of review videos but not alot of compare videos around and I do appreciate that alot. The mounting system of all of these types have a lot to be desired, bulk cnc aluminium isn't terribly expensive but if the design is already flawed and has sloppy tolerances then you run in to issues like the taper on the upright tube. For the horizontal tube I think the screw should be put opposite to the flat spot to push it into place, simple design decision with huge improvement possibility. For now I would rather invest that kind of money into a decent oscilloscope and keep using magnification glasses instead😁
Indeed the horizontal tube flaw is unacceptable, as you say it was just a matter of designing it differently. I'm very glad my video helped you in your decision making, thank you for watching!
Wondering why the price is the same as AD407? Currently, Andostar sells them both for 150 EUR. AD407 has a fixed lens, no bundled lenses and other stuff. Am I missing something? Does AD407 have something worth AD246S-M with all its bundled stuff? If AD249S-M has so many flaws, is there anything better for the same price (under 200$ / 150 EUR) also including a display, or with a stand for mounting the camera and a small HDMI display?
I have the 6 inch version of this microscope and for the $130 I paid for it, I'm quite pleased but the firmware can be very buggy. It also refuses to boot with my micro SD to SD extension cable plugged in.
Smaller sensor gives an increased depth of field with more of the subject in focus which is a good property to have even with the trade off of an increase in noise.
interesting topic, quite a lot to be found online, with opinions going in both directions. I suspect we should evaluate the lens too in this statement too. The two microscopes feature a different lens. It would have been nice to make a proper depth of field comparison indeed! Thank you!
Hi, Tony, thank you for the honest review! To be fair, I expected a sugar coated review, but you've explained the negative aspects of the microscope in details and without trying to hide them under wording. I even feel bad for you, cause I suspect you won't receive many such offers after the video. Great that the consideration didn't affect your opinion expressed in the video. When I was choosing a microscope, I didn't even consider those products costing 300 pounds. And other options had too short focal distance, so I chose to make my own from photo enlarger and Raspberry Pi. It's not finished yet though. Thank you for the video again! It's a breeze of fresh air to see such an honest review _sponsored by the manufacturer_.
Thank you for your kind words. I did consider just returning the microscope to the manufacturer and say "I am not interested" but in the end I decided to go ahead. If this stops more freebies to come, be it. In the end I hope my viewers - you - will appreciate this and hopefully some other manufacturers will think "let's send this to Tony359, his audience knows he doesn't sugarcoat his reviews". OR - more likely - you just won't see another review on this channel anymore! :) Thanks for watching!
Hello @Vladislav - I know this might sound like a scam but the Giveaway has now ended and you have been selected to receive the microscope! Could you please contact me via email, my address is on my profile page, under "about". If you are not interested, please just let me know and I'll give it to the next winner on my list! :) Thanks for commenting and congratulations! Here is an unlisted video with the name selection process: ruclips.net/video/eohNYj0JFlc/видео.html
Thank you for a brutally honest review. I don't think any more manufactures will be sending you products to review! I agree with you, that for type of inspection and workflow, the lapsun is a far better option, even if a more costly one. I am looking for a microscope to evaluate a knife/razor edge, and I do not see myself needing to move in and out like you do, but I do place a high importance on image quality, as I need to be able to see the burr and the edge profile. Do you feel this unit compares image wise (at max magnification) with the lapsun, or do you feel the lapsun is still the winner in that area?
Oh no, the Lapsun was better in everything including image quality - I think I mention that in the video at some point. RUclips adds compression so it might be not as obvious. It's been a while since that video so I do not know what's new on the market. I can only say I am super happy with this scope. It works 100%, I feel the picture quality is very good - I've seen some more expensive scopes delivering much worse picture. But... it's China so who knows what you're going to receive! On the brutal review, I don't care! I hope I can build up a reputation where manufacturers will end up sending me their stuff because they know I'll be honest with my viewers - not because they can pay me for a good one :) Thanks for watching and good luck! :)
@@tony359 I was just doing some "pixel peeking" at 33:47 and indeed could notice the Lapsun was much cleaner with the texture detail. The next question is, on Ebay, Lapsun offers the Camera, Lens and ring light as a bundle $208, or just the camera $145. Then Lapsun offers a Parallel light zoom 20-440 ($82), which appeals to me. I am curious if the Parallel light zoom a higher quality optic, or just a higher zoom range?
@@tony359 Thank you for such a fast reply, especially on an old post. I feel like so many "reviews" out there now either sugar coat like crazy to avoid making venders mad, so they will get more venders to send them free stuff. It seems like everything is great, which honestly it isn't. Don't get me wrong, it is one thing to say, this item is good for this price range and compared to its competition of like price range, but I feel like many don't say that.
I'm afraid I am not familiar with the "parallel light zoom" type of lens. All I can share is my experience with my own Lapsun, which is reviewed in another video. For everything else you can try contacting Lapsun directly, they were helpful when I purchased the unit.
Good review, I'm still very happy with my lapsun too :) but I could see how these small all in one units would be good for phone, nintendo switch etc repairs where the pcbs are small.
Great honest review 👍 like that you actually do not recommend this one :-) but also hope you make more repair videos instead of these kinda sponsor ones ...
Thanks for your understanding. I will definitely consider future product reviews but I think I’ll make sure I don’t end up with a backlog of them 🙂 thanks for watching!
does anybody know how to polarize the adsm249 digital microscope lenses? I know can cut the direct polarizing the adsm24? For the led lamp lights I can cut out circular small rings measured out with polarize film install them easily and turn them to deflect light, but as for the 3 lenses andonstar provides lens a d and the one mounted is there a glass lens I can buy to install on all 3 lenses so I can cut film for it that fits or an adapter? Does anybody know where they are or who sells the compatible glass lens?
If I remember right those "lenses" are minuscule and don't have a thread to attach anything else like the C-mount scopes. But it should be easy to cut a piece of polariser and attach it on the inner side I think. It was some time ago :)
@tony359 like film from Edmundoptics and laser cut circular exact on inside of the lamp lights and the inner ring of all 3 lenses of this model? I have lens a d and l .. you can put them on top of the pink lens inside right and then screw them on and fine adjust with the lens focus and lamps right to deflect light? I sharpen knives as a side business and I need this polarization to work. The light reflections off the knife bevels and edges is ridiculous. Polarization is the only way I hope you understand.
@tony359 please let me know Tony if I can laser cut polar film and place them exact measurements to the inner ring of these 3 lenses that come with ad249sm and use the focus to adjust the light and cut out film for both lamps exact and fine twist them at same time? Or do you have a recommendation with someone who us using this technique
If all the aluminum parts are sticking, than you have been observing the Van Der Waals force, it's a know fact to happen between close tolerances like metals.
ive been looking microscopes and was really considering the 7 inch model. The part when you show the quick zoom in and out really shows the difference. Although i know if i have the desk space for the setup with the lapsun. Thanks for the video have some things to think about ;-)
Amazing, I’m very glad I managed to help on your decision. The Lapsun - or any C-mount style scopes - can also be purchased with a small stand. You’d lose the ability to go over large boards but you’d still have the ability to zoom in and out easily. Thanks for watching!
This is a good, honest review. Your Lapsin setup is much nicer and better material and build. However, this is a bit of an apple to an orange compare. It's like comparing a custom-built PC to one's application vs. going to Best Buy and buying a PC off the selves.
Thank you! Yes, they are two different product. But the Lapsun is actually cheaper than the Andonstar/Joyalens and it can be purchased with a smaller stand. Let me say that if I have to choose between Apples and Oranges when I go to the supermarket and Apples are all black and damaged, well, I get oranges! :) Thanks for watching and for your kind words!
Thank you for the review and thank you for all your previous videos too! I work from home repairing consoles and laptops so this would be a great help if I would be so lucky. Oh and I'm in the UK too! :)
You didn't show that the stand adjusted in and out... not just up and down. It also swings side to side. So it covers more ground than your review shows.
The stand indeed swings left and right (but not in and out). I did not show that as I feel it's useless, sorry. I tried inspecting a larger board with the upright at an angle and I could inspect a mere 1cm further down the board - and focus started to suffer. So I decided not to mention that. Thanks for watching!
@@tony359 Your vid shows it moves in and out at 4:58. You can also see it on other vid reviews of this model. (company website for example) ruclips.net/video/HKbSDHndD-g/видео.html (skip to 7:50 )
Much of the criticism is targeted at the stand. To compare with the Lipsun, you should have mounted it on the same stand. I would have also liked to see the free measuring PC software in action..
Unfortunately the Joyalens cannot be mounted on a C-mount stand. The stand is part of the product here in my opinion. Also, the C-mount stand would only improve on the unsteadiness, the issue with zooming in and out would stand. I feel the picture quality is covered in the video, a better stand would help but wouldn’t change my overall opinion on the item. Im comparing what you get when you buy a C-mount vs what you get when you buy a Joyalens. Sorry for not covering the software, it’s just that I don’t have an use of it - and I feel most users would not need it either. But thanks for your feedback and for watching!
@@tony359 Sorry, I meant if the Andonstar was mounted onto your Joyalens stand. I took delivery of the 7" version of this scope today. The stand is very firm. There is no shake or movement whatsoever. Maybe it's because it is lighter. For a non professional, I can see I will greatly benefit from using this. Also, using Cheese application in Fedora Linux gave me a good monitor size image but I will most likely stick to the very good 7" display.
Watched your review too late for the raffle, but at least I know what not to buy. I do like your Lapsum setup so I'll go find your video on that. Thank you!!
Thank you! I always do my best to keep my videos short - 40 minutes is my "no go" threshold so 39 is indeed on the long side. Unfortunately, conciseness is not my strength! But I am working on that! :)
ive been saving for a microscope. The disappointment in the review is understandable but id still want one for my first microscope. RNG god make me win. :(
Could you possibly elaborate on that? I think I mentioned multiple times that the advantage of the Joyalens is the integrated monitor. The "faults" I found are not related to that. In fact, the monitor is of good quality. I'm interested in your view though if you could explain a bit better. Thank you!
I will find out if and when I have to ship there! If you are the winner you don't have to accept of course. I will draw a few names in case the first one is unavailable/unwilling to receive the item. Thanks for watching.
Sadly, given the abysmal quality of many of those scopes on the market, and the jacked up prices, if one has already a 7" or bigger tablet, a £25 USB digital microscope on a pole would give similar results at around 6-10 cm away from the PCB with minimal lag (an old laptop would work even better). Going lower than 7", all one needs is a 5" phone on a tripod and a cheap ringlight to achieve an even better quality using 4/8 digital zoom on a working distance of 7 to 15 cm. Not joking, I went through a few products recently and tested both the tablet and phone camera ideas for the sake of comparison. In the end, I think the better value for money are the HDMI 1080p camera modules, as they can be paired with a monitor which can be bought for £90 new.
Yes, this product can only appeal someone who doesn't have a screen/tablet and who just wants an all-in-one solution without too much hassle. Thanks for watching!
That's a good idea for sure! But it adds to the point that if you also need to add another stand and 3D printed parts, it's less and less appealing! Thanks for watching!
Indeed - it's usable but too many downsides. Even with a better stand you'd end up with the zooming limitation which IMHO is the main deal breaker. Thanks for watching!
That was an excellent review. I have been looking at the Andonstar suspecting that they have cheapened out in lots of areas of construction. Now I know, thank you so much. It is hard choosing when one has only a picture of the product in front of you. Definitely going to look at the Lapsun.
You're welcome! I'm glad it was useful!
First you dislike the up/down mechanism with the knobs, which you operate from the wrong direction and thus are not up to your standard. From the front, without seeing them even, they look to operate fine. Then you dislike the standard going to roughly up and down. I seem to think you don't understand the three adjustments working together. The screw in the standard is the first rough height adjustment for your object. The knobs are there for a less rough adjustment, and then you adjust the lens itself for perfection..
Thanks for your comment. Can you elaborate on the "wrong direction" please? The knobs are stiff to operate and only adjust a few centimeters. I'm sure you noticed that to magnify to full magnification you have to move the whole microscope up and down quite a bit. By all means you can also use the head knobs to do some "fine adjustment" - of which I don't see the purpose as it would change the magnification very little - it might help a bit with the focus but, again, they are stiff to operate.
Of course if I don't like it, it doesn't mean you don't have to like it! Reviews are always a bit subjective. I hope I have presented the facts and the difference between the Joyalens and a C-mount item. It's then up to you to make the final decision.
Thanks for watching!
@@tony359 The knobs are meant to operate while viewing the screen. Since you were focusing on the standard itself, your body and arms had a weird angle towards the knobs. @9.26 your operating the left knob with your right hand. When sitting behind the screen, operating it with your left hand, would look much more logical and quite do-able. I agree one of them doesn't feel perfect since it is not free of obstacles, but as a lefty I appreciate the option nonetheless. Also I don't know how much finger tip force is needed to adjust the knobs, but again, I really think the 3 adjustment options are meant to work together. Screw on frame for initial height estimation, knob adjustment for getting in focus, lens adjustment to fully optimize the focus. This does mean that you need to start with the knob and lens adjustment roughly in their middle position. I really enjoy your video's and knowledge, so don't take this criticism too hard :) Thumbs up!
I'm not taking it too hard - in fact I appreciate any feedback. I see your points. All I can say is that I have another scope on my desk of similar price (yes, it needs a monitor indeed!) and its knobs are **WAY** better than the Joyalens'. What you say is doable - but I am afraid the Lapsun does the same much better.
Re. using the right hand to turn the left knob... can happen when you have a camera in the way! It doesn't mean I normally use the left knob with my right hand! :)
Thanks again for your comments, they are always welcome.
The Lapsun seems like the clear winner here, if you're not afraid of searching for the right kit of all the parts.
Thats maybe the only benefit of the Andonstar - everything just comes with it.
I am glad I found your channel. I was planning to get the 249S-M. But you pointed out things that I never thought of. So thank you for that. Definitely going to look for other alternative. The thing that got me most worry about is wobbling and shaking.
That's great to hear, I'm super happy my review was useful! Thanks for watching!
I went through different iteration of hdmi/usb microscope and finally settled on the Inspectis 4K microscope. Working distance is approx 70cm and remote control zoom makes it possible to solder even the smallest parts. Unfortunately, it's $12K...
eheh - It's like when I reviewed a £50 multimeter and compared it to a Fluke! :) Thanks for watching!
@@tony359 yep. Thats the path we all will walk with adult money 🤣🤣
Did you try the "UP" and "DOWN" arrow keys on the bottom of the screen?
Those arrow keys provide you with Increased and decreased magnification. You don't need to turn or move anything. Just push the arrow key.
That's digital zoom, honestly I'm not even considering that! Thanks for watching!
Bought this microscope (the main brand) a week ago and NOW finally the correct review pops up, despite the fact that I was looking for such a review before.
Anyway Andonstar either uses the better Metalwork for its main brand or maybe I had simply luck because I have thankfully not that tilting problem and it even included a additional ring to "preset" a nearer inspection height. Have to see how it works out after a little bit more use.
Very interesting about the tilting problem. Well, maybe my review changed something then 🙂
I’m glad you like my review! Enjoy your new scope! 🙂
Great review Tony! Have a Merry Christmas!
Thank you Ted - to you too!
Very informative, the mechanical issues paint a pretty bad picture for this model(&brand). It's like they just slapped some random parts together without actually test the function.
I wonder if you'll get any flak for the honest review?
Yes, with a good stand it might have got a chance - still I dislike the constant "up and down" thing but I guess one could live with that. I was very clear with them about my review, so I will be ok. One thing for sure, this is the last microscope I'll ever receive from them LOL :) Thanks for watching!
I prefer a deskmounted arm as well. I have yet to find a microscope that meets my requirements without modification or adaptation. Currently I am using a "plugable" brand usb 2.0 microscope because it can be screwed into a camera mount and is reasonably cheap. But the optics are poor, there is no autofocus, and the field of view is limited.
Really I would something that would allow me to scan methodically over something up to atx motherboard size for damage and solder inspection.
I must say that was an excellent and thorough review :)
I'm glad you liked it and thanks for watching! I was in the same situation when I was selecting my microscope and most people ended up with the Andonstar which has those very well known limitations. I am not really affiliated with Lapsun (and I am not impressed that you end up with a CMOS sensor lottery...) but have you considered a C-mount lens type with the stand I got? If you contact them directly they can send you the mount without the base (at a lower price) and you get better price than some platforms. You can still pay by Paypal so I hope there is some sort of protection. Again, I am not affiliated with them :)
@@tony359 I'll check out ur video on the lapsun. Thanks!
This is a very good review with no bias and with use case.
Thank you!
I have the 7 inch Version (since I'm using an external monitor anyways) and I'm somewhat happy with it. The interchangeable lenses are a must for my since I mostly working with printing machines. The quality ain't the best, but its OK. Especially since for something actually good you'd have to spent at least twice as much.
This product surely has its placement on the marker and does its job. I'm glad you like it!
Many thanks Tony, great review, really enjour work, happy Xmas.
Same to you! Thanks for watching!
This review has very good details and same problems I find when microsoldering with these types of monitor microscopes. I ended up going with an AmScope Trinocular Stereo Microscope for my workshop and much better, no wobble and good working distances. Also, upgrade to a fiber optic ring light for better lighting and no shadows. I repaired iPhone 14 boards with it at ease now and then done large PS5 boards with zero issues. I don't recommend these monitor/microscope they are not good as what you explain in detail in the video. Just the wobble alone is bad enough. Then the shadows.
The lapson seems really good
Thanks for watching and for leaving a comment! I only used an optical scope once and I couldn't get used to it - but I'm aware it's also a matter of personal preferences.
I have been looking at similar kinds of microscopes for a bit now and there are alot of review videos but not alot of compare videos around and I do appreciate that alot.
The mounting system of all of these types have a lot to be desired, bulk cnc aluminium isn't terribly expensive but if the design is already flawed and has sloppy tolerances then you run in to issues like the taper on the upright tube.
For the horizontal tube I think the screw should be put opposite to the flat spot to push it into place, simple design decision with huge improvement possibility.
For now I would rather invest that kind of money into a decent oscilloscope and keep using magnification glasses instead😁
Indeed the horizontal tube flaw is unacceptable, as you say it was just a matter of designing it differently. I'm very glad my video helped you in your decision making, thank you for watching!
Wondering why the price is the same as AD407? Currently, Andostar sells them both for 150 EUR. AD407 has a fixed lens, no bundled lenses and other stuff. Am I missing something? Does AD407 have something worth AD246S-M with all its bundled stuff?
If AD249S-M has so many flaws, is there anything better for the same price (under 200$ / 150 EUR) also including a display, or with a stand for mounting the camera and a small HDMI display?
I don't know to be honest. Many companies have sister companies which sell at lower price, I think it's a marketing strategy.
I have the 6 inch version of this microscope and for the $130 I paid for it, I'm quite pleased but the firmware can be very buggy. It also refuses to boot with my micro SD to SD extension cable plugged in.
I admit that for $130 it's a better deal. At that point the Lapsun type of microscope is definitely more expensive. Thanks for watching!
Smaller sensor gives an increased depth of field with more of the subject in focus which is a good property to have even with the trade off of an increase in noise.
interesting topic, quite a lot to be found online, with opinions going in both directions. I suspect we should evaluate the lens too in this statement too. The two microscopes feature a different lens. It would have been nice to make a proper depth of field comparison indeed! Thank you!
Hi, Tony,
thank you for the honest review! To be fair, I expected a sugar coated review, but you've explained the negative aspects of the microscope in details and without trying to hide them under wording.
I even feel bad for you, cause I suspect you won't receive many such offers after the video. Great that the consideration didn't affect your opinion expressed in the video.
When I was choosing a microscope, I didn't even consider those products costing 300 pounds. And other options had too short focal distance, so I chose to make my own from photo enlarger and Raspberry Pi. It's not finished yet though.
Thank you for the video again! It's a breeze of fresh air to see such an honest review _sponsored by the manufacturer_.
Thank you for your kind words. I did consider just returning the microscope to the manufacturer and say "I am not interested" but in the end I decided to go ahead. If this stops more freebies to come, be it. In the end I hope my viewers - you - will appreciate this and hopefully some other manufacturers will think "let's send this to Tony359, his audience knows he doesn't sugarcoat his reviews". OR - more likely - you just won't see another review on this channel anymore! :)
Thanks for watching!
Hello @Vladislav - I know this might sound like a scam but the Giveaway has now ended and you have been selected to receive the microscope! Could you please contact me via email, my address is on my profile page, under "about". If you are not interested, please just let me know and I'll give it to the next winner on my list! :) Thanks for commenting and congratulations!
Here is an unlisted video with the name selection process: ruclips.net/video/eohNYj0JFlc/видео.html
Thank you for a brutally honest review. I don't think any more manufactures will be sending you products to review! I agree with you, that for type of inspection and workflow, the lapsun is a far better option, even if a more costly one. I am looking for a microscope to evaluate a knife/razor edge, and I do not see myself needing to move in and out like you do, but I do place a high importance on image quality, as I need to be able to see the burr and the edge profile. Do you feel this unit compares image wise (at max magnification) with the lapsun, or do you feel the lapsun is still the winner in that area?
Oh no, the Lapsun was better in everything including image quality - I think I mention that in the video at some point. RUclips adds compression so it might be not as obvious.
It's been a while since that video so I do not know what's new on the market. I can only say I am super happy with this scope. It works 100%, I feel the picture quality is very good - I've seen some more expensive scopes delivering much worse picture. But... it's China so who knows what you're going to receive!
On the brutal review, I don't care! I hope I can build up a reputation where manufacturers will end up sending me their stuff because they know I'll be honest with my viewers - not because they can pay me for a good one :)
Thanks for watching and good luck! :)
@@tony359 I was just doing some "pixel peeking" at 33:47 and indeed could notice the Lapsun was much cleaner with the texture detail. The next question is, on Ebay, Lapsun offers the Camera, Lens and ring light as a bundle $208, or just the camera $145. Then Lapsun offers a Parallel light zoom 20-440 ($82), which appeals to me. I am curious if the Parallel light zoom a higher quality optic, or just a higher zoom range?
@@tony359 Thank you for such a fast reply, especially on an old post. I feel like so many "reviews" out there now either sugar coat like crazy to avoid making venders mad, so they will get more venders to send them free stuff. It seems like everything is great, which honestly it isn't. Don't get me wrong, it is one thing to say, this item is good for this price range and compared to its competition of like price range, but I feel like many don't say that.
I'm afraid I am not familiar with the "parallel light zoom" type of lens. All I can share is my experience with my own Lapsun, which is reviewed in another video. For everything else you can try contacting Lapsun directly, they were helpful when I purchased the unit.
One man's junk is another man's treasure.Would make a great upgrade from my 4 inch scope.Put me in Thanks
You're in! Thanks for watching!
Good review, I'm still very happy with my lapsun too :) but I could see how these small all in one units would be good for phone, nintendo switch etc repairs where the pcbs are small.
Absolutely, they all fit different use case scenario. Thanks for watching!
Great honest review 👍 like that you actually do not recommend this one :-) but also hope you make more repair videos instead of these kinda sponsor ones ...
I really couldn't - Andonstar won't be happy but hey. No worries, no more reviews for a while, it was a mistake! Thanks for watching!
Nice review no problem when companies offer you review it we also know the details and improve knowledge
Thanks for your understanding. I will definitely consider future product reviews but I think I’ll make sure I don’t end up with a backlog of them 🙂 thanks for watching!
Great honest review, great watch as always👍
Thank you!
Thanks for detailed review
Glad it was helpful!
does anybody know how to polarize the adsm249 digital microscope lenses? I know can cut the direct polarizing the adsm24? For the led lamp lights I can cut out circular small rings measured out with polarize film install them easily and turn them to deflect light, but as for the 3 lenses andonstar provides lens a d and the one mounted is there a glass lens I can buy to install on all 3 lenses so I can cut film for it that fits or an adapter? Does anybody know where they are or who sells the compatible glass lens?
If I remember right those "lenses" are minuscule and don't have a thread to attach anything else like the C-mount scopes. But it should be easy to cut a piece of polariser and attach it on the inner side I think. It was some time ago :)
@tony359 like film from Edmundoptics and laser cut circular exact on inside of the lamp lights and the inner ring of all 3 lenses of this model? I have lens a d and l .. you can put them on top of the pink lens inside right and then screw them on and fine adjust with the lens focus and lamps right to deflect light? I sharpen knives as a side business and I need this polarization to work. The light reflections off the knife bevels and edges is ridiculous. Polarization is the only way I hope you understand.
@tony359 please let me know Tony if I can laser cut polar film and place them exact measurements to the inner ring of these 3 lenses that come with ad249sm and use the focus to adjust the light and cut out film for both lamps exact and fine twist them at same time? Or do you have a recommendation with someone who us using this technique
I don't have that microscope anymore, it was won by one of my viewers :)
If all the aluminum parts are sticking, than you have been observing the Van Der Waals force, it's a know fact to happen between close tolerances like metals.
That's so cool, I had a look online, it's the intermolecular forces between molecules! Thanks for watching!
ive been looking microscopes and was really considering the 7 inch model. The part when you show the quick zoom in and out really shows the difference. Although i know if i have the desk space for the setup with the lapsun. Thanks for the video have some things to think about ;-)
Amazing, I’m very glad I managed to help on your decision. The Lapsun - or any C-mount style scopes - can also be purchased with a small stand. You’d lose the ability to go over large boards but you’d still have the ability to zoom in and out easily. Thanks for watching!
Great video, keep up the good work.
Informative review! Happy new year in advance!!😜
Thank you, to you too!
Thanks for the review.
This is a good, honest review. Your Lapsin setup is much nicer and better material and build.
However, this is a bit of an apple to an orange compare. It's like comparing a custom-built PC to one's application vs. going to Best Buy and buying a PC off the selves.
Thank you! Yes, they are two different product. But the Lapsun is actually cheaper than the Andonstar/Joyalens and it can be purchased with a smaller stand. Let me say that if I have to choose between Apples and Oranges when I go to the supermarket and Apples are all black and damaged, well, I get oranges! :)
Thanks for watching and for your kind words!
Thanks for the review!
thanks for watching!
Thank you for the review and thank you for all your previous videos too! I work from home repairing consoles and laptops so this would be a great help if I would be so lucky. Oh and I'm in the UK too! :)
Good luck then!
Nice honest review.
Thank you!
You didn't show that the stand adjusted in and out... not just up and down. It also swings side to side. So it covers more ground than your review shows.
The stand indeed swings left and right (but not in and out). I did not show that as I feel it's useless, sorry. I tried inspecting a larger board with the upright at an angle and I could inspect a mere 1cm further down the board - and focus started to suffer. So I decided not to mention that. Thanks for watching!
@@tony359 Your vid shows it moves in and out at 4:58. You can also see it on other vid reviews of this model. (company website for example) ruclips.net/video/HKbSDHndD-g/видео.html (skip to 7:50 )
@@blubunn Ah ok, I see what you mean. And yes, that one I forgot to show - even though I think it would make the scope even more wobblier! :)
@@tony359 Can't argue with that! Send it to me... I'll make a decent stand for it! lol
@@blubunn Well, you are in the list of possible lucky owners! 20 days left :)
Much of the criticism is targeted at the stand. To compare with the Lipsun, you should have mounted it on the same stand. I would have also liked to see the free measuring PC software in action..
Unfortunately the Joyalens cannot be mounted on a C-mount stand. The stand is part of the product here in my opinion. Also, the C-mount stand would only improve on the unsteadiness, the issue with zooming in and out would stand. I feel the picture quality is covered in the video, a better stand would help but wouldn’t change my overall opinion on the item. Im comparing what you get when you buy a C-mount vs what you get when you buy a Joyalens.
Sorry for not covering the software, it’s just that I don’t have an use of it - and I feel most users would not need it either. But thanks for your feedback and for watching!
@@tony359 Sorry, I meant if the Andonstar was mounted onto your Joyalens stand. I took delivery of the 7" version of this scope today. The stand is very firm. There is no shake or movement whatsoever. Maybe it's because it is lighter. For a non professional, I can see I will greatly benefit from using this. Also, using Cheese application in Fedora Linux gave me a good monitor size image but I will most likely stick to the very good 7" display.
Joyalens Andonstar Linkmicro. Is the same?
Well, Joyalens customer service is @andonstar.com so it must be similar! I don't know about Linkmicro.
@@tony359 Linkmicro have identicals products...
@@tony359 Is this microscope suitable for soldering on electronic boards? Does it have a lens to protect the lens from the smoke and heat of welding?
No. There is no protection and you cannot get one. If you get a C-mount scope then yes, you can get a protection.
Great review
The price is high for the quality. That kind of videos help to find the right one.
Watched your review too late for the raffle, but at least I know what not to buy. I do like your Lapsum setup so I'll go find your video on that. Thank you!!
Thank you, I'm glad you liked it!
Lapsun video is here: ruclips.net/video/2Ag7E7KMR6s/видео.html
(I am not affiliated with Lapsun BTW!)
Amazong honest review.
Very interesting, little bit long, but I understand why.
Thank you
Thank you! I always do my best to keep my videos short - 40 minutes is my "no go" threshold so 39 is indeed on the long side. Unfortunately, conciseness is not my strength! But I am working on that! :)
excellent review ! thanks
Thank you for watching!
Thank you for the video.
It fo the job . And price is fair. Great choice.
Good review, thanks :)
Thanks for watching!
Way cool. I was hoping you would go outside and get some water so we could see livine microbes .
that would have been cool indeed :)
ive been saving for a microscope. The disappointment in the review is understandable but id still want one for my first microscope. RNG god make me win. :(
Finding faults for no reason its a stand alone unit
Could you possibly elaborate on that? I think I mentioned multiple times that the advantage of the Joyalens is the integrated monitor. The "faults" I found are not related to that. In fact, the monitor is of good quality. I'm interested in your view though if you could explain a bit better. Thank you!
А сколько стоит его доставка в Ташкент?
I will find out if and when I have to ship there! If you are the winner you don't have to accept of course. I will draw a few names in case the first one is unavailable/unwilling to receive the item. Thanks for watching.
Sadly, given the abysmal quality of many of those scopes on the market, and the jacked up prices, if one has already a 7" or bigger tablet, a £25 USB digital microscope on a pole would give similar results at around 6-10 cm away from the PCB with minimal lag (an old laptop would work even better).
Going lower than 7", all one needs is a 5" phone on a tripod and a cheap ringlight to achieve an even better quality using 4/8 digital zoom on a working distance of 7 to 15 cm.
Not joking, I went through a few products recently and tested both the tablet and phone camera ideas for the sake of comparison.
In the end, I think the better value for money are the HDMI 1080p camera modules, as they can be paired with a monitor which can be bought for £90 new.
Yes, this product can only appeal someone who doesn't have a screen/tablet and who just wants an all-in-one solution without too much hassle. Thanks for watching!
Haha I think this might be the last thing you got to test xD I'm currently using a normal magnifying glass so I can enter the contest
You’d be surprised but I’ve got more offers for reviews 🙂 (which for now I have declined). Good luck with the microscope and thanks for watching!
There's a lock ring that lets you return to a previous height...........Z
Yes but you still need to fiddle with the stand and move the whole thing up and down to zoom in and out!
Overall, the Lapsun is the better buy despite the price......you only get what you pay for.
I bought a AMScope
I found the stand to be horribly obtuse in design. I used a microphone boom arm and a desk clamp with a 3D printed holder and eliminated it.
That's a good idea for sure! But it adds to the point that if you also need to add another stand and 3D printed parts, it's less and less appealing! Thanks for watching!
I need it
I would like to give it a shot to win the piece of junk 😎
Friends are excluded by the draw, you missed that part! ;)
I would like to invite you to review our microscopes and industrial cameras. I have sent you a cooperative email and look forward to your reply
Thank you - I have replied to your email.
Can I have your Lapsun instead? ;)
ahah - No! :)
Please can I have it???
I’m afraid the giveaway ended on March 1st and a winner has been selected already!
I would rarther make my own stand or buy the other one you have. Disapointing product, not in every way but most.
Indeed - it's usable but too many downsides. Even with a better stand you'd end up with the zooming limitation which IMHO is the main deal breaker. Thanks for watching!
how to update the firmware ?
I don't know. I did ask and I was told the firmware was stable and no need to upgrade :)
Thanks for the review
Thanks for the review 😃
Thanks for watching!
@@tony359 I've also been searching for relatively good microscope it's so hard