In the process of selecting a microscope, resolution and magnification are the two most frequently misunderstood parameters. Many users blindly pursue high magnification while overlooking the fundamental importance of resolution. Understanding the essential difference between these two concepts is a key prerequisite for making the correct choice.

Resolution refers to the minimum distance at which a microscope can distinguish two adjacent points, which determines the clarity of the image and the ability to present details. Magnification merely indicates the scale to which the image is enlarged. A common misconception is that higher magnification is always better. In reality, without sufficient resolution support, increasing magnification will only result in a blurry image—much like enlarging a low-pixel photo to an excessive degree, which is meaningless. The numerical aperture (NA) is the key parameter that determines resolution, as it is directly related to the light-gathering ability of the objective lens.

When choosing a microscope, it is essential to follow the principle of "resolution first." A high-quality optical system should provide appropriate magnification while ensuring optimal resolution. For example, a 40x objective lens with a high numerical aperture may produce far better image quality than a 100x objective lens with a lower numerical aperture. This is why professional users prioritize the numerical aperture of the objective lens over the maximum magnification when evaluating a microscope.

The market is filled with advertisements that exaggerate magnification levels, with some products boasting "2000x" or even higher magnification capabilities. However, according to the principles of optical diffraction limits, the effective magnification of traditional optical microscopes typically does not exceed 1000x. Any so-called "magnification" beyond this range is essentially digital zoom, which does not reveal any new details. Discerning consumers should focus on the actual resolution metrics of the microscope rather than being misled by exaggerated magnification claims.