Phase contrast vs. Brightfield

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Cellusome
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Phase contrast vs. Brightfield

#1 Post by Cellusome » Tue Jul 23, 2019 8:33 pm

I'm debating whether to buy a Brightfield or Phase contrast microscope. I love observing Diatoms and different types of small protozoans. Would it be better to invest in a good brightfield microscope or in a slightly "worse" microscope with a phase contrast condenser?

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Re: Phase contrast vs. Brightfield

#2 Post by admin » Tue Jul 23, 2019 8:43 pm

Go for brightfield first. It is cheaper and once you are more experienced, you can always invest in a more expensive one later. Phase contrast is significantly more expensive. Phase contrast is nice for sure, but it is also not suitable for all specimens. If you use filters than you can get a lot out of brightfield as well. Having said that, if you have Phase Contrast then this will also work as bright field. I would rather invest in a phototube, if I had the money.

Oliver.
Science may set limits to knowledge, but should not set limits to imagination.
(Bertrand Russell)

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