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

$13.99 at Amazon

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.

Good-quality lenses

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/

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.

Comfortable headband

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/

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.

Adjustable LED light

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/

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

See also

This $30 gadget claims to add years to your phone's lifespan. Here's how This is the USB flash drive James Bond would use How to strip wires like a pro (and my must-have tools) Stop! Your Apple charger may be a counterfeit, and this tiny gadget can tell This $10 gadget is my favorite repair tool of all time

• This $30 gadget claims to add years to your phone's lifespan. Here's how
• This is the USB flash drive James Bond would use
• How to strip wires like a pro (and my must-have tools)
• Stop! Your Apple charger may be a counterfeit, and this tiny gadget can tell
• This $10 gadget is my favorite repair tool of all time