Reading Devices For Visually Impaired

Reading devices for visually impaired

Table of Contents

Are you Suffering with Macular Degeneration?
Learn about our natural treatment

By submitting your information,you agree to receive emails and SMS notifications. Msg&data rates may apply. Text STOP to unsubscribe.

For visually impaired people, reading is typically one of the most difficult tasks. Many people with low vision stop reading altogether because what used to be a fun, easy activity now demands planning, preparation, and a lot of adjusting. In short, reading is no longer enjoyable.  Luckily there are many devices on the market that can make reading much easier and in some cases effortless.

We’ll go over the categories of the reading devices for the visually impaired that are available and then we’ll show you our top picks in each category to help you make an educated decision.

Low Vision Devices for reading

  • Magnifiers. Hand-held magnifiers are one of the most cost-effective low-vision reading aids, and some are lit to make the print even more visible. There are other magnifiers mounted on height-adjustable platforms or supported by a strap that goes around your neck. 
  • Reading glasses. A person with limited vision can benefit from special high-power reading glasses to help them read the small print. These can be purchased as single vision or bifocals. These glasses are quite a bit stronger than you’re probably used to and will take some time to adjust to them. (you must move your face closer to the reading material), a low vision specialist can show you how to use them effectively. 
  • Telescopes for reading. These low vision aids are typically attached to the lenses of eyeglasses and give great magnification while allowing the wearer to read from a normal distance. Again, appropriate use of these instruments necessitates some training, although reading telescopes are frequently quite useful. There are additional handheld versions available. 
  • Video Magnifiers. A camera lens is included in these desktop devices, which shows dramatically magnified images on a video monitor or computer screen. You may change the magnification, brightness, contrast, and color of the display to your preference by sitting as near to the screen as necessary. 
  • Electronic magnifiers.   Portable electronic gadgets that mimic an iPad or other lightweight tablet computers are also available. When you place this device in front of the reading material, the LED screen displays a magnified perspective. 
  • Text-to-speech devices or OCR (optical character recognition) There are several cool devices on the market, such as the OrCam Read, that can recognize text from books, phone displays, computer monitors, and other sources and convert it to computer voice.

Magnifiers

Best Non Illuminated handheld magnifier for reading

Hand-held Biconvex Magnifier with Large Field – 2.5x

Hand-held Biconvex Magnifier with Large Field - 2.5x

Biconvex hand-held magnifiers in the Large Field series have the largest fields in their power range. A broad field biconvex lens, a transparent frame for shadow-free viewing, a 5x bifocal lens in the handle, and a hole in the handle to fit the provided carrying cable are all highlights of this product!

We like this model because it provides a nice wide field of view, the frame is clear and doesn’t interfere with viewing the reading material. The magnification is enough that makes a difference but doesn’t reduce the field. The optics are excellent, and it has a smaller, stronger lens in the handle for even more magnification if needed. Ergonomic design with an angled handle for reading.

Specs: 

  • 2.5x magnification with 5x magnification 5D Diopter Bifocal Lens
  • 5D Diopter Bifocal Lens Lens Type: Biconvex 
  • Lenses are made of PXM plastic. 
  • Duplex coated 
  • Transparent PXM Lens Mount
  • Dimensions: 3.93 x 1.96 in. 
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime
  • Accessories: The case is available for purchase separately (product 2872-840) 
  • Miscellaneous: It has a slot in the handle and a carrying string.

Pros

  • Moderately priced
  • Bifocal
  • Large field of view
  • Perfect shape for reading

Cons

  • Doesn’t have illumination
  • It May is not strong enough for severely visually disabled people

Buy Here

 

Best illuminated Handheld Magnifier for reading

3.5x Mobilux LED Hand-Held Magnifier

3.5x Mobilux LED Hand-Held Magnifier

The illuminated hand-held magnifiers in the Mobilux® line have brilliant LED lighting. Because of its significantly whiter spectrum and longer useful life, SMD LED (light emitting diode) illumination is a preferred light source by many patients. The bulbs last nearly 50,000 hours! , while the batteries last 5 times as long as with these bulbs as compared to incandescent bulbs. Small clip-on filters are included with each magnifier to soften the hue of the light and provide three distinct illumination settings. 

All Mobilux® LED hand-held magnifiers to come with a comfortable, ergonomic grip with a large, easy-to-operate ON/OFF light switch, a high-quality spring-loaded battery compartment that makes changing the batteries easy (2 AA batteries supplied), and a slip-on protective case. 

The #1511-001 Mobase stand, which can be purchased separately, is specifically designed to accommodate the #1511-3 Mobilux Hand-held Magnifier. When the Mobase stands are upright, the Mobilux® LED hand-held magnifiers can be used as stand magnifiers and can be used for hands-free tasks. 

Specs: 

  • 3.5x magnification 
  • 10D diopter 
  • Lens Type: Aspheric Lens 
  • Lenses are made of PXM plastic 
  • Cera-Tec Coated 
  • 2 AA Batteries are used as a power source (Included) 
  • Mount: Ergonomic handle with a light switch that is easy to turn on and off 
  • Lens Dimensions: 2.95 x 1.96 in (75 mm x 50 mm) 
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime 
  • A protective case is included in the package. 
  • 3 Snap-on filters are offered as a bonus.

Pros

  • Magnification strong enough for most applications
  • Bright white illumination with long-lasting bulbs
  • Ergonomic design for changing batteries
  • Good warranty

Cons

  • Not rechargeable
  • The handle isn’t angled for reading
  • Slightly expensive

Check it out Here

Stand Magnifiers

2x Bar Magnifier 

2x Bar Magnifier - Reading devices for visually impaired

Bar Magnifiers allow for shadow-free reading for extended periods of time. Specifically designed for reading computer prints and other detailed activities. On the 2606 and 2608, there is a special redline guide. 

The 2606 has a magnification of 2x, which is the maximum magnification obtainable in a bar magnifier right now. The 2630 and 2631 clear base stand magnifiers can be used with this new pocket bar magnifier to improve magnification by 2x.

Specs: 

  • 2x magnification 
  • 4D Diopter Lens
  • 4D Diopter Lens 
  • Lens Type: Aspheric
  • Lens Type: Aspheric 
  • Lens Material: Plastic
  • Lens Material: Plastic Dimensions: 4.8 x 2 in. 
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime   
  • Miscellaneous: There is a red guideline.

Pros

  • Makes reading for long periods much easier
  • Has a line guide
  • Doesn’t have to be held
  • Doesn’t require batteries

Cons

  • Not illuminated
  • Not very portable
  • Only 2x magnification

Check it out Here

Bright Field Magnifier 

Best non-illuminated stand magnifier

Bright Field Magnifier - Reading devices for visually impaired

A magnifier disguised as a paperweight is unobtrusive. Children and executives alike love it. Simply place the magnifier on the reading material for distortion-free magnification. 

Bright field magnifiers use computed light guidance to direct as much light as possible to the item. This results in a brighter field of view without the use of a separate light source.

Specs: 

  • Lens magnification: 1.8x 
  • Lenses are made of PXM plastic
  • Cera-Tec Coated
  • Black Plastic Mount 
  • Dimensions:1.77 in
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Decorative aesthetics
  • Provides enhanced light without illumination 
  • Moderately priced

Cons

  • Only 1.8x
  • Not very portable

Check it out Here

Illuminated Stand Magnifier 

3.9x System varioPLUS – Head Only

3.9x System varioPLUS - Head Only

Best illuminated stand magnifier

System Vario Plus is the illuminated stand magnifier. A system with the widest range of illumination settings and magnifications, making it the most popular illuminated magnifier series of all time. (The #1581-73 head is shown above with a 1599-144 handle.) Both the head and the handle are available separately.) 

The System Vario PLUS has a big lens size that provides a wide field of view, allowing you to see more reading material at once. Because of the incorporated magnification head, it gives optimum brightness. For enhanced ergonomic comfort, the lens head can be turned toward the user. Compatible with Eschenbach’s two System Vario handles, the #1599-10 incandescent battery and the #1599-144 LED battery with three color variations.

There are much cheaper stand magnifiers out there but the problem is most of them have long legs and require you to have to almost stand up over the top of them to use them. This style is much more comfortable for long periods of use.

Specs: 

  • Diopter: 11.4D
  • Magnification: 3.9x
  • Lens Type: Aspheric 
  • Lenses are made of PXM plastic.
  • Lenses are made of PXM plastic. Cera-Tec Coated 
  • Lens: High-quality white plastic mount 
  • Dimensions: 3.93 x 1.96 in. 
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime 
  • 1560-3 is an optional case that can be purchased. 
  • Miscellaneous: For additional ergonomic comfort, the lens head can be angled toward the user.

Pros

  • Doesn’t have to be held
  • Strong enough magnification for most applications
  • Multiple battery options
  • Excellent illumination

Cons

  • Not very portable
  • Must be used on a tabletop for best results
  • Expensive

Check it out Here

Handheld Video Magnifiers

Smartlux Video Magnifier

Best portable video magnifier for reading

Smartlux Video Magnifier

The new Smartlux® Digital is a portable video magnifier with Full HD camera that has an ergonomically built 5″ reflection-free display, a broad field of view, and customizable setting options. The LEDs can be adjusted individually, and a new customizable menu offers 14 color contrast mode settings, as well as adjustable lines and shutters. The new Smartlux Digital® provides a customizable reading and writing solution for persons who are visually challenged, with an easy-to-use interface and four color-coded tactile control buttons. 

The built-in stand has 3 uses: Fully retracted for hand-held use, fully extended for placing on reading material, and partially extended for writing under the display (0.9x – 4.6x when in writing mode). An optional handle provides ideal stability and a supportive grasp, and an eyelet at the bottom of the magnifier can be used to attach a lanyard so it can be worn around the neck. 

When the device is in motion, the fast 50 fps refresh rate ensures a clean image with minimal smearing or ghosting. The photo button can be used to freeze frame images or capture images for storage on the device (8GB internal storage). Use the HDMI cable to connect the Smartlux® Digital to an external screen for live streaming images, or use the USB port to send photos to a computer. 

Each video magnifier comes with a sturdy zippered bag, charger, cleaning cloth, and a lanyard that can be worn around the neck. The optional Smartlux® Digital Bumper provides additional protection in the event that the device is dropped.

Specs: 

  • 3x-15x magnification (continuous or stepped) 
  • LED illumination can be lowered (25 percent, 50 percent, 75 percent, 100 percent) or turned off completely. 
  • The lithium-ion rechargeable battery as a power source. 3 hours of operation (3.5 hr. charge time) 
  • 8.5 oz. weight (240 g) 
  • Size of the screen/display: 5″ non-reflective display 
  • True color, 14 artificial colors, adjustable reading lines and blinds, and a live streaming option are among the viewing modes. To reduce digital eye strain, use a blue light filter. 
  • Image size: 860 x 480 pixels 
  • 2 YEAR WARRANTY 

Smartlux Digital Bumper, Smartlux Digital Handle, and HDMI Cable (optional) are available as accessories. The bumper, Handle, HDMI Cable, and Extra Charger are included in the Accessory Box. 

Refresh rate: 50 frames per second, HDMI output for connecting to an external monitor, USB connection for sending photographs to a computer, freeze frame and image capture, 8GB internal storage, auto-shutoff after 5 minutes or 8 hours of inactivity.

We love this device due to its versatility. The 3 position stand makes it easy to read and write which is nice for paying bills and taking notes.  It is very easy to learn to use but also has beneficial features to help get the job done such as filters and a broad range of magnification.

Pros

  • Very versatile, can be used for reading and writing
  • Adjustable LED illumination
  • Rechargeable batteries
  • 14 color filters
  • Reading lines for guidance 

Cons

  • Handle is additional
  • Not as easy to use as non-digital devices
  • Doesn’t have OCR (optical character recognition)

Check it out Here

10″ High Definition Touch Screen Optelec Compact 10 HD Speech

Best portable and desktop combo.

10" High Definition Touch Screen Optelec Compact 10 HD Speech

This device gives the best of both worlds between a handheld digital reading device and CCTV style reading device. 

Description 

The Compact 10 HD Speech gives all of the benefits of a desktop video magnifier in a considerably smaller, foldable, and portable design, with a huge 10″ screen, adjustable features, straightforward operation, and full-page Text-to-Speech. 

Allow the Compact 10 HD Speech to do the reading for you.

To enlarge and read newspapers, mails, and periodicals, the Compact 10 HD Speech is an excellent choice. However, its one-of-a-kind swing-out arm opens up a whole new world of possibilities. It effortlessly grabs and reads full-page documents to you. The handy indicator at the bottom of the Compact 10 HD Speech shows you where to put the document you wish to read. Simply place the document on the table, take a picture, and sit back as the Compact 10 HD Speech delivers the content to you. 

View items and photographs with ease. 

Without being constrained in your movements, you can easily glance at images, see medicine packaging, and read circular cans with the arm unfolded. You may even use the arm to sign your name and do crossword puzzles. 

Reading is simple. 

A huge, High Definition 10″ touch screen is featured on the Compact 10 HD Speech. This helps you to accommodate more text on the screen, giving you a better overall picture. You will notice that reading gets easier and that you will have a better understanding of the text if there are more words on the screen at the same time – even at high magnification. 

When you need it, it’s there.

You can instantly acquire the Compact 10 HD Speech to read smaller chunks of text more comfortably. It turns on instantly, much like your phone. You will not spend time because of the exceptionally fast start-up time, and you will be able to continue reading nearly instantly. 

10 HD (compact) Speech is also available without Text-to-Speech, which is a less expensive alternative that includes magnification and high contrast. 

Discover everything there is to know about Compact 10 HD.

Specifications 

  • Large 10-inch touch screen with great brightness 
  • Continuous zoom: magnification ranges from 0.5x to >22x. 
  • Reading, Full Page and Overview are all captured with three high-definition 13MP auto-focus cameras. 
  • Semi-colors with high contrast for better reading (set up to 4 combinations from a possible choice of 16) 
  • Charger with reversible USB C connector 
  • Battery that can be recharged for up to 3.5 hours of continuous use 
  • 261 x 189 x 36 mm / 10.28 x 7.44 x 1.42 in Dimensions: 261 x 189 x 36 mm / 10.28 x 7.44 x 1.42 in 
  • 915 grams / 2.02 pounds

Pros

  • Larger screen fits more text
  • Has OCR for the severely visually diabled 
  • Objects and text from a distance can be captured and magnified or read back eg. wall menus at fast food restaurants
  • Arm with camera for writing
  • Captures and stores pictures

Cons

  • Expensive 
  • Less portable than other models 
  • More technically challenging for seniors to use.

See it Here

Desktop Video Magnifiers for Reading

Freedom Scientific Topaz EZ HD Desktop Video Magnifier – 64x Magnification

Best Desktop video magnifier for the price

Freedom Scientific Topaz EZ HD Desktop Video Magnifier - 64x Magnification

Easy-to-Use Controls and Brilliant Magnified Images The Topaz EZ HD Desktop Video Magnifier from Freedom Scientific is a straightforward magnification device. With single-function controls and a high-definition camera, this budget video magnifier stresses ease of use. Superior image clarity, a wider field of view, and a smaller magnification range are all advantages of the HD camera. 

Features: 

  • 64 times magnification (on a 24-inch monitor) 
  • Sizes of monitors available: widescreen a 20-inch or a 24-inch screen 
  • Color modes with great contrast that you create yourself 
  • Contrast-increasing colors 
  • Control buttons that are brightly colored 
  • Over 8 inches of working space to comfortably write and work 
  • LED illumination on a swivel screen lowers glare. 
  • Images can be frozen with a single touch of a button. 
  • TOPAZ EZ 20″ 3.5x – 64x 41 pounds / 18.6 kgs TOPAZ EZ 20″ 3.5x – 64x TOPAZ EZ 20″ 3.5x – 64x TOPAZ 
  • TOPAZ EZ 24″ 4.2x – 77x 43.7 pounds / 19.8 kgs TOPAZ EZ 24″ 4.2x – 77x 43.7 lbs / 19.8 kgs TOPAZ EZ 24″ 
  • TOPAZ EZ HD 20″ 2.5x – 60x 41 pounds / 18.6 kgs TOPAZ EZ HD 20″ 2.5x – 60x TOPAZ EZ HD 20″ 2.5x – 60x TOPAZ 
  • TOPAZ EZ HD 24″ 3.0x – 72x 43.7 pounds / 19.8 kgs TOPAZ EZ HD 24″ 3.0x – 72x 43.7 lbs / 19.8 kgs TOPAZ EZ HD 24″

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Lower price point
  • Multiple screen size options
  • Wider field of view

Cons 

  • Obviously not portable
  • No OCR
  • Lower resolution than other models
  • Not as easy to use to write with as with other devices with movable cameras.

See it Here

Wearable low vision reading devices

Reading telescope glasses

The best wearable optical device for reading

Best Reading devices for visually impaired

We are big fans of telescope glasses for reading because they allow the user to use their eyes in a natural way to scan the material. The optics of the devices are far superior to grainy video devices once they have been magnified several times over. They can be used to view distance objects as well as near objects by placing a reading cap over the telescope.

They’re available in many different styles and magnifications.  Although they are a bit bulkier compared to a normal pair of glasses they are less bulky than most wearable electronic devices.

Specs:

Every pair will be different depending on the frame chosen and the type and style of the telescope.

Pros 

  • Most natural way to read compared to handheld devices
  • Can be used for distance viewing also
  • Come in lots of styles and colors
  • Have your prescription ground into them

Cons 

  • Fixed Focus (not adjustable)
  • Bulkier than normal glasses
  • The field of view can be small in the stronger magnifications
  • Require a prescription

Vision Buddy

Best wearable digital device for reading

Vision Buddy - Reading devices for visually impaired

This device is super simple to use, just plug and play. We’ve included it as our choice for a wearable digital device for reading because it has a CCTV stand and camera that is optional and it also makes watching tv and other household activities much easier.

Vision Buddy comes with a headset for watching TV, it magnifies items for reading and has the option of having a CCTV stand and camera, and also comes with a computer cord to be able to view and magnify your computer screen through the headset.

Pros  

  • Simple to use and set up
  • Multiple uses
  • Can be used to read and write
  • Can be used on the computer
  • Streams tv

Cons

  • Bulky headset
  • Requires internet

Check it out Here

Conclusion

There are many devices available for many different applications and for varying degrees of impairment. We’ve chosen these for a generalization of each of the uses. It is however a smart decision to see a low vision specialist to assist you in the buying process and help you determine what devices will suit all of your needs.

About the Author:
Dr Shaun Larsen

Dr Shaun Larsen

Dr. Shaun Larsen is an optometrist who specializes in low vision services and enhancing vision with contact lenses. He has a passion for making people's lives better by helping them see well enough to read, write, or drive again. He always keeps up with the latest technology so he can help people regain their independence.

Macular
Degeneration?

Stop It Now...

Related Posts
shop cartShop Best Low-Vision Aids with FREE Doctor Consultation.Yes! Let's Go