Satechi’s ReadMate LED Desktop Magnifier is accurately described by the title. Although it is is not a specific Mac product, it is so useful and well designed that it deserves a review. It is a beautiful, sophisticated magnifier with three LED lights to assist with viewing. It provides magnification at 5x.
[Actually, this could come in really handy to read the ultra fine print on those Apple power adapters. -Editor]
ReadMate LED Desktop Magnifier.
The ReadMate is available in four colors: black, blue, gold, and red. It has an MSRP of US$29.99, but it is currently available from the Satechi web site for US$24.99.
Color Options.
The package includes a carrying case and cleaning cloth in addition to the magnifier. The zippered case is sturdy and provides good protection. The product measures 3.6 x 3.6 x 2-in (9.1 x 9.1 x 5.08-cm). There are two CR2016 batteries that power the lights, and at some point they will need replacing.
Magnifier includes a case and cleaning cloth.
Using The Product
The magnifier is comfortable to hold and the large lens allows a nice reading surface. The LED lights make a huge difference in the usefulness of the magnifier as illustrated by the following image.
Example of the effect of the LED lights.
We have all come across text so tiny that most people can’t read it without assistance. I have frequently mentioned in product reviews that the material enclosed with a product was almost impossible to use because of type size or color. (That is not the case with the material included with this product.) A magnifier of some kind was required if it became necessary to read the information.
Prior to this review I had a rather dated magnifier with a single small bulb that I used, but kept hidden away, because it looked like it was left over from the 1980s. It was. I have been testing this Satechi magnifier about a week, as the need arose, and I have found it to be a beneficial asset. It works beautifully and is comfortable to use.
Do I Recommend It?
I do. If you, or someone you care about, needs a magnifier, then this is something you should consider. The package is not particularly attractive, but nevertheless, it would make a nice gift for anyone who needs it.