Vision Engineering Mantis Elite Stereo Microscope

The Mantis Elite supports magnification options from 2× up to 20×, with a dual-objective (2 lenses) quick-change turret. This means you can rapidly switch between a lower magnification (for overview) and a higher magnification (for detail work) without removing or adjusting lens assemblies.

Depending on the objective lens used, working distance and FoV vary:

• 2×: ~ 160 mm working distance with ~ 57.0 mm field of view
• 4×: ~ 96 mm WD / ~ 34 mm FoV
• 6×: ~ 68 mm WD / ~ 23 mm FoV
• Highest magnifications (15×, 20×) reduce working distance significantly (e.g. ~ 29–40 mm) and FoV shrinks (to single-digit mm range) for precision detail work.

The microscope includes surface illumination using 24 LEDs, delivering around 11,000 lux on the subject plane. It also supports substage (transmitted / back-lighting) illumination (58 LEDs) when using a bench stand, which is useful for transparent, perforated, or thin samples to see edges more clearly.

The Mantis Elite uses patented eyepiece-less stereo optics that allow users to sit further back, maintain a more natural posture, avoid leaning, and reduce eye strain. Users can even wear glasses or eye protection without compromising the stereo view. The design also enables head movement (“Dynamic View Optics”) so operators can look “around” features by subtle movement rather than constant repositioning.

There are several mounting/stand options. Common configurations include:

• Universal Stand (moderate reach and height adjustment)
• Bench Stand (more stable, good for tasks where sample is stationary)
• Articulated Arm / Swing Arm (for greater reach and flexibility)

Mantis Elite is well suited for applications requiring precision inspection, manipulation, and visual quality control, particularly where operator fatigue could reduce performance. Key industries include electronics / PCB rework, medical & dental work, watch / jewellery manufacturing, art restoration, hair restoration, aerospace / automotive component inspection, and general precision engineering.

• At very high magnifications (15×, 20×), both working distance and field of view are limited; it may require precise sample positioning and strong lighting.
• Use of high-magnification or long working distance (SLWD) lenses may exclude some other lenses (e.g. 2× or 20×) due to turret geometry constraints.
• The bench and articulated arm stands take up space; depending on your lab layout or multiple users, you’ll need to ensure proper mounting and stability.

Yes. The Mantis Elite has a variant (Elite-Cam HD) which integrates a high-definition USB camera for capturing images and video. The standard model provides optical viewing, but you can add digital capture via the Cam-HD or separate accessories. Accompanying software allows capture in common image formats (JPG/PNG etc.), annotation, marking up, and optional measurement / overlay tools.