How to Choose the Best Low Vision Device for Reading: Magnifiers, Glasses, or CCTVs?

At Beacon Vision Center, we understand how frustrating it can be when reading becomes difficult due to low vision. Whether it’s struggling to read a recipe, the newspaper, or your favorite novel, finding the right device can make all the difference. Fortunately, there are a variety of tools available to help people with low vision continue to enjoy reading—each suited to different needs and preferences.
 

What Is Low Vision?

Low vision is a visual impairment that cannot be fully corrected with regular glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. It’s not complete blindness, but it can significantly interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, recognizing faces, or watching television. 
 

Common causes of low vision include age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and inherited eye conditions. People with low vision often experience blurry, distorted, or reduced vision, even with the best possible correction. We specialize in helping individuals in Farmers Branch and surrounding areas manage low vision and regain their independence through personalized care and adaptive devices.
 

Magnifiers

Magnifiers are often the first option people turn to. They’re simple, portable, and relatively affordable. These can range from handheld magnifying glasses to illuminated stand magnifiers that rest on your reading material.
 

Benefits:

• Easy to use

• Affordable

• Available in various magnification strengths
   

Magnifiers are ideal for brief tasks like reading labels, menus, or mail. Many residents in Farmers Branch who are still relatively mobile and active find magnifiers to be a convenient option for on-the-go reading.
 

Microscopic or Telescopic Glasses

These are custom-made glasses designed specifically for people with low vision. They use high-powered lenses to help magnify text or objects, often allowing for a hands-free reading experience.
 

Benefits:

• Hands-free use

• Personalized to your needs

• Ideal for longer reading sessions
   

We offer specialized fittings for low vision glasses tailored to your specific visual needs.
 

Closed-Circuit Televisions (CCTVs)

Also known as video magnifiers, CCTVs use a camera to project magnified text onto a screen. These devices offer adjustable magnification and contrast settings, making reading more comfortable and less straining.
 

Benefits:

• High level of magnification

• Adjustable contrast and brightness

• Great for reading books, documents, and even handwriting
   

CCTVs are a fantastic option for those with more severe vision loss who want to maintain their independence at home.
 

Which Device Is Right for You?

The best low vision device for reading depends on several factors, including the severity of your vision loss, your reading habits, budget, and lifestyle. Often, a combination of devices works best—using a magnifier for quick tasks and a CCTV for longer reading sessions at home, for example. Dr. Burcham will take the time to understand your unique needs and walk you through a personalized low vision evaluation.
 

Ready to See the Difference?

Living with low vision doesn’t mean giving up on the things you love—especially reading. Whether you're considering magnifiers, low vision glasses, or CCTVs, the right device can help you regain your independence and improve your daily life.
 

If you or a loved one is struggling with low vision, schedule a consultation with Beacon Vision Center to find the ideal device for you. Visit our office in Farmers Branch, Texas, or call (214) 420-5090 to book an appointment today.