A stronger magnifier could have a power of eight times. The strength is sometimes marked on the magnifier and will start with an 'X' to mean 'times'. On the whole, the bigger the size of the magnifier lens, the weaker it will be. More powerful magnifiers are smaller and have to be held close to your eye and what you want to look at when being used. With stronger magnifiers you might not see as much at once - for example, you might only see part of a word.
Many people have a few magnifiers, which they can use for doing different things.
The best way of finding out which magnifiers are right for you is by going to a low vision service for help and advice. It is helpful to know a little bit about the different types of magnifiers there are. This way you will be able to ask any questions you may have when you get there. They are often known as 'magnifying glasses'. Hand-held magnifiers can be held in either hand above the writing or object that you want to look bigger.