How much magnification needed to see

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To observe microorganisms like E. coli, a microscope with at least a 100X objective (over 1000X total magnification) is recommended for detailed viewing, although a 40X objective (over 400X magnification) can suffice when using stained samples. Staining is not advised for home use due to the mess involved. For affordable microscope options, eBay is suggested as a potential source. Additionally, a user expressed difficulty in observing Brownian movement with a 100X microscope, indicating uncertainty about the necessary magnification for this phenomenon, typically observed in aqueous solutions.
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can anybody tell me how much maginfication it takes to see certain micro organisms such as e coli, tetanus, botulism etc. ? where can I find a suitable microscope that doesn't cost an arm and a leg?
 
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To see have a good view of E. coli, you need a 100X objective (more than 1000X magnification) to see good details although a 40X objective (more than 400X magnification) is sufficient to see the bacteria when they are stainned. I would not stained if I was at home because it is a messy operation

Have you try ebay to find an inexpensive microscope

This one would be sufficient but in lab we use something with more magnification power.
http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=26411&item=3856410272&rd=1
 
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Brownian movement

Help. I got a 100 x toy and I can't see the Brownian movement ever. No one has ever been able to tell me what magnification I need. Generally I try aqueous solution.
 

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