The simple magnifier achieves angular magnification by permitting the placement of the object closer to the eye than the eye could normally focus. The standard close focus distance is taken as 25 cm, and the angular magnification is given by the relationships below.

This precision magnifier performs the role of a simple magnifier, but has multiple elements to overcome aberrations and give a sharper image. Lens combinations are used to make high quality magnifiers for use as eyepieces.

A water droplet can act as a simple magnifier and magnify the object behind it. Water tends to form spherical droplets under the influence of surface tension. When attached to an object like these examples, the spherical shape is distorted, but still capable of forming an image. Above the droplets are on tiny emerging pine cones. At left the droplet forms a partial image of the flower that is out of focus behind it.