Blind and Visually Impaired Community
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Screen Magnification Options (self.Blind)
submitted by _Flier_
I am a computer geek with low vision (20/400). Currently I use Mac OS with it's default magnifier on a second monitor as my daily driver. It works great and the magnification screen is quick and clear.
I am starting to use Windows 10 more at home and I have some issues with the built-in Windows magnifier app. I have it set up on the second monitor just fine, but the mouse tracking is a little laggy and the image is more pixelated on my Mac.
I've used ZoomText in the past and it worked better than the default magnifier but it is quite expensive. What is everyone using for screen magnification? I'd love to see your setups!
I am starting to use Windows 10 more at home and I have some issues with the built-in Windows magnifier app. I have it set up on the second monitor just fine, but the mouse tracking is a little laggy and the image is more pixelated on my Mac.
I've used ZoomText in the past and it worked better than the default magnifier but it is quite expensive. What is everyone using for screen magnification? I'd love to see your setups!
Sommiel 3 points 6y ago
You may be able to get the new ZoomText Fusion through your state department of rehabilition. That is where I got mine.
tymme 1 points 6y ago
It's cynical and sad, but I think a lot of companies know the state will pay for it and that's why they charge as much as they do.
Sommiel 1 points 6y ago
Oh, I agree!
tymme 2 points 6y ago
I had received ZoomText through the state for work, but I rarely use it since Windows Magnifier does a good enough job for what I need.
Don't have any suggestions for alternatives but do have a few things I'd suggest checking/adjusting in Windows to see if it helps.
* Right-click desktop, in Display Settings make sure font size is 100% and resolution is as high as you can go (bump up magnifier if needed)
* Start Menu, type clear to bring up the ClearText settings and go through the cleartext setup *this will also check your screen resolution). Some people actually have better luck with this disabled.
* Use the regular size mouse pointers, and check sensitivity/etc.
* Disable non-useful Startup items in Task Manager ( ctrl-shift-esc ) and unnecessary services in services.msc
* Some actual cost, but less than buying ZoomText- check the graphics card (get a dedicated nVidia or ATI card, not the default Intel built into most motherboards) and/or add RAM so everything gets more responsive.
Sorry it's not a direct alternative, but hopefully it'll help. I've used both Windows and Mac systems and haven't had issue with either's default options.
Don't have any suggestions for alternatives but do have a few things I'd suggest checking/adjusting in Windows to see if it helps.
* Right-click desktop, in Display Settings make sure font size is 100% and resolution is as high as you can go (bump up magnifier if needed)
* Start Menu, type clear to bring up the ClearText settings and go through the cleartext setup *this will also check your screen resolution). Some people actually have better luck with this disabled.
* Use the regular size mouse pointers, and check sensitivity/etc.
* Disable non-useful Startup items in Task Manager ( ctrl-shift-esc ) and unnecessary services in services.msc
* Some actual cost, but less than buying ZoomText- check the graphics card (get a dedicated nVidia or ATI card, not the default Intel built into most motherboards) and/or add RAM so everything gets more responsive.
Sorry it's not a direct alternative, but hopefully it'll help. I've used both Windows and Mac systems and haven't had issue with either's default options.
lurking_in_the_bg 1 points 6y ago
The default magnifier is set to zoom in increments of 100%. What I do is go to the magnifier settings and lower the value so that the magnifier zooms in increments of 25% which when I get to the 400-600% range helps a lot in finding the right size for my viewing.
-shacklebolt- 1 points 6y ago
I haven't found anything between the free windows 10 magnifier and zoomtext that justifies a mid-way cost.
As tymme mentioned, many people do get some source of funding for software like zoomtext (their school, department of rehab, employer, etc.)
If you've tried those already, some options I would think of:
Check any local or state blindness organizations for resources.
If you're in the US, check your state's "assistive technology program" and contact them. There may be other sources of funding, grants, tax advantaged savings, or loans you might qualify for.
Check blind buy sell trade groups, ebay, and other online selling resources. Do your research to understand what the license transfer limitations on this might be, as well as the trustworthiness of the seller!
If you're already going to NFB (and I think also ACB) conventions, I know that in previous years they have offered substantial discounts in the exhibit halls. I have no idea if that is the case this year.
As tymme mentioned, many people do get some source of funding for software like zoomtext (their school, department of rehab, employer, etc.)
If you've tried those already, some options I would think of:
Check any local or state blindness organizations for resources.
If you're in the US, check your state's "assistive technology program" and contact them. There may be other sources of funding, grants, tax advantaged savings, or loans you might qualify for.
Check blind buy sell trade groups, ebay, and other online selling resources. Do your research to understand what the license transfer limitations on this might be, as well as the trustworthiness of the seller!
If you're already going to NFB (and I think also ACB) conventions, I know that in previous years they have offered substantial discounts in the exhibit halls. I have no idea if that is the case this year.
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