In this article we will learn 12 important difference between Darkfield and bright Field Microscope.

Definition of Bright Field Microscope

The Bright Field Microscope is a conventional Microscope, in this microscope, the specimen appears as dark against a bright background.

Definition of Dark Field Microscope

The darkfield microscope is a conventional microscope, in this microscope, the specimen appears as bright against a dark background.

Difference Between Bright Field Microscope and Dark Field Microscope

Topic	Bright Field Microscope	Dark Field Microscope
Image Type	Bright field microscope formed a dark image against bright field.	Darkfield Microscope formed a bright image against dark background
Specimen Types	Stained, fixed, and live specimens are observed.	We can see the living and unstained cells.
Image Formation	In a bright-field microscope, only the scattered lights are able to enter the objective lens and transmitted lights or unscattered light rays are omitted, that’s why the viewer sees a dark image against the brightfield.	The only light that has been reflected or reflected by the specimen forms an image.
Specimen Color	Appear as dark or blue (depends on the stain color)	Appears as bright
Specimen Background color	Appear as bright	Appear as dark.
Type of condenser uses	1. Abbe Condenser 2. Variable focus Condenser. 3. Achromatic condenser	1. Abbe Condenser. 2. Paraboloid condenser. 3. Cardioid Condenser.
Specimen Structure	It shows us the morphological as well as the internal structure of the specimen.	It show us External structure of specimen in great detail.
Expensive	Bright fields are inexpensive	Dark fields are expensive.
Specimen Preparation	Specimen preparation or staining is a complex and lengthy process. Takes too much time.	No need stain.
Opaque disc	Absent	Present
Usability	It is easy to use.	operating procedure is not easy as compared to bright field microscope.
Study on Metal and Minerals	This microscope does not allow us to observe the Metal and Minerals	Dark-field microscope can use to study for minerals and crystals, thin polymers, and some ceramics.

Reference

• https://microbiologynote.com/darkfield-microscope/
• https://microbiologynote.com/bright-field-microscope-definition-parts-working-principle-application/
• http://www.microbehunter.com/what-are-the-differences-between-brightfield-darkfield-and-phase-contras