Screen Magnification Training: ZoomText, Fusion, macOS Zoom, and More

Screen Magnification Training: ZoomText, Fusion, macOS Zoom, and More

If you have low vision, you do not have to choose between struggling to see the screen and learning a full screen reader. Magnification tools let you enlarge, enhance, and customize your display so you can keep working visually — with speech support available when you need it.

Magnification Tools Compared

There are several magnification options depending on your platform and needs. Here is how they compare:

  • ✓ ZoomText (Windows) — The leading commercial screen magnification software. Enlarges the screen up to 60x, smooths text, enhances colors, and includes an optional speech reader that reads aloud what you point at or type. Best for low-vision users who want maximum control on Windows.
  • ✓ Fusion (Windows) — Combines the full JAWS screen reader with ZoomText magnification in one product. Ideal for users who need both magnification and a full screen reader and want them to work together seamlessly.
  • ✓ macOS Zoom (Mac) — Built into every Mac at no cost. Magnifies the full screen or a floating window, with options for smooth scrolling, hover text, and display adjustments. Can run alongside VoiceOver for combined magnification and speech.
  • ✓ Windows Magnifier (Windows) — Built into Windows 10 and 11 at no cost. Offers full-screen, lens, and docked magnification modes. A solid free starting point, though less powerful than ZoomText for advanced users.
  • ✓ iOS Zoom (iPhone/iPad) — Built-in magnification for Apple mobile devices. Enlarges the screen with gesture controls, adjustable zoom level, and smart typing mode.

When Is Magnification Enough?

Magnification alone works well when you can still read text on screen with enlargement and contrast adjustments. Many low-vision users work entirely with magnification for years.

You might want to add speech support when reading long documents is fatiguing, when your vision fluctuates throughout the day, or when you want to rest your eyes while still getting information. ZoomText includes a built-in speech reader for exactly this situation, and Fusion adds the full JAWS screen reader on top of magnification.

Your instructor can help you figure out the right balance during your first session. Many learners start with magnification alone and add speech later as their needs evolve.

Conditions We Commonly Work With

Nova’s Training serves learners with a wide range of low-vision conditions, including macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, retinitis pigmentosa, albinism, optic nerve damage, and acquired low vision from injury or illness. We also work with people who have light sensitivity, migraines, or visual fatigue that makes using a screen at normal size uncomfortable.

Every session is tailored to your specific vision, your specific tools, and the tasks you need to accomplish.

About Your Instructor

Nem Novakovic is a Certified Assistive Technology Instructor with over 10 years of experience teaching blind, low-vision, and multi-disabled individuals how to use technology with confidence. He is blind himself and teaches from lived experience.

JAWS Certified · NVDA Certified Expert · CompTIA A+ · Based in Charlotte, NC · Remote sessions available nationwide and internationally

Ready to Get Started?

No prior experience or software needed. All sessions are remote via Microsoft Teams or phone.