microscopes

[ET2(SW) Ng USN]

Hi all,

    I'm looking to buy a microscope.  One of my main criterion is that I be
able to see cells--you know: pond water, blood, mitochondria, that kind of
stuff.  What strength objectives should I be looking for to do this?  Is
400X enough?  How about 1000X?

Thanks and best wishes,
ET2(SW) Ng