I want to buy a microscope because I'm an autist and looking at random things magnified like skin flakes and dirt fascinates me.
Trouble is I'm also a moron and I don't understand all the technical jargon. No website from google seems very helpful and always assumes some level of knowledge from the reader.

I want to know the specs for a fairly powerful microscope that will allow me to look at bacteria and micro-organisms in pond water and snot and blood cells and stuff. What does the magnification scale even mean? x100, x300, etc, what will allow me to look at bacterias?

I've saved up about 800 bucks which I think is enough for a good one. Can /sci/ help me out? Maybe even a recommendation for specific models?