I can get mine about 12 inches away from my work and still focus. I don't however solder with it. I use magnifier glasses for soldering and the USB Scope for inspection. If I put it right on the board I can sometimes see the layers inside the board. When soldering a si5351 recently I was able to inspect my work full screen looking only at two pins at a time. If you've ever seen a si5351, they are tiny. I could't live without it. I also have a Goose neck stand that I can put it in and move it into any position I want.
Joel
N6ALT
Joel Caulkins/N6ALT