There are several types of mechanical stages, each designed to meet different needs and preferences: 1. Fixed Mechanical Stages: These are permanently attached to the microscope and provide a stable platform for slide examination. 2. Removable Mechanical Stages: These can be detached from the microscope, offering greater flexibility and ease of cleaning. 3. Rotating Mechanical Stages: These stages can rotate, providing an additional degree of freedom for examining samples at different angles, which can be particularly useful in certain histological applications.