How to Distinguish "Bainite Phase" from Pearlite Phase in Steel Microstructure?

I thought (actually remember correctly) the difference weren't e that close, with a Pearlite looking more wormlike or waves while Bainite has a martensitic type structures, (Resembles needles).

Unless there isn't a high enough magnefications

Take a look at this:

Formation of Bainite

Great explanation, well worth downloading for anyone interested.

I think having reference examples at hand for comparison would be the way to go...

http://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/faqs/material-faqs/faq-what-are-the-microstructural-constituents-austenite-martensite-bainite-pearlite-and-ferrite/

https://www.yanmar.com/global/technology/technical_review/2015/0401_3.html

GA, that is the way we did it in Materials Lab experiments. "Hey what I see in the microscope sure looks like this picture in the reference book here etc...".

Perhaps try someone else's prepared sample, maybe they would polish and etch with different techniques that may enhance the microstructure visibility.