Microplate readers have become essential in most laboratories, especially those dealing with multiple biological research and observation. When it comes to choosing one that is perfect for your lab, there are several things you need to consider. You may feel overwhelmed by the choices available if you are in the market for a new Microplate Reader.

How do you know which one is right for your lab? Read on to discover the different types available, key factors to consider based on your specific needs, and much more.

What Is A Microplate Reader and Its Uses in a Lab Setting?

This laboratory tool measures biological, chemical, and physical activities during or after an experiment. Using the tool, researchers can carry out experiments and obtain results simultaneously. 

It is a highly sensitive tool that effectively analyzes samples in microplate wells. In the laboratory, a plate reader can be used to perform either of these functions: Luminescence, fluorescence, or Absorbance. Below is a breakdown of each function:

• Luminescence: the reader detects and interprets the light emission resulting from a chemical reaction. This function is beneficial when one needs to look into a molecule.
• Fluorescence: Fluorescent Microplate Readers emit fluorescent intensity signals, which excite the fluorescent chemical compound in molecules under investigation. The fluorescent compound, in turn, converts the wavelength into an emission. Thus, the fluorescent molecules are visible and can be quantified.
• Absorbance:  the reader sends a light wavelength through the microplate. Results are determined by how much light the molecules absorb.

How Do You Choose The Right Microplate Readers For Your Specific Needs and Budget Constraints?

The choice of reader you make significantly influences the performance of an experiment. To choose the right reader, you must identify why you need the reader. Would you like to perform one test at a time, or would you want one that can perform different functions simultaneously? Are you looking for a reader that is easy to use? Is the Microplate Reader Price you are looking at within your budget?

If you want to carry out a high volume of tests, you will want to buy a highly efficient tool that can achieve a high throughput screening. You need to get one that enables you to carry samples test fast with minimal use of samples and is highly sensitive.

Another essential thing to note is the type of assay you would like to run. In some laboratories, you may need to carry out experiments with multiple requirements. If this is the case, you must find a flexible tool with a multimode function.

Ease of use is also essential when choosing a reader. As you choose, consider what specific features you need on a reader to ease your work. Be on the lookout for additional features, the ability to customize, and automation.

Lastly, check the Microplate Reader Price to ensure it is within your budget. If you find one that has the features you need but is beyond your budget, identify the most important features to you, and identify another within your budget.

What Factors Should You Consider When Ordering Different Models of Microplate Readers on The Market Today?

There are different models of readers in the market today. Before you make a purchase, below are some of the factors you must consider:

The Purpose 

Different readers can best perform various functions in the laboratory. You will need a luminescence reader to transfect cells and quantify the expressions later. On the other hand, if you want to measure the number of specific proteins in a suspension, you will need an absorbance reader. However, if you are unsure of your specific needs, you will want to consider purchasing a multimode reader.

Throughput and efficiency

Working in a busy laboratory, you may need to analyze multiple plates daily. In this case, you need to consider readers with several reading heads, such as the Biotek Microplate Readers. Also, you might want to look into readers with plate stackers.

Plate Format

An average reader can handle 96- and 384 well formats. To work with high densities, you must look for models that handle 3456- plate formats. Equally, if you handle lower densities, ensure the reader you buy has the provision.

Software configuration

Always look for a reader that is easy to use, especially with multiple users. Be on the lookout for readers with customized features. These can perform additional functions that make your work even more accessible.

Detectors

The number of detectors directly influences reader speed. You need to identify a reader with multiple detectors. Tecan Microplate Readers are the best readers in the market with the multiple detector feature. The feature increases efficiency when reading multiple signals from a well.

What Are Some of the Pros and Cons of Each Type of Microplate Reader?

When buying a given type of reader, you need to understand both the pros and cons. Here is a breakdown of each kind:

Fluorescent Microplate readers

Pros

• Highly sensitive
• Wide dynamic range
• Wide application since many reagents can be labeled by fluorescent chemicals.

Cons

• Only applicable where fluorescent chemicals can label reagents.

Absorbance Microplate Readers

Absorbance microplate readers are a critical instrument in any laboratory setting. They are used to determine the concentration of various compounds in a sample. There are many different types of absorbance microplate readers available on the market with the different types available and their benefits and drawbacks. We will also provide you with a guide on how to choose the right reader for your laboratory. Thanks for reading!

Pros:

• The spectrophotometer is an instrument that has few moving parts and can be used with little effort. It also provides intuitive software to make using it easier for the user, who will feel satisfied after just one use!
• Accurate results with high sensitivity,
• can measure how much light goes through a given sample, which means you don’t need any other equipment like mirrors or concave lenses for your experiment!

Cons:

• The accuracy of your absorption results depends on factors including temperature and pH.
• Low Sensitivity The sensitivity of a spectrophotometer is often inadequate at low sample concentrations.
• On top of all, this technology does not come cheaply though
• the cost may be too big a factor when choosing between different models available on the market today

Microplate Readers Manufacturer

The Microplate Readers Manufacturer produces various Microplate Readers designed to be versatile, performant, and value for money. The microplates are commonly used in diagnostic tests, and the reader determines the amount of light absorbed by the microplate. The Microplate Reader is an essential tool for any laboratory or diagnostic center and is a valuable addition to your equipment.

Tecan Microplate Readers

Are you looking for a Tecan microplate reader for your laboratory? Are you unsure of what the best model is for your needs? This blog post will help to guide you in the right direction when selecting a Tecan microplate reader. We will discuss the available models and provide helpful guides for specific research needs.

Tecan microplate readers are an excellent tool for your laboratory and researcher. They have many functions that make them valuable to your research.

Pros

• Multi detection.
• Wide range of biological applications.

Cons

• Only monochromatic-based system.

Biotek Microplate Readers

Biotek microplate readers are an integral part of many laboratories. They provide a quick, reliable way to read plates filled with test samples. These devices come in various types, each suited for different applications.

Choosing the right Microplate Readers for your lab can be difficult, but selecting one that will meet your specific needs is important.

Pros

• Versatile
• High throughput
• Can efficiently handle 6- to 384- well microplates.
• economical

Cons

• Only use a specified wavelength.

Best Microplate Readers Systems for Sale in 2022

Having the right equipment for your laboratory is crucial to make work easier and faster. The Microplate Readers listed are some of the best on the market and will perfectly suit your needs. Make sure you research carefully, compare prices and find the perfect reader for your lab!

1. Thermo Fisher Scientific Varioskan Lux ($14,999.00)

The Varioskan LUX reader is a high-throughput device that can measure the multiwavelength signals of interest with various technologies. For example, it offers fluorescence and absorption measurements and time-resolved module options like AlphaScreen technology from PerkinElmer for improved sensitivity in low-volume environments where shakers are difficult to use or dispensers are unavailable.

Benefit

Thermo Fisher Scientific varioskan lux is a modular, upgradeable system for determining kinetic and endpoint measurements. The instrument can be configured to perform up to five measurement modes: endpoint, kinetic, spectra, multipoint, and kinetic spectra. Simultaneous dispensing and measurement enable fast reactions to be followed right from the start. Thermo Scientific SkanIt Software paired with the system for intuitive instrument control and easy data handling

2. Agilent BioTek Synergy H1 ($19,444.00)

BioTek Synergy H1 is a multi-modality microplate reader configurable with monochromator-based optics for flexibility, filter-based optics for sensitivity, or both. BioTek’s patented Hybrid Technology offers versatility and high performance in a capable modular platform to expand as your laboratory needs change.

Now with variable bandwidth fluorescence monochromators for excitation and emission wavelength selection, Fluorescence bandwidth can be adjusted between 9nm and 50nm in 1nm increments, allowing users to optimize reader settings for best assay performance fully.

Benefit

The BioTek Synergy H1 monochromator optics is ideal for all standard microplate applications. BioTek Synergy H1 uses third generation quadruple grating design that allows working at any excitation or emission wavelength. With 1 nm steps and supports top and bottom fluorescence intensity and UV-visible absorbance measurements while maintaining high-performance luminescence detection capabilities.

3. Tecan Infinite 200 PRO ($10,746.00)

Introducing the Infinite 200 PRO, a leading-edge multi-mode reader that enables users to monitor results with advanced microplate techniques. The intuitive yet affordable device features a modular architecture for convenient scalability and easy operation.

Benefit

With its high sensitivity and flexible plate format, the Infinite 200 PRO offers researchers unmatched multiplexing capability. Engineered with remarkable precision, this reliable reader supports measurements from 6 to 384 well plates, PCR plates, cuvettes, and even specialized NanoQuant micro-volume measurements.

With an optical system featuring either dual monochromators or light filters, the Infinite 200 PRO provides comprehensive accuracy while incorporating compatibility with legacy protocols.

4. BMG Labtech FLUOstar Omega ($13,678.00)

BMG LABTECH FLUOstar Omega is an advanced microplate reader designed to meet the demands of complex life science research. The Omega can measure luminescence, fluorescence intensity, time-resolved fluorescence (TRF), fluorescence polarization (FP), and absorbance in a single device.

Benefit

FLUOstar Omega offers many filters and optics, including monochromators, long passes, short passes, and variable bandpass filters.

With built-in temperature control capabilities and ultrasonic technology, it can be used for kinetic measurements and endpoint assays.

Additionally, it features an intuitive software package that makes it easy to set up experiments and analyze results. The Omega also includes validation tools such as system suitability tests (SSTs) to ensure accuracy and precision in all measurements.

5. Molecular Devices SpectraMax i3X ($19,999.00)

SpectraMax i3x offers impressive features, including advanced optics, superior sensitivity, excellent reproducibility, and compatibility with multiple assay formats. The device can read fluorescence and absorbance signals while supporting multiple wavelength options.

Benefit

SpectraMax i3x Multi-Mode Microplate Reader allows it for various applications such as cell-based assays, ELISA/immunoassays, nucleic acid quantitation, protein quantitation, and more.

The SpectraMax i3x Multi-Mode Microplate Reader has been designed for ease of use with intuitive software that simplifies the user experience. Its large touch screen display makes setting up experiments fast and simple while allowing access to data in real time. It also includes an integrated barcode scanner for quickly identifying samples as well as automated plate positioning for improved accuracy.

In terms of performance, the SpectraMax i3x Multi-Mode Microplate Reader offers excellent sensitivity across all wavelengths from UV to near-infrared (NIR). Its proprietary optical system ensures reliable measurement results despite variations in sample volumes or variance in color or turbidity between wells. Additionally, the device offers a range of optical filters which can enhance selectivity by reducing interference from background dye signals or auto-fluorescence.

Conclusion

If you work in a laboratory, you understand how crucial it is to have a Microplate Reader. The reader will make your work easy and efficient. However, there are a lot of options in the market. You want to buy a reader that perfectly performs your intended role, is efficient, and also within your budget. With the options listed above, narrowing your search and ultimately settling for the perfect tool for your needs becomes easy.