In scientific research, accuracy and efficiency are crucial, where centrifuges are essential for separating sample components. These strong devices are essential in many domains, including chemistry, molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, and medicines. However, with so many alternatives available, selecting the best centrifuge can be difficult.
We’ve put together a list of the top ten centrifuges currently in use in labs to help you focus your search. This guide discusses the main characteristics and advantages of each type of centrifuge, catering to various laboratory requirements, whether you’re searching for a high-capacity industrial machine or a small benchtop one. So why wait, let’s dive right in!
Top Best Centrifuges for Laboratories
- Eppendorf 5424R Microcentrifuge – Ideal for DNA/RNA processing with temperature control.
- Thermo Scientific Sorvall Legend X1R – High throughput, flexible rotor options.
- Beckman Coulter Avanti J-26S XP – Large capacity, ultra-high speed.
- Hettich ROTOFIX 32A – Compact and versatile for routine clinical work.
- Sigma 1-16 Microcentrifuge – Fast and precise for small samples.
- Thermo Scientific Heraeus Multifuge X3R – Multi-disciplinary, high-performance.
- Z206-A Compact Centrifuge – Affordable yet efficient.
- Eppendorf 5810R – High-volume processing with refrigeration.
- Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 40R – Large capacity for clinical labs.
- Beckman Coulter Allegra X-15R – Versatile, reliable for varied lab needs.
Must-have Centrifuges for Labs Explained
1. Eppendorf 5424R Microcentrifuge
Best for: Molecular biology, genetics, and cell biology.
The Eppendorf 5424R is a high-speed microcentrifuge perfect for DNA, RNA, and protein sample processing. Known for its quiet operation and refrigeration capabilities, it provides stable, accurate results for temperature-sensitive samples. With a maximum speed of 21,130 x g and a capacity for 24 tubes, this model balances performance with ease of use.
Key Features:
- Temperature range of -10°C to 40°C for temperature-sensitive samples
- Fast pre-cooling with ECO shut-off for energy savings
- Easy-to-use digital interface
Where to buy: QP – Eppendorf 5424R Refrigerated Centrifuge Zentrifuge FA-45-24-11 21300g 15060 rpm (questpair.com)
2. Thermo Scientific Sorvall Legend X1R Centrifuge
Best for: Clinical and research labs needing high throughput.
The Sorvall Legend X1R is designed for larger samples, with a capacity of 4 liters. Its versatility makes it a favorite in clinical diagnostics and life sciences research. This centrifuge is equipped with a range of rotors, supporting everything from microplates to blood tubes, with refrigeration options to protect sample integrity.
Key Features:
- Refrigeration for maintaining sample stability
- High speed with maximum flexibility in rotor selection
- Simple, intuitive controls for ease of operation
Where to buy: Thermo Scientific Legend X1R Refrigerated Centrifuge | Marshall Scientific
3. Beckman Coulter Avanti J-26S XP High-Speed Centrifuge
Best for: Large-scale industrial labs.
When speed and capacity are critical, the Beckman Coulter Avanti J-26S XP is a powerhouse. With a top speed of 26,000 rpm and up to 6 liters of capacity, this high-performance centrifuge is ideal for demanding industrial or biotech applications. It offers a wide array of rotor options for versatility across different research needs.
Key Features:
- Powerful refrigeration system maintaining temperatures as low as -10°C
- Advanced touchscreen interface
- Energy-efficient design with automatic rotor recognition
Where to buy: QP – Beckman Coulter J-26 S XP High Speed Centrifuge Zentrifuge 26.000rpm 6L (2013) (questpair.com)
4. Hettich ROTOFIX 32A Benchtop Centrifuge
Best for: Small labs and routine clinical work.
Compact yet powerful, the Hettich ROTOFIX 32A is a versatile centrifuge suited for routine tasks such as blood separation, urine analysis, and simple liquid handling. It supports both fixed-angle and swing-out rotors, accommodating tubes up to 100 mL, making it ideal for everyday lab work.
Key Features:
- Versatile rotor options for different tube sizes
- Small footprint for benchtop convenience
- Built-in safety features including imbalance detection
Where to buy: QP – Hettich Rotofix 32A Centrifuge (questpair.com)
5. Sigma 1-16 Microcentrifuge
Best for: Fast DNA and protein sample preparation.
Compact and efficient, the Sigma 1-16 Microcentrifuge is ideal for quick sample processing in molecular biology and clinical research. With its 15,000 rpm speed and ability to accommodate up to 24 microtubes, it’s designed for labs that prioritize speed and precision on smaller sample volumes.
Key Features:
- User-friendly interface with multiple speed settings
- Maintenance-free brushless motor
- Whisper-quiet operation
Where to buy: SIGMA 1-16 Mikrozentrifuge (profilab24.com)
6. Thermo Scientific Heraeus Multifuge X3R Centrifuge
Best for: Multidisciplinary labs with varied applications.
The Heraeus Multifuge X3R offers superior performance across a broad range of lab functions. Known for its durability and reliability, it features automatic rotor recognition, ensuring that the rotor is properly installed and balanced. Its versatility in accommodating a wide range of rotor types makes it suitable for a variety of laboratory disciplines.
Key Features:
- High-capacity and flexibility with a range of rotor options
- Precise temperature control for sensitive samples
- Energy-efficient with an advanced touchscreen interface
Where to buy: QP – Thermo SL40R Megafuge 40R X3R Refrigerated Centrifuge Gekühlte Zentrifuge TX-750 (questpair.com)
7. Hermle Z206-A Compact Centrifuge
Best for: Budget-conscious labs looking for efficiency.
For labs with smaller budgets that still demand high performance, the Z206-A Compact Centrifuge offers an affordable option without sacrificing power. Capable of reaching up to 6,000 rpm, it is well-suited for low-to-medium-speed applications in clinical, research, and teaching labs.
Key Features:
- Compact size with digital speed and timer settings
- Fixed-angle rotors for up to 12 tubes
- Safety lid-lock feature to prevent accidents
Where to buy: QP – Hermle Z206-A Centrifuge (questpair.com)
8. Eppendorf 5810R High-Capacity Centrifuge
Best for: Medium- to large-sized labs handling high volumes.
The Eppendorf 5810R is renowned for its ability to handle high-volume samples while maintaining precise control over centrifugal force. With a 4 x 250 mL capacity, this centrifuge is ideal for laboratories processing large amounts of biological or chemical samples. The device also has cooling capabilities, ensuring the preservation of heat-sensitive materials.
Key Features:
- Refrigeration system for temperature-sensitive samples
- High-throughput processing
- Range of rotor options for enhanced flexibility
Where to buy: QP – Eppendorf 5810R Refrigerated Centrifuge (questpair.com)
9. Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 40R Centrifuge
Best for: Routine clinical and life science applications.
The Sorvall ST 40R is designed for large-volume routine applications, combining capacity and temperature control for clinical diagnostics and research labs. Its maximum capacity of 4 liters and ability to operate at up to 15,860 x g ensures reliable performance for daily use, while advanced features such as digital controls simplify operation.
Key Features:
- Fast acceleration and deceleration times for improved efficiency
- Powerful refrigeration system
- Large capacity for higher sample throughput
Where to buy: Thermo Scientific ST40R Refrigerated Centrifuge | Marshall Scientific
10. Allegra X-15R Refrigerated Centrifuge by Beckman Coulter
Best for: Versatile labs needing reliable performance in various conditions.
Designed for versatility and reliability, the Beckman Coulter Allegra X-15R is equipped to handle a wide array of applications. From cell culture and blood separation to protein purification, this model offers consistent, temperature-controlled spins. With a maximum speed of 10,200 rpm, this machine balances speed and capacity for mid- to large-scale lab operations.
Key Features:
- Rotor compatibility for various applications
- Precise refrigeration with a wide temperature range
- Intuitive interface for seamless user experience
Where to buy: Beckman Coulter Allegra X-15R Refrigerated Centrifuge | Marshall Scientific
Conclusion
The type of study, the necessary capacity, and financial restraints are some of the elements that will determine which centrifuge is best for your lab. There are many specialized solutions available on the market, ranging from massive industrial centrifuges for large-scale labs to microcentrifuges for small-volume biological material. Labs can improve workflow productivity and maintain the quality of their scientific results by investing in the appropriate centrifuge.
QuestPair’s platform offers a marketplace where labs can procure high-quality centrifuges, both new and second-hand, contributing to a more sustainable, circular economy in science.
