A centrifuge is a machine that rapidly spins samples and other materials to apply a high enough centrifugal force to separate the fluids which hold different densities so that they can be tested. A centrifuge is an excellent addition to a home lab or professional lab so that you can test different elements and materials in a professional way. There are many options for centrifuges out there and it can be confusing which option may be the best, as most products use a lot of technical languages that can be difficult to understand if this is the first centrifuge that you are buying. This is why we have developed this guide, to help you understand a centrifuge, what you may need from one, and which products and features will best suit your needs.

We have carefully researched everything that we can in order to give you all of the information that you need to make a properly informed decision, as well as give you five of the best products available on the market so that you can find a machine that will suit you. We have carefully researched these products and broken down the features, pros and cons so that you have all of the information you need to make a decision. We hope that we help you find the right choice, as well as giving you information that you need to get the most satisfaction from your product. So, keep reading and take a look at our five recommended products to find one that suits you the best.

CONS

The Premiere XC-2000 Bench-Top Centrifuge runs at 110V and will require an electrical converter in order to work properly in most countries and this adds cost onto the machine.

The speed is only variable in 500 rpm increments and this can be an issue if you need a more specific speed for certain tests or experiments.

The speed cannot be changed once the centrifuge has begun with its cycle and this can be a problem if you set the speed too high or if the speed needs to be changed through a test or experiment, as you will not be able to.

The Premiere XC-2000 Bench-Top Centrifuge can run up to a very high speed, but for many experiments and tests 4000 rpm is too fast and unusable, making it unnecessary to have in an average laboratory centrifuge.

PROS

The Premiere XC-2000 Bench-Top Centrifuge is capable of performing impressively high speeds and is customizable in 500 rpm increments so that you can tailor the application in your experiments and tests.

The large capacity allows you to test a number of tubes at the same time so that you can carry out a variation of tests at one time.

The compact and lightweight design is perfect for a smaller lab so that you can easily move and install the centrifuge yourself, as well as making the centrifuge easy to fit onto an average sized counter top or desk.

The Premiere XC-2000 Bench-Top Centrifuge works at a very low noise level, only 70 decibels, which is quiet enough to hold a conversation over and concentrate on other work without distraction.

With an impressive one year warranty, you are fully covered under the occasion of any damages, loss, or manufacturing errors so that you only get the best product possible.

CONS

The lightweight design can make the centrifuge move and wobble during high speeds and this can be dangerous on slimmer counters as the machine may fall.

The HFS Desktop Electrical Centrifuge carries an unpleasant manufacturing smell. Although it will eventually dissipate, it is unpleasant until then.

The speed is only variable in 500 rpm increments, which can be a difficulty for more specific testing.

The rubber that keeps the tubes from moving makes it difficult to fit 20 ml tubes into the centrifuge, so 15 ml tubes are an easier fit and this changes the capacity.

The manual that comes with the HFS Desktop Electrical Centrifuge is not as detailed as other options, so the machine takes some getting used to in order to find all of the functions.

The warranty only lasts 6 months, so if you encounter an issue after this you will need to fix or replace the machine yourself.

PROS

The HFS Desktop Electrical Centrifuge has a variable speed of 0 rpm to 4000 rpm, which is fully customizable in both speed and time to ensure that your test runs properly and as smoothly as possible.

The digital screen and controls make the centrifuge very easy to use and set up to get the best results.

The timer alerts you to the end of a cycle so that you can keep your test going and ensure the separated mixtures are used as soon as they are separated.

The lightweight design fits easily onto any desk or average counter top so it is perfect for smaller labs or in a doctor’s and vet’s surgery.

The high speed capability allows you to use the centrifuge with any mixture and still be assured that it will work perfectly.

CONS

The minimum speed of the BIPEE Mini Desktop Centrifuge is 3000 rpm, which makes this centrifuge almost impossible to use for tests that need speeds lower than this rate.

The lightweight design can vibrate and wobble when at high speeds and this can be dangerous if the centrifuge falls or hits something else on the desk so it may need to be weighted down.

The BIPEE Mini Desktop Centrifuge runs at 110V and will need an electrical converter in order to work properly in an average plug socket and this needs to be purchased at an extra cost.

This centrifuge needs specific tubes in order for them to fit snugly and safely into the tube holder which can be expensive to keep repurchasing.

The warranty of the BIPEE Mini Desktop Centrifuge is not as long or as extensive as other models available so you should make sure to read and understand the terms of the warranty in the case of damages.

PROS

The incredible lightweight design allows you to move and store the centrifuge as you wish, perfect for smaller laboratories with less counter space.

The larger capacity allows you to run a greater number of tests at one time to get more work done.

The low noise levels of the BIPEE Mini Desktop Centrifuge allows you to concentrate on other work whilst the centrifuge works.

The high speed capabilities opens up a range of options for more complex testing.

The digital controls and LED screen means that you can quickly and easily customize the use and performance of your tests.

The low maintenance motor means that you can store the centrifuge between uses without having to think about oiling or cleaning the motor.

The BIPEE Mini Desktop Centrifuge runs up to 999 minutes to give you full freedom when using the centrifuge.

CONS

The lightweight design of the centrifuge can cause it to vibrate and move when performing at the higher speed levels. This can cause a health and safety hazard as the centrifuge can fall, but can be solved by weighing the centrifuge down with something heavier.

The Kenley Desktop Electric Lab Centrifuge has a lot of plastic elements which leave the centrifuge feeling slightly cheaper than other options available, but is still durable.

The timing function does not run as high as other models, limiting the user to an hour per cycle, which can be too short for some samples and experiments.

PROS

Designed for scientists and those looking to improve their skills, the Kenley Desktop Electric Lab Centrifuge is easy to use with only two dials, a timer and a speed adjuster, so that you have full control over the cycle in a very simple way.

The lightweight design allows you to move and store the centrifuge without having to strain or keep the centrifuge in one place due to weight.

The timing function allows you to keep accurate time during the cycle so that you can do other things whilst the cycle continues.

The high speeds run from 0-4000 rpm, giving you all of the speeds you need to successfully test a huge range of samples.

The large capacity means that you can test up to 6 samples in one cycle for a more varied test, or to perform several tests at once

CONS

The lightweight design of the Eleoption Scilogex D1008E Centrifuge makes it slightly less stable than heavier options and can move and vibrate when on a higher speed level.

The body of the centrifuge is small and this makes the capacity of the centrifuge smaller than other options available.

The Eleoption Scilogex D1008E Centrifuge is only compatible with filter type centrifuge tubes and this reduces the number of uses and tests that the machine is capable of.

The Eleoption Scilogex D1008E Centrifuge can be difficult to get used to and the instruction manual is not as extensive as other options, so it may take some trial and error in order to get used to the centrifuge and its programs.

The plastic elements of the body of the centrifuge can make the machine feel cheaper and less durable than other machines.

PROS

The double locking design and the two types of casing used in the construction of the Eleoption Scilogex D1008E Centrifuge makes it much more safe and durable to use at higher speeds to ensure that your tests are secure and your lab is safe.

The high speeds of the centrifuge’s capability means that you can test and separate any mixtures for an accurate test.

The higher capacity allows you to test more samples at any one time.

The continuous running time means that you can run the cycle for as long or as short as you need.

The Eleoption Scilogex D1008E Centrifuge complies with international safety regulations so that it can be used in any lab across the world safely and securely.

The compact design makes the Eleoption Scilogex D1008E Centrifuge easy to move and store if needed, saving space in smaller laboratories.

Finding the right product can be difficult and there are a number of features that can separate a cheap product from a quality one. The higher the quality of the centrifuge, the longer it will last and the better it will be able to perform for you. This part of our guide breaks down ten of the best ways that you can differentiate between a quality and a cheap product to make sure that you get only the best product for your needs, and that you are protected from any damages that can occur from low manufacturing quality.

Maximum and Minimum Speeds

Each centrifuge has a maximum and a minimum speed and it varies from product to product. Some centrifuges start at a certain speed so make sure you check whether this is zero or higher, and that you know the highest speed that you need. For the best product it is recommended that you get the widest variation so that you are not restricted.

Speed Variation Increments

Some products will only change the speed in increments of 200, others 500, and some are completely tailorable. This is another important consideration as certain blood tests require more variations in speed that cannot be reached in increments of 500 or 200 and other tests will need different levels so make sure that you check the increments before you buy.

Time Capabilities

Timers are a great feature on your centrifuge, as it allows you to set the amount of time needed for your cycle and will alert you to the end. This means that you can focus on other things while your test completes. Most centrifuges have timing capabilities but this can range anywhere from 60 minutes to 999 minutes, so make sure you know what the time is that you need.

Size

The size of your centrifuge will judge where it can sit on the table or desk. There are many lightweight and portable options available but these are much less stable than other, heavier options. If you are using your centrifuge at higher speeds then it is better to have a heavier machine so that you don’t have to weigh it down to keep the lab safe.

Capacity

The capacity of the centrifuge is also important as you will need a bigger capacity for larger and more detailed tests of samples. Most centrifuges have a six tube capacity, others have eight but a smaller test tube size. Make sure to note down the capacity of your test tubes and find an option that matches this so that you don’t have to buy the machine specific test tubes.

Materials Used

Most centrifuges are made from a metal framework to ensure safety and durability when at high speeds, but many have a plastic body and dials which can feel plastic and will become damaged very easily. Metal bodies are much heavier but will stabilize the centrifuge and make it much more durable, which is especially important if the machine will be running at high speeds often.

Security and Safety

The locking of your centrifuge and the weight of the body is an important consideration for the health and safety of your lab. Higher quality models will have a metal body and a locking system on the lid to ensure that the contents stay safe and the machine does not vibrate and move across the table, reducing the risk of falls and smashed test tubes and parts.

Durability

If you are buying a centrifuge for a lab and think it will be used quite often, then durability and warranty are very important. Durability is best with a metal body and you should always look at how long the warranty is and what it covers so that you can make sure you get the best cover and protection against any damages or loss of parts.

Ease of Use

Some centrifuges can be very complicated to use and can be difficult to get used to, where other products are as simple as pressing a few buttons or turning a few dials and waiting for the timer to alert you. The better quality the centrifuge, the easier it will be to use and the more extensive the user manual to make it quick and easy to get used to so that you can master the machine.

Budget

As with all other products, budget is one of the most telling factor in how good the product will be as it usually offers you more features. Although you do not need to spend a fortune to find the best product out there, the higher the price is, the more you will get for your money and the better quality and warranty you will get with your centrifuge.

Different people will need different things from their centrifuge, as different labs perform different tests and use different samples in their experiments. There are a number of factors to consider in order to get the right product that will suit your needs and the needs of your lab and coworkers. This part of our guide helps you to decide what your needs are and discover what features and products that will fill your needs in order to get the right centrifuge that will serve all of the purposes that you need it to so that you aren’t limited by the product you buy.

Floor Centrifuge or Desktop Centrifuge

This guide focuses on desktop centrifuges, but there is the option of a floor based centrifuge for a more professional and larger lab. These centrifuges have a much wider range of uses for professional scientific labs.

Ease of Set Up

Many modern centrifuge models have a system called Automatic Rotor Identification, which basically shortens and simplifies the set up time by selecting a speed and pattern for the centrifuge to follow as it works so that you can simply press a few buttons and the centrifuge will start. More complex models require you to set the speed and time and are more complex to set up, which can be time consuming.

Locking Systems

The locking system of a centrifuge is important as it dictates how safe and secure your samples will be within the cycle. Remember that the cycle will be turning at high speeds, so a malfunction in the locking system can cause a lot of damage to both the centrifuge and the samples. The best system for locking the centrifuge is a dual lock system or something equally as extensive to prevent these issues.

Capacity

The average test tube size for a desk top centrifuge is between 15-20 ml and usually they hold around 6-8 test tubes altogether. This is ideal for things like blood tests and other general use applications. Other centrifuges, called micro centrifuges, will hold smaller test tubes but these are specialist equipment for certain tests so you should make sure that you know the capacity that you will need your centrifuge to hold.

Applications

Your average centrifuge will do the most basic functions and applications for a lab, doctor or veterinary surgery, but there are a number of more specific functions, such as cell washing that will need specific and specialist machines in order to perform. Before looking into the centrifuge that you may buy you should make sure to check which functions you will need from the centrifuge to ensure yours performs all the applications you need.

Versality

Similar to the applications section, the versatility of a centrifuge is important to allow you to perform a number of applications with the same centrifuge and not be restricted or need another centrifuge to get what you need out of a test. Most centrifuges serve a number of applications, so have a look at what you need and what the product will offer.

Speed

Speed is an important factor to consider as it will judge the functions and applications that you can use the centrifuge for. You need to know the average speeds that you will need for the common tests performed in your lab and then, if you plan on extra and more extensive tests, look at centrifuges that are capable of higher speeds to reduce limitation from the machine.

Size and Weight

The size and weight will change how easily you can move and store the centrifuge, which is especially important in a smaller lab. If you think you will need to move the centrifuge often then a lighter option is advised, but be aware that this will also effect the stability. The heavier the centrifuge, the more stable it will be and be less likely to wobble or fall. However, lighter options can be weighed down.

Investment

Be aware that a centrifuge should be an investment rather than a cheap buy. The more you invest into your centrifuge in both money and maintenance, the more you will get out of it in quality and versatility. Going for a cheap option to save money will give you an option that won’t necessarily last as long and you will end up having to buy a new model much sooner than if you take the investment seriously.

Specialist Applications

If you need a centrifuge that offers specialist applications then you should make sure to look at centrifuges that serve these purposes before a general application centrifuge, as general models are unlikely to offer the range of applications you may need if you are performing specific tests or using obscure samples. This guide focuses on general applications rather than specific applications, but many of our recommended products are capable of a range of applications.

Hettich Lab Technology

Hettich Lab Technology is a German based company that offers a huge range of laboratory machines and technologies that are best for labs and scientific research. Their brand is well known around the world for quality and supreme manufacturing, so you know that you are receiving a professional product that will give you every feature and specification you need. If you want a high quality centrifuge that will last, Hettich Lab Technology is one of the best brands to trust.

Helmer

Helmer is an American company that has been working within the electrical manufacturing business for nearly 40 years, with over 120 countries importing Helmer products into their labs and businesses. They promise customer satisfaction and pride themselves on extensive research to make huge advancements in the field. Helmer expanded their products from platelet rotators in the 1970s, right up to under counter refrigerators and freezers in 2013, and everything in between. No matter what lab equipment you need, Helmer have the perfect option for you and promises to make it last with their impressive warranties and cover.

BIPEE

BIPEE is a completely online company that offers a range of lab equipment for competitively low prices, perfect for labs that are just starting out and need quality equipment for a low cost. BIPEE offers everything that a lab needs to get started and really make some head way, without the huge start up costs of using a higher tier manufacturer. For those who want to look at a more budget brand for centrifuges, whether it be for a beginner lab or even just to practice and hone your scientific knowledge at home, BIPEE is the brand to go for.

Kenley

Kenley is another online laboratory electronic manufacturer that focuses on developing high quality goods and products for an excellent price so that scientific machinery and products can be opened up to a wide range of people and starting labs. With such a large range of products, you are certain to find a machine or product that will suit your needs and won’t break the bank. Their high quality products come with a range of features to suit the needs of almost anyone, so we are confident that this brand will be a great option to trust with your new lab equipment.

Premiere

Premiere Lab Supply is a another American company that manufactures a range of machinery and consumables to help your lab and scientific research grow and develop into more extensive and professional techniques. They aim to offer products that offer impeccable quality with the best prices to make their products accessible to as many people as possible. With everything that you need to set up a lab, expand a lab and keep enough stock in the cupboard to keep your lab organized and successful. For a brand that you can trust for some of the best prices, Premiere Lab Supply is an excellent option.

Finding the right product is important, as no one wants to buy a product that will need replacing for not having the right features or specifications. This part of our guide has some helpful tips that you can use so that you know you’re finding the right centrifuge for your needs or the needs of your lab, saving you time, money and the hassle of trial and error. Take a look at our helpful tips to finding the best product and put them to work so that you can find the right option for you and for your needs.

Average the Tube Sizes

Before you go and buy a centrifuge, you need to know what capacity you need it to hold, both in relation to the number of test tubes and the sizes of test tubes that you need it to hold. The best way to do this is to look for a centrifuge that will support the most common sized centrifuge that you have in your lab, as this will allow you to use the centrifuge with almost all tests and samples.

 Average the Speeds

Different tests require different speeds, but most labs will do similar tests a lot of the time, so the best way to get a centrifuge that offers the speeds you need is to take the average speed and make sure that the centrifuge offers speeds for both the highest and the lowest. A centrifuge that begins at 0 rpm is also a great option as you will get the lowest speed possible, then if you think you need higher speeds for occasional tests you can use this as a reference for the highest speed.

 Research Brands

With so many products and brands out there, it can be difficult to know which brand will offer you the most for your money, as well as the most options to get the right product. There are many brands out there to choose from, and that is why we have developed our guide with a best brands section to help you find a brand that will offer products for everyone, no matter what your needs or budget. The more research that you can do the better, but we have a list of the five best brands on the market to help make the decision a little bit easier.

 Look at What Your Budget Can Offer You

Budget is a big factor in getting what you want and the features that your centrifuge will offer you, as the more you spend the higher quality the centrifuge will be for you to purchase. It is always best to spend as much on you can on something like scientific equipment as it will give you more quality, more features, and a larger range of speeds so that you can ensure all tests will be possible with the centrifuge you purchase. Take a look at the machines in your price bracket to see what you can get and decide what features you would prefer.

 Shop Where You Can Get the Most Information

There are so many products out there and it is difficult to know what the market has to offer without having a look around first. Having a look online at different information and features can help you make your decision by giving you more information about what your price range will offer and what features and specifications best suit your needs. We have done a lot of research for each of our guides in order to help you find the right option to suit your needs and offered you five of the best options we could find to offer an option to suit everyone.

 TIPS, TRICKS AND ADVICE

Once you have your centrifuge it is always good to have some extra information on how it works, how to keep yourself safe, and tips and tricks that you can use to really make the most of your purchase. This part of our guide has been created with the aim of helping you after you have made your purchase by offering you a few ways that you can make the most of your purchase by using it in different ways and offering valuable tips to keep you safe and secure while using the centrifuge.

Balance Out the Rotor

An unbalanced rotor can cause the machine to vibrate and shake, or even move, all of which is a serious health and safety issue. To help avoid this you should always balance out the rotor to reduce the risk of injury and loss of samples. To balance out your rotor you should place a tube filled with water to a similar mass to the liquid you are testing in the hole opposite to the hole your sample is in. This will keep the rotor at an equally weighted level and as safe as possible while running, so as to minimize the chances of tipping, too much movement and other issues that can occur from an unbalanced rotor, keeping you, your lab and your colleagues as safe as possible throughout the run time of the centrifuge cycle.

Don’t Be Afraid to Pull the Plug

It is normal for a centrifuge to move around a little while working, especially desk top versions and versions that run at high speeds. Although a small amount of movement is normal, too much movement can be very dangerous, especially when glass tubes are involved. Too much movement can cause the centrifuge to tip or fall off the bench, damaging both the machine and the samples within the rotor. If you feel that the centrifuge is producing too much movement then do not be afraid to pull the plug out and allow the centrifuge to come to a stop. You can always weigh down and balance out the centrifuge and try again once the rotor has come to a halt, but you can’t repair a centrifuge that has tipped or fallen and damaged the samples and the inner rotor and machinery.

Keep it Locked

Making sure that your centrifuge is locked up tight is one of the best ways that you can keep everyone safe during the use of the centrifuge. Although watching the tubes turn can be fascinating, if something fails then there could be a real danger of smashed glass and spilt samples. Most centrifuges come with locking features that make the centrifuge much safer and less likely to open should an issue occur, but this will only protect you if you follow the correct safety procedures in locking the centrifuge in the first place. For all labs, it is recommended to have a clear instruction set with the centrifuge to ensure that everyone follows the right protocol when using the centrifuge so that everyone stays safe with the machinery is in operation. This is especially important if the lab is busy and people may be walking around.

Detailed Instructions

All labs will benefit from the instruction manual that comes with the centrifuge itself, but to make these instructions even clearer it is recommended that you produce clear and detailed posters or images to keep on the wall above the centrifuge so that people are constantly aware of what they should be doing and the correct protocol to follow to ensure safety and a successful testing procedure. Although this is not strictly necessary for those with experience, it can really help those who have less experience and to ensure that all of the necessary security procedures are followed to keep everyone safe and the machine as well maintained as possible to make it last.