Best Bacterial Shaker Incubators on Ebay
When working in a laboratory setting, especially in microbiology and molecular biology, having a reliable bacterial shaker incubator is essential. These incubators combine controlled temperature environments with shaking motion, promoting the growth and culture of bacteria and other microorganisms. Here’s a guide to some of the best bacterial shaker incubators available on Amazon, along with their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
1. Benchmark Scientific H5000-H Incu-Shaker Mini Incubator
Overview: The Benchmark Scientific H5000-H Incu-Shaker Mini is a compact and reliable incubator designed for efficient bacterial culture growth. Its compact size makes it suitable for laboratories with limited space.
Key Features:
- Temperature Range: Ambient +5°C to 60°C
- Shaking Speed: Adjustable from 30 to 300 RPM
- Orbital Motion: 19mm orbit for effective mixing
- Capacity: Holds up to 4 x 1L flasks
- Digital Control: Precise temperature and speed control with an easy-to-read digital display
Pros:
- Compact and space-saving design
- Quiet operation
- Reliable and precise control of temperature and shaking speed
Cons:
- Limited capacity for larger-scale operations
- Higher price point
2. Labnet 211DS Shaking Incubator
Overview: The Labnet 211DS is a versatile and robust shaking incubator ideal for a variety of laboratory applications, including bacterial culture growth.
Key Features:
- Temperature Range: Ambient +5°C to 60°C
- Shaking Speed: Adjustable from 30 to 300 RPM
- Orbital Motion: 19mm orbit
- Capacity: Holds up to 4 x 1L flasks or multiple smaller vessels
- Digital Control: Easy-to-use digital control panel for temperature and speed settings
Pros:
- Reliable and consistent performance
- Flexible capacity with interchangeable platforms
- Sturdy construction
Cons:
- Slightly larger footprint
- Higher initial investment
3. Thermo Scientific MaxQ 4000 Benchtop Orbital Shaker
Overview: The Thermo Scientific MaxQ 4000 is a high-performance benchtop orbital shaker designed for rigorous shaking applications and precise incubation control.
Key Features:
- Temperature Range: Ambient +5°C to 80°C
- Shaking Speed: Adjustable from 15 to 500 RPM
- Orbital Motion: 19mm orbit
- Capacity: Holds up to 6 x 1L flasks or multiple smaller vessels
- Digital Control: Advanced digital control for precise temperature and speed adjustments
Pros:
- Wide temperature range
- High shaking speed capability
- Durable and reliable construction
Cons:
- More expensive than smaller models
- Requires more benchtop space
4. IKA KS 4000 i Control Incubator Shaker
Overview: The IKA KS 4000 i Control Incubator Shaker is known for its precision and advanced features, making it suitable for demanding laboratory environments.
Key Features:
- Temperature Range: Ambient +5°C to 80°C
- Shaking Speed: Adjustable from 10 to 500 RPM
- Orbital Motion: 20mm orbit
- Capacity: Holds up to 6 x 1L flasks
- Digital Control: Advanced touchscreen control for precise settings and programmability
Pros:
- Advanced control features
- High precision and reliability
- Wide temperature and speed range
Cons:
- High cost
- Complex interface may require training
5. Eppendorf New Brunswick Innova 42R Shaker Incubator
Overview: The Eppendorf New Brunswick Innova 42R is a premium shaker incubator designed for high-capacity and high-performance applications in molecular biology and microbiology.
Key Features:
- Temperature Range: 4°C to 80°C
- Shaking Speed: Adjustable from 25 to 400 RPM
- Orbital Motion: 19mm orbit
- Capacity: Holds up to 8 x 1L flasks or multiple smaller vessels
- Digital Control: Intuitive digital control panel for precise temperature and speed management
Pros:
- Wide temperature range, including refrigeration
- High capacity and performance
- Robust and durable design
Cons:
- Very high price point
- Large footprint
Comparison Table
| Incubator | Temperature Range | Shaking Speed | Capacity | Digital Control | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benchmark H5000-H Incu-Shaker | Ambient +5°C to 60°C | 30 to 300 RPM | 4 x 1L flasks | Yes | $$$ |
| Labnet 211DS | Ambient +5°C to 60°C | 30 to 300 RPM | 4 x 1L flasks | Yes | $$$ |
| Thermo MaxQ 4000 | Ambient +5°C to 80°C | 15 to 500 RPM | 6 x 1L flasks | Yes | $$$$ |
| IKA KS 4000 i Control | Ambient +5°C to 80°C | 10 to 500 RPM | 6 x 1L flasks | Yes | $$$$ |
| Eppendorf Innova 42R | 4°C to 80°C | 25 to 400 RPM | 8 x 1L flasks | Yes | $$$$$ |
Choosing the Right Bacterial Shaker Incubator
Capacity
- Small-Scale: If you have limited space or a smaller scale operation, the Benchmark H5000-H Incu-Shaker Mini or Labnet 211DS are excellent choices.
- Medium-Scale: For a balance between capacity and features, the Thermo MaxQ 4000 and IKA KS 4000 i Control are ideal.
- Large-Scale: For high-capacity needs, the Eppendorf Innova 42R provides extensive space and advanced features.
Budget
- Budget-Friendly: The Benchmark H5000-H Incu-Shaker Mini and Labnet 211DS offer reliable performance at a lower cost.
- Mid-Range: The Thermo MaxQ 4000 and IKA KS 4000 i Control provide more advanced features for a higher investment.
- Premium: The Eppendorf Innova 42R is the best option for those willing to invest in high-end, high-capacity equipment.
Features
- Temperature Control: Ensure the incubator can maintain the specific temperature range you need.
- Shaking Speed: Consider the range of shaking speeds for your specific applications.
- Digital Controls: Look for models with intuitive digital controls for precise management of settings.
- Capacity: Ensure the incubator can accommodate the number and size of flasks you plan to use.
Conclusion
Selecting the best bacterial shaker incubator depends on your specific needs, laboratory space, and budget. The Benchmark H5000-H Incu-Shaker Mini and Labnet 211DS are great for small to medium operations, while the Thermo MaxQ 4000 and IKA KS 4000 i Control offer advanced features for more demanding applications. For large-scale, high-performance needs, the Eppendorf Innova 42R is unparalleled. Assess your requirements and budget to choose the right incubator for your bacterial culture needs.