Deep well plate plays a critical role in modern laboratory and research environments. The plate is essential for applications such as sample preparation, high-throughput screening, and compound storage. The versatility makes them indispensable in fields like genomics, proteomics, and drug discovery.
The demand for deep well plates continues to rise due to advancements in drug development, the integration of automation, and the growing focus on personalized medicine. Researchers increasingly prefer higher-density formats, such as 384-well and 1536-well plates, to enhance throughput and reduce reagent use. This article compares the leading brands of deep well plates for 2025, helping laboratories select the most suitable options for their needs.
Key Takeaways
- Eppendorf is the top deep well plate brand. It is strong and has smart features that help labs work better.
- BrandTech is great for saving money. It works well and still has good quality.
- Hamilton plates are best for handling many samples. They keep sample sizes steady and work with machines.
- Thermo Fisher Scientific plates fit well with machines. They are perfect for labs that want to save time.
- When picking deep well plate, think about material, size, and if they work with your tools. This helps them work best for your needs.
Best Deep Well Plate Brands for 2025
Best Overall: Eppendorf
Key Features
- Available in 96 and 384 well formats, catering to diverse research needs.
- High-quality polypropylene construction ensures resistance to chemicals and extreme temperatures.
- OptiTrack® matrix simplifies sample identification and reduces pipetting errors.
- RecoverMax® well design enhances sample recovery and minimizes residual volume.
- Autoclavable at 121 °C for 20 minutes, ensuring sterility and reusability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional durability and chemical resistance.
- Advanced features like OptiTrack® and RecoverMax® improve workflow efficiency.
- Compatibility with automation systems enhances usability in high-throughput settings.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other brands.
- Limited availability in some regions.
Bottom Line
Eppendorf stands out as the best overall deep well plate brand due to its innovative features and robust design. Researchers value its reliability and precision, making it a top choice for laboratories worldwide. Customer reviews consistently highlight its superior performance, with comments such as “The best for our lab” and “Keeps my assays on track to get results quickly.”
Best Value: BrandTech
Key Features
- Offers cost-effective solutions without compromising performance.
- Constructed from durable materials to withstand challenging laboratory conditions.
- Compatible with manual systems like dispensers and micropipettes, ensuring versatility.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable pricing makes it accessible for laboratories with tight budgets.
- Reliable performance in routine applications.
- Durable construction ensures long-term use.
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to premium brands.
- May not be ideal for highly specialized applications.
Bottom Line
BrandTech provides the best value for laboratories seeking cost-effective yet reliable deep well plates. Its affordability and durability make it a practical choice for routine testing and training purposes. While it may lack some advanced features, it delivers consistent performance, making it a strong contender among the best budget weight plates for 2025.
Best for High-Throughput Applications: Hamilton
Key Features
Hamilton deep well plates excel in high-throughput environments due to their precision engineering and robust design. These plates feature:
- Uniform well dimensions, ensuring consistent sample volumes and reducing variability.
- High-density formats, such as 384-well plates, optimized for large-scale screening.
- Polypropylene construction, offering chemical resistance and compatibility with a wide range of reagents.
- Compatibility with automated liquid handling systems, streamlining workflows in high-throughput laboratories.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional reliability in high-throughput settings.
- High-quality materials ensure durability and chemical resistance.
- Compatible with various automation systems, enhancing efficiency.
Cons:
- Limited availability of advanced features like barcoding.
- Higher cost compared to some competitors.
Bottom Line
Hamilton deep well plates are ideal for laboratories prioritizing throughput and accuracy. Their robust design and compatibility with automation systems make them a top choice for high-throughput applications. While they may lack some advanced features, their reliability and performance outweigh these limitations.
Best for Compatibility with Automation Systems: Thermo Fisher Scientific
Key Features
Thermo Fisher Scientific plates are designed with automation in mind. Key features include:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Low-profile design | Thin well wall design compatible with PCR and qPCR applications. |
| SBS footprint | Standardized footprint for compatibility with automation systems. |
| Stackable design | Plates can be stacked for efficient use in automated systems. |
| SuperPlate option | More rigid plates for easier robotic handling. |
| Cut corner at H1 location | Aids in proper orientation and handling during automation. |
| Eight holes in the skirt | Facilitates plate positioning and removal from thermal cycler blocks. |
| Full skirt surround | Provides an even gripping surface for robotic arms, enhancing automation compatibility. |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Validated compatibility with automated specimen processors.
- Enhanced durability for smooth manual and automated workflows.
- Integrated stacking rings maximize space efficiency in laboratories.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to non-automated alternatives.
- Limited options for non-standard applications.
Bottom Line
Thermo Fisher Scientific plates stand out for their seamless integration with automation systems. Their robust design and standardized features ensure reliable performance in automated workflows. These plates are a top pick for laboratories seeking efficiency and precision in high-throughput environments.
How to Choose the Best Deep Well Plate?
Material Considerations
Polypropylene vs. Polystyrene
Selecting the right material is crucial for ensuring the performance and longevity of deep well plate. Polypropylene and polystyrene are the most common materials used. Polypropylene offers exceptional chemical resistance, making it suitable for handling strong alkalis like sodium hydroxide. It also withstands exposure to phenols, chloroform, and DMSO, making it ideal for demanding laboratory applications. Polystyrene, on the other hand, provides excellent clarity and surface properties, which are beneficial for optical applications. However, it performs better with bases than acids, tolerating mild to moderate concentrations without degradation.
Chemical Resistance
The chemical resistance of a plate determines its compatibility with various reagents. The table below highlights the chemical resistance properties of polypropylene and polystyrene:
| Material | Chemical Resistance to |
|---|---|
| Polypropylene | Phenols, Chloroform, DMSO |
| Polystyrene | Clarity, Surface Properties |
Laboratories handling aggressive chemicals should prioritize polypropylene for its durability and resistance.
Capacity and Well Volume
Standard Sizes
Deep well plate comes in various sizes to accommodate different applications. The table below outlines the standard sizes offered by popular brands:
| Brand | Volume Options (mL) | Height (mm) | Well Geometry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chrom Tech | 2, 1, 0.35 | 44.4 | Varies |
| BrandTech | 0.5, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 2.2 | N/A | Square |
Chrom Tech offers options ranging from 350 µL to 2 mL, while BrandTech provides volumes up to 2.2 mL, catering to diverse needs.
Choosing Based on Application
The choice of capacity depends on the intended application. High-throughput screening often requires smaller well volumes to conserve reagents, while compound storage benefits from larger capacities. Laboratories should evaluate their workflow to select the most suitable option.
Durability and Reusability
Factors Affecting Longevity
The durability of a plate depends on its material, construction quality, and usage conditions. Polypropylene plates are among the most durable bumper plates in laboratory settings due to their resistance to chemicals and physical stress. Proper handling and storage also play a significant role in extending their lifespan.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance ensures the reusability of plates. Autoclaving polypropylene plates at 121 °C for 20 minutes sterilizes them without compromising their integrity. Avoid exposing polystyrene plates to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals to prevent damage. Proper cleaning and storage practices can significantly enhance their longevity.
Compatibility with Equipment
Automation Systems
Deep well plate plays a vital role in high-throughput experimentation. Their standardized dimensions and consistent well geometry ensure seamless compatibility with automation systems. These features allow automated liquid handling systems to operate efficiently, which is crucial for compound screening and other high-precision applications. However, variations in dimensions or materials among different brands can cause compatibility issues. Laboratories should prioritize plates that adhere to industry standards to avoid disruptions in automated workflows.
Thermo Fisher Scientific and Hamilton are two brands that excel in this area. Their plates feature uniform designs and robust materials, ensuring smooth integration with automated systems. Researchers should evaluate their equipment specifications to select plates that align with their automation needs.
Centrifuge and Storage Compatibility
Deep well plates must withstand a wide range of conditions during centrifugation and storage. The table below highlights key compatibility features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature Range | -80 °C to +80 °C for T110-25, T110-26, T110-27; -170 °C to +121 °C for T110-37 |
| Centrifugation Stability | Up to 6,000 x g |
| Material | High-quality polypropylene |
| Autoclavable | Yes, at 121 °C for 20 minutes |
| Chemical Resistance | Resistant to DMSO and biological buffers |
Polypropylene plates, known for their durability, perform exceptionally well under these conditions. Their resistance to extreme temperatures and chemical exposure makes them ideal for demanding laboratory environments. Researchers should verify the centrifuge and storage compatibility of plates to ensure optimal performance.
Cost vs. Performance
Balancing Budget and Quality
Selecting the best weight plates involves balancing cost and quality. Laboratories with limited budgets often prioritize affordability, but this approach can compromise performance. BrandTech offers cost-effective options that maintain reliability, making them suitable for routine testing and training. However, premium brands like Eppendorf provide advanced features and superior durability, justifying their higher price points.
Researchers should assess their specific needs before making a purchase. For routine applications, budget-friendly options may suffice. For high-precision tasks, investing in premium plates ensures better accuracy and long-term value.
Long-Term Value
The long-term value of deep well plates depends on several factors:
- Technological advancements, such as RFID tags for tracking.
- Material innovations that enhance durability and chemical resistance.
- Development of sustainable and eco-friendly plates.
- Customization options for specialized applications.
- Adoption of 3D cell culture techniques, which expand the utility of plates.
These factors contribute to the competition among brands, driving innovation and improving product quality. Laboratories should consider these aspects when evaluating the cost-effectiveness of plates. Investing in high-quality plates reduces replacement frequency, ultimately saving costs over time.
Conclusion
Selecting the right deep well plate is essential for achieving reliable results in laboratory settings. Eppendorf, BrandTech, Porvair Sciences, Hamilton, and Thermo Fisher Scientific lead the competition in 2025, each excelling in specific areas. Eppendorf offers unmatched quality, while BrandTech provides the best weight plates for budget-conscious labs. Porvair Sciences stands out for durability, Hamilton excels in high-throughput applications, and Thermo Fisher Scientific ensures seamless automation compatibility.
When choosing plates, laboratories should evaluate their specific needs. The table below outlines key features to consider:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Polypropylene or Polystyrene |
| Temperature Resistance | Ranges from -80 °C to +121 °C depending on the model |
| Autoclavability | Some models are autoclavable (e.g., T110-37) |
| Applications | Sample storage, tissue culture, enzyme assays, reagent reservoirs |
| DMSO Resistance | Resistant to DMSO and biological buffers |
| Compatibility | Compatible with automated/robotic equipment |
| RNase/DNase Free | Yes, ensuring no contamination |
| Color-Coded Options | Available in various colors for easy identification |
| Reinforced Options | Some plates are reinforced to withstand greater G-Force |
Laboratories should prioritize plates that align with their workflows, whether for training, high-throughput screening, or specialized applications. By considering material, weight, and compatibility, researchers can maximize efficiency and reduce costs. Exploring these top brands ensures informed decisions and long-term value.