Collection: Flow Cytometers
Flow Cytometers for Sale
Buy used, refurbished, and surplus flow cytometers from mLab Supply for academic research, biotech R&D, pharmaceutical laboratories, and clinical environments. We source conventional and spectral analytical flow cytometers from Beckman Coulter, BD Biosciences, Thermo Scientific, Miltenyi Biotec, Cytek Biosciences, and Sony Biotechnology for institutions requiring multi-parameter cell analysis in immunophenotyping, cell biology, and translational research workflows. Pricing and availability vary by instrument configuration — submit a quote request and we will confirm current sourcing options, configuration details, and lead time.
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Sony SA3800 Spectral Cell Analyzer — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Sony ID7000 Spectral Cell Analyzer — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Cytek Aurora Spectral Flow Cytometer — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Miltenyi Biotec MACSQuant Analyzer 10 Flow Cytometer — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Thermo Scientific Attune NxT Flow Cytometer — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
BD FACSLyric Flow Cytometer — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
BD FACSCanto II Flow Cytometer — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Flow Cytometers — Request a Quote
Request Pricing
<section class="mlab-collection-buying-guide">
<h2>How to Choose a Flow Cytometer</h2>
<p>Selecting a flow cytometer requires matching the instrument's optical configuration, software, and throughput capabilities to your specific assay requirements and laboratory infrastructure. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Conventional vs spectral:</strong> Conventional cytometers use bandpass filters and discrete detectors to measure specific fluorescence channels. Spectral cytometers collect the full emission spectrum of each fluorochrome and use unmixing algorithms to resolve complex panels. Spectral platforms support higher-parameter panels but require different software workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Number of fluorescence parameters:</strong> Match the instrument's detector configuration to your panel complexity. Routine immunophenotyping panels may require 4–8 parameters; high-parameter research panels may require 15 or more.</li>
<li><strong>Laser configuration:</strong> Laser wavelengths determine which fluorochromes can be excited. Common configurations include 2–3 lasers for standard panels and 4–5+ lasers for high-parameter or spectral workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Sample throughput:</strong> Consider tube-based vs plate-based workflows and whether an autosampler is required for high-throughput screening.</li>
<li><strong>Software:</strong> Confirm acquisition and analysis software compatibility with your operating system and existing data workflows. License availability varies by instrument age and platform.</li>
<li><strong>Serviceability:</strong> Consider local service availability, parts availability, and OEM support status for the specific platform and vintage.</li>
<li><strong>Laboratory footprint:</strong> Benchtop analyzers vary significantly in size and utility requirements. Confirm bench space, electrical, and fluid handling requirements before purchasing.</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-types">
<h2>Conventional vs Spectral Flow Cytometry</h2>
<h3>Conventional Flow Cytometers</h3>
<p>Conventional flow cytometers use bandpass optical filters and discrete photomultiplier tube (PMT) detectors to measure fluorescence emission in defined wavelength windows. Each detector captures signal from a specific fluorochrome, and compensation is applied to correct for spectral overlap between channels. Conventional platforms are well-established, widely serviced, and appropriate for most standard immunophenotyping and cell biology workflows. The BD FACSCanto II, BD FACSLyric, Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX, Thermo Scientific Attune NxT, and Miltenyi MACSQuant Analyzer 10 are conventional analytical platforms.</p>
<h3>Spectral Flow Cytometers</h3>
<p>Spectral flow cytometers collect the complete fluorescence emission spectrum from each cell across a detector array and use spectral unmixing algorithms to resolve individual fluorochrome contributions. This approach enables higher-parameter panels with reduced compensation complexity and supports fluorochromes that are difficult to resolve on conventional systems. Spectral platforms require dedicated unmixing software and reference controls. The Cytek Aurora, Sony ID7000, and Sony SA3800 are spectral analytical platforms. Spectral cytometry is not universally superior to conventional cytometry — the right choice depends on your panel requirements, assay complexity, and existing workflows.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<h2>Popular Flow Cytometer Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources flow cytometers from leading manufacturers including Beckman Coulter, BD Biosciences, Thermo Scientific, Miltenyi Biotec, Cytek Biosciences, and Sony Biotechnology. Common models available to source include:</p>
<dl>
<dt>Beckman Coulter</dt>
<dd>CytoFLEX</dd>
<dt>BD Biosciences</dt>
<dd>FACSCanto II, FACSLyric</dd>
<dt>Thermo Scientific</dt>
<dd>Attune NxT</dd>
<dt>Miltenyi Biotec</dt>
<dd>MACSQuant Analyzer 10</dd>
<dt>Cytek Biosciences</dt>
<dd>Aurora</dd>
<dt>Sony Biotechnology</dt>
<dd>ID7000, SA3800</dd>
</dl>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-comparison">
<h2>Flow Cytometers vs Cell Sorters</h2>
<p>Analytical flow cytometers characterize cell populations by measuring fluorescence and light scatter signals from individual cells passing through one or more laser beams. They are designed for measurement and analysis — they do not physically separate cells. Cell sorters add electrostatic deflection or microfluidic sorting hardware that physically isolates selected cell populations into collection tubes or plates. Sorters require additional biosafety infrastructure, more complex fluidics, and significantly higher capital investment than analyzers. The instruments listed in this collection are analytical flow cytometers. If you require cell sorting capability, contact us to discuss sourcing options.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-used-refurbished">
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished Flow Cytometers</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished flow cytometers can offer significant cost savings compared to new instruments. When evaluating a used cytometer, key inspection points include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Optical condition:</strong> Laser output, filter condition, and detector sensitivity affect instrument performance. Request performance verification data where available.</li>
<li><strong>Lasers:</strong> Laser age and output vary by unit. Confirm laser wavelengths and power levels match your panel requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Fluidics:</strong> Pump condition, tubing integrity, and sheath/waste system condition affect sample delivery and data quality.</li>
<li><strong>Sample injection system:</strong> Confirm sample injection port, SIP, and any autosampler components are functional.</li>
<li><strong>Computer and workstation:</strong> Confirm the included computer (if any) is functional and compatible with the acquisition software.</li>
<li><strong>Software and licensing:</strong> Confirm software version and license status. License transferability varies by platform and vendor policy.</li>
<li><strong>Service history:</strong> Request available preventive maintenance records and calibration/QC history where available.</li>
<li><strong>Accessories:</strong> Confirm which accessories, reagents, and consumables are included. Configuration varies by unit.</li>
</ul>
<p>Configuration, service history, software licensing, and performance verification must be confirmed per unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory, clinical, or institutional requirements without independent verification.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-configuration">
<h2>Configuration and Panel Planning</h2>
<p>Flow cytometer configuration — including laser wavelengths, fluorescence channels, filter sets, and detector architecture — determines which fluorochromes and assays the instrument can support. When requesting a quote, include your panel requirements, target fluorochromes, and assay complexity so we can help identify instruments that match your workflow. Spectral instruments require compatible unmixing software and reference controls — confirm software availability and compatibility before purchasing. Filter sets and detector configurations vary by unit and may differ from standard factory configurations on used instruments.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-applications">
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>Analytical flow cytometers support a wide range of research and clinical laboratory workflows including immunophenotyping, cell viability analysis, apoptosis studies, cell cycle analysis, immunology research, oncology biomarker analysis, stem cell characterization, infectious disease research, fluorescence-based cell population studies, and general research flow cytometry. Suitability for specific applications, regulated environments, or clinical use must be confirmed by the buyer and their institutional quality and compliance teams.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-installation">
<h2>Installation and Facility Planning</h2>
<p>Flow cytometer installation requirements vary by platform. Key considerations include bench or floor space, electrical requirements, computer and workstation needs, sheath fluid and waste fluid handling, and environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Some platforms require compressed air or vacuum — confirm utility requirements for the specific instrument before ordering. Performance verification and operator training are recommended after installation. Confirm all site requirements with your facilities team before finalizing a purchase.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-software">
<h2>Software, Service, and Support Considerations</h2>
<p>Flow cytometers are sold with acquisition software that varies by manufacturer and platform — common examples include BD FACSDiva, Beckman Coulter CytExpert, and Thermo Scientific Attune Cytometric Software. Confirm software version, license status, and operating system compatibility when requesting a quote, particularly for older instruments where OS compatibility may be limited. Analysis software (such as FlowJo or Kaluza) is typically licensed separately. OEM service and parts availability vary by platform age and manufacturer support policy — confirm local service access before purchasing. mLab Supply does not guarantee OEM support availability for any specific instrument.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-procurement">
<h2>Procurement and Logistics</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional procurement workflows including formal quotations, purchase orders, and vendor onboarding documentation. We can source specific flow cytometer configurations, laser options, and manufacturer platforms on request. Freight coordination is available for large instruments, which typically require liftgate delivery and may require specialized rigging or elevator access for upper-floor placement. Deinstallation coordination is available for instruments being removed from existing laboratory environments. We also purchase surplus and decommissioned flow cytometers — contact us via the <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have equipment available.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-related">
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Laboratories sourcing flow cytometers often also require <a href="/collections/cell-counters-and-viability-analyzers">cell counters and viability analyzers</a> for sample preparation and QC, <a href="/collections/centrifuges">centrifuges</a> for sample processing, and <a href="/collections/microplate-readers">microplate readers</a> for complementary assay workflows. Browse <a href="/collections/beckman-coulter">Beckman Coulter laboratory equipment</a> and <a href="/collections/thermo-scientific">Thermo Scientific laboratory equipment</a> for additional instruments from those manufacturers. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for current availability and pricing, or visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus flow cytometers or other lab equipment to sell.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-faq">
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<details><summary>What is a flow cytometer?</summary><p>A flow cytometer is an analytical instrument that measures fluorescence and light scatter signals from individual cells or particles as they pass through one or more laser beams in a fluid stream. It enables rapid, multi-parameter characterization of cell populations based on surface markers, intracellular proteins, viability, and other properties.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between a flow cytometer and a cell sorter?</summary><p>An analytical flow cytometer measures and characterizes cell populations but does not physically separate them. A cell sorter adds electrostatic deflection or microfluidic sorting hardware that physically isolates selected populations into collection tubes or plates. Sorters require additional biosafety infrastructure and are significantly more complex and capital-intensive than analyzers. The instruments in this collection are analytical cytometers.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between conventional and spectral flow cytometry?</summary><p>Conventional cytometers use bandpass filters and discrete detectors to measure fluorescence in defined wavelength windows, with compensation applied to correct for spectral overlap. Spectral cytometers collect the full emission spectrum from each cell and use unmixing algorithms to resolve individual fluorochrome contributions, enabling higher-parameter panels. The right choice depends on your panel complexity, assay requirements, and existing workflows.</p></details>
<details><summary>What should I inspect before buying a used flow cytometer?</summary><p>Key inspection points include laser output and condition, detector sensitivity, fluidics and pump condition, sample injection system integrity, computer and software functionality, software license status, available service and PM history, and which accessories are included. Configuration and service history vary by unit — confirm all details before finalizing a purchase.</p></details>
<details><summary>How many lasers or fluorescence channels do I need?</summary><p>Most routine immunophenotyping panels run on 2–3 laser instruments with 6–10 fluorescence channels. High-parameter panels with 15 or more markers typically require 4–5 lasers or a spectral platform. Include your panel requirements in your quote request and we can help identify instruments that match your workflow.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are software and computer systems included with used flow cytometers?</summary><p>Software and computer inclusion varies by unit. Confirm software version, license status, and whether a workstation is included when requesting a quote. License transferability depends on the manufacturer's policy for the specific platform. OS compatibility should be confirmed for older instruments.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are used flow cytometers calibrated before sale?</summary><p>Calibration and performance verification status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used instrument has been calibrated or performance-verified unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request available calibration and QC documentation when inquiring about a specific instrument.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific BD, Beckman Coulter, Thermo Scientific, Miltenyi, Cytek, or Sony model?</summary><p>Yes. We source flow cytometers from BD Biosciences, Beckman Coulter, Thermo Scientific, Miltenyi Biotec, Cytek Biosciences, and Sony Biotechnology on request. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with your preferred manufacturer, model, and configuration requirements and we will confirm current sourcing options and availability.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are refurbished flow cytometers suitable for regulated or clinical laboratories?</summary><p>Suitability for regulated or clinical environments depends on the specific instrument's condition, performance verification status, software licensing, and your institution's qualification requirements. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory or clinical standards without independent verification. Consult your quality and compliance team before purchasing for regulated use.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight and installation for flow cytometers?</summary><p>Yes. Large flow cytometers typically require liftgate delivery and may require specialized rigging for upper-floor placement. Contact us when requesting a quote to discuss freight, deinstallation, and installation coordination for your specific location.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source discontinued flow cytometers?</summary><p>Yes. We specialize in sourcing used, refurbished, and surplus laboratory instruments including discontinued platforms. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with the specific model and configuration you need and we will confirm current sourcing options.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus flow cytometers?</summary><p>Yes. We purchase decommissioned and surplus flow cytometers from research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, universities, hospitals, and biotechnology organizations. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.</p></details>
</section>
<h2>How to Choose a Flow Cytometer</h2>
<p>Selecting a flow cytometer requires matching the instrument's optical configuration, software, and throughput capabilities to your specific assay requirements and laboratory infrastructure. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Conventional vs spectral:</strong> Conventional cytometers use bandpass filters and discrete detectors to measure specific fluorescence channels. Spectral cytometers collect the full emission spectrum of each fluorochrome and use unmixing algorithms to resolve complex panels. Spectral platforms support higher-parameter panels but require different software workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Number of fluorescence parameters:</strong> Match the instrument's detector configuration to your panel complexity. Routine immunophenotyping panels may require 4–8 parameters; high-parameter research panels may require 15 or more.</li>
<li><strong>Laser configuration:</strong> Laser wavelengths determine which fluorochromes can be excited. Common configurations include 2–3 lasers for standard panels and 4–5+ lasers for high-parameter or spectral workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Sample throughput:</strong> Consider tube-based vs plate-based workflows and whether an autosampler is required for high-throughput screening.</li>
<li><strong>Software:</strong> Confirm acquisition and analysis software compatibility with your operating system and existing data workflows. License availability varies by instrument age and platform.</li>
<li><strong>Serviceability:</strong> Consider local service availability, parts availability, and OEM support status for the specific platform and vintage.</li>
<li><strong>Laboratory footprint:</strong> Benchtop analyzers vary significantly in size and utility requirements. Confirm bench space, electrical, and fluid handling requirements before purchasing.</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-types">
<h2>Conventional vs Spectral Flow Cytometry</h2>
<h3>Conventional Flow Cytometers</h3>
<p>Conventional flow cytometers use bandpass optical filters and discrete photomultiplier tube (PMT) detectors to measure fluorescence emission in defined wavelength windows. Each detector captures signal from a specific fluorochrome, and compensation is applied to correct for spectral overlap between channels. Conventional platforms are well-established, widely serviced, and appropriate for most standard immunophenotyping and cell biology workflows. The BD FACSCanto II, BD FACSLyric, Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX, Thermo Scientific Attune NxT, and Miltenyi MACSQuant Analyzer 10 are conventional analytical platforms.</p>
<h3>Spectral Flow Cytometers</h3>
<p>Spectral flow cytometers collect the complete fluorescence emission spectrum from each cell across a detector array and use spectral unmixing algorithms to resolve individual fluorochrome contributions. This approach enables higher-parameter panels with reduced compensation complexity and supports fluorochromes that are difficult to resolve on conventional systems. Spectral platforms require dedicated unmixing software and reference controls. The Cytek Aurora, Sony ID7000, and Sony SA3800 are spectral analytical platforms. Spectral cytometry is not universally superior to conventional cytometry — the right choice depends on your panel requirements, assay complexity, and existing workflows.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<h2>Popular Flow Cytometer Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources flow cytometers from leading manufacturers including Beckman Coulter, BD Biosciences, Thermo Scientific, Miltenyi Biotec, Cytek Biosciences, and Sony Biotechnology. Common models available to source include:</p>
<dl>
<dt>Beckman Coulter</dt>
<dd>CytoFLEX</dd>
<dt>BD Biosciences</dt>
<dd>FACSCanto II, FACSLyric</dd>
<dt>Thermo Scientific</dt>
<dd>Attune NxT</dd>
<dt>Miltenyi Biotec</dt>
<dd>MACSQuant Analyzer 10</dd>
<dt>Cytek Biosciences</dt>
<dd>Aurora</dd>
<dt>Sony Biotechnology</dt>
<dd>ID7000, SA3800</dd>
</dl>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-comparison">
<h2>Flow Cytometers vs Cell Sorters</h2>
<p>Analytical flow cytometers characterize cell populations by measuring fluorescence and light scatter signals from individual cells passing through one or more laser beams. They are designed for measurement and analysis — they do not physically separate cells. Cell sorters add electrostatic deflection or microfluidic sorting hardware that physically isolates selected cell populations into collection tubes or plates. Sorters require additional biosafety infrastructure, more complex fluidics, and significantly higher capital investment than analyzers. The instruments listed in this collection are analytical flow cytometers. If you require cell sorting capability, contact us to discuss sourcing options.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-used-refurbished">
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished Flow Cytometers</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished flow cytometers can offer significant cost savings compared to new instruments. When evaluating a used cytometer, key inspection points include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Optical condition:</strong> Laser output, filter condition, and detector sensitivity affect instrument performance. Request performance verification data where available.</li>
<li><strong>Lasers:</strong> Laser age and output vary by unit. Confirm laser wavelengths and power levels match your panel requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Fluidics:</strong> Pump condition, tubing integrity, and sheath/waste system condition affect sample delivery and data quality.</li>
<li><strong>Sample injection system:</strong> Confirm sample injection port, SIP, and any autosampler components are functional.</li>
<li><strong>Computer and workstation:</strong> Confirm the included computer (if any) is functional and compatible with the acquisition software.</li>
<li><strong>Software and licensing:</strong> Confirm software version and license status. License transferability varies by platform and vendor policy.</li>
<li><strong>Service history:</strong> Request available preventive maintenance records and calibration/QC history where available.</li>
<li><strong>Accessories:</strong> Confirm which accessories, reagents, and consumables are included. Configuration varies by unit.</li>
</ul>
<p>Configuration, service history, software licensing, and performance verification must be confirmed per unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory, clinical, or institutional requirements without independent verification.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-configuration">
<h2>Configuration and Panel Planning</h2>
<p>Flow cytometer configuration — including laser wavelengths, fluorescence channels, filter sets, and detector architecture — determines which fluorochromes and assays the instrument can support. When requesting a quote, include your panel requirements, target fluorochromes, and assay complexity so we can help identify instruments that match your workflow. Spectral instruments require compatible unmixing software and reference controls — confirm software availability and compatibility before purchasing. Filter sets and detector configurations vary by unit and may differ from standard factory configurations on used instruments.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-applications">
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>Analytical flow cytometers support a wide range of research and clinical laboratory workflows including immunophenotyping, cell viability analysis, apoptosis studies, cell cycle analysis, immunology research, oncology biomarker analysis, stem cell characterization, infectious disease research, fluorescence-based cell population studies, and general research flow cytometry. Suitability for specific applications, regulated environments, or clinical use must be confirmed by the buyer and their institutional quality and compliance teams.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-installation">
<h2>Installation and Facility Planning</h2>
<p>Flow cytometer installation requirements vary by platform. Key considerations include bench or floor space, electrical requirements, computer and workstation needs, sheath fluid and waste fluid handling, and environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Some platforms require compressed air or vacuum — confirm utility requirements for the specific instrument before ordering. Performance verification and operator training are recommended after installation. Confirm all site requirements with your facilities team before finalizing a purchase.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-software">
<h2>Software, Service, and Support Considerations</h2>
<p>Flow cytometers are sold with acquisition software that varies by manufacturer and platform — common examples include BD FACSDiva, Beckman Coulter CytExpert, and Thermo Scientific Attune Cytometric Software. Confirm software version, license status, and operating system compatibility when requesting a quote, particularly for older instruments where OS compatibility may be limited. Analysis software (such as FlowJo or Kaluza) is typically licensed separately. OEM service and parts availability vary by platform age and manufacturer support policy — confirm local service access before purchasing. mLab Supply does not guarantee OEM support availability for any specific instrument.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-procurement">
<h2>Procurement and Logistics</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional procurement workflows including formal quotations, purchase orders, and vendor onboarding documentation. We can source specific flow cytometer configurations, laser options, and manufacturer platforms on request. Freight coordination is available for large instruments, which typically require liftgate delivery and may require specialized rigging or elevator access for upper-floor placement. Deinstallation coordination is available for instruments being removed from existing laboratory environments. We also purchase surplus and decommissioned flow cytometers — contact us via the <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have equipment available.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-related">
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Laboratories sourcing flow cytometers often also require <a href="/collections/cell-counters-and-viability-analyzers">cell counters and viability analyzers</a> for sample preparation and QC, <a href="/collections/centrifuges">centrifuges</a> for sample processing, and <a href="/collections/microplate-readers">microplate readers</a> for complementary assay workflows. Browse <a href="/collections/beckman-coulter">Beckman Coulter laboratory equipment</a> and <a href="/collections/thermo-scientific">Thermo Scientific laboratory equipment</a> for additional instruments from those manufacturers. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for current availability and pricing, or visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus flow cytometers or other lab equipment to sell.</p>
</section>
<section class="mlab-collection-faq">
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<details><summary>What is a flow cytometer?</summary><p>A flow cytometer is an analytical instrument that measures fluorescence and light scatter signals from individual cells or particles as they pass through one or more laser beams in a fluid stream. It enables rapid, multi-parameter characterization of cell populations based on surface markers, intracellular proteins, viability, and other properties.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between a flow cytometer and a cell sorter?</summary><p>An analytical flow cytometer measures and characterizes cell populations but does not physically separate them. A cell sorter adds electrostatic deflection or microfluidic sorting hardware that physically isolates selected populations into collection tubes or plates. Sorters require additional biosafety infrastructure and are significantly more complex and capital-intensive than analyzers. The instruments in this collection are analytical cytometers.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between conventional and spectral flow cytometry?</summary><p>Conventional cytometers use bandpass filters and discrete detectors to measure fluorescence in defined wavelength windows, with compensation applied to correct for spectral overlap. Spectral cytometers collect the full emission spectrum from each cell and use unmixing algorithms to resolve individual fluorochrome contributions, enabling higher-parameter panels. The right choice depends on your panel complexity, assay requirements, and existing workflows.</p></details>
<details><summary>What should I inspect before buying a used flow cytometer?</summary><p>Key inspection points include laser output and condition, detector sensitivity, fluidics and pump condition, sample injection system integrity, computer and software functionality, software license status, available service and PM history, and which accessories are included. Configuration and service history vary by unit — confirm all details before finalizing a purchase.</p></details>
<details><summary>How many lasers or fluorescence channels do I need?</summary><p>Most routine immunophenotyping panels run on 2–3 laser instruments with 6–10 fluorescence channels. High-parameter panels with 15 or more markers typically require 4–5 lasers or a spectral platform. Include your panel requirements in your quote request and we can help identify instruments that match your workflow.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are software and computer systems included with used flow cytometers?</summary><p>Software and computer inclusion varies by unit. Confirm software version, license status, and whether a workstation is included when requesting a quote. License transferability depends on the manufacturer's policy for the specific platform. OS compatibility should be confirmed for older instruments.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are used flow cytometers calibrated before sale?</summary><p>Calibration and performance verification status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used instrument has been calibrated or performance-verified unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request available calibration and QC documentation when inquiring about a specific instrument.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific BD, Beckman Coulter, Thermo Scientific, Miltenyi, Cytek, or Sony model?</summary><p>Yes. We source flow cytometers from BD Biosciences, Beckman Coulter, Thermo Scientific, Miltenyi Biotec, Cytek Biosciences, and Sony Biotechnology on request. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with your preferred manufacturer, model, and configuration requirements and we will confirm current sourcing options and availability.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are refurbished flow cytometers suitable for regulated or clinical laboratories?</summary><p>Suitability for regulated or clinical environments depends on the specific instrument's condition, performance verification status, software licensing, and your institution's qualification requirements. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished instrument meets specific regulatory or clinical standards without independent verification. Consult your quality and compliance team before purchasing for regulated use.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight and installation for flow cytometers?</summary><p>Yes. Large flow cytometers typically require liftgate delivery and may require specialized rigging for upper-floor placement. Contact us when requesting a quote to discuss freight, deinstallation, and installation coordination for your specific location.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source discontinued flow cytometers?</summary><p>Yes. We specialize in sourcing used, refurbished, and surplus laboratory instruments including discontinued platforms. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with the specific model and configuration you need and we will confirm current sourcing options.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus flow cytometers?</summary><p>Yes. We purchase decommissioned and surplus flow cytometers from research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, universities, hospitals, and biotechnology organizations. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.</p></details>
</section>