Collection: Orbital Shakers
Buy used, refurbished, and sourced orbital shakers from mLab Supply for research labs, universities, pharmaceutical companies, and contract research organizations. We help procurement teams request pricing and availability on open-platform benchtop and larger-platform orbital shakers from leading manufacturers including Thermo Scientific, VWR, Heidolph, IKA, and Benchmark Scientific.
Orbital shakers provide consistent circular mixing and agitation for flask cultures, sample preparation, staining, extraction, and general laboratory workflows. Browse available listings below or submit a quote request for a specific model. Used and refurbished options may be available. Net 30 available for qualified institutions.
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IKA KS 260 basic Orbital Shaker
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VWR Advanced Digital Orbital Shaker — Request a Quote
Regular price $0.00 USDRegular price -
Thermo Scientific MaxQ 4000 Orbital Shaker — Request a Quote
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Sold out
<h2>How to Choose an Orbital Shaker</h2>
<p>Selecting the right orbital shaker depends on your specific workflow, vessel types, throughput requirements, and available bench space. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Platform size:</strong> Match the platform dimensions to your largest flask or vessel. Benchtop units typically accommodate flasks up to 2–4 L; larger platform models support higher flask counts and larger vessels.</li>
<li><strong>Load capacity:</strong> Confirm the rated load capacity in kilograms. Overloading a shaker can damage the drive mechanism and reduce bearing life.</li>
<li><strong>Speed range:</strong> Most orbital shakers operate between 25–500 RPM. Confirm the speed range covers your application — gentle mixing for cell culture support differs from vigorous agitation for extraction workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Orbit diameter:</strong> Common orbit diameters range from 19 mm to 50 mm. Larger orbits generate more aggressive mixing; smaller orbits are gentler and better suited for sensitive applications.</li>
<li><strong>Benchtop vs. larger platform:</strong> Benchtop models are compact and suitable for single-user labs. Larger platform models support higher flask counts and are common in production-support and scale-up environments.</li>
<li><strong>Flask and tube compatibility:</strong> Confirm that clamps or platforms are available for your vessel types — Erlenmeyer flasks, baffled flasks, bottles, microplates, or tubes.</li>
<li><strong>Clamp and platform options:</strong> Many orbital shakers accept interchangeable platforms and clamp sets. Confirm accessory compatibility before purchase, as accessories are not always included with used units.</li>
<li><strong>Timer and control interface:</strong> Basic models offer analog speed control; advanced models include digital displays, programmable timers, and run-time logging.</li>
<li><strong>Continuous-duty requirements:</strong> For 24/7 operation, confirm the unit is rated for continuous duty. Not all shakers are designed for uninterrupted long-term runs.</li>
<li><strong>Footprint and electrical requirements:</strong> Confirm bench space and electrical compatibility (voltage, frequency, plug type) before ordering, particularly for imported units.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Orbital Shaker Types</h2>
<h3>Benchtop Orbital Shakers</h3>
<p>Benchtop orbital shakers are compact units designed for individual workstations and small-to-medium throughput applications. They are well suited for flask agitation, sample mixing, staining, destaining, and general preparation workflows. Most benchtop models support flask sizes from 125 mL to 2 L and fit comfortably on a standard laboratory bench. The Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000, IKA KS 260 basic, Heidolph Unimax 1010, and Benchmark Scientific Orbi-Shaker are representative benchtop models.</p>
<h3>Large-Platform Orbital Shakers</h3>
<p>Large-platform orbital shakers provide a wider platform surface to accommodate higher flask counts, larger vessels, or multiple simultaneous experiments. They are common in scale-up environments, media preparation workflows, and labs running parallel culture conditions. The Thermo Scientific MaxQ 3000 and MaxQ 4000 are examples of larger-platform open-platform orbital shakers. These units typically require more bench or floor space and may have higher load ratings than compact benchtop models.</p>
<h2>Popular Orbital Shaker Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>Thermo Scientific</h3>
<ul>
<li>MaxQ 2000 Benchtop Orbital Shaker</li>
<li>MaxQ 3000 Orbital Shaker</li>
<li>MaxQ 4000 Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>VWR</h3>
<ul>
<li>Advanced Digital Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>Heidolph</h3>
<ul>
<li>Unimax 1010 Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>IKA</h3>
<ul>
<li>KS 260 basic Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>Benchmark Scientific</h3>
<ul>
<li>Orbi-Shaker Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<p>mLab Supply sources orbital shakers from leading manufacturers including Thermo Scientific, VWR, Heidolph, IKA, and Benchmark Scientific. Additional models may be available to source — submit a quote request for a specific model not listed above.</p>
<h2>Orbital Shakers vs. Incubator Shakers</h2>
<p>Orbital shakers and incubator shakers are related but distinct instrument categories. Understanding the difference helps ensure you select the right equipment for your workflow.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Orbital shakers</strong> are open-platform instruments. They provide circular mixing and agitation at ambient temperature without an enclosed temperature-controlled chamber. Typical applications include flask agitation, sample mixing, staining, extraction, and general preparation workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Incubator shakers</strong> incorporate an enclosed chamber with active temperature control — and often refrigeration. They are designed for culture-focused workflows where precise temperature maintenance during agitation is required, such as microbial culture, protein expression, and cell growth applications.</li>
</ul>
<p>If your workflow requires temperature-controlled agitation, see our <a href="/collections/incubator-shakers">Incubator Shakers</a> collection. If you need open-platform mixing at ambient temperature, an orbital shaker is the appropriate instrument class.</p>
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished Orbital Shakers</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished orbital shakers can offer significant cost savings compared to new instruments. When evaluating a used orbital shaker, consider the following:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Motor and drive condition:</strong> The drive mechanism is the most critical component. Listen for unusual noise and confirm smooth, consistent motion across the speed range.</li>
<li><strong>Platform movement:</strong> Confirm the platform moves smoothly without wobble, vibration anomalies, or binding at any speed setting.</li>
<li><strong>Bearing condition:</strong> Worn bearings produce noise and vibration. Bearing replacement is possible but adds to total cost of ownership.</li>
<li><strong>Speed control:</strong> Verify that speed control responds accurately and holds set points consistently.</li>
<li><strong>Timer and controller:</strong> Confirm that timers, displays, and control interfaces function correctly.</li>
<li><strong>Platform condition:</strong> Inspect the platform surface for corrosion, chemical damage, or deformation that could affect flask stability.</li>
<li><strong>Clamps and accessories:</strong> Confirm which clamps, platforms, and accessories are included. Accessory configuration varies by unit and is not guaranteed.</li>
<li><strong>Power requirements:</strong> Verify voltage and frequency compatibility with your facility before purchase.</li>
<li><strong>Service history:</strong> Service records, where available, provide useful context on prior maintenance and usage.</li>
<li><strong>Noise and vibration:</strong> Some vibration is normal; excessive noise or vibration at operating speed may indicate drive or bearing wear.</li>
</ul>
<p>mLab Supply sources used and refurbished orbital shakers through our supplier and secondary-market network. Condition, included accessories, and available documentation vary by unit. Contact us for details on a specific listing.</p>
<h2>Platforms, Clamps, and Accessories</h2>
<p>Orbital shaker performance depends on matching the correct platform and clamp configuration to your vessels. Common accessories include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Flask clamps:</strong> Available in sizes for 125 mL, 250 mL, 500 mL, 1 L, 2 L, and larger Erlenmeyer flasks. Clamp size must match flask size for secure operation.</li>
<li><strong>Universal platforms:</strong> Flat platforms with a non-slip surface or attachment points for multiple vessel types.</li>
<li><strong>Sticky mats:</strong> Non-slip mats that hold vessels without dedicated clamps, suitable for bottles, beakers, and irregular containers.</li>
<li><strong>Tube racks:</strong> Adapter racks for 15 mL and 50 mL conical tubes, microtubes, and culture tubes.</li>
<li><strong>Interchangeable platforms:</strong> Many orbital shaker models accept multiple platform configurations, allowing the same base unit to support different vessel types.</li>
</ul>
<p>Accessories are not automatically included with used or refurbished units. Confirm the exact configuration — including which clamps and platforms are included — before purchase. mLab Supply can assist with accessory sourcing inquiries.</p>
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>Orbital shakers support a wide range of laboratory mixing and agitation workflows, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>General sample mixing and homogenization</li>
<li>Media and buffer preparation</li>
<li>Flask agitation for microbiology and bioprocess development support workflows</li>
<li>Gel staining and destaining</li>
<li>Blotting and washing steps (Western blot, ELISA support)</li>
<li>Liquid-liquid and solid-liquid extraction</li>
<li>Assay preparation and reagent mixing</li>
<li>Dissolution and solubility studies</li>
<li>General research and development workflows</li>
</ul>
<p>For workflows requiring temperature-controlled agitation during culture, see our <a href="/collections/incubator-shakers">Incubator Shakers</a> collection.</p>
<h2>Procurement Support</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional and commercial laboratory procurement for orbital shakers and related equipment. Our team can assist with:</p>
<ul>
<li>Formal quotations for purchasing departments and procurement teams</li>
<li>Institutional purchase orders and Net 30 terms for qualified organizations</li>
<li>Vendor onboarding and supplier documentation</li>
<li>Sourcing specific models, configurations, or discontinued instruments</li>
<li>Freight coordination for large or floor-standing equipment</li>
<li>Configuration and accessory verification before purchase</li>
<li>Availability requests for models not currently listed</li>
</ul>
<p>To request a formal quote or check availability on a specific model, visit our <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> page. If you have surplus orbital shakers to sell, visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page.</p>
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Orbital shakers are frequently used alongside other laboratory instruments. mLab Supply also sources the following related equipment:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/collections/incubator-shakers">Incubator Shakers</a> — enclosed temperature-controlled shakers for culture workflows</li>
<li><a href="/collections/bioreactors-and-fermenters">Bioreactors and Fermenters</a> — controlled-environment vessels for bioprocess development</li>
<li><a href="/collections/centrifuges">Centrifuges</a> — separation equipment for research and clinical workflows</li>
<li><a href="/collections/labequipment">Lab Equipment</a> — browse the full mLab Supply catalog</li>
<li><a href="/collections/thermo-scientific">Thermo Scientific Laboratory Equipment</a> — Thermo Scientific instruments available to source</li>
</ul>
<p>Visit our <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> page to submit an inquiry, or our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus equipment to sell.</p>
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq">
<details>
<summary>What is an orbital shaker?</summary>
<p>An orbital shaker is a laboratory instrument that moves a platform in a circular (orbital) motion to mix, agitate, or aerate samples in flasks, bottles, tubes, or other vessels. Orbital shakers are open-platform instruments — they do not have an enclosed temperature-controlled chamber. They are used for general mixing, sample preparation, staining, extraction, and agitation workflows at ambient temperature.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What is the difference between an orbital shaker and an incubator shaker?</summary>
<p>An orbital shaker is an open-platform instrument that operates at ambient temperature. An incubator shaker incorporates an enclosed chamber with active temperature control — and often refrigeration — allowing precise temperature maintenance during agitation. Incubator shakers are designed for culture-focused workflows such as microbial growth, protein expression, and cell culture. If your workflow requires temperature-controlled agitation, see our <a href="/collections/incubator-shakers">Incubator Shakers</a> collection.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What orbit diameter should I choose?</summary>
<p>Orbit diameter affects mixing intensity. Smaller orbit diameters (19–25 mm) produce gentler mixing suitable for sensitive applications. Larger orbit diameters (38–50 mm) generate more aggressive agitation and better aeration, preferred for higher-density cultures and vigorous mixing workflows. Confirm the orbit diameter of a specific model before purchase to ensure it matches your application requirements.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What platform size do I need?</summary>
<p>Platform size should accommodate your largest flask or vessel with room for secure clamping. Benchtop models typically support platforms sized for 4–12 standard Erlenmeyer flasks depending on flask size. Larger-platform models support higher flask counts and larger vessels. Confirm platform dimensions and maximum flask size compatibility for the specific model you are considering.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are clamps and platforms included with used orbital shakers?</summary>
<p>Accessory inclusion varies by unit. Used and refurbished orbital shakers may or may not include clamps, platforms, or other accessories. The exact configuration — including which clamps and platform types are included — should be confirmed before purchase. mLab Supply can assist with accessory sourcing inquiries for specific models.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What should I inspect before buying a used orbital shaker?</summary>
<p>Key inspection points include: drive and motor condition (smooth, consistent motion; no unusual noise), bearing condition (listen for grinding or vibration), speed control accuracy, timer and controller function, platform surface condition, included accessories, and power requirements. Service history, where available, provides useful context. Contact mLab Supply for details on the condition of a specific listing.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Thermo Scientific, Heidolph, IKA, VWR, or Benchmark Scientific model?</summary>
<p>Yes. mLab Supply sources orbital shakers from Thermo Scientific, Heidolph, IKA, VWR, Benchmark Scientific, and other manufacturers through our supplier and secondary-market network. If a specific model is not currently listed, submit a request through our <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> page and our team will check availability.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are refurbished orbital shakers suitable for regulated laboratory environments?</summary>
<p>Suitability for regulated environments — including GMP, GLP, clinical, or other quality-system contexts — depends on the buyer's qualification requirements, validation protocols, SOPs, documentation needs, and intended use. mLab Supply does not make representations about regulatory suitability. Buyers are responsible for evaluating whether a specific instrument meets their quality-system and compliance requirements before purchase.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight for orbital shakers?</summary>
<p>Yes. mLab Supply can coordinate freight and logistics for larger orbital shakers and floor-standing platform shakers. Freight requirements, lead times, and delivery details vary by unit and destination. Include freight and delivery requirements in your quote request and our team will provide relevant details.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus orbital shakers?</summary>
<p>Yes. mLab Supply purchases surplus, used, and decommissioned laboratory equipment including orbital shakers. If you have equipment to sell, visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details. Our team will review your equipment and respond with an offer or next steps.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What is the lead time for sourced orbital shakers?</summary>
<p>Lead time depends on current inventory availability, the specific model requested, and sourcing requirements. In-stock used and refurbished units typically ship faster than sourced or located instruments. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">quote request</a> with your timeline requirements and our team will provide availability and lead time details for the specific model you need.</p>
</details>
</div>
<p>Selecting the right orbital shaker depends on your specific workflow, vessel types, throughput requirements, and available bench space. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Platform size:</strong> Match the platform dimensions to your largest flask or vessel. Benchtop units typically accommodate flasks up to 2–4 L; larger platform models support higher flask counts and larger vessels.</li>
<li><strong>Load capacity:</strong> Confirm the rated load capacity in kilograms. Overloading a shaker can damage the drive mechanism and reduce bearing life.</li>
<li><strong>Speed range:</strong> Most orbital shakers operate between 25–500 RPM. Confirm the speed range covers your application — gentle mixing for cell culture support differs from vigorous agitation for extraction workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Orbit diameter:</strong> Common orbit diameters range from 19 mm to 50 mm. Larger orbits generate more aggressive mixing; smaller orbits are gentler and better suited for sensitive applications.</li>
<li><strong>Benchtop vs. larger platform:</strong> Benchtop models are compact and suitable for single-user labs. Larger platform models support higher flask counts and are common in production-support and scale-up environments.</li>
<li><strong>Flask and tube compatibility:</strong> Confirm that clamps or platforms are available for your vessel types — Erlenmeyer flasks, baffled flasks, bottles, microplates, or tubes.</li>
<li><strong>Clamp and platform options:</strong> Many orbital shakers accept interchangeable platforms and clamp sets. Confirm accessory compatibility before purchase, as accessories are not always included with used units.</li>
<li><strong>Timer and control interface:</strong> Basic models offer analog speed control; advanced models include digital displays, programmable timers, and run-time logging.</li>
<li><strong>Continuous-duty requirements:</strong> For 24/7 operation, confirm the unit is rated for continuous duty. Not all shakers are designed for uninterrupted long-term runs.</li>
<li><strong>Footprint and electrical requirements:</strong> Confirm bench space and electrical compatibility (voltage, frequency, plug type) before ordering, particularly for imported units.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Orbital Shaker Types</h2>
<h3>Benchtop Orbital Shakers</h3>
<p>Benchtop orbital shakers are compact units designed for individual workstations and small-to-medium throughput applications. They are well suited for flask agitation, sample mixing, staining, destaining, and general preparation workflows. Most benchtop models support flask sizes from 125 mL to 2 L and fit comfortably on a standard laboratory bench. The Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000, IKA KS 260 basic, Heidolph Unimax 1010, and Benchmark Scientific Orbi-Shaker are representative benchtop models.</p>
<h3>Large-Platform Orbital Shakers</h3>
<p>Large-platform orbital shakers provide a wider platform surface to accommodate higher flask counts, larger vessels, or multiple simultaneous experiments. They are common in scale-up environments, media preparation workflows, and labs running parallel culture conditions. The Thermo Scientific MaxQ 3000 and MaxQ 4000 are examples of larger-platform open-platform orbital shakers. These units typically require more bench or floor space and may have higher load ratings than compact benchtop models.</p>
<h2>Popular Orbital Shaker Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>Thermo Scientific</h3>
<ul>
<li>MaxQ 2000 Benchtop Orbital Shaker</li>
<li>MaxQ 3000 Orbital Shaker</li>
<li>MaxQ 4000 Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>VWR</h3>
<ul>
<li>Advanced Digital Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>Heidolph</h3>
<ul>
<li>Unimax 1010 Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>IKA</h3>
<ul>
<li>KS 260 basic Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="mlab-model-group">
<h3>Benchmark Scientific</h3>
<ul>
<li>Orbi-Shaker Orbital Shaker</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<p>mLab Supply sources orbital shakers from leading manufacturers including Thermo Scientific, VWR, Heidolph, IKA, and Benchmark Scientific. Additional models may be available to source — submit a quote request for a specific model not listed above.</p>
<h2>Orbital Shakers vs. Incubator Shakers</h2>
<p>Orbital shakers and incubator shakers are related but distinct instrument categories. Understanding the difference helps ensure you select the right equipment for your workflow.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Orbital shakers</strong> are open-platform instruments. They provide circular mixing and agitation at ambient temperature without an enclosed temperature-controlled chamber. Typical applications include flask agitation, sample mixing, staining, extraction, and general preparation workflows.</li>
<li><strong>Incubator shakers</strong> incorporate an enclosed chamber with active temperature control — and often refrigeration. They are designed for culture-focused workflows where precise temperature maintenance during agitation is required, such as microbial culture, protein expression, and cell growth applications.</li>
</ul>
<p>If your workflow requires temperature-controlled agitation, see our <a href="/collections/incubator-shakers">Incubator Shakers</a> collection. If you need open-platform mixing at ambient temperature, an orbital shaker is the appropriate instrument class.</p>
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished Orbital Shakers</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished orbital shakers can offer significant cost savings compared to new instruments. When evaluating a used orbital shaker, consider the following:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Motor and drive condition:</strong> The drive mechanism is the most critical component. Listen for unusual noise and confirm smooth, consistent motion across the speed range.</li>
<li><strong>Platform movement:</strong> Confirm the platform moves smoothly without wobble, vibration anomalies, or binding at any speed setting.</li>
<li><strong>Bearing condition:</strong> Worn bearings produce noise and vibration. Bearing replacement is possible but adds to total cost of ownership.</li>
<li><strong>Speed control:</strong> Verify that speed control responds accurately and holds set points consistently.</li>
<li><strong>Timer and controller:</strong> Confirm that timers, displays, and control interfaces function correctly.</li>
<li><strong>Platform condition:</strong> Inspect the platform surface for corrosion, chemical damage, or deformation that could affect flask stability.</li>
<li><strong>Clamps and accessories:</strong> Confirm which clamps, platforms, and accessories are included. Accessory configuration varies by unit and is not guaranteed.</li>
<li><strong>Power requirements:</strong> Verify voltage and frequency compatibility with your facility before purchase.</li>
<li><strong>Service history:</strong> Service records, where available, provide useful context on prior maintenance and usage.</li>
<li><strong>Noise and vibration:</strong> Some vibration is normal; excessive noise or vibration at operating speed may indicate drive or bearing wear.</li>
</ul>
<p>mLab Supply sources used and refurbished orbital shakers through our supplier and secondary-market network. Condition, included accessories, and available documentation vary by unit. Contact us for details on a specific listing.</p>
<h2>Platforms, Clamps, and Accessories</h2>
<p>Orbital shaker performance depends on matching the correct platform and clamp configuration to your vessels. Common accessories include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Flask clamps:</strong> Available in sizes for 125 mL, 250 mL, 500 mL, 1 L, 2 L, and larger Erlenmeyer flasks. Clamp size must match flask size for secure operation.</li>
<li><strong>Universal platforms:</strong> Flat platforms with a non-slip surface or attachment points for multiple vessel types.</li>
<li><strong>Sticky mats:</strong> Non-slip mats that hold vessels without dedicated clamps, suitable for bottles, beakers, and irregular containers.</li>
<li><strong>Tube racks:</strong> Adapter racks for 15 mL and 50 mL conical tubes, microtubes, and culture tubes.</li>
<li><strong>Interchangeable platforms:</strong> Many orbital shaker models accept multiple platform configurations, allowing the same base unit to support different vessel types.</li>
</ul>
<p>Accessories are not automatically included with used or refurbished units. Confirm the exact configuration — including which clamps and platforms are included — before purchase. mLab Supply can assist with accessory sourcing inquiries.</p>
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>Orbital shakers support a wide range of laboratory mixing and agitation workflows, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>General sample mixing and homogenization</li>
<li>Media and buffer preparation</li>
<li>Flask agitation for microbiology and bioprocess development support workflows</li>
<li>Gel staining and destaining</li>
<li>Blotting and washing steps (Western blot, ELISA support)</li>
<li>Liquid-liquid and solid-liquid extraction</li>
<li>Assay preparation and reagent mixing</li>
<li>Dissolution and solubility studies</li>
<li>General research and development workflows</li>
</ul>
<p>For workflows requiring temperature-controlled agitation during culture, see our <a href="/collections/incubator-shakers">Incubator Shakers</a> collection.</p>
<h2>Procurement Support</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional and commercial laboratory procurement for orbital shakers and related equipment. Our team can assist with:</p>
<ul>
<li>Formal quotations for purchasing departments and procurement teams</li>
<li>Institutional purchase orders and Net 30 terms for qualified organizations</li>
<li>Vendor onboarding and supplier documentation</li>
<li>Sourcing specific models, configurations, or discontinued instruments</li>
<li>Freight coordination for large or floor-standing equipment</li>
<li>Configuration and accessory verification before purchase</li>
<li>Availability requests for models not currently listed</li>
</ul>
<p>To request a formal quote or check availability on a specific model, visit our <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> page. If you have surplus orbital shakers to sell, visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page.</p>
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Orbital shakers are frequently used alongside other laboratory instruments. mLab Supply also sources the following related equipment:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="/collections/incubator-shakers">Incubator Shakers</a> — enclosed temperature-controlled shakers for culture workflows</li>
<li><a href="/collections/bioreactors-and-fermenters">Bioreactors and Fermenters</a> — controlled-environment vessels for bioprocess development</li>
<li><a href="/collections/centrifuges">Centrifuges</a> — separation equipment for research and clinical workflows</li>
<li><a href="/collections/labequipment">Lab Equipment</a> — browse the full mLab Supply catalog</li>
<li><a href="/collections/thermo-scientific">Thermo Scientific Laboratory Equipment</a> — Thermo Scientific instruments available to source</li>
</ul>
<p>Visit our <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> page to submit an inquiry, or our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus equipment to sell.</p>
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq">
<details>
<summary>What is an orbital shaker?</summary>
<p>An orbital shaker is a laboratory instrument that moves a platform in a circular (orbital) motion to mix, agitate, or aerate samples in flasks, bottles, tubes, or other vessels. Orbital shakers are open-platform instruments — they do not have an enclosed temperature-controlled chamber. They are used for general mixing, sample preparation, staining, extraction, and agitation workflows at ambient temperature.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What is the difference between an orbital shaker and an incubator shaker?</summary>
<p>An orbital shaker is an open-platform instrument that operates at ambient temperature. An incubator shaker incorporates an enclosed chamber with active temperature control — and often refrigeration — allowing precise temperature maintenance during agitation. Incubator shakers are designed for culture-focused workflows such as microbial growth, protein expression, and cell culture. If your workflow requires temperature-controlled agitation, see our <a href="/collections/incubator-shakers">Incubator Shakers</a> collection.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What orbit diameter should I choose?</summary>
<p>Orbit diameter affects mixing intensity. Smaller orbit diameters (19–25 mm) produce gentler mixing suitable for sensitive applications. Larger orbit diameters (38–50 mm) generate more aggressive agitation and better aeration, preferred for higher-density cultures and vigorous mixing workflows. Confirm the orbit diameter of a specific model before purchase to ensure it matches your application requirements.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What platform size do I need?</summary>
<p>Platform size should accommodate your largest flask or vessel with room for secure clamping. Benchtop models typically support platforms sized for 4–12 standard Erlenmeyer flasks depending on flask size. Larger-platform models support higher flask counts and larger vessels. Confirm platform dimensions and maximum flask size compatibility for the specific model you are considering.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Are clamps and platforms included with used orbital shakers?</summary>
<p>Accessory inclusion varies by unit. Used and refurbished orbital shakers may or may not include clamps, platforms, or other accessories. The exact configuration — including which clamps and platform types are included — should be confirmed before purchase. mLab Supply can assist with accessory sourcing inquiries for specific models.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>What should I inspect before buying a used orbital shaker?</summary>
<p>Key inspection points include: drive and motor condition (smooth, consistent motion; no unusual noise), bearing condition (listen for grinding or vibration), speed control accuracy, timer and controller function, platform surface condition, included accessories, and power requirements. Service history, where available, provides useful context. Contact mLab Supply for details on the condition of a specific listing.</p>
</details>
<details>
<summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Thermo Scientific, Heidolph, IKA, VWR, or Benchmark Scientific model?</summary>
<p>Yes. mLab Supply sources orbital shakers from Thermo Scientific, Heidolph, IKA, VWR, Benchmark Scientific, and other manufacturers through our supplier and secondary-market network. If a specific model is not currently listed, submit a request through our <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> page and our team will check availability.</p>
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<summary>Are refurbished orbital shakers suitable for regulated laboratory environments?</summary>
<p>Suitability for regulated environments — including GMP, GLP, clinical, or other quality-system contexts — depends on the buyer's qualification requirements, validation protocols, SOPs, documentation needs, and intended use. mLab Supply does not make representations about regulatory suitability. Buyers are responsible for evaluating whether a specific instrument meets their quality-system and compliance requirements before purchase.</p>
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<summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight for orbital shakers?</summary>
<p>Yes. mLab Supply can coordinate freight and logistics for larger orbital shakers and floor-standing platform shakers. Freight requirements, lead times, and delivery details vary by unit and destination. Include freight and delivery requirements in your quote request and our team will provide relevant details.</p>
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<summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus orbital shakers?</summary>
<p>Yes. mLab Supply purchases surplus, used, and decommissioned laboratory equipment including orbital shakers. If you have equipment to sell, visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details. Our team will review your equipment and respond with an offer or next steps.</p>
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<summary>What is the lead time for sourced orbital shakers?</summary>
<p>Lead time depends on current inventory availability, the specific model requested, and sourcing requirements. In-stock used and refurbished units typically ship faster than sourced or located instruments. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">quote request</a> with your timeline requirements and our team will provide availability and lead time details for the specific model you need.</p>
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