Collection: qPCR Systems

Buy new, refurbished, and used qPCR systems from mLab Supply for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, academic, clinical, and contract research laboratories. We source real-time PCR systems across all major block formats and optical configurations from leading manufacturers — whether you're replacing an aging instrument, expanding throughput capacity, or sourcing a specific platform for an established gene expression or pathogen detection workflow. Net 30 purchasing options are available for qualified organizations, and our team can assist with procurement documentation, quotations, and institutional purchasing requirements.

qPCR systems — also referred to as real-time PCR or quantitative PCR instruments — provide real-time nucleic acid amplification and quantification for gene expression analysis, pathogen detection, SNP genotyping, copy number variation analysis, miRNA quantification, and clinical diagnostics. We source instruments from Applied Biosystems (Thermo Fisher Scientific), Bio-Rad, Roche, Eppendorf, Agilent, Qiagen, and Analytik Jena.

Buying Guide: qPCR Systems

Block Format: 96-Well, 384-Well, and Rotor-Based

Block format determines throughput capacity and sample volume. 96-well systems are the standard configuration for most research and clinical laboratories, accommodating standard 96-well PCR plates and strips. 384-well systems support higher throughput with smaller reaction volumes (typically 5–10 µL) and are used in high-throughput screening, large-scale genotyping, and drug discovery applications. Rotor-based systems such as the Qiagen Rotor-Gene Q use a spinning rotor format that eliminates thermal gradient effects and provides highly uniform temperature distribution across all samples — preferred for applications requiring maximum thermal precision. Confirm block format compatibility with your existing consumables and reaction volumes before purchasing.

Throughput Considerations

Effective throughput depends on more than block format alone. When evaluating a qPCR system for high-volume workflows, consider the following factors together:

Block format — 96-well vs. 384-well determines samples per run
Reaction volume — smaller volumes (5–10 µL) require compatible liquid handling equipment for reliable plate loading
Ramp rate — faster ramp rates reduce cycle time per run; important when running multiple plates per day
Plate setup time — manual plate setup is a throughput bottleneck at scale; automated liquid handlers can significantly increase daily output
Liquid handling capacity — 384-well workflows typically require automated liquid handling for consistent low-volume dispensing
Number of runs per day — total daily throughput is a function of run time, plate turnaround, and operator availability

For laboratories running more than 5–10 plates per day, pairing a qPCR system with an Automated Liquid Handler is worth evaluating as part of the instrument sourcing decision.

Optical Channels and Multiplexing

The number of fluorescence detection channels determines multiplexing capability — the ability to detect multiple targets in a single reaction. Single-channel systems support SYBR Green-based detection for one target per well. Multi-channel systems (typically 4–6 channels) support TaqMan probe-based multiplex detection of multiple targets simultaneously. Confirm the number of optical channels and the excitation/emission wavelengths supported when sourcing a qPCR system for multiplex applications. Common multi-channel instruments include the Bio-Rad CFX96 Touch (5 channels), Bio-Rad CFX384 Touch (5 channels), Applied Biosystems QuantStudio 5 (5 channels), QuantStudio 7 Pro (7 channels), and Roche LightCycler 480 II (5 channels).

Thermal Performance: Ramp Rate and Uniformity

Ramp rate (°C/sec) determines how quickly the block transitions between temperatures and directly affects run time. Higher ramp rates reduce cycle time and are important for high-throughput laboratories running multiple plates per day. Thermal uniformity across the block affects result consistency — particularly important for 384-well applications where edge effects can influence amplification efficiency. Confirm ramp rate and thermal uniformity specifications when evaluating instruments for high-throughput or precision applications.

Software and Data Export

qPCR software manages run setup, real-time data collection, and analysis. Confirm software version compatibility with your operating system and data analysis pipeline before purchasing a refurbished instrument. Key considerations include: compatibility with your institution's network and data export requirements, availability of software licenses and installation media, and compatibility with downstream analysis tools. Some instruments support cloud connectivity and remote monitoring — confirm whether these features are required for your workflow.

SYBR Green vs. Probe-Based Detection

SYBR Green intercalating dye detection is suitable for single-target applications and is the most cost-effective approach for gene expression analysis. Probe-based detection (TaqMan, FRET probes) provides higher specificity and is required for multiplex applications, SNP genotyping, allelic discrimination, and clinical diagnostic workflows. Confirm detection chemistry compatibility with your assay design before selecting an instrument.

96-Well vs. 384-Well: Key Purchasing Considerations

96-well systems are the right choice for most research laboratories running standard reaction volumes (20–25 µL) with moderate throughput requirements. 384-well systems are appropriate when throughput, reagent cost reduction, or sample volume minimization are priorities. Note that 384-well systems require a compatible centrifuge and liquid handling equipment for reliable plate loading at low volumes. Confirm your liquid handling capability before purchasing a 384-well system.

New vs. Refurbished qPCR Systems

Refurbished qPCR systems offer significant cost savings compared to new list pricing while delivering equivalent performance when properly serviced. Available instruments may include optical system verification, thermal uniformity testing, block calibration, lamp or LED inspection, software validation, and performance verification records where available. Surplus and as-is units are also available for laboratories with in-house service capability. Specific refurbishment scope and documentation vary by instrument — our team can provide details for each available system.

Documentation & Validation

Depending on the instrument, available documentation may include thermal uniformity calibration records, optical calibration records, performance verification records, software license information, service history, and IQ/OQ documentation where available. Contact us for current availability and complete system specifications before purchasing.

Procurement Support

We regularly support university procurement departments, pharmaceutical purchasing teams, government laboratories, and contract research organizations by providing quotations, procurement documentation, vendor onboarding support, and institutional purchasing assistance. Net 30 purchasing options are available for qualified organizations.

Popular qPCR System Models

mLab Supply sources qPCR systems from Applied Biosystems (Thermo Fisher Scientific), Bio-Rad, Roche, Eppendorf, Agilent, Qiagen, and Analytik Jena.

Industries Served

Related Laboratory Equipment

Laboratories sourcing qPCR systems frequently evaluate complementary instruments including Microplate Readers for downstream assay detection, Automated Liquid Handlers for high-throughput plate setup, Centrifuges for plate and sample preparation, Spectrophotometers & Fluorometers for nucleic acid quantification prior to qPCR setup, Biosafety Cabinets for RNA sample handling, and Water Purification Systems for nuclease-free water. Browse our complete Buy Lab Equipment catalog, Request a Quote for a specific instrument, or visit our Sell Lab Equipment page if you have surplus qPCR systems to sell.

Why Buy From mLab Supply?

New, refurbished, and used qPCR systems
Equipment sourcing for discontinued models and legacy software configurations
Vendor and procurement support for institutional purchasing
Net 30 purchasing for qualified organizations
Equipment liquidation and trade-ins
Nationwide shipping
Installation coordination available on select systems

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a refurbished qPCR system from mLab Supply?

Yes. mLab Supply sources pre-owned and refurbished qPCR systems from Applied Biosystems, Bio-Rad, Roche, Eppendorf, Agilent, Qiagen, Analytik Jena, and other manufacturers. Submit a quote request and we'll confirm current availability and instrument configuration.

What is the difference between a 96-well and 384-well qPCR system?

96-well systems are the standard configuration for most research and clinical laboratories, running standard reaction volumes of 20–25 µL. 384-well systems support higher throughput with smaller reaction volumes (5–10 µL), reducing reagent cost per reaction. 384-well systems require compatible liquid handling equipment for reliable low-volume plate loading. Choose 96-well for standard throughput; choose 384-well when throughput, reagent cost, or sample volume minimization are priorities.

How many fluorescence channels do I need?

The number of channels required depends on your multiplexing needs. Single-channel systems support SYBR Green detection for one target per well. If you need to detect multiple targets in a single reaction (multiplex), you need a multi-channel system — typically 4–6 channels for standard multiplex TaqMan assays. Confirm the excitation and emission wavelengths of your probes against the instrument's optical configuration before purchasing.

Are software licenses included with refurbished qPCR systems?

Software availability varies by instrument and configuration. Where available, software licenses and installation media are included. Some instruments require manufacturer-issued license keys that may need to be transferred or reissued. Contact us for details on software availability for a specific instrument before purchasing.

What is the difference between SYBR Green and TaqMan probe-based detection?

SYBR Green is an intercalating dye that binds to any double-stranded DNA, making it suitable for single-target gene expression analysis at lower cost. TaqMan probes are sequence-specific fluorescent probes that provide higher specificity and are required for multiplex detection, SNP genotyping, allelic discrimination, and clinical diagnostic workflows. Most multi-channel qPCR systems support both detection chemistries.

Can mLab Supply help with IQ/OQ or validation requirements?

Documentation availability varies by instrument and source. Depending on the system, available materials may include calibration records, performance verification, service history, and IQ/OQ documentation. Confirm validation requirements when requesting a quote so our team can identify appropriately documented systems.

Do you sell standard thermal cyclers as well as qPCR systems?

mLab Supply sources both real-time qPCR instruments and conventional thermal cyclers. qPCR systems provide fluorescence-based amplification monitoring and quantification, while standard thermal cyclers are used for endpoint PCR. Submit a quote request with your required format and application.

Do you purchase used qPCR systems?

Yes. mLab Supply purchases surplus and used qPCR systems from pharmaceutical companies, universities, contract laboratories, and research organizations. If you have equipment to sell, visit our Sell Lab Equipment page or request an equipment valuation.