Choosing the right pipette tip can not only reduce experimental errors and avoid repetitive operations, but also directly improve experimental efficiency and make the entire experimental process smoother. The following elaborates from the core dimensions of "how to choose the right pipette tip" to help precisely match experimental requirements:

First, look at "compatibility" : Avoid basic errors

The matching of the pipette tip and the pipette is a prerequisite. If the dimensions do not match, it will lead to leakage and poor air tightness, directly affecting the accuracy of pipetting.

Brand compatibility: Mainstream pipette brands (such as Eppendorf, Thermo, Gilson, etc.) usually have dedicated pipette tips, and the interface design is more compatible. It is preferred to choose pipette tips of the same brand. For universal pipette tips, it is necessary to confirm the marked "compatible model" (such as compatible with the entire series of 10-1000μL) to avoid errors caused by minor size differences.

Specification compatibility Select the pipette capacity based on the volume range of the pipette. For instance, a 10μL pipette should be paired with a 0.1-10μL pipette, and a 1000μL pipette with a 100-1000μL pipette. This avoids the situation of "a small horse pulling a big cart" (using a small-capacity pipette to transfer liquids beyond the volume range requires multiple operations) Low efficiency or "overkill" (large-capacity pipette tips are used to transfer trace amounts of liquid with insufficient precision).

Second, select functions by "Experiment Type" : Specifically address pain points

The functional requirements for pipette tips vary greatly among different experiments. Precise matching can directly enhance efficiency.

For regular pipetting (such as water or buffer), a universal pipette tip is sufficient. This type of pipette tip offers high cost performance, meets basic precision requirements, and is suitable for batch pipetting (such as reagent dispensing). It does not require additional functions and avoids cost waste.

Molecular biology experiments (such as PCR, nucleic acid extraction) : Filter cartridge tips are preferred. The built-in filter membrane can prevent aerosol back-suction and avoid cross-contamination between samples (especially in PCR experiments, aerosol contamination can lead to false positives, and the rework cost is extremely high). At the same time, when transferring nucleic acids, it is recommended to choose low-adsorption pipette tips (with siliconized inner walls) to reduce the loss of nucleic acids due to adsorption on the inner walls of the pipette tips, which is particularly crucial for trace samples (such as cfDNA).