Benchtop units Thermomixers

Thermomixers: Selection Criteria and Model Overview

Thermomixers combine two functions in one device: precise temperature control and uniform shaking motion. This combination is required when a sample must be continuously mixed during incubation, for example, to prevent sedimentation, accelerate reaction kinetics, or ensure homogeneous temperature distribution in the sample vessel. Typical applications include DNA/RNA extractions, enzymatic digests, protein precipitation, and cell lysis protocols.

Thermomixers with Heating Only

For applications that exclusively require temperatures above room temperature, models without cooling function are available: the ISTHBL series with electronic control and 4.3-inch touchscreen (with block from €2,810.00, with block for 24×1.5 ml tubes €3,215.00) as well as the Hettich models MHL 23 (linear shaking stroke, 2 interchangeable blocks, €2,929.00) and MHR 23 (orbital shaking stroke, 2 interchangeable blocks, €2,929.00).

Thermomixers with Cooling and Heating

For protocols that also require temperatures below room temperature, such as for direct cooling after a heating step or for temperature-sensitive enzyme reactions, cooling thermomixers are available: the ISTHBLC series (from €3,460.00) as well as the Hettich models MKR 13 (1 interchangeable block, €2,788.00) and MKR 23 (2 interchangeable blocks, €3,527.00).

Interchangeable Blocks and Shaking Motion

All models work with interchangeable blocks for different vessel formats (Eppendorf tubes, Falcon tubes, microtiter plates). Devices with two interchangeable blocks allow for the parallel operation of two different sample formats or temperature protocols simultaneously. The shaking motion is either linear or orbital, depending on the model—the orbital motion is the more common variant for most standard applications.

Frequently Asked Questions about Thermomixers

The most important questions regarding the selection between models with and without cooling function.