The complete guide to micropipettes

 

The complete guide to micropipettes

To help you master the art of pipetting, we have compiled a complete guide to micropipettes. You'll learn about the different types and how to choose the right one for your work. Moreover, we've also included advice for proper pipetting and information on different types of pipette tips and when to use them.

What is a micropipette?

EVOLVE micropipettes on a stand

Micropipettes, also referred to as pipettes or microliter pipettes, are essential pieces of lab equipment used to accurately and precisely transfer small volumes of liquid. Micropipettes can be divided into different categories, such as air displacement and positive displacement pipettes, adjustable and fixed volume pipettes, manual and electronic pipettes or single channel and multichannel pipettes.

More information on the different types of micropipettes can be found below.

Proper pipetting: How to correctly use a micropipette

Scientist using a single channel pipette to fill a 96 well plate

Micropipettes are routinely used in laboratories, but even when lab professionals follow the same protocols every time, inconsistencies in liquid handling techniques can lead to poor data and reproducibility concerns. Therefore, ensuring correct and consistent pipetting technique is just as critical for successful projects as pipette calibration, repair and maintenance.

We have put together several helpful articles to provide you general rules as well as tips and tricks for correct pipetting. By following these simple guidelines, you can:

  • enhance the reproducibility and reliability of results by achieving accuracy and precision for each aspiration and dispense;
  • maintain consistent operation of both manual and electronic micropipettes;
  • improve the pipetting of challenging liquids, such as viscous and volatile liquids
  • and ensure proper maintenance to prolong the lifespan of your micropipettes.

Check out these articles to learn more:

How to choose the right micropipette

Scientist choosing a multichannel micropipette

Selecting the right micropipette can be key to the success of your work. It not only ensures the reliability of your experiments but can also boost your efficiency and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. If you'd like to learn more about the most important considerations to take into account when choosing a micropipette, read the 2 articles below.

Micropipette tips

Closeup of a multichannel pipette with pipette tips attached to the fittings

Micropipette tips are disposable plastic consumables made of polypropylene and are available in a variety of different versions, such as non-sterile, sterile, filtered, unfiltered, long, short, low retention and wide bore. If you'd like to learn more about what each of these options is good for, check out the following article.

Conclusion

With this complete guide to micropipettes, you can enhance the reproducibility and reliability of your results, boost your efficiency, and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a student new to the lab, these resources will help you master the art of pipetting and ensure the success of your projects.