Vortex mixers – Buying guide & Comparison
If you are short on time and you just want to find the one of the best vortex mixers, this short paragraph should help you get just the model you need. According to our findings, the Scientific Industries SI-0236 2 is the best option in the line because it offers all the benefits of a variable speed ranging from 600 to 3,200 RPM, and this unit is fairly easy to utilize under most circumstances. In addition, it is worth noting that, unlike many of its competitors, this vortex mixer comes along with several accessories which would have to be bought separately if they weren’t provided in the pack. What’s more, the model has been equipped with shock-absorbing feet in order for the platform to remain in a designated place so that no accidents ever happen in your lab. If the Scientific Industries SI-0236 2 is unavailable, your second options should be the Benchmark Scientific BV1000.
One of the many vortex mixer applications involves laboratory use, and if you’re looking to buy a new model with the help of which you can shake various samples, you’re in the right place. We have compiled all the information we have found on the topic in a comprehensive buying guide that can hopefully give you a hand when it comes to making the right call between one unit and the next. All of the factors you ought to give some thought to can be found below, but it is important to underline that your requirements and expectations sometimes matter even more than the features of the product per se.
Speed
The velocity offered by the model you will be choosing, in the end, matters a great deal as it depends on the substance you will be shaking. For example, we have seen that many units come with rotation speeds ranging from five hundred to thirty hundred revolutions per minute.
In most cases, the speed can be customized by using an analog or electronic control, because the presence of digital displays is somewhat rare in this kind of equipment due to the fact that an LCD screen can be affected by vibration. Over and more, there are models that come with a fixed speed, so be sure to check the product description before ordering the vortex mixer as 2500 RPM might not be its maximum velocity. Instead, it may be the only one offered by the model.
Ease of use and convenience
In spite of the fact that using a vortex mixer isn’t all that difficult as it can be done by a person with no prior experience in handling such equipment, it might be worth noting that some products are simply more user-friendly than others. Many of the units available for sale on the market today come with simple rotary dials that can be utilized in order to select the proper speed that is needed to process the sample.
Besides, a plethora of models also come with many accessories such as beakers, flasks, tubes, mixing heads of various sizes and shapes, as well as platforms. On the one hand, this detail is beneficial because you will be able to use any glass or plasticware in your lab without bothering to somehow adjust the features of the vortex mixer in accordance with the shape and size of the sample. On the other hand, it’s convenient because you won’t have to purchase these extras on their own.
Design
There aren’t too many variations on the design theme of most vortex mixers out there, and that’s mostly due to the fact that many manufacturing brands make them as stable as possible.
Of course, these devices should be designed judiciously, so that they don’t have parts that might be flimsy or have a high risk of becoming broken at some point. However, we have noticed that there is a feature that can come in handy and it consists of the presence of shock-absorbing feet. These additions make it possible for the unit to remain in the same place at all times, without walking on the countertop or table.
Size
If you’re going to opt for a vortex bench mixer, it might be a good idea to check for the dimensions of the unit prior to ordering it. Even before starting to consider one model or the other, you ought to think ahead and try to designate a special place in your lab where you can place the vortex mixer so that it doesn’t bother anyone or any other equipment while it is doing its job.
Besides, if the product is too large, it might take up a lot of space on your lab table or countertop which might be counterproductive in a busy laboratory where things can start to become crowded at some point or the other.
5 Best Vortex Mixers (Reviews) in 2024
The best vortex mixers are showcased below. While the selection is composed of some of the most critically acclaimed units that have been on the market for quite some time, you’ll also find several models that are newer but have still managed to gather the best vortex mixer reviews. They provide all the benefits of excellent performance and they’re convenient and come with user-friendly controls.
Contents
1. Scientific Industries SI-0236 Vortex-Genie 2 Mixer
Even though this model might not be the most modern one we have come across, it definitely does the trick under most circumstances, which is why it’s so well-known for its performance.
The Vortex-Genie 2 is one of the preferred pieces of equipment for many laboratory professionals because it has been equipped with many convenient features. One of these consists of the shock-absorbing feet it comes with, which make it possible for the unit to remain safely in its designated place, regardless of the intensity of the speed utilized.
What’s more, this shaker can be used with samples of any nature as long as the operator desires to mix the content of the flask or beaker using a speed that can be customized between 600 and 3,200 revolutions per minute.
Furthermore, the Vortex-Genie 2 is advantageous because it comes with two operating modes, in that allows owners to either touch the cup head with the flask and trigger its use or opt for the continuous mode and go about their business in the laboratory. The fact that the Vortex-Genie 2 comes along with a series of extras such as a 3-in platform and a cup head for a single tube is handy, to say the least.
Pros
Offering a variable speed between 600 and 3,200 RPM, this vortex mixer can handle samples through either a gentle shaking or a rapid vortexing to ensure results are consistent and the sample is homogeneous throughout.
This model gives you the option of operating it by touch or programming it to run continuously depending on the demands of the application.
You have the choice of putting the sample into a single tube or a beaker, flask, or a number of tubes thanks to the removable cup head and 3-inch platform of the mixer.
With its metal housing and shock-absorbing feet, this instrument provides a stable platform that effectively prevents it from ‘walking’ on the work desk or lab counter.
This model is engineered for hassle-free use in incubators and cold rooms so you don’t have to worry about the results being inconsistent because of the setting.
Cons
Because it is made to be extremely heavy to ensure stability, this model might be hard to move from one location to another.
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2. Benchmark Scientific BV1000 BenchMixer Vortex Mixer
The Benchmark Scientific BV1000 shares many of its features with the previously showcased model, which is why it’s worth pointing out that this model has the same touch and continuous modes belonging to the Vortex-Genie 2.
Besides, the product allows users to customize the velocity in the range of 200 to 3,200 RPM, which means that the speed limits are a bit more generous when compared to the ones of the formerly mentioned unit.
Additionally, you might feel tempted to give a chance to the Benchmark Scientific BV1000 as it comes with a unique counter-balance system that makes it one of the least noisy alternatives in the line. The same system is responsible for considerably reducing the vibration that is inevitably produced by the device while it is operating.
Unlike some of its competitors, the BV1000 does not come with many accessories or interchangeable cup heads; instead, it features just one rubber cup head that can be used to mix single tubes.
Given the fact that this unit is a reasonably priced option that offers plenty of value for the price, it’s safe to say that it may prove to be a good choice if you haven’t yet made up your mind on a different one.
Pros
Offering variable speeds from 200 to 3,200 RPM, this machine provides both rapid vortexing and gentle shaking to suit the requirements of the sample.
Because it can operate in either continuous mode or touch mode, this model ensures that the sample is handled properly during the preparation stage so that results are consistent and reliable in the end.
You can mix single tubes with ease thanks to the rubber cup head that prevents leaking while the multiple samples are being processed. Noise and vibration are minimized as well while vortexing is maximized due to the Q-Drive counterbalance system.
Thanks to the instrument’s ability to withstand variations in ambient temperature, it can be used in incubators and cold rooms.
You have the option of using a 3-inch flat head when mixing a number of tubes. You can also use a separately bought combination head to hold up to 60 small tubes or even a microplate, for versatility.
Cons
At 3.8 kg, this model is quite hefty and can’t be moved easily with just one hand.
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3. Scilogex 82120004 MX-S Vortex Mixer with Orbital 4mm
If you’re interested in buying a vortex mixer made by one of the most reputable manufacturing brands in the world, perhaps you ought to check out the specs of this Scilogex one. For one, it is more affordable compared to the models we’ve described earlier on.
Secondly, it does exactly what it is supposed to, but that should only be expected from a unit bearing the Scilogex name. This unit can be utilized for shaking samples with a speed that can vary from 0 to 2,500 RPM. Just like the products we’ve discussed above, this one has two operating modes; touch and continuous mode.
The neat thing about the Scilogex and the fact that sets it aside from its competitors is that it comes with an electronic speed control that can notify operators when something has gone wrong, for example, and the speed has changed unexpectedly. Even when the load has changed, the machine can do the same using the electronic speed control.
As for the design, we failed to find anything that might have a negative impact on the user’s experience, considering that this unit has also been equipped with four silicone feet that can provide all the vibration-dampening attributes one might require.
Pros
Geared to deliver variable speeds between 0 to 2,500 RPM, this model mixes samples for effortless observation afterward. You obtain a homogeneously mixed solution so whichever part of the container you obtain a sample from, the consistency will be the same throughout.
This model gives you the option to do rapid vortexing or just gentle shaking depending on the needs of the activity. You won’t be getting inconsistently mixed samples.
This device provides the option of touch operation or continuous mode so you can use the setting you prefer or what is asked for the task.
The provided cup head enables you to mix just a single test tube or smaller receptacle with a diameter of 30mm so you can shake the liquid as much or as little as needed.
A constant speed is maintained thanks to the electronic speed control that works efficiently even with any alterations made on the load.
Cons
One customer would like the unit not to accelerate on its own when set on low to prevent medicine bottles from being flung across the room.
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4. Elmi V-3 Vortex Mixer with Universal Mixing Adapter
If you’re in need of a compact and lightweight vortex mixer, look no further. The ELMI V-3 will be the perfect option for what you might have in mind.
Besides, you ought to be aware of the fact that a small size and a lower price are not synonymous with lower quality, in that the product is perfectly suited for all kinds of applications, mostly because it allows buyers to adjust its rotation speed from 50 to 4,000 RPM.
It goes without saying that, since it is so small-sized, the unit cannot be utilized with large flasks and beakers, especially as it comes with a universal mixing adapter that can be used strictly with test tubes with volumes ranging from 0.5 to 50 milliliters.
Even so, we feel compelled to point out that the device can be fitted with an adapter which should be bought separately and which can accommodate multiple 1.5 to 2.0-milliliter tubes.
As is the case with the previously described models, the ELMI V-3 features a special anti-vibration system that makes it a stable piece of equipment to have around. Based on the owner feedback that we have consulted when assessing the quality of this product, it seems to be a quiet alternative that’s entirely functional and generally offers good value for the price.
Pros
Compact yet durable and powerful, this model is a great addition to any modern laboratory. It is easy to operate and can accommodate any test tube with a volume up to 50 ml.
It operates at 50 to 4,000 RPM, so the sample is mixed uniformly. This means you can take a portion of the sample at any section in the container and not worry about inconsistencies in the way it is mixed
Compact at just 5 x 24 inches, this model is easy to position on the lab counter or a crowded work desk. Storage is also not a problem either.
This model is equipped with a hands-free mode so you can be sure the sample is being mixed thoroughly even if you keep your hands off the controls. This feature is useful in a busy laboratory setting.
This dome-shaped model features an anti-vibration system that provides optimal stability, so the sample/s gets mixed uniformly without any ‘walking.
Cons
The touch operation button is also the same one used to turn the machine on and off so toggling from one to the other may create some issues.
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5. Heathrow Scientific HS120209 Vortexer Mixer
The HS120209 is yet another affordable vortex mixer to consider particularly since not all owners might benefit from a generous budget. From what we have gathered about this model, it looks as if it can be bought for less than one hundred and sixty dollars at most online retailers, including Amazon.
Even though the design of this model has not been built to impress, the HS120209 does offer several useful characteristics, such as the rotation speed which can be adjusted using the rotary dial that can be found on the front of the unit. As such, owners can choose between the 1000, 2000, and 3000 RPM settings or select the single intermittent option.
The convenience and ease of use offered by the Heathrow Scientific model cannot be denied, especially as the mixing head can accommodate up to seven different sizes of tubes, as well as a typical assay plate. This is the reason the mixing head might look terribly different when compared to the design of other models.
As is the case with virtually all modern vortex mixers that can be found on the market today, this one comes with stable elastomeric feet which have vibration-dampening properties and thanks to which the safety of use is greatly increased.
Pros
Offering multi-purpose use and maximum convenience, this device carries a modern, sleek design that is functional for the mixing requirements of widely-used test tubes. No need to replace mixing head units with others just to be able to perform mixing operations.
The compact design facilitates use on relatively small work spaces, with holding slots to accommodate a maximum of six test tubes and a typical assay plate.
Use the center pad area for the quick, handheld mixing of a wide array of vessels and tubes so you wouldn’t need an adapter any longer.
Outfitted with stable, elastomeric feet, this model dampens vibrations and effectively prevents movement on the counter during operations.
You can clean the machine when needed because of the innovative removable head. This eliminates the need to take everything apart.
Cons
Because it has less popularity compared to others, this device has not gotten enough attention from mainstream consumers.
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