When selecting pipette tips, one common dilemma is whether to use filtered or non-filtered tips. The right choice depends on the experiment you're conducting, the sensitivity of your samples, and your contamination risk.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between filter and regular tips, and help you decide which is best for your lab needs.
1. What Are Filter Tips?
Filter tips are pipette tips that contain a hydrophobic barrier near the top of the tip. This filter prevents liquids or aerosols from reaching the pipette shaft.
Key Benefits:
-
Significantly reduces cross-contamination risks
-
Prevents sample or aerosol backflow
-
Protects the pipette from internal damage and contamination
🔬 Especially recommended for high-sensitivity applications like PCR, RNA/DNA extraction, or clinical diagnostics.
2. What Are Regular (Non-Filtered) Tips?
Regular pipette tips do not contain a barrier. They’re the standard option for many labs and are well-suited for general use.
Key Features:
-
Cost-effective for routine lab tasks
-
Suitable when contamination risk is low
-
Widely available in bulk and rack packaging
3. When Should You Use Each Type?
| Application | Recommended Tip Type | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| PCR / qPCR | Filter Tip | Prevents contamination from aerosols or carryover |
| RNA / DNA extraction | Filter Tip | Ensures RNase-free environment |
| Cell culture / Buffer dispensing | Regular Tip | Low contamination risk, economical |
| Education / General lab tasks | Regular Tip | Budget-friendly, flexible usage |
4. Cost Comparison: WATSON Example
WATSON offers both tip types, precision-molded in Japan, with options tailored to specific workflows.
| Product Type | Price Range | Key Features |
| Filtered Sterile Tips | Premium | RNase/DNase-free, available in racks/packs |
| Non-Filtered Bulk Tips | Budget-Friendly | High-volume use, ideal for daily operations |
💡 When handling high-value reagents or critical assays, the extra cost of a filter tip can be a worthwhile investment.
5. Why Choose WATSON Filter Tips?
-
Precision-molded in Japan with no flash or defects
-
RNase/DNase-free and PCR-grade
-
Available in sterile, rack-packed, and individually wrapped options
-
High compatibility with major pipette brands
Conclusion
Use filter tips when contamination risk is high or sample integrity is critical. Use regular tips for routine tasks where cost-efficiency matters.
Understanding the difference helps improve your experimental accuracy and lab workflow. Choose smart, pipette better.
#filtertips #pipettetipcomparison #WATSONBioLab #PCRtips #labaccuracy #contaminationcontrol #labconsumables