Choosing between filtered and non-filtered pipette tips may seem like a small decision,
but in reality, it can have a significant impact on data reliability, workflow safety, and peace of mind at the bench.
Many researchers ask the same question:
Do I really need filter tips, or are standard tips enough?
The answer depends on what you are working with—and how much risk you can tolerate.
In this article, we’ll clearly explain the differences between filtered and non-filtered pipette tips,
and help you decide which option is best for your application.
What Are Filtered Pipette Tips?
Filtered pipette tips contain a hydrophobic barrier inside the tip shaft.
This filter is designed to block aerosols and liquid from entering the pipette body.
Filtered tips are commonly used in:
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PCR and qPCR
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DNA / RNA handling
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NGS sample preparation
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Virus-related workflows
Their role is not to “clean” samples, but to protect both the pipette and the experiment from unintended carryover.
What Are Non-Filtered Pipette Tips?
Non-filtered (standard) pipette tips do not contain an internal filter.
They are the most widely used type and are suitable for many routine laboratory tasks.
Typical use cases include:
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General liquid handling
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Buffer and reagent preparation
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Media transfer
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Non-sensitive workflows
They are cost-effective and efficient when contamination risk is low.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Filtered Tips | Non-Filtered Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Internal filter | Yes | No |
| Aerosol backflow protection | Yes | No |
| Recommended for PCR / DNA / RNA | Yes | Sometimes |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| General liquid handling | Possible | Ideal |
When Should You Use Filtered Tips?
Filtered tips are strongly recommended when:
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Working with nucleic acids (DNA/RNA)
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Performing PCR or qPCR
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Handling precious or limited samples
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Sharing pipettes among multiple users
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Consistency and reproducibility are critical
In these cases, the filter acts as an insurance layer—reducing the chance of hidden carryover that may affect results later.
When Are Non-Filtered Tips Sufficient?
Non-filtered tips are usually sufficient for:
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Routine liquid transfer
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Media preparation
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Washing steps
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Applications with low sensitivity to trace contamination
They are efficient, economical, and perfectly suitable when risk is well understood and controlled.
A Practical Way to Think About It
Instead of asking “Which tip is better?”,
a more useful question is:
“What happens if something goes wrong in this experiment?”
If the answer is
-
“We lose time” → non-filtered tips may be fine
-
“We lose samples or data” → filtered tips are worth it
Tip Quality Still Matters—Filter or Not
Regardless of filter type, tip performance depends heavily on:
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Molding precision
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Inner surface quality
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Consistent fit to the pipette
Poorly molded tips can cause leakage, residual liquid, and inconsistent volumes—even if they include a filter.
🔬 Related Products: WATSON Filter Tips
For PCR, DNA/RNA handling, and workflows where reproducibility matters,
WATSON offers precision-molded filter tips designed for stable fit and consistent performance.
👉 View all WATSON Filter Tips
https://pipettetips.com/collections/003-all-filtered-tips-products
Final Thoughts
Filtered and non-filtered pipette tips both have their place in the laboratory.
Understanding when—and why—to use each type helps reduce unnecessary risk and improves daily workflow stability.
Choosing the right tip is not about being overly cautious.
It’s about making informed decisions that support reliable science.
How this fits the series
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