Whether you are a research laboratory, a medical facility, or a university institution, purchasing an incubator represents a strategic investment. Temperature, stability, safety: every parameter has a direct impact on the reliability of your experiments. But then, how much does an incubator cost? What elements influence the price? Should you choose new or refurbished? In this comprehensive guide, we answer all these questions to help you invest wisely.
What is a laboratory incubator?
A laboratory incubator is thermal equipment designed to maintain precise environmental conditions, generally in terms of temperature, humidity, and sometimes CO₂, in order to promote the growth of cell or microbial cultures. It is used in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and the pharmaceutical sector.
There are several types: standard, CO₂, refrigerated, shaking incubators, etc. Their cost varies depending on their complexity, size, and precision.
The different types of incubators and their price ranges
1. Standard incubator (natural convection thermostatic)
This type of incubator maintains a stable temperature (generally between 5 °C above ambient and 80 °C). It is used for basic applications such as bacterial cultures or stability testing.
The price therefore depends heavily on the technical specifications and the intended conditions of use. Before comparing prices alone, it is relevant to identify the performance actually required in order to choose a laboratory incubator adapted to the laboratory's needs.
- Entry-level: between €600 and €1,200
- Mid-range: between €1,200 and €2,500
2. Forced convection incubator
With internal ventilation, these models ensure a more uniform temperature and faster heating. They are recommended for demanding applications.
- Average price: between €1,500 and €3,500
3. CO₂ incubator
Designed for mammalian cell cultures, this equipment allows for precise regulation of temperature, humidity levels, and carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration.
- Mid-range: between €3,500 and €6,000
- High-end: up to €10,000 and more
4. Refrigerated incubator
Capable of decreasing in temperature, it is used in conservation applications or for cold testing.
- Average price: between €2,000 and €5,000
5. Shaking incubators
Ideal for cultures requiring constant agitation (such as yeasts or aerobic bacteria), they combine stable temperature and orbital motion.
- Price: between €3,000 and €7,000
What factors influence the price of an incubator?
The final price of an incubator depends on many parameters:
- Useful volume: a 50 L incubator will cost much less than a 300 L model.
- Embedded technology: CO₂ regulation, active humidification, touchscreen, alarm...
- Precision and stability: the tighter the tolerances, the higher the price.
- Type of convection: natural, forced, or mixed.
- Manufacturer: certain brands like Memmert, Binder, Thermo Scientific, or Panasonic apply significant added value.
- New vs. refurbished: a refurbished incubator can cost up to 50% less, while still being guaranteed.
To better understand the stakes of purchasing equipment, also check out our article: what is a laboratory centrifuge used for.
