What is a laboratory incubator used for?
A laboratory incubator is a thermal device used to maintain controlled conditions of temperature, humidity, and sometimes CO₂. It is primarily used to promote the growth of microorganisms, animal, plant, or human cells under stable conditions. It is a basic tool in any biology, microbiology, or health research laboratory .
The areas of application are numerous: studies of bacterial strains, research on pathogens, drug trials, gene therapies, and even vaccine production. In both public and private research laboratories , the incubator is a pillar of scientific experimentation.
Best laboratory incubator: selection criteria
To identify the best laboratory incubator according to your needs, several criteria must be analyzed:
1. Temperature range
Most incubators maintain a temperature around 37°C, which is ideal for cell culture. However, some models allow settings ranging from 5°C to 70°C for more specific applications.
2. Humidity and CO₂ control
In some protocols, particularly in cell biology or pharmaceutical research , precise control of the atmosphere is essential. There are models equipped with CO₂ sensors, humidifiers, or even HEPA filters to maintain a sterile environment.
3. Useful volume
Capacities range from 20 to 300 liters depending on the model. For laboratories with modest needs, a compact enclosure may be sufficient. Large research units will opt for bulky models with multiple shelves.
4. Regulation and security
A good laboratory incubator should have reliable electronic controls, with a digital display, temperature alarms, and overheat protection. Some models even include data recovery or remote control.
Price of a laboratory incubator: what should you expect?
The price of a laboratory incubator depends on its features, volume, and expected level of precision. New models range from €1,000 for a basic model to over €7,000 for a large-capacity CO₂ incubator.
At Rewake, we offer refurbished models in excellent condition, starting at €600. Each device is cleaned, tested, calibrated, and guaranteed. An ideal option for laboratories looking to control their budget without compromising on quality.
Additionally, you can consult our selection of laboratory scales to complete your basic equipment.
The different types of laboratory incubators
There are several models of incubators adapted to specific uses. Each type of laboratory incubator meets a particular technical need:
1. Standard hot air incubator
Used for conventional microbial growth, this model regulates only ambient temperature. It is the most widely used in higher education and general research laboratories .
2. CO₂ Incubator
Perfect for cell culture, it replicates the atmosphere of the human body with a temperature around 37°C, high humidity and a CO₂ concentration set around 5%. Ideal for molecular biology and biotechnology .
3. Refrigerated incubator
Used for analyses requiring a temperature below ambient (e.g. bacterial storage, stability tests). Its range extends from +5 °C to +60 °C with an integrated cooling system.
4. Shaking (orbital) incubator
It allows incubation while stirring the medium thanks to an oscillating platform. Perfect for suspension cultures, yeasts or fermentation in shaker flasks.
Why buy a refurbished incubator from Rewake?
At Rewake, every refurbished laboratory incubator undergoes a rigorous process. Our technicians check temperature uniformity, test safety systems, replace worn parts, and carefully clean the interior.
- ✔️ Full calibration and functional test
- ✔️ Traceability and technical sheet provided
- ✔️ Fast delivery and minimum 3-month warranty
- ✔️ Support in choosing the right model
Whether you are a biotech startup , an engineering school , or a hospital laboratory, we help you find the laboratory incubator best suited to your budget and technical constraints.
Used incubator like new
The laboratory incubator is much more than a simple heating device. It is a pillar of experimental research in biology, health, microbiology, and pharmacy. Thanks to it, your cultures and samples evolve in optimal, reproducible, and secure conditions.
By choosing a refurbished Rewake model, you benefit from reliable, affordable, and responsible equipment. Our solutions allow all types of organizations—public and private—to equip themselves with quality equipment, without compromise.
Need help choosing your laboratory incubator? Contact our team; we'll be happy to advise you based on your protocols, volumes, and technical requirements.
