Dry block heaters, also called dry bath incubators or heat blocks, offer precise, contamination-free heating for tubes and samples. Below is a quick comparison of five relevant models selected for accuracy, programmability, block capacity, and safety features.
| Product | Brand | Block Capacity | Temp Range / Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|
| JOANLAB Mini Lab Dry Bath Incubator | JOANLAB | 15 × 1.5 mL | RT+5°C–100°C / ±0.5°C |
| ONiLAB Dry Bath Incubator HB120 | ONiLAB | 40 × 1.5 mL | 15°C–120°C / ±0.5°C |
| LAB FISH Mini Heating Dry Bath | LAB FISH | 15 × 1.5 mL | RT+5°C–100°C / ±0.5°C |
| ONiLAB Mini Dry Bath Incubator | ONiLAB | 15 × 1.5 mL | Up to 100°C / ±0.5°C |
| LAB FISH Gel Heating & Cooling Machine | LAB FISH | Multiple wells (2.5/5/10 mL sets) | RT+5°C–100°C / ±0.5°C |
JOANLAB Mini Lab Dry Bath Incubator
The JOANLAB Mini Lab Dry Bath Incubator is built for small-batch workflows and accepts a 15 × 1.5 mL aluminium heating block. It supports a settable temperature range from room temperature +5°C up to 100°C with a stated control accuracy of ±0.5°C and display resolution of ±0.1°C.
Key operational features include a temperature deviation calibration function for improving accuracy and a 9-program storage capability so sequences of time and temperature steps can be recalled. Safety is addressed with an over-temperature protection device, failure detection with fault codes, and audible alarms.
This unit emphasizes compact footprint, programmable batches, and basic safety interlocks for routine incubation or heating steps in small labs or bench applications.
ONiLAB Dry Bath Incubator HB120
The ONiLAB HB120 is designed for higher-temperature applications with a temperature range up to 120°C and the same accuracy specification of ±0.5°C. It includes a 40 × 1.5 mL aluminium heating block with holes sized for conical tubes (Φ11mm, depth ~34.7mm).
Controls use an LED display for temperature and timer with timing up to 99h 59min. The unit includes a protective lid for heat retention and safety, and built-in overheating protection. Safety and compliance are stated with CE, cTUVus and FCC markings.
This model is appropriate where larger sample throughput and higher maximum temperatures are required, such as denaturation steps, enzymatic inactivation, or processes needing extended run times.
LAB FISH Mini Heating Dry Bath
The LAB FISH Mini Heating Digital Dry Bath mirrors many compact dry baths with a 15 × 1.5 mL block and precise control. It offers temperature control accuracy ±0.5°C and a display accuracy of ±0.14°C, plus LED instantaneous temperature readout.
Notable for programming, this unit supports up to 22 program slots (the listing references up to 22 groups), enabling multiple saved temperature/time combinations. Built-in safety includes over-temperature prevention, failure detection, and buzzer alerts.
Users prioritizing programmability and clear instant readouts in a small format can benefit from this model alongside routine safety protections for bench-level thermal processing.
ONiLAB Mini Dry Bath Incubator
The ONiLAB Mini Dry Bath Incubator ships with a 15 × 1.5 mL aluminium block and offers temperature control up to 100°C with ±0.5°C accuracy. Hole diameter is ~Φ11.2 mm and hole depth ~31 mm, suitable for standard microcentrifuge tubes.
Functional strengths include 9 programmable memory slots, rapid calibration support, and an LCD or digital display for temperature and timing. The aluminium block is designed for uniform heating and snug tube fit to reduce variability.
This unit is suitable for users who need quick calibration and repeated program recall for routine sample heating, nucleic acid pre-treatment, or incubation steps where consistency is essential.
LAB FISH Gel Heating & Cooling Machine
The LAB FISH Gel Heating & Cooling Machine is tailored for gel/PRP workflows and includes multiple well sizes: 5 × 2.5 mL, 5 × 5 mL, and 5 × 10 mL. It combines heating and an active cooling system to return blocks closer to room temperature faster.
Temperature control accuracy is listed at ±0.5°C with display accuracy ±0.1°C, and the operating range is room temperature +5°C to 100°C. Programmable memory supports 9 saved programs and timing from seconds to nearly 24 hours.
This machine is useful for processing variable-volume samples where both heating and rapid cooling cycles are beneficial, such as PRP preparation, sample preservation, or pre-denaturation steps prior to electrophoresis.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Dry Block Heater
Selecting the right dry block heater depends on application, throughput, and accuracy needs. Below are the main factors to evaluate.
Temperature Range And Accuracy
- Required Temperature Range: Match the device maximum to your highest process temperature. Standard molecular biology work often requires up to 100°C; some assays need up to 120°C.
- Accuracy And Stability: Look for control accuracy of ±0.5°C or better for repeatable results. Consider display resolution for fine adjustments (e.g., ±0.1°C display).
Block Type, Capacity, And Compatibility
- Block Capacity: Determine how many tubes you’ll process per run (15 vs 40 vs multiple well sizes).
- Interchangeable Blocks: Check whether the manufacturer offers additional aluminium blocks for different tube sizes or deep wells.
- Well Dimensions: Confirm hole diameter and depth match your consumables (e.g., Φ11 mm for 1.5 mL microtubes).
Programmability And Memory
- Program Slots: Multiple saved program slots (9 or more) speed routine processing and reduce manual entry errors.
- Timing Features: Consider timer range and whether timing starts on reaching set temperature to ensure consistent thermal exposure.
Safety Features And Compliance
- Over-Temperature Protection: Critical to prevent overheating samples or creating hazards.
- Failure Detection & Alarms: Visual or audible alerts and error codes help diagnose issues quickly.
- Regulatory Marks: CE, cTUVus, or FCC marks indicate conformity to certain safety standards.
Build, Size, And Thermal Efficiency
- Compact Footprint: Consider bench space and whether a lid is provided for heat retention.
- Heating Uniformity: Aluminium blocks provide even heat transfer; look for tight tube fit to limit variability.
- Cooling Capability: If cooling cycles are needed, consider units with active cooling or separate cooling stages.
User Interface And Calibration
- Display Type: LED, LCD, or digital displays affect readability under lab lighting.
- Calibration Support: Rapid calibration or temperature deviation calibration functions improve long-term accuracy.
Throughput And Workflow Considerations
- Sample Volume Variety: Choose models with interchangeable blocks or multi-size wells for flexible sample volumes.
- Program Sequencing: If your protocol requires sequential steps, multi-program chaining or automatic program advance reduces hands-on time.
Maintenance, Warranty, And Support
- Service And Parts: Verify block replacements and customer support availability.
- Cleaning And Durability: Consider materials, removable blocks, and how easily the unit can be decontaminated.
Use these criteria to compare dry block heaters across the listed models. Match the unit’s capacity, temperature performance, and programmability to your laboratory protocols for consistent thermal processing.