Should You Buy Brand New or Secondhand Lab Equipment?

When it comes to setting up or upgrading your laboratory, one of the key decisions you'll face especially if you’re just starting out is whether to invest in brand new or secondhand lab equipment. 

Each option has its own pros and cons, and the choice largely depends on your specific needs, budget constraints, and the nature of your research. In this article, we'll weigh the considerations to help you make an informed decision.

The Appeal of Secondhand Lab Equipment

1. Budget-Friendly Option

Let's be honest, setting up a lab can put a significant dent in your budget. This is where the allure of secondhand lab equipment shines. By opting for pre-owned items, you can often get high-quality gear at a fraction of the cost of brand-new equivalents. This can free up resources for other essential aspects of your research, such as research funding and consumable items, or even let you buy additional equipment.

1. Quick Set-Up and Availability

Time is of the essence in the world of research. There are tons of secondhand lab equipment in places like the Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree, which can significantly reduce your waiting time. 

Instead of enduring long lead times associated with ordering new equipment, you can swiftly acquire the tools you need to kickstart your experiments.

1. Established Performance Track Record

Secondhand lab equipment has a history of use, and if it has been maintained well, it might come with a proven performance track record. You can tap into the experiences of previous users to gauge how the equipment handles specific tasks and challenges.

1. Eco-Friendly Option

Going for secondhand lab equipment like hot plates, stirrers, and shakers, contributes to sustainable practices by reducing the demand for new manufacturing. If eco-conscious practices are something you consider, opting for pre-owned gear aligns with a greener approach.

Weighing the Risks

1. Condition and Calibration

One of the primary concerns with secondhand lab equipment is making sure that it's in good condition and properly calibrated. Before making a purchase, carefully inspect the equipment or consult with the seller regarding its maintenance history.

Calibration records are important, as they will be your insights into the equipment's reliability and accuracy.

1. Limited Warranty and Support

Unlike brand-new equipment that often comes with warranties and after-sales support, secondhand lab equipment might lack these safety nets. Be prepared for repairs and maintenance if, on the unlucky chance, your used lab equipment breaks down. This isn't necessarily a deal-breaker, but it's essential to consider, especially if you rely on the equipment for critical experiments.

1. Compatibility with Modern Techniques

Older secondhand equipment may not be compatible with the latest research techniques or software. Make sure that the equipment can be seamlessly integrated into your lab's existing tools without hindering the progress of your experiments.

1. Potential Obsolescence

Given the fast-paced tech changes, secondhand lab gear can quickly become outdated compared to newer tools. For example, older microscopes might not have the features needed for the latest research methods. Similarly, outdated pH meters or pipettes could hinder experiments compared to more advanced alternatives. It's essential to weigh the longevity of used equipment against the demands of evolving technology to make wise investments in the lab. Assess the longevity of the equipment's relevance to avoid investing in tools that may soon be outdated.

Brand New: A Clean Slate

1. Cutting-Edge Technology

Investing in brand new lab equipment means embracing the latest advancements in technology. You can access cutting-edge features, improved efficiency, and sometimes even enhanced safety protocols. If your research demands state-of-the-art tools, this might be the way to go.

1. Warranty and Support

The peace of mind with warranties and manufacturer support cannot be overstated. Brand-new equipment often comes with guarantees that protect your investment. If anything goes awry, you have a safety net to fall back on, saving you from unexpected setbacks.

1. Customisation Options

When you opt for brand new lab equipment, you often have the advantage of customisation. Manufacturers may offer tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of your research, allowing you to optimise the equipment for your experiments.

1. Access to the Latest Safety Features

Newer lab equipment often incorporates enhanced safety features and protocols. If safety is a top priority in your laboratory, investing in brand-new equipment can provide reassurance in terms of compliance with the latest industry standards.

Which Items Should Always Be Brand New?

While the choice between brand new and secondhand items depends on various factors, there are certain items in a laboratory setting where opting for brand new is often advisable due to safety, precision, and reliability considerations. 

Here are some items that are generally better purchased new:

1. Chemicals and Reagents

Chemical stability and purity are paramount in laboratory experiments. Using brand-new, unopened containers of chemicals and reagents means they have not been exposed to environmental contaminants or altered in any way. The reliability of experimental results heavily depends on the quality of these substances.

1. Glassware and Lab Consumables

Items such as glass beakers, pipettes, and petri dishes should be purchased new to avoid the risk of contamination. Even small scratches or residue from previous use can compromise the accuracy of measurements and the integrity of your experiments. If you’re really short on cash, consider plasticware as an alternative.

1. Biological Materials

When working with biological samples or cultures, using brand-new containers and equipment is crucial to prevent cross-contamination. Contaminated materials can lead to inaccurate results and compromise the integrity of experiments, potentially affecting your safety.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Safety should always be a top priority in the laboratory. Personal protective equipment, including gloves, safety glasses, and lab coats, should be purchased new to ensure they meet current safety standards. Worn or damaged PPE may not provide adequate protection, risking your wellbeing.

1. Precision Instruments and Analytical Equipment

High-precision measurement tools like pipettes, balances, and thermometers are vital in scientific experiments. Brand-new precision tools offer accurate and consistent measurements, reducing the risk of errors in your research.

1. Microcentrifuges

Microcentrifuges are really important in labs for separating small samples. It's better to get them brand new because they work more precisely and reliably. New ones have the latest technology and follow the newest standards, making sure your experiments give accurate results. Because microcentrifuges are crucial for tasks like DNA extraction, getting a new one ensures your experiments go well and you can trust your results.

1. Microscopes and Imaging Equipment

Purchasing new microscopes and imaging equipment is best for researchers relying on microscopic observations. The optics and precision mechanisms of these instruments can degrade over time, affecting the clarity and accuracy of observations.

1. Computer Software and Data Storage Devices

In the digital laboratories age, ensuring data integrity is crucial. Purchasing new computer software licenses and data storage devices guarantees you the latest versions, security updates, and reliable support. Using outdated software can pose security risks and hinder compatibility with other systems.

Which Secondhand Lab Equipment Should You Buy?

This one is a bit tricky and depends on what you plan to do with this secondhand laboratory equipment. Several types of lab equipment are often considered suitable for secondhand purchase, provided they are in good condition and have been properly maintained.

Before you make a purchase, please ensure that you have thoroughly assessed the condition of that laboratory equipment. In any case, here are the items that you can consider buying secondhand: