Centrifuge Price Guide for Buying a New, Used, or Refurbished Centrifuge

The first decision you will need to make is the type of centrifuge you need and what configuration best suits your testing requirements. Assuming you already have a good idea of what you need, or at least know one centrifuge model and configuration that will serve your needs, it is time to decide between buying your centrifuge new, used, or refurbished.

Researching Centrifuge Prices, Models, & Configurations

If the price of a new centrifuge is cost-prohibitive, or you're open to evaluating more affordable solutions like a used or refurbished centrifuge, you'll need to do some research to have the best buying experience.

Start by determining what centrifuge models and configurations will work for your specific needs. Generally, you will find that most older models from leading brands will work just as well as their current units for your needs. For example, a Beckman Coulter Avanti J-26S or an Eppendorf 5810R might serve your needs just as effectively as the latest models.

New Centrifuge Systems Price vs. Used or Refurbished Pricing

When buying a new centrifuge system, you're definitely getting all the latest bells and whistles, guaranteed availability of a maintenance agreement with the manufacturer, and may have an easier time financing your purchase. (Although financing for refurbished systems is also available.) However, you will pay a considerable premium for the luxury of a new centrifuge system; the price difference from a new system to a refurbished system (both with some warranty) can range from $10,000 to $50,000. Buying a used centrifuge system is a risk; however, the price difference in some instances could exceed $40,000, but you do run the risk of purchasing an expensive paperweight.

Refurbished Centrifuge Pricing vs. Used Centrifuge Price

The pricing between used and refurbished centrifuge systems is generally around 30%, depending on a number of factors. As you may expect, purchasing a used unit from a lab that's closing down, being able to see the unit in working order, and having access to the maintenance history is very different from buying an "as is" or "for parts" centrifuge system.

Refurbished units, especially ones that have been refurbished by a reputable entity with a stellar reputation such as AMP Tech Instruments, will generally offer a great balance between affordability and peace of mind. A centrifuge system with warranty, OEM replacement parts, and OP/OQ testing with documentation certified to perform at or above industry standards will still net you a 50% to 70% savings on the pricing of a new unit. Refurbished unit purchases from reputable laboratory instrument suppliers are also easier to finance than purchasing a used system. Refurbished systems with no warranty, no guarantee that OEM parts were used, and little to no testing performed on the units may be a little cheaper (not always), but they provide less peace of mind.

Swinging Bucket Centrifuge Price New, Used & Refurbished

Swinging bucket centrifuges are versatile and widely used in various laboratory settings. New swinging bucket centrifuges from top manufacturers like Thermo Fisher and Eppendorf typically range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the model and features. Refurbished units, which offer a balance of cost and reliability, can be found for $3,000 to $10,000. Used swinging bucket centrifuges, often available on platforms like eBay or LabX, can be priced between $1,000 and $5,000, though these may come with a higher risk if not thoroughly vetted.

Refrigerated Centrifuges Price New, Used & Refurbished

Refrigerated centrifuges are essential for temperature-sensitive samples. New refrigerated centrifuges from brands like Beckman Coulter and Eppendorf range from $10,000 to $30,000. Refurbished options provide substantial savings, typically costing between $5,000 and $15,000 while maintaining reliability and performance. Used refrigerated centrifuges, available on secondary markets like LabX or eBay, can be found for $2,000 to $8,000. However, it’s important to ensure these units have been properly maintained and tested.

Ultra Centrifuges Price New, Used & Refurbished

Ultra centrifuges, designed for high-speed separation, are among the most expensive. New ultra centrifuges from leading brands like Beckman Coulter and Thermo Fisher can range from $50,000 to $150,000. Refurbished ultra centrifuges are a cost-effective alternative, typically priced between $20,000 and $70,000, offering significant savings while ensuring high performance. Used ultra centrifuges, which can be found on sites like eBay or LabX, are generally priced between $10,000 and $40,000, but buyers should carefully consider the condition and service history of these units.

High Speed Centrifuge Price New, Used & Refurbished

High-speed centrifuges, also known as floor centrifuges, are critical for many high-throughput applications. New high-speed centrifuges from manufacturers like Sorvall and Beckman Coulter range from $20,000 to $60,000. Refurbished high-speed centrifuges provide a more budget-friendly option, typically priced between $10,000 and $30,000. Used high-speed centrifuges, available on platforms such as eBay and LabX, can be found for $5,000 to $20,000, though buyers should be cautious about the condition and potential need for repairs.

Tabletop Centrifuge Price New, Used & Refurbished

Tabletop centrifuges, also known as benchtop centrifuges, are compact and suitable for many lab environments. New tabletop centrifuges from brands like Eppendorf and Thermo Fisher range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the model and capabilities. Refurbished units offer a cost-effective alternative, typically priced between $1,000 and $5,000. Used tabletop centrifuges, often available on sites like eBay or LabX, can be found for $500 to $3,000. It’s crucial to verify the functionality and maintenance history when purchasing used units to avoid potential issues.

AMP Tech Refurbished & Certified with Warranty Centrifuges

Our team conducts extensive testing using industry-standard methods and simulates real-life lab conditions. After testing, the equipment is calibrated to meet or exceed industry specifications. All centrifuges are thoroughly inspected upon receipt, disassembled, cleaned, and examined for signs of wear or damage. Any worn or damaged parts are repaired to like-new condition or replaced with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts to ensure that this AMP Tech certified refurbished laboratory equipment performs at or above industry standards.

Centrifuge Prices Vary Widely

Choosing between new, used, and refurbished centrifuge systems depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and specific needs. New systems offer the most assurance and latest technology, used systems provide the greatest savings but with higher risks, and refurbished systems offer a balance of affordability and reliability.