Complete plate reader solution for all your research needs
For over 40 years, we have partnered with scientists to expand the boundaries of their research. Our microplate readers and software are the industry's most cited and have empowered life science researchers to advance protein and cell biology―breaking the barriers to novel, landmark discoveries.
Select a plate reader that fits your application needs
Single-mode plate readers
Evaluating microplate readers doesn’t have to be overwhelming. First consider your application needs, and if your budget is modest, a single-mode reader dedicated to your main application would be the most logical choice.
The three most common read modes in a single-mode microplate reader are absorbance, fluorescence, and luminescence. Learn more about each detection technology and common applications here.
A single-mode microplate reader is a good starting point. However, an upgradeable multi-mode reader can address all your future lab needs.
Our multi-mode plate readers provide great flexibility and include absorbance, fluorescence and luminescence with configurable options for fluorescence polarization (FP), time-resolved fluorescence (TRF), FRET, and AlphaScreen. Upgradeable modules are also available including western blot, cell imaging, and fast kinetics with injectors.
Learn moreExplore our SpectraMax series of microplate readers
Applications and Research
Find an extensive collection of application notes, research, and detection technology related to microplate reader assays and applications including ELISAs, western blots, and protein and nucleic acid detection.
Cellular Signaling
Cellular signaling allows cells to respond to their environment and communicate with other cells.…
Microbiology and Contaminant Monitoring
Microbes, including bacteria, have been estimated to make up about 15 percent of the earth’s…
Cell Health: Viability, Proliferation, Cytotoxicity, and Cellular Function
Cell viability assays measure various cell markers, such as ATP or metabolic enzyme activity, as…
Protein Detection, Quantitation and Analysis
Protein detection, quantitation, and analysis are central to investigating a wide variety of…
Nucleic Acid (DNA/RNA) Detection, Quantitation, and Analysis
Nucleic acids are large, complex biomolecules found in cells. They serve as the genetic material of…
Organoid Innovation Center
The new Organoid Innovation Center at Molecular Devices combines cutting-edge technologies with…
Food & Beverage
From customized work cells for cellular agriculture to quality and safety testing, the Molecular…
TRF, TR-FRET & HTRF
Learn about TRF and TR-FRET (HTRF) detection and kinase assays, cellular signaling pathways,…
Absorbance
Learn about absorbance detection and ELISAs, nucleic acid and protein quantitation, and microbial…
Fluorescence
Learn about fluorescence detection and cell viability and nucleic acid quantification applications.
Luminescence
Learn about luminescence detection and dual luciferase reporter gene, GPCR, and BRET applications.
Western Blot
Learn about western blotting, a popular technique used for protein detection and quantitation.
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) is a method used to quantitatively detect an antigen…
Industry-leading acquisition & analysis software for GMP/GLP labs
SoftMax® Pro Software is the most published microplate reader control and data analysis software. If you’re in a GMP/GLP lab, our SoftMax Pro GxP Compliance Software helps you achieve FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance.
SoftMax Pro GxP Software
Meet FDA guidelines in GMP/GLP labs with the most secure data acquisition and analysis software to achieve full FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance.
Learn moreGxP Software Installation and Validation
Installation services for a single computer to a networked environment, and validation service by certified FSEs
Learn moreMicroplate Validation Plates
The SpectraTest Validation Plates provide automated, comprehensive, and traceable validation of optical performance of our microplate readers.
Learn more Learn moreIQ/OQ/PM Services
Ensure ongoing compliance of your Molecular Devices microplate readers and be audit ready with our IQ/OQ/PM validation and compliance services.
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We love the i3x for its exquisite adaptability to different assays run in the laboratory. There are just a few simple steps necessary to exchange the cartridges and adopt the machine to our daily needs.
— Jakub Swiercz, iTeos Therapeutics