When you're outfitting a lab bench, the first fork in the road is tool type: do you need to separate fluids by centrifugal force, or do you need to gently mix, rock, or agitate samples? That's the core decision between the four units in this centrifuges mixers shakers comparison. Prices here run from USD 69.44 to USD 170.00, so budget plays a role, but so do voltage, condition, and capacity.
Quick take: The Medline 642M is a straightforward clinical centrifuge for routine spins. The VWR Rocking Platform Shaker is the dedicated rocker for gels and blots. The PRP centrifuge is the portable, low-priced entry point for small tubes. The Labnique Orbital Shaker covers variable-speed mixing with a timer.
Listed Price Comparison
| Product | Price | Price Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| Medline 642M Single-Speed Clinical Lab Centrifuge | USD 109.99 | |
| VWR Rocking Platform Shaker 10860-662 | USD 170.00 | |
| Portable Medical Lab Centrifuge Electric PRP Centrifuge Machine | USD 69.44 | |
| Labnique Orbital Shaker 110V | USD 120.00 |
Decision Matrix
| If your priority is... | This product fits the role... | Because... |
|---|---|---|
| Routine clinical spinning | Medline 642M | Single-speed operation, clinical-lab design, open-box condition |
| Gentle gel/blot rocking | VWR Rocking Platform Shaker | Rocking motion at up to 120 tilts/min, single platform |
| Compact, economical PRP spins | Portable Medical Lab Centrifuge Electric PRP Centrifuge Machine | 6x20ml rotor, 4000rpm, portable size, new condition |
| Variable-speed mixing with a timer | Labnique Orbital Shaker 110V | Orbital motion, adjustable speed to 210 r/min, mechanical timer |
Medline 642M Single-Speed Clinical Lab Centrifuge
This centrifuge is priced at USD 109.99 and brings a no-frills, single-speed design that is perfect for labs where the spin protocol doesn't change. It's an open-box new unit, so you're getting a fresh item without the full box, and its U.S. origin is a nice detail. The single-speed operation keeps things simple, but if you need different speeds for different tube types or samples, this unit won't adapt. The 'Tested Working' status gives you confidence that the motor and rotor are functional. Choose it when you want a dedicated clinical centrifuge for one consistent task at a reasonable price.
VWR Rocking Platform Shaker 10860-662
The VWR Rocking Platform Shaker is the dedicated rocker here, priced at USD 170.00. It's designed for rocking not rotating, with a platform that tilts up to 120 times per minute. This makes it a natural fit for gel blots and uniform mixing in trays. The used unit is listed as tested working, and the 230V voltage is clearly disclosed up front-so it's for buyers who understand their power setup. The limitation is that this is a rocker, not a general-purpose orbital shaker, so circular mixing tasks are off the table. If your work is gels and blots, this is the purpose-built tool.
Portable Medical Lab Centrifuge Electric PRP Centrifuge Machine
At USD 69.44, this is the lowest-priced centrifuge in the group and the only one listed as new. It spins at up to 4000rpm and holds six 20ml tubes, making it a compact solution for PRP or small clinical samples. The adjustable speed knob and timer give you some control, and the portable size means you can tuck it away when not in use. The trade-off is capacity: with only six 20ml positions, you'll be reloading if you have more than a handful of samples. Still, for occasional or small-batch spins, it keeps the entry cost low.
Labnique Orbital Shaker 110V
Priced at USD 120.00, the Labnique Orbital Shaker gives you variable speed and a timer in a used, tested unit. The orbital motion is suited for mixing in flasks, dishes, or plates, with a speed dial that ranges beyond 210 r/min. The mechanical timer can be set up to 15 minutes, or set to continuous operation for longer runs. The 110V input is standard for North American outlets, which is a benefit. The main limitation is the timer's 15-minute maximum: if you need precise run times beyond that, you'll have to rely on the continuous ON setting, so watch your protocol.
Final Recommendation by Use Case
If you need a clinical centrifuge for a routine spin, the Medline 642M is the straightforward pick. For gentle rocking of gels or blots, the VWR Rocking Platform Shaker is built for that. If you want a portable, low-priced spinner for small tubes, the PRP centrifuge keeps the entry price low. For variable-speed mixing with a timer, the Labnique Orbital Shaker offers adjustable speed and a timer. Weigh the condition and voltage of the used units carefully, and you'll find the right bench companion.
