Choosing between these data acquisition recorders comes down to whether a defined electrophysiology role or a particular DATAQ system model better matches the lab's priorities. The Axon Instruments Digidata 1320A is priced at USD 99.99, while the DATAQ INSTRUMENTS DI-730-EN-A is USD 1,000.00-a USD 900.01 difference.
Quick verdict
Pick the Axon Instruments Digidata 1320A 16-Bit Data Acquisition System for pClamp Lab when its stated electrophysiology and patch-clamp application is central to the intended work. Pick the DATAQ INSTRUMENTS DI-730-EN-A DATA ACQUISITION SYSTEM when the named DI-730-EN-A model is the priority and the described fan noise plus incomplete grabber-wire set are acceptable.
Compact comparison
| Comparison point | Axon Digidata 1320A | DATAQ DI-730-EN-A |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD 99.99 | USD 1,000.00 |
| Stated role | Electrophysiology / patch-clamp recording | Data acquisition system |
| Model identifier | Digidata 1320A; 16-bit in title | DI-730-EN-A |
| Condition | Used | Used |
Where each product wins
Axon Digidata 1320A wins for named software alignment. Compatibility with Axon pClamp, including Clampex and Clampfit, makes it the clearer match when those programs are part of the planned workflow.
DATAQ DI-730-EN-A wins when a stated operating description carries weight. Its description says the system works fine, giving shoppers a direct operational statement to consider alongside the model name. That advantage comes with the specific caveats described for the power-supply fan and grabber wires.
Product notes
Axon Instruments Digidata 1320A 16-Bit Data Acquisition System for pClamp Lab
The Digidata 1320A is the more focused selection for a biological laboratory with an electrophysiology or patch-clamp recording application. Its intended discipline is identified as a biological laboratory, and the 16-bit designation is part of the product title, giving the unit a clearly defined lab-oriented identity. The pClamp compatibility further supports choosing the Digidata 1320A when Clampex and Clampfit matter to the setup. Its limitation is straightforward: the unit is used and marked as not a custom bundle. Choose the Axon when the named recording application and software ecosystem outweigh the need for a broader bundle configuration.
DATAQ INSTRUMENTS DI-730-EN-A DATA ACQUISITION SYSTEM
The DATAQ INSTRUMENTS DI-730-EN-A is the direct choice for a shopper seeking that exact DATAQ model designation. The description states that the system works fine, so its appeal rests on a concrete operating statement rather than an application-specific label. It is also identified as a used data acquisition system made in the United States. The important limitation is explicit: the power-supply fan makes a little acoustic noise. Grabber wires may be included if available, but the set is not complete. Choose the DATAQ model when its DI-730-EN-A identity is the deciding factor and those stated equipment considerations fit the lab's needs.
Final choice by use case
For an electrophysiology or patch-clamp recording setup built around Axon pClamp software, choose the Axon Digidata 1320A. For a lab that specifically needs the DATAQ DI-730-EN-A model and is comfortable with the stated fan-noise and grabber-wire limitations, choose the DATAQ INSTRUMENTS DI-730-EN-A.

