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Use this checklist when comparing automated cell counters and imaging-based counting systems for a UK research lab. Tick the features that matter most to your workflow, then match them to the systems below.
| □ | Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| □ | Do you only need viability counts, or images too? | Dedicated counters are faster; imaging systems add publication images. |
| □ | Do you need fluorescence (AO/PI, GFP, RFP, DAPI)? | Limits Countess 3 base; requires Countess 3 FL, LUNA-FL or EVOS M5000+. |
| □ | How many samples per day? | High throughput favours dedicated counters over imaging systems. |
| □ | Do you culture in multi-well plates or flasks? | Plate-based work points to EVOS M7000 or CellInsight CX7. |
| □ | Do you need live-cell time-lapse? | Requires on-stage incubation (EVOS M7000) or incubator imager. |
| □ | Is GLP / traceability required? | Look for user accounts, audit trails, built-in printers, 21 CFR Part 11 options. |
| System | Type | Fluorescence | Throughput | Best for | UK supplier |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Countess 3 | Dedicated counter | Optional | Very high | Fast viability counts | Thermo Fisher UK |
| Countess 3 FL | Dedicated counter | Dual (AO/PI, GFP) | High | Fluorescence viability | Thermo Fisher UK |
| EVOS M3000 | Imaging only | 2 channels | Low–medium | Budget fluorescence imaging (no counting) | Thermo Fisher UK |
| EVOS M5000 | Imaging + counting | 4 channels + Z-stack | Medium–high | Research imaging + counting | Thermo Fisher UK |
| EVOS M7000 | Live-cell imaging | 4 channels | Medium (multi-well) | Live-cell / plate assays | Thermo Fisher UK |
| CellInsight CX7 | High-content screening | 7 channels | Very high (plates) | Drug-discovery screening | Thermo Fisher UK |
| LUNA-II | Dedicated counter | No | Very high | Budget brightfield counting | Camlab / SciQuip |
| LUNA-FL | Fluorescence counter | Dual | High | Mid-range fluorescence counting | Camlab UK |