Science doesn’t just happen overnight; it’s cultivated. Behind every breakthrough in biology, medicine, or microbiology, there’s a quiet hero working in the background: the laboratory incubator shaker. It’s not flashy, but it’s powerful. By combining precise temperature control with dynamic shaking, this piece of equipment helps researchers grow cultures, ferment solutions, and carry out a range of tests that require stable, consistent environments.
If you’ve ever wondered how researchers maintain ideal conditions for cell cultures or microbial growth, this is the answer. And yet, for many early-career technicians or even experienced lab managers, choosing and using the right incubator shaker can feel overwhelming.
What features matter most? What applications is it suited for? And how can you ensure you’re getting the best value and reliability?
That’s exactly what this guide will explore.
Whether you’re equipping a new lab or replacing old equipment, by the end of this blog, you’ll have a complete understanding of how a laboratory incubator shaker works, what to look for when buying one, and why NE LabSystems is the best place to get it. So, let’s get started.
What Is a Laboratory Incubator Shaker?
A laboratory incubator shaker is a two-in-one instrument: it gently agitates samples (shaking) while maintaining a controlled temperature (incubating). This combo is essential for applications such as:
- Growing bacterial or yeast cultures
- Cell biology and tissue culture
- Protein expression studies
- Fermentation processes
The shaking ensures uniform mixing and gas exchange, while the incubation keeps conditions stable for optimal biological activity. You can adjust speed (RPM), temperature, and sometimes CO₂ or humidity as per the model.
Key Features to Look For
When searching for a reliable laboratory incubator shaker, here are the most important things you should consider:
- Shaking Mechanism – Orbital shaking is the most common, creating a circular motion perfect for cultures in flasks or tubes.
- Temperature Range – Choose a model that aligns with your application’s specific temperature requirements.
- Speed Control – Fine-tuned RPM control allows you to match the agitation speed to your sample’s needs.
- Platform Size – Consider how many vessels you’ll be shaking at once.
- Programmability – Some models allow preset programs for different stages of your workflow.
- Noise Levels – For labs with shared workspaces, quieter operation is a big plus.
How Is It Used in Real Lab Settings?
Here’s a common scenario: You’re culturing E. coli for protein expression. You need to maintain a steady 37°C and agitate at 200 RPM. With a laboratory incubator shaker, you load your flasks, set the desired parameters, and let it run for hours, sometimes even overnight. The shaker’s consistent motion and temperature keep your cultures healthy and viable.
For more advanced workflows, you might have time-based programming or dual-zone platforms for different temperature or speed zones, which is perfect for multitasking.
The Reliable Choice
At NE LabSystems, we offer incubator shakers designed for performance, precision, and durability. Our standout product is the:
• ES-60 Incubator Series is a compact and reliable benchtop incubator, ideal for a wide range of biological and chemical applications that require stable temperature environments. With a temperature range of ambient +5°C to 60°C, it features microprocessor-based PID temperature control for high precision and stability. The digital LED display makes it easy to monitor temperature settings, while the acrylic lid ensures visibility of samples without opening the unit. Designed with a quiet and space-saving footprint, the ES-60 is suitable for microbiology, cell culture, and general lab use where consistent incubation conditions are essential.
What sets NE LabSystems apart?
- Over 15 years serving labs across New England and beyond
- “New” lab equipment at “used” prices
- Free extended warranties for all U.S. purchases
- Exceptional customer support from factory-trained service engineers
When it comes to finding the right laboratory incubator shaker, NE LabSystems doesn’t just sell you a machine—we help you build scientific momentum.
Explore the Full Range of Shakers at NE LabSystems
While laboratory incubator shakers are essential for temperature-controlled agitation, some workflows call for different styles of mixing. That’s why many labs trust NE LabSystems—not just for one device, but for a full range of high-performance shakers tailored to different experimental needs.
Orbital Shakers
Ideal for smooth, circular mixing, especially with conical flasks, culture bottles, or beakers. They offer stable platform movement and adjustable speed settings, perfect for bacterial growth, solubility studies, or staining protocols.
Linear Shakers
Provide back-and-forth motion instead of orbital rotation, making them suitable for DNA extraction, hybridization, and ELISA applications where even distribution without vigorous swirling is necessary.
Incubator Shakers
NE LabSystems also offers a full line of incubator shakers varying in capacity, speed range, and interface design—ideal for scaling experiments or meeting more specific lab requirements.
Rocking Shakers
Perfect for Western blotting, cell washing, or gel staining procedures. Their tilting motion gently agitates samples, ensuring continuous reagent contact without over-agitation.
Why It Matters
Choosing the right lab equipment isn’t just about specs—it’s about trust. With NE LabSystems, you know you’re getting:
• Accurate, repeatable results
• Equipment that supports your workflow without constant maintenance
• A company that understands what labs really need
Conclusion
The laboratory incubator shaker is more than just a tool—it’s a backbone for scientific research where consistency, precision, and reliability matter most. Whether you’re growing cell cultures or exploring new protein expressions, having the right shaker can make or break your outcomes.
If you’re ready to take your lab capabilities to the next level, contact NE LabSystems for a consultation or explore our full range of lab products. With the right tools in your corner, science gets a little easier and more effective.