Microfluidic PCR vs. Traditional PCR: Top 5 Differences for Lab Directors

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The main difference between Microfluidic PCR and Traditional PCR lies in thermal mass and speed. Microfluidic cartridges require microliter-level sample volumes, allowing TEC systems to ramp temperatures at 10°C/second. This reduces a standard 40-cycle amplification time from 2 hours to under 15 minutes.

Here are the top 5 differences:
1. Speed: 15 minutes vs 2 hours.
2. Volume: Micro-liter precision limits reagent waste.
3. Automation: Sample-to-answer without pipetting.
4. Portability: Ideal for POCT and mobile clinics.
5. Cost: Significantly reduced cost per test.

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