Understand different types of lab shakers
Lab Shakers
A lab shaker uses oscillating or rotating motion to mix or agitate sample containers—such as flasks, petri dishes, or test tubes—placed on its platform (shaking tray). Unlike a stirrer, a lab shaker does not come into direct contact with the sample. The primary function of a lab shaker is to provide a mixing and aeration environment for microorganisms and cells through oscillation.
Laboratory shakers come in a wide variety of types to meet different experimental needs. The most common models are Linear Shakers and Orbital Shakers, known for their reliable and efficient sample agitation.
In addition, we offer a comprehensive range of specialized shakers, including 3D Shakers, Rocking Shakers, Rotating Shakers, Vortex Mixers, Incubator Shakers, and Microplate Shakers. Each type is designed for specific laboratory applications—from gentle cell culture mixing to high-speed vortexing and temperature-controlled incubation—providing precise, consistent, and versatile performance for a wide range of research and analysis tasks.
Classified by Movement Mode
| Type | Motion Pattern | Diagrammatic Sketch | Typical Applications |
| Linear Shaker | Reciprocating motion(Back-and-forth tilting motion) |  | Solution mixing, cell culture, suspended particles |
| Orbital Shaker | Horizontal orbital motion(Circular motion in the horizontal plane) |  | ELISA, microplate culture, liquid mixing |
| 3D Shaker | Multi-directional (three-dimensional) motion |  | Efficient mixing of microplates, sample tubes, suspensions |
| Rocking Shaker | Back-and-forth tilting motion |  | Membrane filtration, Western Blot washing, cell culture |
Other Specialized Shakers
A rotating shaker is a device that mixes samples by rotating the sample containers around a central axis or “end-over-end” in three-dimensional space. It works like a slow, controlled “drum.”
This design is particularly suitable for enclosed tubular containers, such as centrifuge tubes or sample bottles.
A vortex mixer is a device that vigorously and rapidly mixes samples through high-speed, small circular motions. Its purpose is to create a strong vortex in the contents of a test tube or small bottle almost instantly, achieving quick homogenization.
Contact Mode
Working principle: The device only starts when the bottom of the tube is pressed against the rubber cup head; it stops immediately when released.
Advantages: Simple, safe, and energy-efficient; ideal for quick, momentary mixing of a single sample.
Continuous Mode
Working principle: Once started via a switch or knob, the device runs continuously without the need for pressing.
Advantages: Suitable for long-term mixing of a single sample or simultaneous mixing of multiple samples using multifunctional mats or microplate adapters.
Multi-Mode
Working principle: Integrates both modes, allowing the user to switch as needed.
Contact Mode
Continuous Mode
Multi-Mode
Incubator Shakers(Temper.-Controlled Shakers)
An incubator shaker is essentially a three-in-one device:
A shaker: provides continuous shaking/oscillation.
An incubator: offers precise temperature control (and often also humidity and CO₂ control).
An enclosure: integrates both functions within a closed, controlled environment.
Its core value lies in enabling biological samples to be simultaneously cultured and mixed/aerated under controlled environmental conditions.
Refrigeration Function
CO₂ Control
