Gel electrophoresis systems for every skill level and budget

miniPCR bio offers three main gel electrophoresis systems: GELATO™, Bandit™, and blueGel™. They cater to different needs and experience levels:

GELATO is a high-end system designed for professional use or research labs that require publication quality results. It boasts several features:

Large capacity gels: Run up to 50 DNA samples in a single run.
Fast run times: Gels can be separated in as little as 15 minutes.
Adjustable controls: Set voltage and run time preferences with ease.
Integrated blue light transilluminator: Visualize DNA bands directly after electrophoresis without staining or destaining steps.
Capability for cutting out bands: Ideal for downstream applications like cloning.

Bandit is an educational kit designed for students to learn the principles of gel electrophoresis. It’s a great introduction to the technique as it:

Build it to understand it: a build-it-yourself kit, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of how the system works.
Safe and user-friendly: Uses safe, low voltage for safe operation in classrooms and runs safe dye-based labs
Ultra-affordable: Bandit is a cost-effective option for formal and informal educational settings.

blueGel is a mid-range system is an all-around workhorse that offers a good balance between features and affordability. Its main features are:

All-in-one: A compact, integrated gel electrophoresis + power supply + transilluminator + image capture system
Perfect for learners: Simple controls, yet sophisticated for students who have progressed beyond the basics.
Content-rich: Curated Learning Labs that integrate hands-on biotechnology with core biology curricula.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between the three systems:

Feature	Bandit™	blueGel™	GELATO™
Application	Educational use	General purpose labs	Professional research labs
Sample capacity	Up to 9	Up to 26	Up to 50
Run time	15 to 25 minutes	Typically ~20 minutes	As fast as 10 minutes
Built-in transilluminator	Coming soon!	Yes (safe blue light)	Yes (safe blue light)
Band cutting capability	No	No	Yes
Price	Least expensive	Affordably priced	Most expensive