Pipettes are essential laboratory tools used for precise liquid handling. They allow scientists and researchers to measure and transfer small volumes of liquids accurately. However, pipettes alone are not sufficient; they require pipette tips to function effectively. Let’s delve into the world of pipettes and their accompanying tips:

1. Types of Pipette Tips:

   • Sterile or Pre-sterile Tips: These are single-use tips that come pre-sterilized. They are free from DNA, RNase, ATP, and pyrogens. Sterile tips are ideal for experiments requiring aseptic conditions, such as cell cultures and PCR.
   • Non-sterile Tips: These are the most commonly used tips and are also known as universal or general-purpose pipette tips. They are not sterile but are suitable for routine laboratory work where high contamination risk is not a concern.
   • Filter Tips: These tips have built-in filters to prevent aerosol formation during pipetting. They are crucial for handling sensitive samples like RNA, DNA, and infectious materials.
   • Low-retention Tips: Designed to minimize sample retention on the inner surface, these tips are useful when working with precious or viscous liquids.
   • Long Tips: Longer tips help prevent contamination by keeping the pipette away from the sample or reagent.
   • Short Tips: Short tips are suitable for shallow containers or microplates.
   • Wide Bore Tips: These have a wider opening, making them ideal for viscous samples.

2. Choosing the Right Pipette Tip:

   • Volumes of Liquid Handled: Consider the volume range you’ll be working with. Different tips accommodate various volumes.
   • Preferred Pipette Brand: Some researchers prefer specific brands for consistency and reliability.
   • Budget: Pipette tips come in various price ranges. Choose based on your lab’s budget.
   • Handling: Whether autoclavable or disposable, select tips that align with your workflow.

3. Commonly Used Pipette Tip Brands:

   • Eppendorf and Thermo Fisher provide a wide range of pipette tips suitable for various applications.