How to choose pipette tips by workflow
A practical selection path for universal, low-retention, filtered, sterile, LTS, large-volume and robotic pipette tips.
Start with volume and pipette fit, then decide whether the sample needs aerosol protection, sterility, low retention or automation compatibility.
Start with the liquid-handling job
The fastest way to choose a tip is to name the job first: routine buffer transfer, PCR setup, viscous reagent handling, clinical sample preparation, large-volume transfer or automated deck work.
Universal-fit tips work for broad everyday use when the pipette seal is reliable. LTS-compatible tips are a better match when the pipette platform is Rainin LTS and smooth ejection matters.
Match volume before anything else
Choose a tip whose working range covers the target volume without forcing the pipette near the bottom or top of its range. A 100-1,000 uL tip is not a substitute for a 10 uL tip, even if the liquid looks simple.
For 5 mL and 10 mL transfers, use large-volume tips with the right package format and pipette compatibility rather than stretching a smaller workflow.
Add controls only when the risk asks for them
Filtered sterile tips are useful when aerosol carryover, template contamination, microorganisms, cell culture or regulated sample handling changes the risk profile.
Low-retention tips are more about sample recovery than sterility. Use them for proteins, enzymes, detergents, viscous mixes and low-volume transfers where residue inside the tip can affect the result.
Checklist.
Confirm volume range and physical pipette fit.
Choose filtered tips when aerosol carryover is a credible risk.
Choose sterile tips when the workflow or SOP requires sterile consumables.
Choose low-retention surfaces when residue or recovery is the issue.
Choose robotic racks only after matching the automation platform.