Last Updated on
January 22, 2025
By
Excedr
Refurbished lab equipment offers a cost-effective solution for labs needing high-quality instruments without the hefty price tag of new equipment. Whether you’re considering buying or leasing, understanding the key differences and benefits is essential for making an informed decision. In this guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of refurbished laboratory equipment, compare it to used options, and discuss when leasing might be the better choice for your lab’s needs.
Refurbished lab equipment isn’t just about saving money—it’s about breathing new life into essential tools that keep your lab running smoothly. From analytical instruments to environmental control systems, these pieces undergo rigorous restoration to ensure they deliver high-quality, reliable performance. Let’s take a closer look at what can be refurbished and what that process involves.
If you’re working in chemistry, life sciences, or anything that requires precise measurements, refurbished analytical instruments are a game-changer.
Clear visuals and precise imaging are essential in many labs, and refurbished tools like these don’t disappoint.
For labs working with cell cultures or sensitive samples, maintaining precise environmental conditions is non-negotiable.
Refurbishing extends the life of these instruments, giving you reliability at a fraction of the cost of new equipment. Whether it’s an analytical powerhouse like a mass spectrometer or a staple like a freezer, refurbished equipment keeps your lab productive without breaking the bank.
When it comes to outfitting your lab, understanding the difference between used and refurbished equipment can save you a lot of headaches—and money. While both options are easier on the budget than buying new, they’re far from interchangeable. Let’s break it down.
Buying used lab equipment is a bit like thrifting for your lab—there are bargains to be had, but you have to do your homework. Used equipment is sold “as is,” meaning it hasn’t been serviced or tested for quality. That’s not necessarily a deal-breaker, especially for simpler tools like vortexers, shakers, or hoods. But for high-precision instruments like HPLC systems or mass spectrometers, you could be rolling the dice if you skip proper due diligence.
The upside? Lower upfront costs and immediate availability. Used equipment is a go-to option for labs needing to stretch their budget or grab something quick. Just keep in mind that without a warranty or maintenance records, you’re taking on some risk.
Refurbished laboratory equipment, on the other hand, is the polished gem of the secondhand market. These instruments—centrifuges, incubators, spectrophotometers, you name it—are professionally serviced and calibrated to ensure they meet the performance standards of a new unit. Providers often replace worn parts, test functionality, and even offer warranties (30 days or longer), giving you peace of mind that’s hard to come by with used gear.
The cost is a little higher than used, but what you’re really paying for is reliability. If your lab depends on precision tools or compliance with strict industry standards, refurbished equipment is worth the investment.
The choice between used and refurbished often boils down to what your lab needs most: affordability or reliability. Used equipment can work for basic tools and tight budgets, but for critical instruments, refurbished options give you the best of both worlds—cost savings and dependable performance.
Not all refurbished lab equipment is created equal, and knowing who’s behind the refurbishment process can make all the difference. Whether you’re sourcing centrifuges, HPLC systems, or spectrophotometers, the quality of the refurbishment often hinges on the expertise and standards of the provider. Let’s explore the main players in the refurbishment landscape and what they bring to the table.
Think of OEMs as the gold standard for refurbishment. Companies like Agilent, Thermo Scientific, and Beckman Coulter refurbish their own equipment to meet strict factory specifications. This means your refurbished mass spectrometer or microplate reader has been restored by the same people who built it, often with the same parts. You’ll typically get a warranty, detailed service records, and the confidence that the instrument is as close to new as possible.
ISOs specialize in refurbishing lab equipment from multiple manufacturers. They often adhere to OEM standards but may offer more competitive pricing. For example, an ISO might refurbish a Shimadzu HPLC system by recalibrating the pumps and replacing seals, just as the manufacturer would, but at a lower cost. ISOs are a solid choice for labs looking for quality without the premium OEM price tag.
If you’re hunting for a deal, third-party vendors can be appealing. These vendors often sell used and refurbished equipment at significantly lower prices, but there’s a catch—quality and reliability can vary. While some third-party refurbishers maintain high standards, others may cut corners. For example, a mass spectrometer might look fine on the surface but lack proper calibration or updated software. It’s crucial to vet these vendors and ask for detailed service records before committing.
Some labs with the right expertise refurbish their own equipment. This is common in larger institutions or organizations that need custom modifications. While in-house refurbishment can save money, it requires skilled technicians, access to replacement parts, and thorough testing to ensure the equipment meets performance standards.
Choosing the right refurbisher boils down to trust and transparency. OEMs and reputable ISOs provide the highest assurance of quality, while third-party vendors and in-house teams might offer cost savings but require more scrutiny. Always ask about warranties, calibration processes, and maintenance histories to ensure your refurbished lab equipment is up to par.
Deciding whether to buy refurbished lab equipment from a third-party vendor or directly from the manufacturer can feel like a toss-up. Both have their pros and cons, but the choice ultimately depends on what your lab values most—cost savings, quality assurance, or availability.
Third-party vendors can offer refurbished lab equipment, such as centrifuges, incubators, and spectrophotometers, at prices significantly lower than manufacturers. For many labs, this cost savings is a huge advantage, especially for non-critical tools or when budgets are tight. However, quality can be inconsistent.
If you go this route, be diligent. Ask for detailed service records, warranty terms, and references from other labs that have worked with the vendor.
When you buy directly from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Agilent, Beckman Coulter, or Thermo Scientific, you’re investing in quality and peace of mind.
The trade-off? Higher costs and potentially limited availability. Manufacturers may not always have the specific equipment you need in stock.
If reliability and support are your top priorities—especially for critical instruments like HPLC systems or mass spectrometers—manufacturers are the way to go. On the other hand, if cost is your main concern and you’re willing to put in extra research, a reputable third-party vendor can be a smart choice.
When it comes to sourcing refurbished lab equipment, leasing can be a flexible and cost-effective alternative to purchasing outright. Whether you’re running a biotech startup with a tight budget or managing a fast-growing lab with evolving needs, leasing offers unique benefits that are hard to overlook. Let’s dive into how these options compare.
Leasing refurbished lab instruments combines the affordability of secondhand equipment with the flexibility of a short-term commitment. Instead of a hefty upfront investment, leasing spreads costs out over time, which can free up your budget for other essentials like reagents, calibration services, or additional staff. Plus, many leasing agreements include maintenance and repairs, giving you one less thing to worry about.
Leasing is particularly appealing if your lab’s needs are temporary or subject to change. For instance, if you’re exploring a new research area or scaling up operations, leasing allows you to upgrade or swap equipment at the end of the lease term without being tied to long-term ownership.
Buying refurbished lab equipment is an excellent option if you’re in it for the long haul. While the upfront costs are higher than leasing, owning the equipment outright can save you money over time. This approach is especially beneficial for tools with a long lifespan, such as freezers, centrifuges, or ovens, where the ongoing reliability justifies the initial expense.
The downside? You’re responsible for maintenance and repairs once the warranty period ends. If your lab doesn’t have the resources or expertise to manage upkeep, unexpected breakdowns can lead to costly downtime.
Leasing makes sense if you:
Buying refurbished is ideal if you:
Refurbished laboratory equipment offers labs an affordable and reliable way to access high-quality tools without the steep costs of buying new. From centrifuges and incubators to mass spectrometers and HPLC systems, refurbished equipment balances performance and cost-effectiveness, making it a great choice for labs prioritizing both value and functionality.
Whether you’re deciding between used and refurbished equipment, weighing the benefits of leasing, or comparing vendors, the key is understanding your lab’s unique needs. Refurbished instruments provide reliability and warranty-backed assurance that’s hard to find with used equipment, while leasing adds flexibility and cost management into the equation.
At Excedr, we lease refurbished laboratory equipment directly from manufacturers that run their own refurbishment programs. This ensures the equipment you lease is not only high quality but also serviced to meet the highest standards.
We’ve leased analytical instruments such as LC/MS and GC/MS systems, spectrophotometers, mass spectrometers, sequencers, and microscopes. Our clients include labs conducting research in fields like gene therapy, cell therapy, and cannabis research. While we remain brand agnostic—meaning we don’t work exclusively with one manufacturer—we’ve partnered with OEMs such as Shimadzu, Beckman Coulter, Thermo Scientific, Tecan, and Agilent to bring you the best options.
If you’re interested in leasing refurbished instruments, selling equipment, or exploring trade-in options for older tools, contact us for a lease estimate. Let us help you outfit your lab with high-quality, cost-effective solutions tailored to your research needs.
