Simplicity™ Dx Extraction: The Stand Out Choice Among PCR Extraction Systems

Choosing the right Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) extraction device means accounting for several variables that can each have a significant impact on your laboratory’s operations. It was this sort of broad consideration of many different key metrics that led us to release our own magnetic, bead-based system—one that would strike the right balance of speed, throughput, and cost-effectiveness. Read on to see how our Simplicity™ Dx Extraction Device compares with other popular options, so you can make an informed decision.

Samples Per Run

Many labs have highly variable PCR workloads, which means flexibility in sample size is a vital factor to consider. Ideally, an extraction device should allow for tailored operations that minimize waste and maximize efficiency.

Simplicity^TM Dx Extraction supports 1 to 32 samples per run, which not only accommodates variable workloads, but also has a higher sample run than smaller devices like QIAcube Connect or MagNA Pure 24. Devices like the IsoPure^TM 96 and KingFisher Apex can handle larger batches, but at the cost of being adaptable for small-scale runs.

Processing and Setup Time

Processing time has obvious impacts on a lab’s throughput and the speed at which results can be delivered—an important variable for both clinical and preclinical labs. Handle more samples, avoid bottlenecks, and enhance overall efficiency by prioritizing rapid processing times in your device selection. Shorter setup times also free up your staff to focus on more critical tasks, minimizing the time spent on routine PCR extraction.

Simplicity^TM Dx Extraction not only has very competitive standard processing times, but also comes with a rapid protocol that allows you to process 32 samples in 8 minutes. While the MagNA Pure 24 also offers a fast protocol, it is markedly slower than Simplicity^TM Dx Extraction’s—only able to process 8 samples in 30 minutes. 

Footprint and Weight

Many laboratories have limited bench space or would otherwise benefit from a device that is more compact, lightweight, and easily-movable. In general, smaller and lighter systems are easier to install, relocate, and integrate into existing workflows without requiring significant infrastructure changes.

Once again, Simplicity^TM Dx Extraction shines as the smallest and lightest option among the most popular devices on the market. In many cases, a single person may be able to move and install our system—this contrasts with models like the NUCLISENS easyMAG and MagNA Pure 24, which are both around or above 100kg in weight and bear a large footprint.

Reagent Design

Devices that support reagents which come pre-filled and ready-to-use have obvious advantages over those that require preparation, allowing you to simplify workflows, free up staff time, reduce handling, and minimize the risk of contamination or error.

Simplicity^TM Dx Extraction reagent kits are not only pre-filled and ready-to-use, but also offer the flexibility to process as little as a single sample. This means you’ll be able to eliminate as much waste as possible from your PCR workflow, which can be particularly helpful if your lab handles highly variable workloads.

Cost of Instrument

For many labs, system features are not weighted as heavily in overall consideration as initial, up-front cost. While consumables should also be factored in to predict long-term costs, the initial purchase price of an instrument can, of course, impact budget allocations and financial planning. 

Whereas magnetic, bead-based systems may have been historically viewed as cost-prohibitive for labs interested in using the technology, Simplicity^TM Dx Extraction’s price point is changing that reputation. It is competitively priced at $13,524, marking advanced affordability over other options like the KingFisher Apex ($101,745) and IsoPure^TM 96 ($47,250). Only the QIAcube Connect is slightly cheaper, but at the sacrifice of dramatically more expensive consumable and reagent costs—these will likely make it a pricier system in the long run for most labs.

Cost of Consumables and Reagents

Ongoing expenses associated with your extraction device can impact the total cost of ownership over time, so being judicious in this respect can lead to substantial savings, especially for labs handling high PCR volumes.

Simplicity^TM Dx Extraction once again stands out from the competition, with notably more affordable consumable and reagent costs ($0.25 and $2.50 per extraction, respectively). Contrast this with the IsoPure^TM 96, whose consumables cost $14.19, or the MagNA Pure 24, whose reagents are priced at $8.30 per extraction. While the KingFisher Apex Dx System has a lower reagent cost per extraction ($1.84), this is offset by a markedly high initial device cost ($101,745).

Throughput and Maximum Efficiency

For some busy labs, the most important factor in their decision will be the absolute maximum throughput they can achieve to satisfy high PCR demand. Others with less consistent workloads may still want a system that maintains high efficiency during surging PCR volume.

While some systems support a higher number of max samples per run (IsoPure^TM 96 and KingFisher Apex both support 96), Simplicity^TM Dx Extraction still offers a higher absolute maximum throughput of 240 samples per hour. 

Consumable Details

The Verdict

We chose to offer Simplicity^TM Dx Extraction precisely because it excels across almost all major key metrics one would consider when choosing an extraction device. Balancing versatility, cost-effectiveness, high throughput, and speed, it’s a great match for labs of all sizes and offers the opportunity to integrate innovative, magnetic, bead-based extraction into your workflows.