Meet SWITCH – the hybrid pipette that does it all

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Finding the right pipette often means choosing between control and workflow efficiency. Manual pipettes offer excellent control over liquid handling tasks, but they typically fall short for repetitive steps like aliquoting. On the other hand, electronic or repeater pipettes excel at aliquoting and more complex workflows, but can involve complex set-up, shared usage and a less intuitive user experience. We offer a way to overcome these challenges with the SWITCH hybrid pipette – an all-in-one solution that combines the familiar feel of manual pipetting with the speed and efficiency of electronic repeat dispensing.

A single instrument, different pipetting options

The SWITCH is a single channel pipette offering 2 distinct liquid handling approaches: manual pipetting and repeat dispensing. When used manually, it delivers the same simplicity and familiar feel as a traditional mechanical pipette, giving users full control over aspiration and dispensing using their thumb. This makes it ideal for precise and variable-volume applications such as mixing, resuspending pellets, removing supernatants and transferring small volumes with control and care.

When switched to repeat dispense mode, users can perform multiple precise aliquots from a single aspiration. This is ideal for plate filling, tube aliquoting or reagent distribution, where speed and consistency are essential. There’s no complex programming involved – users simply need to set the desired dispense volume, number of aliquots and pipetting speed, and begin. The plunger becomes a simple action button, enabling hassle-free, reproducible dispensing with minimal effort and training.

Scientist holding two SWITCH hybrid pipettes in their hand, one ready for manual pipetting and the other in repeat dispense mode.
The SWITCH can be operated manually for a familiar handheld pipetting experience, or switched to repeat dispense mode for efficient electronic aliquoting.

Always have a hand free

The SWITCH features an intuitive quick set ring that allows users to adjust the pipetting volume with one hand. Whether performing rapid volume changes between samples or fine-tuning a critical step, the ring supports both broad adjustments and precise, step-wise control. A built-in firmware lock prevents accidental changes mid-use, and the ring can rotate continuously past 100 % to reach 10 %, eliminating the need to reset and enabling smoother transitions across tasks. This effortless adjustment makes it easy for users to stay focused: one hand remains on the pipette, the other is available to hold the labware.

User adjusting the volume of a SWITCH hybrid pipette one-handed using the quick set ring.
The quick set ring allows rapid one-handed volume adjustments, so that users always have a hand free.

Reduced RSI risk

In addition to being adaptable, the SWITCH is designed for comfortable and strain-free liquid handling, even during extended pipetting sessions. Unlike traditional mechanical pipettes, its plunger height remains consistent across all volume settings, eliminating the need for excessive thumb stretching when pipetting at full capacity. Switching to repeat dispense mode further lowers the plunger height, allowing it to function as a convenient button for effortless and rapid aliquoting. Combined with a light plunger force, this helps to enhance comfort, reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) and improve precision and control. Additionally, the curved tip ejector button supports a more natural hand posture, and the pipette’s lightweight build and slightly widened circumference offer a secure and comfortable fit for all hand sizes. The pipette also uses GRIPTIPS® pipette tips for an even smoother pipetting experience. GRIPTIPS snap on effortlessly and eject with minimal force, staying perfectly aligned through repeated touch-offs and preventing the frustration of loose or misaligned tips.

Close-up of a scientist's hand holding a SWITCH pipette, with their thumb resting on the plunger.
The SWITCH features a consistent plunger height across all volume settings, avoiding the need for excessive thumb stretching.

Real-time feedback and measurement of unknown volumes

The SWITCH not only improves pipetting workflows, it also supports accurate measurements, with a real-time display that shows the exact volume aspirated during manual use. This allows users to easily determine unknown liquid volumes directly from the source – a particularly useful feature for measuring precious or irregularly supplied samples.

Smart charging and flexibility for every lab

Labs are busy environments, and the SWITCH is designed to keep up. Its long-lasting battery supports a full day of pipetting without interruption, and the device can be recharged at any time via a convenient USB-C port on the handle, even while in use. The SWITCH is also compatible with the Flex charging stand, which can securely hold and charge up to 6 SWITCH pipettes simultaneously – keeping them upright and organized – and is available in rotary and linear formats to suit any workspace.

6 SWITCH hybrid pipettes on a Flex charging stand placed in a laminar flow cabinet.
The Flex charging stand can alternate between a rotary and a linear design, adapting to a variety of lab layouts.

A single pipette for control, speed and everything in between

From finely controlled liquid transfers to fast, repeatable aliquoting, the SWITCH makes it easy to move between tasks without switching tools. It’s built to streamline workflows, reduce physical strain and adapt to varied lab needs.

Designed for intuitive operation and versatility, the SWITCH is ready to meet the demands of a busy laboratory environment.

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