Purchasing Guide: pH Meters
Choosing the right pH meter probe (electrode) is important to configure the instrument to your sample type
pH meters are used to measure the acidity and alkalinity of laboratory samples. Choosing the right pH meter probe (electrode) is important to configure the instrument to your sample type. For example, electrodes with stainless steel blades can be used to directly measure pH in solid samples, such as food. When purchasing a pH meter, labs should consider how easy it is to calibrate and use as well as its accuracy. For a list of pH meter manufacturers, see our online directory: LabManager.com/pH-meter-manufacturers
6 Questions to Ask When Buying a pH Meter:
- How accurate is the instrument and what level of accuracy do you need for your application?
- What electrodes are available and are they compatible with your sample needs?
- What steps are involved in calibrating the instrument?
- Would a portable pH meter better suit your needs?
- What level of precision do you require?
- Can the instrument be easily connected to your LIMS or other laboratory management software?
Benchtop or Portable?
Generally, the most precise and feature-packed pH meters are non-portable, benchtop models. However, portable pH meters have become much more sophisticated in recent years. If you regularly do field work outside the lab and would like a pH meter that can compare to a benchtop unit, a current-generation portable model would suit your needs well.
Measuring Super Acids
For best results when measuring super acids like triflic and fluorosulfonic acid, it is recommended that you buy a pH meter with an extended measurement range of -2 to +20 pH.