Flow cytometry is a powerful technology that can be used for straightforward tasks such as cell counting or complex cellular analyses based on multiple cellular markers. Although all flow cytometers contain the same basic building blocks: flow cell, a light source (lamp or laser), a detector and a computer, instruments will differ as to how many lasers and detectors they have. While most labs don’t typically perform experiments that require the simultaneous detection of more than 6 tags, the number of applications for analyses based on numerous fluorescent tags is increasing. If you are in the market for a flow cytometer, in addition to looking at how many separate tags you’ll be able to analyze, you’ll want to consider whether the instrument has additional features, such as the ability to capture an image of your cells or the faculty to sort them. As with any instrument purchase, you’ll want to match the instrument's capabilities to your needs while keeping in mind future research and the upgradeability of the cytometer. To start your search for the flow cytometer best suited to your needs, check out the products listed below.