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Which Niton Elemental Analyzer is Right for Me?

Selecting the right elemental analyzer starts with understanding your application requirements. Niton™ handheld XRF analyzers provide fast, non-destructive elemental analysis for a wide range of materials and applications, while Niton™ handheld LIBS analyzers deliver rapid alloy identification, grade verification, and carbon analysis. Use this guide to compare technologies, analytical capabilities, and key features to determine which Niton analyzer best meets your testing, quality assurance, manufacturing, recycling, or material identification needs.

Compare Niton handheld XRF and LIBS analyzers by application, elemental coverage, and analytical performance.


Handheld XRF and LIBS Analyzer Selection Guide

 
  Niton Apollo Niton XL5 Plus Niton XL5e Niton XL3t GOLDD+ Niton XL2 Plus Niton XL2 100G Niton DXL
Analytical Specifications
Technology LIBS XRF XRF XRF XRF XRF XRF
Analytical Source 1064nm laser, charge coupled device (CCD) 5W x-ray tube, extra large area silicon drift detector (SDD) 5W x-ray tube, silicon drift detector (SDD) 2W x-ray tube, silicon drift detector (SDD) 2W x-ray tube, silicon drift detector (SDD) 2W x-ray tube, Si-PIN detector 2W x-ray tube,
Si-PIN detector
Elemental Range1 C, Al, Si, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Nb, Mo, W Mg-U
(ultra low light element detection), Na (spectrum based detection)
Mg-U
(enhanced element detection)
Mg-U Mg-U Ti-Bi Ti-Pb
Spot Size 50 µm standard 8 mm standard
3 mm optional
8 mm standard 8 mm standard
3 mm optional
8 mm standard 8 mm standard 8 mm standard
3 mm optional
Instrument Specifications
Weight2 6.4 lbs. 2.8 lbs. 2.8 lbs. 3.4 lbs. 3.4 lbs. 3.4 lbs. 17 lbs.
Dimensions 12.0 x 13.0 x
4.0 in.
9.5 x 8.2 x
2.7 in.
9.54 x 8.19 x 2.67 in 9.6 x 9.0 x
3.8 in.
10.0 x 10.8 x
4.0 in.
10.0 x 10.8 x
4.0 in.
15.6 x 8.1 x
10.4 in.
Memory Readings Capacity3 5,000 < 130,000

< 130,000

< 10,000 < 10,000 < 10,000 < 10,000
Features
Display Screen Tilting Tilting Fixed Angle Tilting Tilting Tilting Tilting
Touchscreen/ Directional Keys
Micro Camera  
Macro Camera          
Bluetooth4
GPS        
WiFi        
Hot Swap Battery      
Splash + Dust Proof
(IP54 Rated)
     
Detector Protection N/A        
Integrated  Fan6            


This table is non-exhaustive and details best sellers from the Niton XRF and LIBS product lines. Instrument specifications and applications vary by model type. Additional calibrations and configurations are available. Contact us to learn more. 



1. Elemental range dependent upon selected calibration modes.  2. Displayed weight includes battery.  3. Includes spectra. Fewer readings can be saved if macro/ micro images are included.  4. Enables connection to PC, printer, barcode reader, and external GPS. 5. All models can be connected to external GPS via Bluetooth 6. For extended use without overheating

 
  Niton Apollo Niton XL5 Plus Niton XL5e Niton XL3t GOLDD+ Niton XL2 Plus Niton XL2 100G Niton DXL
Metals / Alloys
Carbon Steel, Low Alloy Steel ★★★ ★★

   
Stainless Steel L-Grades ★★★            
Scrap Metal
Recycling
★★ ★★★ ★★ ★★★ ★★  
Positive Material
ID (PMI)
★★★ ★★★ ★★ ★★ ★★

 
Manufacturing
QA / QC
★★ ★★★ ★★ ★★ ★★

 
Coatings  
Metal Coatings   ★★★   ★★    
Precious Metals
Jewelry & Precious Metals Analysis   ★★   ★★ ★★   ★★★
Automotive Catalysts       ★★★      
Mining 
Greenfield Exploration   ★★★ ★★ ★★    
Oil & Gas Exploration   ★★★ ★★ ★★      
Grade Control   ★★★ ★★ ★★    
Rare Earth Elements       ★★★      
Environmental Hazards
Soils  

★★★

★★ ★★    


Industrial Lead Paint
  ★★   ★★    
Residential Lead Paint              
Dust, Air Filters       ★★      
Consumer Goods
Children's Toys,
Apparel, Jewelry, Furniture
  ★★★ ★★ ★★    
RoHS / Halogen-free WEEE   ★★★   ★★    
Art & Archaeometry
Metal Artifacts, Pigments, Ceramics, etc..   ★★★ ★★ ★★    

★ = Good, ★★ = Better, ★★★ = Best; Rating system evaluates analytical performance, instrument form factor, specifications and application needs.


This table is non-exhaustive and details best sellers from the Niton XRF and LIBS product lines. Instrument specifications and applications vary by model type. Additional calibrations and configurations are available. Contact us to learn more.


Download the Free XRF eBook!

"XRF Technology for Non-Scientists"

Want to learn how LIBS technology works? Download the eBook to discover the science behind laser induced breakdown spectroscopy. Developed by our team of experts, you’ll learn what businesses can benefit from portable LIBS, how the technology works, and what to look for when purchasing a LIBS analyzer- plus much more!

Download the Free LIBS eBook!

"LIBS Technology for Non-Scientists"

Want to learn how LIBS technology works? Download the eBook to discover the science behind laser induced breakdown spectroscopy. Developed by our team of experts, you’ll learn what businesses can benefit from portable LIBS, how the technology works, and what to look for when purchasing a LIBS analyzer- plus much more!


For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.