Western Blot Processors

Choose a western blot processor based on throughput and protocol flexibility needs. Compare Bandmate and iBind systems to evaluate flexibility, ease of use, and consistency in membrane blocking, antibody incubation, and washing. Western blot processors are for researchers seeking more consistent, reproducible results with less hands-on time compared to traditional western blot processing..

Explore the western blot workflow

Western blotting overview

Transfer systems

Detection reagents

Protein gel electrophoresis

What is a western blot processing system?

Western blot processing refers to the immunoassay portion of the western blot workflow that follows protein transfer, encompassing membrane blocking, antibody incubation, and washing prior to detection. These steps directly influence signal intensity, background signal, and overall reproducibility. Western blot processing systems automate and simplify these steps to support reliable protein detection while improving workflow efficiency.

Invitrogen western blot processing systems are designed to meet a range of needs, from simple hands-free operation to flexible, programmable processing for higher throughput applications. Whether improving consistency, increasing efficiency, or scaling workflows, these systems reduce hands-on time and help researchers move from transfer to detection with confidence.

Compare western blot processors

Western blot processing can be performed manually or using integrated systems that help standardize workflows, reduce hands-on time, and improve reproducibility, especially in higher-throughput laboratories.

Thermo Fisher Scientific offers two western blot processing solutions: the iBind Western System and the Bandmate Automated Western Blot Processor.

What is the difference between iBind and Bandmate western blot processors?

iBind is a simple, self-contained system designed for minimal setup and consistent results.
Bandmate is a programmable western blot processor designed for higher throughput and protocol flexibility.

Use the table below to compare system capabilities and workflow differences.

	i Bind western blot system	Bandmate western blot processor
System type	Passive flow (sequential lateral flow)	Active, programmable platform
Workflow control	Predefined, self-contained	Fully programmable
Throughput	1 min blot (iBind) Up to 2 mini or 1 midi or 6 strip blots (iBind Flex)	Up to 4 mini blots or up to 2 midi blots
Reagent handling	Preconfigured reagent flow	User-defined protocols and reagent volumes
Flexibility	Low; optimized for simplicity	High; customizable protocols
Antibody usage	80% less primary antibody compared to manual*	65% less compared to manual*
Antibody recovery	Not supported	Supported
Setup complexity	Simple	Moderate
Portability	Compact/portable	Benchtop instrument/not portable
Equipment required	No electricity required	Powered instrument

*See specific pages for data

Find the right western blot processing system for your workflow

Each western blot processor is designed to support different workflow priorities from flexibility and scalability to simplicity and ease of use.

Which western blot processor is right for your workflow?

Choose the iBind system if you want a simple, hands-free workflow with minimal set up and consistent results.
Choose the Bandmate system if you need programmable workflows, higher throughput, and protocol flexibility.

Use the table to identify which processor best fits your laboratory needs.

	iBind western blot system	Bandmate western blot processor
Best for	Labs seeking simple, hands-free workflows with minimal setup	Labs prioritizing scalable workflows requiring flexibility and protocol control
Workflow style	Predefined and streamlined	Programmable and scalable
Hands-on time	Very low	Low
Reproducibility	High with minimum user variability	High with customizable workflows
Typical user	Labs seeking ease of use and minimal training	Labs running multiple blots or optimizing protocols

Manual vs. system-based western blot workflows

Manual western blot processing involves multiple incubation and wash steps that require hands-on time. System-based workflows simplify these steps within a controlled process, helping reduce variability and improve efficiency.

Continue the western blot workflow

Explore additional solutions that support each step of the western blot workflow from processing to data analysis:

Western Blot Buffers and Consumables

Choose buffers, membranes, and filter papers based on transfer method and detection strategy.

Learn more about buffers and consumables

Antibodies for Western Blotting

Choose primary and secondary antibodies optimized for western blotting to support specific target detection and reliable, reproducible results.

Learn about western blot antibodies

Western Blot Detection Reagents

Detect proteins using chemiluminescent, fluorescent, or chromogenic methods.

Learn more about detection reagents

iBright Imaging System

Capture and analyze protein signals using imaging systems to assess band intensity and signal quality.

Learn more about iBright system

Frequently asked questions

A western blot processing system automates or simplifies membrane blocking, antibody incubation, and washing steps to improve reproducibility and reduce hands-on time compared to traditional western blot processing..

Automation is not required but can significantly improve consistency, and streamline workflows, especially in routine or high-throughput experiments.

Yes. Automated systems standardize incubation and washing conditions, reducing variability between experiments and users.

Yes. Western blot processing systems automate antibody incubation and washing, helping ensure consistent reagent exposure and timing.

Bandmate systems offers programmable control and higher throughput for scalable workflows, while iBind systems offer a simple, passive sequential lateral flow process designed for ease of use with consistent results and minimal setup.