DXH560 vs DXH500: What’s the Difference?

 When choosing a hematology analyzer for your lab, it’s important to understand the differences between models to ensure you select the one that best suits your needs. Beckman Coulter offers a range of analyzers designed to meet the varying demands of small and medium-sized labs. Among the most popular models are the DXH560 and DXH500, both of which offer advanced hematology testing capabilities. However, they differ in certain features and specifications that may influence your decision.

In this comparison, we will explore the key differences between the Beckman Coulter DXH560 and DXH500, so you can choose the best option for your laboratory’s needs.

1. Design and Size

• DXH560: The DXH560 is designed with a compact footprint that’s ideal for labs with limited space. Its smaller size doesn’t compromise its performance, making it a great choice for facilities that need a powerful analyzer but have limited room. Despite its compact design, the DXH560 can handle a high volume of tests, delivering big lab performance in a small package.
  
  

• DXH500: The DXH500, while still compact, is generally a bit more compact and suited for smaller labs that handle lower volumes of tests. Like the DXH560, the DXH500 is space-efficient but may not have the same capacity for handling high throughput as the DXH560.
  
  

Verdict: Both analyzers are designed for space-constrained labs, but the DXH560 has a slightly more robust design that can handle higher test volumes.

2. Throughput and Speed

• DXH560: The DXH560 is built for higher throughput, with the ability to handle large volumes of tests while maintaining fast turnaround times. This makes it an excellent choice for labs with a high demand for routine testing, such as complete blood counts (CBC). The analyzer processes tests rapidly, typically providing results in a few minutes, which is crucial in busy environments.
  
  

• DXH500: The DXH500 also offers fast processing times, but it may not be as optimized for high-volume testing as the DXH560. The DXH500 can still deliver quick results, but it is generally suited for labs with lower to moderate throughput needs.
  
  

Verdict: The DXH560 is better suited for high-volume labs, while the DXH500 is ideal for smaller labs with moderate testing demands.

3. Technology and Features

• DXH560: The DXH560 incorporates advanced optical and impedance technologies, delivering high-accuracy results. It features multi-angle light scatter for precise measurements and offers enhanced capabilities for both CBC and differential counts. Additionally, the DXH560 comes with automatic sample handling and self-diagnostics to ensure consistency and reduce manual labor.
  
  

• DXH500: The DXH500 also offers advanced technology, but its feature set may be more basic compared to the DXH560. It’s equipped with optical and impedance methods for standard CBC testing, and while it provides high accuracy, it doesn’t include as many advanced features as the DXH560.
  
  

Verdict: The DXH560 offers more advanced features and capabilities, making it better suited for labs that require higher precision and efficiency in testing.

4. User Interface

• DXH560: The DXH560 is designed with an intuitive touchscreen interface, making it easy for operators to navigate through test setups, results, and quality control processes. It offers a user-friendly experience and can be easily integrated into a lab’s existing workflow.
  
  

• DXH500: The DXH500 also has a touchscreen interface, but it may not have the same level of functionality or ease of use as the DXH560. Its interface is straightforward and easy to operate, but the DXH560 has some additional user-oriented features that make it slightly more efficient in the lab environment.
  
  

Verdict: The DXH560 has a more advanced and user-friendly interface, making it ideal for labs that prioritize ease of use and workflow efficiency.

5. Maintenance and Cost

• DXH560: The DXH560 is designed to be low-maintenance with built-in self-calibration and automatic quality control systems. These features help reduce the need for manual intervention, saving time and costs in the long run. However, the advanced features of the DXH560 may come at a higher initial investment.
  
  

• DXH500: The DXH500 also has low-maintenance requirements, but it is likely to come at a lower cost compared to the DXH560. It may require less frequent service due to its simpler technology, making it a more budget-friendly option for small labs.
  
  

Verdict: The DXH500 is a more affordable option for smaller labs, but the DXH560 offers more advanced features and long-term efficiency that could justify the higher upfront cost.

6. Integration with Laboratory Information Systems (LIMS)

• DXH560: The DXH560 offers seamless integration with LIMS and electronic health records (EHR), allowing lab results to be automatically transferred to digital patient records. This integration reduces the risk of data entry errors and enhances the overall workflow by making test results instantly accessible to clinicians.
  
  

• DXH500: The DXH500 can also be integrated with LIMS and EHR, but its integration capabilities may not be as robust or as seamless as the DXH560. While it can transfer results efficiently, the DXH560 offers more comprehensive integration features for improved lab connectivity.
  
  

Verdict: The DXH560 provides better integration capabilities, making it more suitable for labs that rely heavily on LIMS and EHR systems.

7. Cost-Effectiveness

• DXH560: Although the DXH560 is slightly more expensive, it provides a high-performance solution that can handle a greater workload. It is an excellent choice for labs that need to manage high-volume testing while ensuring precision and speed. Over time, the analyzer’s efficiency and advanced features may justify the higher initial investment.
  
  

• DXH500: The DXH500 is a more cost-effective option for labs with smaller workloads or budget constraints. While it still delivers reliable and accurate results, it doesn’t offer the same range of advanced features as the DXH560, making it a better option for labs that need a reliable, entry-level analyzer without the high upfront costs.
  
  

Verdict: The DXH500 is more affordable, making it suitable for smaller labs with fewer testing demands, while the DXH560 provides more value for high-volume or advanced testing environments.

Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?

The Beckman Coulter DXH560 and DXH500 are both excellent hematology analyzers, but they are suited for different types of labs. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:

• Choose the DXH560 if:
  
  

• You need a high-performance analyzer for high-volume testing.
  
  

• You want advanced features like multi-angle light scatter technology, automatic sample handling, and seamless integration with LIMS.
  
  

• You are willing to invest in a more cost-effective long-term solution for a larger lab.
  
  

• Choose the DXH500 if:
  
  

• You run a smaller lab or have moderate testing volumes.
  
  

• You need a reliable and budget-friendly analyzer without the need for advanced features.
  
  

• You are looking for a cost-effective option without compromising on accuracy and speed.
  
  

Both models offer high-quality results, but the DXH560 is better suited for high-demand environments, while the DXH500 is ideal for smaller, less busy labs. Choose the analyzer that best fits your lab’s specific needs, budget, and workload.