Quick Overview
- 1#1: LabWare LIMS - Comprehensive enterprise LIMS for end-to-end sample lifecycle management, workflow automation, and regulatory compliance in laboratories.
- 2#2: STARLIMS - Flexible, configurable LIMS platform for sample tracking, testing workflows, and quality assurance across industries.
- 3#3: Thermo Scientific SampleManager - Integrated LIMS solution for biopharma sample management, data integrity, and instrument integration.
- 4#4: LabVantage - Unified lab informatics platform with robust LIMS for sample inventory, chain-of-custody, and analytics.
- 5#5: Benchling - Cloud-native R&D platform for biotech sample tracking, request management, and collaborative workflows.
- 6#6: Dotmatics - Scientific informatics suite with LIMS for sample registration, storage, and assay data management.
- 7#7: Labguru - All-in-one ELN and LIMS for sample management, experiment tracking, and lab operations.
- 8#8: QBench - Cloud-based LIMS for efficient sample accessioning, workflow orchestration, and reporting in testing labs.
- 9#9: CloudLIMS - Secure SaaS LIMS for sample lifecycle management, compliance, and real-time collaboration.
- 10#10: SciCord - Document-centric LIMS for sample management, batch records, and GMP compliance in manufacturing.
We ranked tools based on key factors including feature depth (workflow automation, compliance support, integration capabilities), user experience (intuitiveness, scalability), and practical value (alignment with niche needs like biotech or manufacturing) to provide a trusted resource for decision-making.
Comparison Table
Navigate the landscape of sample management software with this comparison table, featuring standout tools like LabWare LIMS, STARLIMS, Thermo Scientific SampleManager, LabVantage, Benchling, and others. Readers will explore key features, workflow design, and integration capabilities to identify the right solution for their lab or research workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LabWare LIMS Comprehensive enterprise LIMS for end-to-end sample lifecycle management, workflow automation, and regulatory compliance in laboratories. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | STARLIMS Flexible, configurable LIMS platform for sample tracking, testing workflows, and quality assurance across industries. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Thermo Scientific SampleManager Integrated LIMS solution for biopharma sample management, data integrity, and instrument integration. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | LabVantage Unified lab informatics platform with robust LIMS for sample inventory, chain-of-custody, and analytics. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Benchling Cloud-native R&D platform for biotech sample tracking, request management, and collaborative workflows. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Dotmatics Scientific informatics suite with LIMS for sample registration, storage, and assay data management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Labguru All-in-one ELN and LIMS for sample management, experiment tracking, and lab operations. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | QBench Cloud-based LIMS for efficient sample accessioning, workflow orchestration, and reporting in testing labs. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | CloudLIMS Secure SaaS LIMS for sample lifecycle management, compliance, and real-time collaboration. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | SciCord Document-centric LIMS for sample management, batch records, and GMP compliance in manufacturing. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
Comprehensive enterprise LIMS for end-to-end sample lifecycle management, workflow automation, and regulatory compliance in laboratories.
Flexible, configurable LIMS platform for sample tracking, testing workflows, and quality assurance across industries.
Integrated LIMS solution for biopharma sample management, data integrity, and instrument integration.
Unified lab informatics platform with robust LIMS for sample inventory, chain-of-custody, and analytics.
Cloud-native R&D platform for biotech sample tracking, request management, and collaborative workflows.
Scientific informatics suite with LIMS for sample registration, storage, and assay data management.
All-in-one ELN and LIMS for sample management, experiment tracking, and lab operations.
Cloud-based LIMS for efficient sample accessioning, workflow orchestration, and reporting in testing labs.
Secure SaaS LIMS for sample lifecycle management, compliance, and real-time collaboration.
Document-centric LIMS for sample management, batch records, and GMP compliance in manufacturing.
LabWare LIMS
enterpriseComprehensive enterprise LIMS for end-to-end sample lifecycle management, workflow automation, and regulatory compliance in laboratories.
Zero-footprint web-based client with a powerful rules-based engine for fully customizable sample workflows without programming
LabWare LIMS is a leading enterprise-grade Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that excels in comprehensive sample management, tracking samples from receipt, processing, storage, and disposal across diverse lab environments. It provides robust features for inventory control, chain-of-custody documentation, barcode/RFID tracking, and integration with lab instruments and ERP systems. Designed for regulated industries like pharmaceuticals, biotech, food & beverage, and environmental testing, it ensures compliance with standards such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 17025, and GxP.
Pros
- Unparalleled configurability with zero-code customization for complex sample workflows
- Superior sample tracking, lineage, and inventory management with real-time visibility
- Seamless integration with hundreds of instruments and strong regulatory compliance tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive configuration time for optimal setup
- High upfront implementation and customization costs
- Requires IT expertise for deployment and maintenance
Best For
Large-scale, regulated laboratories in pharma, biotech, or environmental sectors needing highly scalable and customizable sample management.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically $50,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and deployment scale, with perpetual licenses available.
STARLIMS
enterpriseFlexible, configurable LIMS platform for sample tracking, testing workflows, and quality assurance across industries.
No-code configuration engine for building custom workflows and sample management rules without programming
STARLIMS is a leading Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) from Abbott Informatics, specializing in end-to-end sample management for laboratories in regulated industries like pharmaceuticals, biotech, and food safety. It handles the full sample lifecycle, from accessioning and tracking to testing, storage, and disposal, with seamless integration to lab instruments and ERP systems. The platform emphasizes data integrity, compliance with standards like 21 CFR Part 11 and ISO 17025, and customizable workflows to optimize lab efficiency.
Pros
- Highly configurable workflows for complex sample processes
- Strong instrument integration and automation capabilities
- Excellent compliance and audit trail features for regulated environments
Cons
- Complex and time-intensive implementation process
- High cost suitable mainly for enterprises
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
Best For
Large enterprise laboratories in pharmaceuticals, biotech, or clinical testing requiring scalable, compliant sample management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $100,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaling with modules, users, and customization.
Thermo Scientific SampleManager
enterpriseIntegrated LIMS solution for biopharma sample management, data integrity, and instrument integration.
Deep, native integration with Thermo Scientific instruments for automated data capture and reduced manual errors
Thermo Scientific SampleManager is a robust Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) designed for comprehensive sample lifecycle management in regulated laboratory environments. It automates workflows from sample registration, tracking, and processing to storage and disposal, with seamless integration to lab instruments and enterprise systems. The software ensures data integrity, compliance with standards like FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and provides real-time analytics for efficient decision-making in pharma, biotech, and clinical labs.
Pros
- Extensive integration with Thermo Fisher instruments and third-party systems
- Strong compliance and audit trail capabilities for regulated industries
- Highly customizable workflows and scalable for enterprise-level operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High implementation and customization costs
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Enterprise laboratories in pharmaceuticals, biotech, or clinical research needing robust, compliant sample management at scale.
Pricing
Enterprise pricing via custom quote; typically perpetual licenses starting at $100,000+ with annual maintenance fees, or subscription models from $50,000/year depending on deployment.
LabVantage
enterpriseUnified lab informatics platform with robust LIMS for sample inventory, chain-of-custody, and analytics.
Visual Workflow Designer enabling no-code creation of complex, automated sample processing workflows
LabVantage is a comprehensive Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that provides robust sample management capabilities for tracking samples throughout their lifecycle in research, clinical, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing labs. It supports automated workflows, inventory management, chain-of-custody tracking, and integration with lab instruments for seamless data capture. The platform emphasizes regulatory compliance with features like audit trails and electronic signatures, making it suitable for highly regulated environments.
Pros
- Advanced sample lineage and chain-of-custody tracking
- Highly customizable no-code workflows and configurations
- Strong regulatory compliance tools including 21 CFR Part 11 support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive training required
- Complex implementation process for enterprise deployments
- High cost prohibitive for small labs
Best For
Large-scale laboratories in regulated industries like pharma and biotech needing scalable, compliant sample management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for subscriptions, scaling with users, modules, and deployment size.
Benchling
specializedCloud-native R&D platform for biotech sample tracking, request management, and collaborative workflows.
Interactive sample lineage graphs that trace parent-child relationships and full provenance history
Benchling is a cloud-based life sciences R&D platform with robust sample management features, enabling users to track samples, manage inventory, monitor storage conditions, and visualize lineages across experiments. It integrates sample data with electronic lab notebooks, protocols, and collaboration tools for end-to-end workflow management. Designed for biotech and pharma teams, it supports scalable operations from research to manufacturing.
Pros
- Advanced sample lineage tracking and visualization
- Seamless integration with ELNs and protocols
- Real-time inventory monitoring with alerts
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Enterprise pricing can be prohibitive for small labs
- Limited offline access
Best For
Mid-to-large biotech and pharma teams requiring integrated sample tracking within broader R&D workflows.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting around $100-200/user/month; free tier for academic and non-commercial use.
Dotmatics
enterpriseScientific informatics suite with LIMS for sample registration, storage, and assay data management.
Unified platform integration linking samples directly to experimental data and analytics for full lifecycle visibility
Dotmatics is a comprehensive scientific informatics platform with robust sample management capabilities via its Inventory module, enabling precise tracking, storage, and retrieval of biological and chemical samples. It supports barcode scanning, automated workflows, hierarchical location management, and seamless integration with ELNs, LIMS, and analytics tools. Designed for life sciences R&D, it ensures regulatory compliance, real-time visibility, and scalability for large inventories.
Pros
- Extensive integration with ELN, assays, and data platforms for end-to-end workflows
- Advanced tracking with RFID/barcode, expiry alerts, and audit trails for compliance
- Scalable cloud-based architecture handling millions of samples enterprise-wide
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth and customization needs
- Enterprise pricing requires custom quotes, often prohibitive for small labs
- Initial setup and data migration can be time-intensive
Best For
Large pharmaceutical, biotech, or academic labs requiring integrated, compliant sample management at scale.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing (typically $50K+ annually per site); contact sales for quotes.
Labguru
specializedAll-in-one ELN and LIMS for sample management, experiment tracking, and lab operations.
Direct linking of samples to ELN experiments for complete audit trails and reproducibility
Labguru is a cloud-based Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) and lab management platform with robust sample and inventory management features. It enables tracking of samples and reagents from receipt to disposal, including barcode scanning, storage location mapping, and lifecycle history linked to experiments. The system supports customizable workflows, team collaboration, and integration with lab instruments for efficient sample handling in research environments.
Pros
- Seamless integration of sample tracking with ELN for full experiment traceability
- Barcode and RFID support for quick inventory management
- Cloud-based access with mobile app for real-time updates
Cons
- Less specialized for advanced LIMS needs compared to dedicated sample management tools
- Initial customization and setup can be time-intensive
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or advanced modules
Best For
Mid-sized biotech and research labs needing an all-in-one ELN with integrated sample management.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~€99/user/month for basic plans; Pro and Enterprise tiers €149+/user/month with custom quotes.
QBench
specializedCloud-based LIMS for efficient sample accessioning, workflow orchestration, and reporting in testing labs.
No-code workflow builder allowing labs to create custom sample processing pipelines without programming
QBench is a cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) focused on sample management for scientific labs, enabling end-to-end tracking from receipt to disposal. It offers tools for workflow automation, inventory control, barcode/label printing, and instrument integrations to streamline lab operations. The platform supports compliance with standards like ISO 17025 and provides real-time reporting and analytics for efficient data management.
Pros
- Comprehensive sample lifecycle tracking with barcode support
- No-code workflow automation for custom processes
- Strong integrations with lab instruments and ELNs
Cons
- Initial configuration can be time-intensive
- Pricing scales quickly for larger deployments
- Mobile app lacks some desktop features
Best For
Mid-sized research, testing, or clinical labs needing scalable sample tracking and automation.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $500/month for basic plans, scaling with users and modules.
CloudLIMS
specializedSecure SaaS LIMS for sample lifecycle management, compliance, and real-time collaboration.
Advanced cryogenic freezer management with real-time aliquot tracking and automated storage optimization
CloudLIMS is a cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) specializing in comprehensive sample management for life sciences, clinical, and biotech labs. It enables end-to-end sample tracking from accessioning and storage to analysis and disposal, with robust inventory management and automated workflows. The platform emphasizes regulatory compliance, such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and offers customizable dashboards for real-time visibility into lab operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive sample lifecycle management with barcode/RFID tracking
- Strong regulatory compliance tools including electronic signatures and audit trails
- Scalable cloud architecture with customizable workflows and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users due to extensive customization options
- Pricing can be prohibitive for very small labs without volume discounts
- Limited out-of-the-box integrations with some niche lab instruments
Best For
Mid-sized biotech, clinical, or research labs requiring robust, compliant sample tracking and inventory management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting at around $500/month for basic plans, scaling with users, storage, and features (annual contracts typical).
SciCord
enterpriseDocument-centric LIMS for sample management, batch records, and GMP compliance in manufacturing.
End-to-end sample chain-of-custody tracking with real-time status updates and automated notifications
SciCord is a cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) specialized in sample management for biotech, pharmaceutical, and research labs. It enables comprehensive tracking of samples throughout their lifecycle, from receipt and storage to processing, analysis, and disposal, with features for inventory control, barcode labeling, and automated workflows. The platform ensures regulatory compliance (e.g., 21 CFR Part 11) and integrates with lab instruments for seamless data flow.
Pros
- Strong compliance tools with electronic signatures and audit trails
- Flexible inventory and storage management with location tracking
- Customizable workflows for diverse sample types
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be high for small labs
- Limited native integrations with non-lab-specific tools
- Mobile app functionality is basic compared to desktop
Best For
Mid-sized life sciences labs requiring robust, compliant sample tracking without extensive IT setup.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $1,000/month for basic plans, scaling with users, storage, and modules (free demo available).
Conclusion
The top 10 sample management software tools reviewed each bring unique strengths, but LabWare LIMS leads as the best choice for end-to-end lifecycle management, workflow automation, and regulatory compliance in labs. STARLIMS stands out for its flexibility across industries, while Thermo Scientific SampleManager excels in biopharma data integrity and instrument integration, making them strong alternatives for specific needs. Together, these tools cover diverse lab requirements, ensuring there’s a fit for every operation.
Explore LabWare LIMS today to streamline your sample management, boost efficiency, and meet compliance goals.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison