Quick Overview
- 1#1: Benchling - Cloud-based platform for tracking and managing biological samples, workflows, and data in biotech R&D.
- 2#2: LabWare LIMS - Comprehensive LIMS for full lifecycle sample tracking, management, and compliance across labs.
- 3#3: STARLIMS - Flexible LIMS solution for efficient sample tracking, workflow automation, and regulatory compliance.
- 4#4: Thermo Fisher SampleManager - Integrated LIMS with advanced sample management and seamless instrument connectivity.
- 5#5: LabVantage - End-to-end LIMS platform for robust sample tracking and laboratory informatics.
- 6#6: CoreLIMS - Modular LIMS for streamlined sample lifecycle management and data integrity.
- 7#7: Sapio LIMS - Unified lab platform with intelligent sample tracking and assay data management.
- 8#8: CloudLIMS - Cloud-based LIMS for cost-effective sample tracking and collaboration in labs.
- 9#9: Labguru - All-in-one ELN and LIMS for research sample inventory and experiment tracking.
- 10#10: SciNote - Electronic lab notebook with integrated sample management and tracking features.
Tools were chosen and ranked based on features like lifecycle management, integration capabilities, and compliance support, combined with ease of use and overall value for diverse lab environments.
Comparison Table
Sample tracking software is vital for modern labs to optimize workflows, maintain sample integrity, and enhance collaboration. This comparison table evaluates leading tools—such as Benchling, LabWare LIMS, STARLIMS, Thermo Fisher SampleManager, LabVantage, and others—outlining key features, scalability, and user needs to guide informed decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Benchling Cloud-based platform for tracking and managing biological samples, workflows, and data in biotech R&D. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | LabWare LIMS Comprehensive LIMS for full lifecycle sample tracking, management, and compliance across labs. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | STARLIMS Flexible LIMS solution for efficient sample tracking, workflow automation, and regulatory compliance. | enterprise | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Thermo Fisher SampleManager Integrated LIMS with advanced sample management and seamless instrument connectivity. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | LabVantage End-to-end LIMS platform for robust sample tracking and laboratory informatics. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | CoreLIMS Modular LIMS for streamlined sample lifecycle management and data integrity. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Sapio LIMS Unified lab platform with intelligent sample tracking and assay data management. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | CloudLIMS Cloud-based LIMS for cost-effective sample tracking and collaboration in labs. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Labguru All-in-one ELN and LIMS for research sample inventory and experiment tracking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | SciNote Electronic lab notebook with integrated sample management and tracking features. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 |
Cloud-based platform for tracking and managing biological samples, workflows, and data in biotech R&D.
Comprehensive LIMS for full lifecycle sample tracking, management, and compliance across labs.
Flexible LIMS solution for efficient sample tracking, workflow automation, and regulatory compliance.
Integrated LIMS with advanced sample management and seamless instrument connectivity.
End-to-end LIMS platform for robust sample tracking and laboratory informatics.
Modular LIMS for streamlined sample lifecycle management and data integrity.
Unified lab platform with intelligent sample tracking and assay data management.
Cloud-based LIMS for cost-effective sample tracking and collaboration in labs.
All-in-one ELN and LIMS for research sample inventory and experiment tracking.
Electronic lab notebook with integrated sample management and tracking features.
Benchling
specializedCloud-based platform for tracking and managing biological samples, workflows, and data in biotech R&D.
Advanced sample lineage visualization that maps full history, parent-child relationships, and transformations across the R&D lifecycle
Benchling is a comprehensive cloud-based R&D platform tailored for life sciences, with robust sample tracking features that manage inventories, requests, fulfillment, and storage across lab workflows. It offers end-to-end traceability, including sample lineage, relationships, and audit trails to ensure compliance and data integrity. Ideal for biotech and pharma, it integrates seamlessly with ELNs, instruments, and other tools for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Exceptional sample lineage and relationship mapping for full traceability
- Seamless integrations with lab instruments, ELNs, and automation tools
- Real-time collaboration, notifications, and customizable workflows
Cons
- High enterprise-level pricing not ideal for small labs
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Limited offline access due to cloud dependency
Best For
Large biotech, pharmaceutical, and academic research teams needing scalable, compliant sample tracking at enterprise scale.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $10,000+ annually per team or lab, with volume-based tiers.
LabWare LIMS
enterpriseComprehensive LIMS for full lifecycle sample tracking, management, and compliance across labs.
Patented configuration tools allowing extensive no-code customization of workflows and interfaces
LabWare LIMS is a comprehensive laboratory information management system (LIMS) that excels in sample tracking, managing the entire sample lifecycle from receipt and logging to analysis, storage, and disposal. It offers robust workflow automation, instrument integration, and real-time tracking with full chain-of-custody documentation to ensure compliance in regulated environments. The platform supports customizable modules for various industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotech, food safety, and environmental testing, with advanced reporting and audit trail capabilities.
Pros
- Highly configurable without programming via intuitive tools
- Superior sample tracking with barcode/RFID support and chain-of-custody
- Seamless integration with lab instruments and ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial implementation
- High cost unsuitable for small labs
- Customization requires expertise for optimal setup
Best For
Large-scale laboratories in regulated industries like pharma and biotech needing enterprise-grade, customizable sample tracking and compliance management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; perpetual licenses or SaaS subscriptions typically start at $50,000+ annually, scaling with users, modules, and deployment.
STARLIMS
enterpriseFlexible LIMS solution for efficient sample tracking, workflow automation, and regulatory compliance.
User-configurable system with no-code/low-code workflow builder for tailored sample tracking processes
STARLIMS is a comprehensive Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) from Abbott Informatics, specializing in end-to-end sample tracking, management, and workflow automation for laboratories. It handles sample accessioning, processing, storage, and disposal while ensuring full chain-of-custody traceability and compliance with regulations like 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 17025, and GxP. The platform supports diverse industries including pharmaceuticals, biotech, clinical, and environmental testing with scalable, configurable modules.
Pros
- Highly configurable workflows with drag-and-drop interface
- Robust regulatory compliance and audit trail features
- Extensive instrument and ERP integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial implementation
- High cost unsuitable for small labs
- Customization requires expertise
Best For
Large enterprise laboratories in regulated industries like pharma and biotech needing scalable, compliant sample tracking.
Pricing
Enterprise custom pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment (on-premise or cloud).
Thermo Fisher SampleManager
enterpriseIntegrated LIMS with advanced sample management and seamless instrument connectivity.
Visual Workflow Designer for customizable, no-code automation of complex sample processing pipelines
Thermo Fisher SampleManager is a comprehensive Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) tailored for sample tracking and lab workflow automation in regulated industries like pharmaceuticals and biotech. It enables end-to-end sample lifecycle management, from accessioning and storage to testing, reporting, and disposal, with robust barcode/RFID tracking and audit trails. The platform integrates seamlessly with lab instruments and ensures compliance with standards such as 21 CFR Part 11, GLP, and GMP.
Pros
- Exceptional sample traceability with real-time tracking and chain-of-custody features
- Deep integration with Thermo Fisher instruments and third-party systems
- Strong regulatory compliance tools including electronic signatures and audit trails
Cons
- Complex setup and steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- High implementation costs and dependency on professional services
- Customization can be time-intensive and IT-heavy
Best For
Enterprise-level labs in highly regulated sectors like pharma and biotech that require scalable, compliant sample management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, plus implementation fees.
LabVantage
enterpriseEnd-to-end LIMS platform for robust sample tracking and laboratory informatics.
Integrated LIMS-ELN-LES platform with no-code configuration for seamless sample-to-result workflows
LabVantage is a comprehensive Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that excels in sample tracking, management, and lifecycle oversight for labs in pharmaceuticals, biotech, and research. It offers end-to-end visibility from sample intake to disposal, with automated workflows, instrument integration, and full audit trails for compliance. The platform supports high-throughput environments with scalable data management and analytics capabilities.
Pros
- Robust sample lineage and chain-of-custody tracking with real-time visibility
- Highly configurable low-code platform for custom workflows
- Strong regulatory compliance (21 CFR Part 11, GxP) and instrument integrations
Cons
- Complex initial setup and steep learning curve for non-experts
- Enterprise pricing may be prohibitive for small labs
- User interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS tools
Best For
Enterprise-level labs in regulated industries like pharma and biotech needing scalable, compliant sample tracking.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing starting at $50,000+ annually, based on users, modules, and deployment scale; contact sales for quotes.
CoreLIMS
enterpriseModular LIMS for streamlined sample lifecycle management and data integrity.
No-code configuration engine for building tailored sample workflows without IT dependency
CoreLIMS is a robust, cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) from Waters Corporation, specializing in end-to-end sample tracking and management for scientific labs. It enables precise logging, real-time monitoring, and automated workflows for samples across their lifecycle, including barcode/RFID tracking, chain-of-custody audit trails, and integration with lab instruments. The platform supports customizable dashboards and reporting to ensure compliance and efficiency in regulated environments like biotech, pharma, and clinical research.
Pros
- Comprehensive sample lifecycle tracking with audit trails and real-time status updates
- Highly configurable no-code workflows and instrument integrations
- Scalable for multi-site labs with strong compliance features (21 CFR Part 11)
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and customization
- Enterprise pricing may be prohibitive for small labs
- Limited out-of-the-box templates for non-standard workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large research, biotech, or pharmaceutical labs needing scalable, compliant sample tracking with deep customization.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and deployment scale.
Sapio LIMS
specializedUnified lab platform with intelligent sample tracking and assay data management.
Codeless Platform for drag-and-drop customization of sample workflows without programming expertise
Sapio LIMS is a flexible, enterprise-grade Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that excels in sample tracking, management, and lifecycle oversight for life sciences, biotech, and pharma labs. It provides comprehensive tools for sample registration, storage, aliquoting, pedigree tracking, and disposal, ensuring full chain-of-custody and compliance with regulations like 21 CFR Part 11. The platform unifies LIMS with ELN capabilities, enabling no-code/low-code workflow customization and seamless integrations with instruments and other systems.
Pros
- Exceptional sample pedigree and lineage tracking with relationship mapping
- No-code/low-code configuration for highly customizable workflows
- Robust integrations with lab instruments, ELNs, and enterprise systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex configurations
- Enterprise-level pricing requires custom quotes
- Initial implementation can be time-intensive for large deployments
Best For
Mid-to-large biotech, pharmaceutical, and research labs requiring scalable, highly customizable sample tracking with regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $50,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and deployment scale.
CloudLIMS
specializedCloud-based LIMS for cost-effective sample tracking and collaboration in labs.
Comprehensive sample genealogy and chain-of-custody tracking that provides full traceability from origin to disposal
CloudLIMS is a cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) specializing in comprehensive sample tracking and management for labs in biotech, clinical, pharmaceutical, and research sectors. It enables end-to-end sample lifecycle management, from accessioning and processing to storage, aliquoting, and disposal, with robust barcode/RFID tracking and chain-of-custody features. The platform supports customizable workflows, instrument integrations, inventory management, and ensures compliance with regulations like FDA 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 17025, and GLP.
Pros
- Advanced sample tracking with genealogy, lot management, and real-time location monitoring via barcode and RFID
- Strong regulatory compliance tools including audit trails, electronic signatures, and validation support
- Scalable cloud architecture with multi-site capabilities, mobile access, and seamless instrument integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options and complex interface
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for smaller labs, with additional costs for customizations
- Limited free trial and implementation may require professional services
Best For
Medium to large laboratories in regulated industries like pharma, biotech, and clinical testing that need robust, compliant sample tracking across multiple sites.
Pricing
Subscription-based with tiered plans starting around $500/month for basic setups; enterprise pricing is custom-quoted based on users, samples, and features.
Labguru
specializedAll-in-one ELN and LIMS for research sample inventory and experiment tracking.
Direct linkage between digital experiments in the ELN and physical sample locations/inventory for end-to-end traceability
Labguru is a cloud-based Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) and LIMS platform designed to manage lab workflows, including comprehensive sample tracking from registration to disposal. It enables barcode/RFID scanning for real-time location tracking, aliquot management, and linkage to experiments and protocols. The software supports inventory control, compliance features like audit trails, and team collaboration across multi-site labs.
Pros
- Robust sample tracking with barcode/RFID and real-time inventory visibility
- Seamless integration of ELN, protocols, and sample management
- Strong compliance tools including audit trails and GLP support
Cons
- Steeper learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for smaller labs
- Fewer native integrations with lab instruments compared to dedicated LIMS
Best For
Mid-sized biotech or academic labs seeking an all-in-one ELN and sample tracking solution with collaborative features.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; basic plans start around $100/user/month, with enterprise tiers scaling up based on users and modules.
SciNote
specializedElectronic lab notebook with integrated sample management and tracking features.
Direct linking of inventory items to ELN protocols for automatic sample usage deduction and real-time stock updates
SciNote is a cloud-based Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) with integrated inventory management tailored for sample tracking in research labs. It enables precise tracking of samples, reagents, and equipment through features like barcode/QR code scanning, location mapping, expiry date alerts, and usage history logging. The platform ensures full traceability by linking inventory directly to experimental protocols, supporting compliance standards such as 21 CFR Part 11 and GDPR.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with mobile app support for on-the-go tracking
- Strong regulatory compliance and audit trails for sample lineage
- Seamless ELN-inventory integration reducing manual data entry
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting compared to dedicated LIMS
- Higher tiers required for full inventory features, increasing costs
- Integration options with third-party lab instruments are basic
Best For
Small to mid-sized biotech and academic labs seeking an affordable, all-in-one ELN with reliable sample tracking.
Pricing
Free for academic single users; commercial plans start at €120/user/year (Notebook), up to €390/user/year (Advanced with full inventory); custom enterprise pricing.
Conclusion
As the review demonstrated, the landscape of sample tracking software offers tools tailored to diverse needs, with Benchling leading as the top choice—its cloud-based platform excels in managing biological samples, workflows, and data, making it ideal for biotech R&D. Close behind, LabWare LIMS shines with its comprehensive lifecycle management and compliance focus, while STARLIMS impresses with its flexibility, automation capabilities, and regulatory alignment, ensuring strong alternatives for different lab priorities.
Ready to elevate your sample management? Start with Benchling to experience seamless tracking, integrated data handling, and streamlined workflows—your R&D efforts deserve the best tools, and Benchling delivers.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison