Luminometer and Microplate Reader Selection Guide
The GloMax® line includes high-performance plate readers with a range of detection options. From advanced multimode luminescence, fluorescence, absorbance, BRET and FRET capabilities to dedicated microplate or single-tube luminometers, there is a GloMax® system for every lab and throughput need.

Faster, Easier Analysis of Luminescence and Fluorescence Data



GloMax® plate readers have high sensitivity and wide dynamic range, so you can detect high and low signals on the same plate and have confidence in the accuracy of the signal recorded from each well. Designed to work seamlessly with Promega assays, GloMax® microplate readers and luminometers come preloaded with protocols that allow you to run assays at the touch of a button.
Compare Features of GloMax® Microplate Readers and Luminometers
GloMax® Microplate Readers |
![]() |
Explorer ![]() |
Navigator
![]() |
20/20
![]() |
Luminescence |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Fluorescence
|
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Optional |
BRET/FRET
|
Yes |
Optional |
No |
No |
Absorbance (Visible) |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
Absorbance (UV-Visible) |
Yes |
Optional |
No |
No |
Detection Limit |
3 × 10-21 moles luciferase |
3 × 10-21 moles luciferase
|
1.5 × 10-21 moles luciferase
|
1 × 10-21 moles luciferase
|
Dynamic Range |
9 logs |
9 logs |
9 logs |
> 8 logs |
Crosstalk |
< 3 × 10-5
|
< 3 × 10-5
|
< 3 × 10-5 |
N/A |
Heating
|
Ambient to 45°C |
Ambient to 45°C |
No |
No |
Shaking |
Linear or orbital |
Linear or orbital |
No |
No |
Automation Compatible |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
Injectors |
Available separately |
Available separately |
Available separately |
No |
Format(s) |
6 to 384-well plates
|
6 to 384-well plates
|
96-well plates |
1.5 ml microcentrifuge tubes |
Detector |
Head-on photon counting photomultiplier tube (PMT) |
Head-on photon counting photomultiplier tube (PMT)
|
Head-on photon counting photomultiplier tube (PMT)
|
Photomultiplier tube
|
| Request Pricing | Request Pricing | Request Pricing | Request Pricing |
GloMax® App Notes
No need to reinvent the wheel—we've already used GloMax® instruments for everything from BRET to monitoring protein degradation.
One Call Supports It All
We supply both the reagents and the instrument, so one call to Promega answers any questions you may have about assay chemistries or instrument performance.
Ensure Minimal Instrument Downtime
- Field Support and Loaner Programs
- Service Packages
- IQ and OQ Packages
Warranty and Service Agreements
- Backed by a one-year warranty
- Additional warranty and service agreements are available
- For more information, contact Promega Technical Services