Choosing the Right Refractometer in South Africa

If you work in a lab or need to measure the concentration of liquids, you’ve probably heard of a refractometer. But what exactly is it, and how do you choose the right one?

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What is a Refractometer?

A refractometer is a tool that measures how light bends—or refracts—when it passes through a liquid. This bending helps you understand how much of a substance is dissolved in the liquid.

For example, in food production, a Brix refractometer helps measure sugar levels in juice or soft drinks. In a lab, a high precision refractometer helps monitor the concentration of chemicals.

There are many types of refractometers, depending on your needs.

Types of Refractometers You Can Get

At Selectech, you’ll find a wide range of refractometers for sale in South Africa. Here are some common types:

• Portable refractometers – Handy for fieldwork or quick checks.

• Digital refractometers – Give you fast, clear readings with less chance of user error.

• Benchtop refractometers – Ideal for labs needing more precise and stable measurements.

• Brix refractometers – Great for measuring sugar content in beverages or food.

• EasyPlus refractometers – Easy to use and reliable for many types of liquids.

If you need lab equipment in South Africa, refractometers are an essential part of many testing processes—whether you're in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, research, or education.

What to Consider Before You Buy

When looking for a refractometer in South Africa, think about the following:

• What are you measuring? (Sugar, chemicals, alcohol, etc.)

• How accurate do your readings need to be?

• Do you need it in the lab, or on the go?

• Do you prefer digital or manual tools?

• What’s your budget?

Prices can vary depending on whether it’s a benchtop model or a portable unit. A basic handheld option will cost less, while a high-precision refractometer with advanced features will be more expensive.

Common Uses for Refractometers

Refractometers are found in many industries:

• Food and beverage – Checking sugar (Brix), alcohol, or salinity levels

• Pharmaceuticals – Testing concentration of liquids and solutions

• Research and education – General science experiments and lab work

• Industrial – Monitoring coolant or fluid levels in manufacturing

Why Shop with Selectech?

We offer a trusted range of refractometers for sale online. Whether you're looking for a digital refractometer, lab refractometer, or an accurate refractometer for professional use, we’ve got options that meet your needs.

As one of the leading lab equipment suppliers in South Africa, Selectech also stocks a full range of laboratory equipment for schools, universities, and industries.

In Summary

If you need to measure the concentration of liquids, a refractometer is a smart, reliable tool. And with so many options—from benchtop to portable refractometers—you can find one that suits your work and your budget.