qPCR Instruments Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Instrument (7500, ViiA 7 Dx, Cobas 4800, CFX96, SmartCycler, GeneXpert, Rotor-Gene Q, Rotor-Gene Q 5Plex HRM System, BioFire FilmArray Systems, BMS Mic System, QuantStudio Dx Real-Time PCR Instrument, QuantStudio 5 Real-Time PCR System, StepOne/ StepOne Plus, LightCycler 2.0/ 96/ 480/ 1536) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2024-2032

qPCR Instruments Market Size & Trends

The global qPCR instruments market size was valued at USD 1.55 billion in 2023. It is projected to reach from USD 1.75 billion to USD 4.84 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 13.5% during the forecast period (2024–2032).

The growing emphasis on personalized medicine and pharmacogenomics has aided the market's expansion, as qPCR instruments are widely used in genetic testing and drug development. Technological advancements have enabled the development of more sensitive, specific, and efficient qPCR instruments capable of detecting target sequences at low levels.

Moreover, rising investment in life sciences research, combined with stringent regulatory requirements for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, has fueled demand for advanced qPCR instrumentation.

A quantitative or real-time PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) instrument is designed to amplify and detect DNA with precision. This advanced technology integrates a thermal cycler with a fluorimeter, enabling both the amplification of DNA and the real-time monitoring of the process.

Key performance parameters for quantitative PCR instruments include thermal control, fluorimetry, and sample throughput. The evolution of quantitative PCR technology began with the introduction of the first two commercial models in 1996, following initial reports in 1993. By 2009, the market had expanded to include 18 models from seven different manufacturers.

These devices' critical factors are speed, accuracy, and uniform heat control. For instance, some PCR machines can complete 30 cycles in under 10 minutes, offering benefits such as faster results, higher throughput, and improved reaction specificity. Quantitative PCR instruments use fluorescence measurements to monitor PCR progress and characterize amplified products.

Highlights

• GeneXpert dominates the instruments segment
• North America is the highest shareholder in the global market

qPCR Instruments Market Growth Factors

Increasing number of cros and forensic and research laboratories

The expanding global market for quantitative PCR (qPCR) instruments is significantly driven by the rising number of contract research organizations (CROs) and forensic and research laboratories. According to the Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO), the number of CROs worldwide surged by 12% in 2023, up from 9% in 2022. These organizations are crucial users of qPCR technology for applications such as gene expression analysis, pathogen detection, and biomarker research.

Similarly, the International Forensic Strategic Alliance (IFSA) reported a 16% increase in forensic laboratories globally in 2023, compared to 11% in 2022. These laboratories depend on qPCR instruments for forensic DNA analysis, criminal investigations, and the identification of biological evidence.

The trend towards outsourcing research activities has also amplified the demand for qPCR instruments. The Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening (SLAS) noted a 21% increase in the number of research laboratories outsourcing projects to CROs and specialized facilities in 2023, up from 15% in 2022. This shift towards outsourcing further drives the need for advanced qPCR instrumentation, as these facilities require sophisticated technology to meet growing research demands.

qPCR Instruments Market Restraining Factors

High prices of qpcr instruments

The high cost of quantitative PCR (qPCR) instruments presents a significant restraint on qPCR instruments market growth. In 2022, high-end qPCR instruments were priced between $30,000 and $50,000, which restricts accessibility for smaller research institutions and organizations with limited budgets. This financial barrier is particularly acute in developing countries and regions with constrained resources.

Additionally, the ongoing expenses for maintenance, consumables, and reagents contribute to the overall cost, with estimated annual expenses ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 for a typical qPCR setup. These recurring costs further strain the budgets of small and medium-sized organizations, limiting their ability to adopt and utilize qPCR technologies. Consequently, the high initial and ongoing costs of qPCR instruments act as a significant barrier to widespread adoption, impacting market expansion.

qPCR Instruments Market Opportunities

Technological advancement in pcr

The rapid evolution in molecular biology and genomics has driven a surge in demand for more accurate, efficient, and versatile quantitative PCR (qPCR) instruments. Key advancements include the development of high-throughput and multiplex qPCR systems, which enable simultaneous analysis of multiple targets. According to a study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), high-throughput systems can increase sample processing capacity by up to 80% compared to traditional methods, significantly reducing both time and costs.

Additionally, the integration of advanced optics, microfluidics, and automation technologies has enhanced the sensitivity and precision of qPCR instruments. These innovations facilitate the detection of low-abundance targets and the analysis of complex samples, thus advancing research in gene expression, pathogen detection, and cancer studies.

The incorporation of sophisticated data analysis software and cloud-based platforms has also streamlined the qPCR workflow. A survey by the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) found that 68% of laboratories consider advanced data analysis capabilities a critical factor in adopting new qPCR technology.

Moreover, leading companies, such as Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bio-Rad Laboratories, and Roche Diagnostics, are heavily investing in R&D to introduce cutting-edge qPCR solutions. For example, Thermo Fisher Scientific's QuantStudio 6 and 7 Pro Real-Time PCR Systems exemplify advanced optics, high-throughput capabilities, and integrated cloud-based data analysis, positioning the company at the forefront of the market.

qPCR Instruments Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global qPCR instruments market share is bifurcated into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. 

North america dominates the global market

North America holds the largest share of the global qPCR instruments market and is projected to experience significant growth during the forecast period. In 2023, North America led the market due to several key factors. The region benefits from a well-established biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry, extensive research and development activities, and a strong focus on genomic and molecular diagnostics.

One major driver of this dominance is the growing emphasis on personalized medicine, which is driving demand for advanced diagnostic tools. The region also boasts numerous collaborations between industry and academic research institutes, further fueling the need for sophisticated qPCR instruments. Additionally, the rapid adoption of healthcare IT and software solutions, combined with increasing automation rates in PCR technologies, enhances the efficiency and capabilities of diagnostic processes.

North America's high diagnostic capability is evidenced by the substantial number of qPCR instruments already in use, which underscores its leading position. However, this extensive deployment also implies that opportunities for installing new instruments may be somewhat limited compared to other regions. Nevertheless, ongoing advancements in technology and increasing investments in personalized medicine and genomics are expected to sustain and potentially accelerate the market growth in North America.

Europe is the most rapidly growing market

Europe has emerged as a significant player in the global qPCR instruments market, driven by the region's robust emphasis on life sciences research and advanced diagnostic technologies. Germany, the United Kingdom, and France are pivotal contributors to this growth, bolstered by their strong research infrastructure and substantial investments in molecular biology.

Germany leads with a strong focus on research and development in the life sciences sector, supported by institutions such as the Max Planck Society and the German Research Foundation (DFG). The UK’s contribution is highlighted by its extensive network of research institutions, including those associated with the Medical Research Council (MRC) and the Wellcome Trust, which support cutting-edge qPCR research. France also plays a crucial role, with notable advancements in molecular diagnostics facilitated by organizations like Inserm and CNRS.

The European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) underscores the region's significant market presence, attributing this to its leadership in genetic and genomic research. Moreover, Europe’s stringent regulatory frameworks for diagnostic and therapeutic applications ensure high standards for qPCR technology, further stimulating market growth.

For instance, the European Union's In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR) imposes rigorous requirements on diagnostic devices, driving demand for sophisticated qPCR instruments that comply with these standards. Together, these factors establish Europe as a dominant force in the qPCR instruments market, characterized by a combination of high research activity, regulatory rigor, and innovation.

qPCR Instruments Market Segmental Analysis

The global qPCR instruments market is segmented into instruments.

By instruments

Based on instruments, the global qPCR instruments market is divided into 7500, QuantStudio Dx Real-Time PCR Instrument, QuantStudio 5 Real-Time PCR System, ViiA 7 Dx, StepOne/ StepOne Plus, LightCycler 2.0/ 96/ 480/ 1536, Cobas 4800, CFX96, SmartCycler, GeneXpert, Rotor-Gene Q 5Plex HRM System, Rotor-Gene Q, BioFire FilmArray Systems, and BMS Mic System.

The GeneXpert segment is the leading contributor to the qPCR instruments market, renowned for its fully automated and integrated molecular diagnostic systems. GeneXpert systems provide around-the-clock, accurate testing with flexible workflows and user-friendly designs. These systems consolidate various testing capabilities into a single, scalable workstation and are available in configurations of 1, 2, 4, 16, 48, and 80 modules.

The GeneXpert family includes several models, such as GeneXpert I, II, IV, and XVI, each offering distinct functionalities to meet diverse diagnostic needs. The GeneXpert Infinity series represents the latest innovation, featuring advanced automation and real-time testing capabilities in a moderately complex environment.

The GeneXpert Infinity systems are distinguished by their high adjustability, touchscreen interfaces, increased accumulator capacity, and expanded test shuttle. These systems also feature a quieter, faster, and more robust robotic gantry.

Recent Development

• January 2024 - Anitoa introduced an automation-ready modular qPCR system, enhancing efficiency and scalability. This innovation addresses the growing demand for advanced qPCR instrumentation, particularly in life sciences research and diagnostics, where automation and flexibility are crucial for high-throughput analysis and data accuracy.
• June 2024 - Leading multiplex digital PCR technology provider Stilla Technologies is pleased to announce the launch of two new digital PCR system configurations for its NioTM product range, which began in November 2023 with the introduction of the flagship NioTM+ instrument.