High-Performance Liquid Chromatography uses columns packed with larger particles (typically 3–5 µm), operates at moderate pressures (often up to ~400-600 bar), and is widely used for routine analyses in pharmaceuticals, food testing and environmental labs. It’s reliable, well-validated, and compatible with many existing workflows.

What is UHPLC?

Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography leverages much smaller particles (often ≤2 µm) and operates at greatly increased pressures (up to ~1000-1500 bar or more). The benefits include faster run times, higher efficiency and improved resolution. For labs handling complex mixtures, trace analyses or needing greater throughput, UHPLC is a strong option.

Key Differences between HPLC and UHPLC

Parameter	HPLC	UHPLC
Particle size	3–5 µm	≤ 2 µm
Typical pressure	Up to ~400-600 bar	Up to ~1000-1500 bar
Speed & throughput	Moderate	High
Resolution	Standard	Enhanced
Instrument cost	Lower	Higher

When to Use HPLC

HPLC is ideal when your sample matrix is manageable, throughput demands are moderate, budget constraints exist, and you prioritise validated, stable methods. If your application involves standard small molecule assays, QA/QC workflows or well-established protocols, HPLC remains a solid choice.

When to Use UHPLC

If you handle very complex samples (e.g., bio-samples, metabolomics), need rapid turnover, high sensitivity or sharper separations, then UHPLC may be the better investment. Be aware, though, that UHPLC requires more stringent system conditions (low dead volume, high-performance pump, optimized consumables) and a higher initial outlay.

Consumables Matter

The move from HPLC to UHPLC also impacts the choice of consumables. Selecting high-quality vials, autosampler syringes, filters, and columns matters more in UHPLC workflows because of the tighter tolerances. For instance, a lab using UHPLC should consider low-adsorption vials, ultra-clean filters and optimized injection hardware to maintain performance.

Why Choose Aijiren’s Chromatography Consumables

At Zhejiang Aijiren Technology Co., Ltd., we support both HPLC and UHPLC workflows with our expert-designed consumables. Our offering includes certified vials, bonded septa, clean filters and OEM/ODM custom solutions. By using Aijiren consumables, labs get reliable performance, reduced background contamination and better method reproducibility.

Both HPLC and UHPLC have their places in modern laboratories. HPLC remains cost-effective and robust for many standard analyses, while UHPLC provides enhanced speed and resolution for high-demand scenarios. The key is aligning your instrument, workflow, consumables, and budget to your analytical goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is UHPLC always better than HPLC?

UHPLC offers higher resolution and faster analysis, but it comes with greater cost and stricter requirements—so “better” depends on your specific application.

Can I use the same columns for HPLC and UHPLC?

Typically not. UHPLC columns are optimized for higher pressure and smaller particles, and standard HPLC columns may not perform optimally or safely in UHPLC systems.

What key consumables should I upgrade for UHPLC?

Focus on low-adsorption vials, ultra-clean filters and injection systems with minimal dead volume, to maintain peak shape and reproducibility in UHPLC.

HPLC Sample Pretreatment – Step-by-Step Guide

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HPLC or UHPLC? How to Choose the Right Liquid Chromatography Technique for Your Lab

What is HPLC?

What is UHPLC?

Particle size

3–5 µm

≤ 2 µm

Typical pressure

Up to ~400-600 bar

Up to ~1000-1500 bar

Speed & throughput

Moderate

High

Resolution

Standard

Enhanced

Instrument cost

Lower

Higher