Detekt designs and manufactures universal lateral flow readers (LFA readers), built to work with virtually any rapid test, immunoassay strip, or dry chemistry cassette—from early R&D prototypes to fully commercialized diagnostics. Our readers are compatible with all strip formats, cassette styles, membrane types, and detection chemistries, delivering the accuracy, consistency, and repeatability that developers, researchers, and OEM partners depend on.
Because testing environments vary widely, our readers are designed to support point-of-care testing, clinical and laboratory workflows, manufacturing and QC processes, and field-based rapid testing. This versatility ensures reliable analysis, broad assay compatibility, and consistent performance across diverse use cases.
Because testing environments vary widely, our readers are designed to support point-of-care testing, clinical and laboratory workflows, manufacturing and QC processes, and field-based rapid testing. This versatility ensures reliable analysis, broad assay compatibility, and consistent performance across diverse use cases.
Because your workflow, testing environment, and assay types can vary, choosing the right lateral flow reader, rapid test reader, or LFA analyzer depends on all three factors. Therefore, it helps to understand how each model aligns with different testing scenarios.
While both the RDS-2500 and RDS-3500 FLEX deliver dependable, high-quality results, each model is designed to excel in specific use cases. As a result, the selection guide below can help you quickly identify the best fit for your workflow.
Flexible reader supporting both hands-free and handheld workflows.
Where will you primarily use the reader?
Choose the RDS-3500 FLEX, which supports stand-mounted, hands-free operation while still offering handheld portability when needed.
Choose the RDS 2500, designed for simple, reliable handheld use in mobile or on-site testing environments.
Do you need to read your test strips horizontally as well as vertically?
Choose the RDS-3500 FLEX, which supports multiple reading orientations.
Choose the RDS 2500, designed for vertical reading in handheld workflows.
Do you need fluorescence detection capabilities to improve sensitivity or support fluorescence-labeled assays?
Choose the RDS-3500 FLEX for optional fluorescence support, a modern 60 fps sensor, and improved low-light and NIR imaging.
Choose the RDS 2500, a reliable and accurate colorimetric reader.
What cassette size do your assays require?
Choose the RDS-3500 FLEX, which supports the full extended cassette depth range.
Choose the RDS 2500, which accommodates standard assay dimensions.
Do you need advanced automation features (such as kinetic reading, fluid-front detection, or integrated timers)?
Choose the RDS-3500 FLEX, for kinetic modes, timer functions, and optional fluid-front detection.
Choose the RDS 2500, which provides straightforward end-point reading and essential automated setup.
Still not sure which reader is right for you? If so, our team is here to help.
What types of assays are compatible with Detekt readers?
Detekt readers support a broad range of lateral flow assays, including colorimetric, fluorescence-labeled, dry chemistry, and custom cassette formats. They are compatible with diverse membrane types, strip sizes, and assay layouts commonly used in research, clinical diagnostics, and OEM applications.
How do lateral flow readers improve accuracy over visual interpretation?
Instrumented readers eliminate subjectivity by capturing calibrated, high-resolution images of assay lines. This boosts sensitivity, reduces variability, and enables digital result capture for quality control, compliance, and data tracking.
Can Detekt readers be used in manufacturing or quality control environments?
Yes. Both the RDS-2500 and RDS-3500 FLEX are built to support production and quality control environments. Features such as barcode/QR scanning, data export, and cloud integration streamline reporting and ensure traceability.
Do Detekt readers support point-of-care or decentralized testing?
Absolutely. The RDS-2500 is ideal for field use and portable, point-of-care diagnostics. The RDS-3500 FLEX supports both benchtop and handheld workflows, making it versatile for clinics, labs, and decentralized testing locations.
Is OEM customization available?
Yes. Detekt partners with OEMs to provide white-label branding, custom assay fixtures, workflow integrations, and optional detection modules. Whether you need specialized imaging or tailored software features, Detekt can adapt to your needs.
What industries can Detekt’s lateral flow readers be used in?
Detekt readers are deployed across clinical diagnostics, veterinary medicine, food safety, agriculture, biodefense, environmental monitoring, and research. Their universal compatibility makes them ideal for both laboratory workflows and rugged field testing.
Learn more about supported industry applications here.
Who can develop or manufacture a lateral flow test for me?
Detekt does not manufacture test strips, but we regularly work with customers who partner with experienced lateral flow assay CDMOs for assay development, scale-up, and manufacturing. Depending on your application and volume requirements, common partners in the industry include:
Where can I order materials to make a lateral flow assay (LFA)?
Materials for building lateral flow assays—including membranes, pads, reagents, and housings—are available from a number of established LFA materials suppliers. Common sources include:
| Specification | RDS-2500 | RDS-3500 FLEX |
|---|---|---|
| Detection Modes | Colorimetric | Colorimetric (Optional Fluorescence Upgrade*) |
| Image Sensor | 14 fps standard sensor | 60 fps modern sensor + low-light/NIR |
| Calibration | Internal calibration with NIST-traceable standards | Internal calibration with NIST-traceable standards |
| Screen | 4.3” touchscreen (fixed orientation) | 4.3” touchscreen (display flips 180°) |
| Keyboard | On-screen full keyboard | On-screen full keyboard |
| Orientation | Handheld only (vertical assays) | Handheld or benchtop (vertical or horizontal assays) |
| Cartridge Compatibility | Up to 44 mm wide × 20 mm deep | Up to 44 mm wide × 44 mm deep |
| Barcode Scanning | Internal & external barcode/QR scanner | Internal & external barcode/QR scanner |
| LED / Audio Alerts | LED indicators + audible alerts | Customizable LED indicators + audible alerts |
| Dimensions | 21 × 10 × 10 cm | 21 × 10 × 10 cm |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs | 1.1 lbs |
| Automation Capabilities | Automated test setup wizard + strip recognition | Automation + kinetic modes + timers + optional fluid-front detection |
| Storage | Store >2000 results | Store >2000 results |
| Cloud Enabled | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Optional upgrade* | Optional upgrade* |
| USB | Yes | Yes |
| Printer Support | External printer | External printer |
| Battery | Rechargeable lithium-ion | Rechargeable lithium-ion |
| Portability | 5 hour battery life | 5 hour battery life |
| Charging Options | 12V outlet with international wall adapters | 12V outlet with international wall adapters |
| Rugged Case | Waterproof rugged case included | Waterproof rugged case optional add-on* |
| Reader Stand | Not compatible | Yes (hands-free workflows) |
| Positional Diagnostic Check Tool | Included | Included |
| NIST Traceable Calibration Check Tool | Available add-on* | Available add-on* |
Ask us any questions about your test kit or results.
