When precision in color measurement is essential, the HunterLab UltraScan series offers some of the most advanced benchtop spectrophotometers on the market. But choosing the right model depends on your specific needs. The UltraScan VIS and UltraScan PRO both provide exceptional accuracy, but their capabilities differ significantly. If you’re wondering which spectrophotometer is best for your industry, here’s everything you need to know.
UltraScan VIS
The UltraScan VIS spectrophotometer measures visible color from 400–700 nm, making it ideal for paints, coatings, plastics, textiles, and food. With UV exclusion, it delivers reliable, cost-effective color measurement based on human visual perception.
UltraScan PRO
The UltraScan PRO spectrophotometer covers 350–1050 nm (UV, visible, NIR), delivering detailed spectral data for advanced color analysis. It is ideal for applications involving optical brighteners, fluorescence, UV degradation, and transparent materials in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemicals, and specialty industries.
Key differences between UltraScan PRO and UltraScan VIS
• Wavelength range: the UltraScan VIS measures only the visible spectrum from 400 to 700 nm, while the UltraScan PRO covers a broader range of 350 to 1050 nm, including UV and NIR.
• UV and NIR measurement: the UltraScan VIS does not measure UV or NIR, making it suitable for standard color analysis. The UltraScan PRO, however, is equipped for UV fluorescence, optical brightener detection, and near-infrared analysis.
• Best for: the UltraScan VIS spectrophotometer is ideal for industries needing visible spectrum color measurement, such as paints, plastics, textiles, and food. The UltraScan PRO spectrophotometer is perfect for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemicals, and research applications where full-spectrum analysis is necessary.
• Optical brightener detection: UltraScan VIS lacks UV measurement capabilities, meaning it cannot detect optical brighteners. The UltraScan PRO can measure optical brighteners and UV degradation, crucial for textiles, coatings, and plastics.
• Fluorescent and transparent materials: UltraScan PRO is optimized for measuring fluorescent, reflective, and transparent samples beyond visible light.
So, which spectrophotometer is the right fit?
If your business only requires visible color measurement, the UltraScan VIS is a high-performance and cost-effective solution. However, if you need UV and NIR capabilities, the UltraScan PRO provides the highest level of precision for full-spectrum analysis. Both models deliver high color accuracy for reliable quality control and compliance.
Still unsure? contact us today to find out which UltraScan spectrophotometer best suits your needs.