Thermal Cycler Market Growth Fueled by Rising Biotechnology Research and Clinical Applications

The global thermal cycler market size is calculated at USD 1.15 billion in 2025 and is forecasted to reach around USD 2.39 billion by 2034, accelerating at a CAGR of 8.47% from 2025 to 2034. The market sizing and forecasts are revenue-based (USD Million/Billion), with 2024 as the base year.

Last Updated : 25 Jul 2025  |  Report Code : 6462  |  Category : Healthcare   |  Format : PDF / PPT / Excel

List of Contents

  • Last Updated : 25 Jul 2025
  • Report Code : 6462
  • Category : Healthcare

Thermal Cycler Market Size and Forecast 2025 to 2034

The global thermal cycler market size accounted for USD 1.06 billion in 2024 and is predicted to increase from USD 1.15 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 2.39 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 8.47% from 2025 to 2034. The growth of the market is driven by the rising importance of thermal cycler in life science research. The growing demand for high-performance thermal cyclers is contributing to the market growth.

Thermal Cycler Market Size 2025 to 2034

Thermal Cycler Market Key Takeaways

  • In terms of revenue, the global thermal cycler market was valued at USD 1.06 billion in 2024.
  • It is projected to reach USD 2.39 billion by 2034.
  • The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.47% from 2025 to 2034
  • North America dominated the global thermal cycler market in 2024.
  • Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2025 to 2034.
  • By product type, the real-time PCR (qPCR) systems segment led the market in 2024.
  • By product type, the digital PCR (dPCR) systems segment will grow at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By technology, the gradient PCR segment contributed the largest market share in 2024.
  • By technology, the reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) segment will expand at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By application, the clinical diagnostics segment captured the biggest market share in 2024.
  • By application, the agricultural biotechnology segment will expand at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By end-user, the academic & research institutions segment held the largest market share in 2024.
  • By end-user, the biotechnology & pharmaceutical companies segment will expand at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
  • By distribution channel, the direct sales segment held a major market share in 2024.
  • By distribution channel, the online sales segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR between 2025 and 2034.

Impact of AI on the Thermal Cycler Market

Artificial intelligence is transforming the thermal cycler by optimizing PCR protocols, detecting errors, and enhancing decision-making capabilities. AI provides accurate insights and suggestions based on data analysis. AI-enabled thermal cycles enable accurate predictions of maintenance needs, reducing downtime and enhancing performance. Additionally, AI-integrated thermal cyclers can analyze real-time data, offering fast and accurate results.

AI plays a crucial role in thermal cycling, enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and achieving faster results. An AI-based thermal cycler can not only advance forensics but also revolutionize fields such as clinical diagnostics and environmental monitoring. The promising integration of AI-powered thermal cycles with technologies like next-generation sequencing and lab automation is driving innovations in DNA profiling, providing deeper insights into PCR results.

  • In September 2024, Flinders University experts initiated ML to DNA profiling and forecasting potential novel advancements in critical DNA testing. PhD candidate Ms. Caitlin McDonald of the College of Science and Engineering found that AI technology can enhance the quality of DNA profiling and enable more effective PCR cycle conditions.
    (Source: https://www.azorobotics.com)

Market Overview

The thermal cycler market refers to the global ecosystem of devices used to amplify DNA and RNA sequences through the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process. Thermal cyclers (also called PCR machines or thermocyclers) automate the rapid heating and cooling of samples to enable DNA denaturation, annealing, and extension. These instruments are critical for applications in genomics, molecular diagnostics, forensics, research, and clinical testing. The market encompasses standard PCR machines, real-time PCR (qPCR) systems, and advanced digital PCR (dPCR) platforms, catering to a diverse range of industries, including healthcare and pharmaceuticals, as well as agriculture and biotechnology.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to ongoing advancements in DNA amplification technologies, such as PCR. The demand for PCR-based diagnostic testing and research applications has increased, contributing to the growing popularity of 48-well thermal cyclers. Additionally, advancements in user-friendly features, such as touchscreen interfaces and compact designs, are contributing to the growing demand for thermal cyclers.

Best PCR Thermal Cyclers in 2025

Thermal Cycler Average Price
CEPHEID Genexpert IV $10 012  
APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS SimpliAmp $1991
APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS StepOnePlus $3522
APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS GeneAmp9700 $245
ROCHE COBAS TaqMan 48 $1924
EPPENDORF Mastercycler Gradient $2855
MJ RESEARCH PTC-200 $40
BIO-RAD MJ Mini Personal $155
ROCHE LightCycler $351
ROCHE LightCycler 480 $14 970

(Source: https://in.bimedis.com)

  • Importance of Life Science Research: The demand for thermal cyclers has increased in life science research to enhance understanding of disease processes and facilitate the development of new medical devices and treatment plans.
  • Demand for Personalized Medicines: The demand for personalized treatments has increased, driving the need for accurate genetic testing and analysis, contributing to the growth and adoption of thermal cyclers. 
  • Demand for High-Performance Thermal Cyclers: The increasing research and diagnostic activities have heightened the need for faster and more accurate results, driving demand for thermal cyclers.
  • Expansion in Forensic Applications: The demand for thermal cyclers has increased in forensic applications for DNA analysis in criminal investigations and paternity testing.
  • Adoption of Next-Generation Sequencing Technology: The ongoing adoption of next-generation sequencing techniques is driving demand for advanced thermal cyclers.

Market Scope

Report Coverage Details
Market Size by 2034 USD 2.39 Billion
Market Size in 2025 USD 1.15 Billion
Market Size in 2024 USD 1.06 Billion
Market Growth Rate from 2025 to 2034 CAGR of 8.47%
Dominating Region North America
Fastest Growing Region Asia Pacific
Base Year 2024
Forecast Period 2025 to 2034
Segments Covered Product Type, Technology, Application, End User, Distribution Channel, and Region
Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa

Market Dynamics

Drivers

Increased Investment in Genomic Research

Increased investment in genomic research is due to advancements in molecular biology, genetic research, and diagnostics. The importance of life science research is driving demand for accurate, efficient, and faster thermal cyclers. Expanding genomic research, including personalized medicines and precision diagnostics, is driving demand for high-performance thermal cyclers in DNA sequencing, cloning, and genetic testing applications. The expanding field of genomic research is driving innovation and development of high-performance thermal cyclers with advanced features, such as gradient technology for optimizing temperature control and touchscreen interfaces. Additionally, government initiatives and private investments in healthcare research are contributing to the improvement of genomic research.

Restraint

High Upfront Cost

The high initial cost required for the adoption and maintenance of thermal cyclers creates barriers for small research laboratories and institutions with low budgets. Thermal cyclers are expensive, requiring specialized expertise, consumables, and regular maintenance. Advanced thermal cycles, such as real-time PCR and high-throughput models, require significant initial investments, which can be a barrier to market expansion. The high cost limits the accessibility of thermal medical cycler technologies, hindering the capabilities of research and diagnostics. The cost burden can restrain research initiatives and laboratories from conducting advanced research activities.

Opportunity

Advancements in Molecular Biology

Advancements in molecular biology, particularly the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and expanding genetic analysis, are driving the need for thermal cyclers in understanding disease processes and developing new therapeutics. The improvements in PCR thermal cyclers, including real-time PCR (qPCR), digital PCR (dPCR), high-throughput thermal cyclers, and portable/compact thermal cyclers, are expanding the applications of thermal cyclers in genomic and diagnostic settings. High-throughput PCR enables efficient research and clinical settings. Real-time PCR is expanding the application of the thermal cycler in gene expression analysis and pathogen detection. Digital PCR is further advancing the field of genomics and diagnostics. Portable and compact thermal cyclers are expanding point-of-care diagnostics. These advancements in enabled efficient, user-friendly, and high-performance thermal cyclers in various applications.

Product Type Insights

Which Product Type Dominated the Thermal Cycler Market in 2024?

The real-time PCR (qPCR) systems segment dominated the market in 2024 due to increased demand for quantitative analysis of DNA and RNA. Real-time PCR (qPCR) Systems play a crucial role in research, diagnostics, and infectious disease monitoring. The real-time PCR (qPCR) Systems are highly sensitive, specific, and offer high speed, making them the preferred choice for researchers. The expanding applications of gene expression analysis, genotyping, and diagnostics are driving the adoption of real-time PCR (qPCR) Systems.

The digital PCR (dPCR) systems segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the upcoming period, driven by increasing demand for high-precision and advanced thermal cyclers. The use of digital PCR (dPCR) Systems in various applications, such as clinical diagnostics, biopharmaceuticals, and R&D, is contributing to segment growth. The adoption of digital PCR (dPCR) Systems is high for qualifying nucleic acids due to their high sensitivity and specificity. Additionally, the ongoing advancements in digital PCR (dPCR) Systems, such as droplet digital PCR, microfluidic platforms, and nanoplate technology, are enhancing system capabilities.

Technology Insights

What Made Gradient PCR the Dominant Technology in the Thermal Cycler Market?

The gradient PCR segment dominated the market in 2024 due to its essential role in enabling the simultaneous testing of multiple annealing temperatures and the optimization of PCR conditions. The gradient PCR technology allows researchers to optimize PCR protocols with more efficiency and effectiveness. The technology enhances PCR specificity and reduces non-specific binding. The demand for gradient PCR has increased in molecular diagnostics, clinical research, and the pharmaceutical & biotechnology industries.

The reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) segment is likely to grow at the fastest rate over the projection period due to the increased demand for comprehensive thermal cyclers in diagnostics and research. The reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) provides highly specific and sensitive PCR, making it a valuable tool in the detection of low-abundance RNA targets. This technology combines the reverse transcription of DNA and RNA, followed by subsequent PCR amplification, used in the detection of viral infections and gene expression analysis. The adoption of reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) technology is increasing in gene expression analysis, cancer research, and infectious disease diagnosis.

Application Insights

Why Did the Clinical Diagnostics Segment Lead the Thermal Cyclers Market in 2024?

The clinical diagnostics segment led the market in 2024, driven by increased demand for thermal cyclers in infectious disease diagnosis and personalized medicine. The expanding genetic disorder diagnosis is further adding to the growing demand for specialized thermal cyclers. The use of thermal cyclers in cancer diagnoses for the detection of specific genetic mutations and biomarkers is gaining traction. Thermal cyclers are a crucial tool in providing high sensitivity & specificity for accurate diagnosis. High flexibility and the ability for rapid results make thermal cyclers popular in clinical diagnostics.

The agricultural biotechnology segment is expected to expand at the fastest CAGR in the coming years, driven by the widespread application of PCR technology for genetic modification of crops. Thermal cyclers are used in various applications in agricultural biotechnology, including GMO development, molecular breeding, and pathogen detection in crops. The use of thermal cyclers in genetic engineering and crop improvement fosters the segment's growth. The increasing adoption of biotechnological tools in agricultural research and development is driving the use of thermal cyclers.

End-user Insights

How Does the Academic & Research Institutions Segment Dominate the Thermal Cycler Market in 2024?

The academic & research institutions segment dominated the market in 2024 due to their heavy reliance on thermal cyclers for applications like PCR, DNA sequencing, and cloning. Thermal cyclers are crucial for research in academic & research institutions. The thermal cycle technology enables these initiatives to conduct basic and applied research in molecular biology, biotechnology, and genetics. The expanding research in gene expression, genotyping, and mutation detection is driving the adoption of thermal cyclers in academic & research institutions. Additionally, the need for publishing findings and securing grants, as well as the adoption of thermal cyclers by academic & research institutions, drives the adoption of thermal cyclers.

The biotechnology & pharmaceutical companies segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate over the forecast period, due to the large use of PCR in various applications. The demand for biopharmaceuticals is driving the growth of the biotechnology & pharmaceutical industry. The expansion of applications like gene expression studies, diagnostics, and drug discovery drives demand for thermal cyclers. The need for strict temperature control has increased in biopharmaceutical companies, driving the adoption of thermal cyclers. Additionally, companies' requirements to comply with regulations like GDP and GMP drive the adoption of comprehensive thermal cycler technology.

Distribution Channel Insights

Which Distribution Channel Dominate the Thermal Cycler Market?

The direct sales segment dominated the market in 2024 due to its vital role in establishing relations between manufacturers with customers to provide personalized support and services. Direct sales enable manufacturers to achieve large profit margins and enhance feedback mechanisms. The customized solutions and flexible pricing models offered by direct sales enable efficient and effective distribution. Additionally, the ability of direct sales to streamline the distribution process and facilitate fast product launches makes it an ideal choice for multiple manufacturers.

The online sales segment is expected to expand at the highest CAGR in the market over the forecast period, driven by rising accessibility. Online sales enable customers to gain simple access to thermal cyclers, making it a convenient distribution channel. The availability of a wide range of products with competitive pricing makes online sales crucial in the market. Customers can compare products, research various products, and read reviews before purchasing on online platforms. The growing demand for efficient, cost-effective, and convenient delivery options in the research and diagnostic sectors, shifting preference toward online sales.

Regional Insights

What Made North America the Dominant Region in the Thermal Cycler Market in 2024?

North America dominated the global thermal cycler market with the largest share in 2024 due to the increased prevalence of infectious diseases and technological advancements in PCR technologies. North America boasts an advanced healthcare infrastructure, driving the adoption of thermal cycler technology in various settings, including academic research, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. The demand for PCR-based diagnostics and research applications has gained significant traction in the region. The strong presence of leading manufacturers and significant investments in biotechnology are driving market growth.

The U.S. is a major player in the regional market, contributing to growth due to increased demand for PCR technology and pharmaceuticals. The growing prevalence of infectious diseases in the U.S. has driven the need for rapid and accurate diagnostic tools like the PCR-thermal cycler for disease detection. The U.S. government and private organizations are investing heavily in technological advancements, enabling access sot cutting-edge technologies like high-performance thermal cyclers. Additionally, the ongoing emphasis on integrating Internet of Things and AI in thermal cycler technology is bringing significant innovations to the emerging market.

Asia Pacific Thermal Cycler Market Trends

Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the global market, contributing to growth due to the region’s rapidly expanding research and healthcare sectors. The demand for thermal cycler technology is high in healthcare research for understanding disease processes, diagnostics, and the development of novel medical devices and therapeutics. The growing demand for point-of-care diagnostics and personalized medicine is driving the need for thermal cyclers. Additionally, the ongoing advancements in molecular biology, such as PCR, are enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of thermal cyclers for various applications.

China and India are leading the regional market, driven by increased demand for compact thermal cyclers. The expanding biotechnology industry, along with R&D and healthcare infrastructure, is fostering this growth. China’s focus on advancing production capabilities and technological advancements is fueling the market. Additionally, government investments in R&D, growing industrialization, and the expansion of the healthcare sector are driving the Indian market.

Europe Thermal Cycler Market Trends

Europe is expected to experience notable growth in the global market due to increased demand for cutting-edge diagnostic tools and rising research and development in life sciences. The demand for real-time PCR is high in Europe. The rising demand for automated and high-throughput systems, combined with the integration of AI and IoT in thermal cyclers, is driving this growth. Europe’s well-established research infrastructure and government funding for research and development (R&D) have facilitated the adoption of comprehensive thermal cyclers in the region.

Germany is a major player in the regional market, contributing to growth due to the country's strong industrial base and focus on automation. Germany conducts a large level of research and development activities, especially in engineering and green technologies. Government funding and initiatives in genetic research are further contributing to the market growth.

Thermal Cycler Market Companies

Thermal Cycler Market Companies
  • Thermo Fisher Scientific 
  • Bio-Rad Laboratories
  • Agilent Technologies
  • QIAGEN N.V.
  • Roche Diagnostics
  • Eppendorf AG
  • Analytik Jena AG
  • Biometra GmbH
  • Esco Micro Pte Ltd.
  • Takara Bio Inc.
  • Gilson, Inc.
  • Cole-Parmer (now Antylia Scientific)
  • Cepheid (Danaher Corporation)
  • Hamilton Company
  • Starlab International GmbH
  • Labnet International, Inc.
  • Techne (Bibby Scientific)
  • Benchmark Scientific, Inc.
  • Corbett Life Science (now part of QIAGEN)
  • Heal Force Bio-Meditech Holdings

Recent Developments

  • In April 2025, NextGenPCR launched its novel and comprehensive qPCR system at ESCMID. The system is designed to set standards in speed and precision for DNA analysis and has invited attendees to the booth (I-20) for firsthand innovation experiences.(Source: https://www.nextgenpcr.com)
  • In September 2023, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. announced the launch of its PTC Tempo 48/48 and PTC Tempo 384 Thermal Cyclers, designed to support PCR applications in basic and translational research, process development, and quality control. (Source: https://pharmaceuticalmanufacturer.media)

Segment Covered in the Report

By Product Type

  • Standard PCR Thermal Cyclers
  • Real-Time PCR (qPCR) Systems
  • Digital PCR (dPCR) Systems
  • High-Throughput Thermal Cyclers
  • Portable/Compact Thermal Cyclers

By Technology

  • Gradient PCR
  • Touchdown PCR
  • Fast PCR
  • Reverse Transcription PCR (RT-PCR)
  • Others (e.g., Nested PCR, Multiplex PCR)

By Application

  • Clinical Diagnostics
  • Research and Academic Use
  • Forensic Applications
  • Agricultural Biotechnology
  • Environmental Testing

By End User

  • Hospitals & Diagnostic Centers
  • Academic & Research Institutions
  • Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Companies
  • Forensic Laboratories
  • Contract Research Organizations (CROs)

By Distribution Channel

  • Direct Sales
  • Distributors/Resellers
  • Online Sales

By Region

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia-Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East & Africa (MEA)

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Frequently Asked Questions

The thermal cycler market size is expected to increase from USD 1.06 billion in 2024 to USD 2.39 billion by 2034.

The thermal cycler market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 8.47% from 2025 to 2034.

The major players in the thermal cycler market include Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bio-Rad Laboratorie, Agilent Technologies, QIAGEN N.V., Roche Diagnostics, Eppendorf AG, Analytik Jena AG, Biometra GmbH, Esco Micro Pte Ltd., Takara Bio Inc., Gilson, Inc., Cole-Parmer (now Antylia Scientific), Cepheid (Danaher Corporation), Hamilton Company, Starlab International GmbH, Labnet International, Inc., Techne (Bibby Scientific), Benchmark Scientific, Inc., Corbett Life Science (now part of QIAGEN), and Heal Force Bio-Meditech Holdings.

The driving factors of the thermal cycler market are the rising importance of thermal cycler in life science research. The growing demand for high-performance thermal cyclers is contributing to the market growth.

North America region will lead the global thermal cycler market during the forecast period 2025 to 2034.

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