Comparing Pump Types: Syringe, Peristaltic, and Piezoelectric Micropumps

When working with liquids in research, diagnostics, or industrial setups, choosing the right pump type is critical. Your choice depends on the specific needs of your application, fluid volume, flow precision, portability, power use, and more.

In this guide, we compare three common pump types side by side:

• Syringe pumps
• Peristaltic pumps
• Piezoelectric diaphragm micropumps like our BP7

Each technology comes with strengths and limitations. Some shine in lab conditions. Others are ideal for mobile systems or long-term industrial use. Here’s how they compare.

 

Quick Overview: Pump Types at a Glance

Comparison Table

Feature	Syringe Pump	Piezoelectric Micropump (BP7)	Peristaltic Pump
Principle of Operation	Motor-driven plunger moves fluid via syringe	Piezo actuators drive diaphragm movement	Rotating rollers compress flexible tubing
Flow Rate	Wide range, depends on syringe and motor	Up to ~7 mL/min (typical), controlled via voltage and frequency	Wide range depending on tube size and speed
Accuracy & Precision	High precision depending on mechanical resolution	High precision via electrical control; improved with sensor feedback	Moderate; affected by tubing elasticity and wear
Fluid Compatibility	Depends on syringe material	PPSU body suits many fluids; media must be verified	High; only tubing touches fluid, ideal for reactive media
Size & Portability	Typically large; benchtop only	Very compact and lightweight; great for mobile setups	Moderate to large; smaller versions exist
Energy Consumption	Relatively high (motor-based)	Very low (efficient piezo drive)	Higher due to constant motor use
Cost	Moderate to high	Moderate to high upfront; scalable long-term	Lower initial cost; maintenance adds up
Maintenance	Needs calibration and syringe swaps	Minimal, no fluid contact, few moving parts	Frequent tubing changes; roller wear possible
Application Flexibility	Common in labs, medical setups, automation	Great for wearable and embedded tech	Widely used in labs, production, bioprocessing
Volume Capacity	Limited by syringe size (refillable)	Lower per unit; expandable with system design	High volume via continuous flow

 

Summary: Which Pump Type Fits Your Project?

If your project needs:

• A lightweight and compact design
• Low power usage
• Smart electronic control with sensor feedback
• Minimal maintenance
• Portable, wearable, or modular systems

…then the BP7 piezoelectric micropump is a smart choice.

Still considering the others?

• Syringe pumps deliver excellent precision in labs but they’re bulky and need manual maintenance.
• Peristaltic pumps are versatile and fluid-friendly but larger, and the tubing wears out.

Modern use cases in life sciences, environmental monitoring, diagnostics, and drug delivery demand smart, scalable, and energy-efficient solutions. That’s where the BP7 and similar microfluidic pump types come in.