Top OpenCFU Alternatives for Automated Colony Counting

OpenCFU is a highly regarded, open-source application designed for the precise enumeration of clustered circular objects, particularly bacterial colonies. Its ability to process digital images and live streams, coupled with cross-platform compatibility and customizable filters, makes it a powerful tool for researchers. However, as with any specialized software, users may seek OpenCFU alternatives that offer different features, platforms, or pricing models. This article explores some excellent substitutes for your colony counting needs.

Top OpenCFU Alternatives

Whether you're looking for mobile solutions, automated counting, or specific platform compatibility, these alternatives offer compelling options to OpenCFU.

Promega Colony Counter

Promega Colony Counter offers a convenient mobile solution for bacterial colony counting. Available for free on iPhone and iPad, it allows users to simply snap a picture of their agar plates with their phone, eliminating the need for tedious manual counting in the lab. While it doesn't list specific advanced features, its ease of use and mobile accessibility make it a strong contender if you're seeking a simple, free OpenCFU alternative on iOS.

ColonyCount

ColonyCount, currently in early beta, is a promising Android application designed to assist with bacterial colony counting and growth measurements. This free personal use app aims to simplify the process for researchers on the go. While it's still under development, its focus on aiding bacterial enumeration on Android devices positions it as a potential OpenCFU alternative for users who prioritize mobile flexibility and are open to early-stage software.

Colony Counter (manual count)

Colony Counter (manual count) is a commercial Android application tailored for bacterial colony counting. It allows users to take an image of their petri dish with their smartphone or tablet and then manually count colonies within the app. While it doesn't offer automated counting, its dedicated functionality and availability on Android make it a viable, albeit commercial, OpenCFU alternative for those who prefer a guided manual counting experience on a mobile device.

Colony Counter ( automated )

Colony Counter (automated) is a commercial Android app that provides automated bacterial colony counting. Users simply capture an image of their plate or petri dish using their camera, and the app performs the enumeration. This automation significantly reduces the manual effort required, making it a compelling commercial OpenCFU alternative for Android users who need efficient, automated counting capabilities directly on their mobile device.

Ultimately, the best OpenCFU alternative for you will depend on your specific needs, preferred platform, and budget. Whether you prioritize free mobile solutions, automated counting, or specific operating systems, the options above provide a solid starting point for your research.