ICP Test Lab Comparison Chart
Not sure which ICP testing lab to use? Here's a side-by-side comparison of the most popular options for reef aquarium hobbyists.
Last updated: March 2026. Prices and turnaround times may vary.
ICP Test Lab Comparison Chart
ReefTanker.com — Updated March 2026
At a Glance
| Lab | Price | Turnaround | Elements | Sample Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ATI ICP-OES Popular | $37 | 3-5 business days | 44 | Mail-in kit |
| Triton ICP-OES Popular | €40 (~$44) | 5-7 business days | 36 | Mail-in kit |
| Fauna Marin | €35 (~$38) | 5-10 business days | 40+ | Mail-in kit |
| ICP Analysis (Reef Labs) | $30 | 3-5 business days | 38 | Mail-in kit |
| Oceamo | €30 (~$33) | 5-7 business days | 42 | Mail-in kit |
| Aquaforest Lab (AWT) | $39 | 5-7 business days | 50+ | Mail-in kit |
Lab Details
ATI ICP-OES
atilabsusa.com
- Most widely used in the hobby
- Free sample kit with prepaid shipping
- Online results dashboard
- Historical tracking between tests
Triton ICP-OES
www.triton.de
- Established European lab
- Integrates with Triton dosing method
- Color-coded results with ranges
- Recommendations included
Fauna Marin
www.faunamarin.de
- Comprehensive element coverage
- Clean result format
- Integrates with Fauna Marin product line
- Growing user community
ICP Analysis (Reef Labs)
icpanalysis.com
- Budget-friendly option
- US-based lab
- Fast turnaround
- Simple results format
Oceamo
www.oceamo.com
- Advanced AI-powered analysis
- Detailed dosing recommendations
- Tracks results over time
- Strong app integration
Aquaforest Lab (AWT)
aquaforestlab.com
- Highest element count
- Includes organic pollutants
- Detailed PDF report
- Integrates with Aquaforest product line
How to Choose an ICP Lab
Best for Beginners
ATI ICP-OES is the most beginner-friendly option. Their free sample kit, prepaid shipping, and clean online dashboard make it easy to get started. The large user base also means plenty of community help interpreting results.
Best on a Budget
ICP Analysis (Reef Labs) offers the lowest price at $30 per test with fast turnaround. A great choice if you plan to test frequently and want to keep costs down.
Most Comprehensive
Aquaforest Lab (AWT) tests the most elements (50+) and includes organic pollutants in their analysis — useful for troubleshooting stubborn tank issues.
Best for Dosing Guidance
Oceamo stands out with AI-powered analysis that provides specific dosing recommendations based on your results. Great if you want actionable next steps, not just numbers.
ICP Testing Tips
- 1. Stick with one lab. Different labs may calibrate differently, so switching between labs makes it harder to compare results over time.
- 2. Test your source water too. Run an ICP test on your RO/DI water and freshly mixed saltwater to establish a baseline. This helps identify whether issues come from your source water or the tank itself.
- 3. Test quarterly at minimum. For most hobbyists, testing every 3 months is a good cadence. SPS-dominant tanks may benefit from monthly testing.
- 4. Collect your sample correctly. Use the provided vials, avoid touching the inside, fill to the marked line, and ship promptly. Poor sample handling is the #1 cause of inaccurate results.
- 5. Don't panic over a single result. ICP tests are a snapshot. Look at trends across multiple tests before making major changes to your tank.
Downloaded from ReefTanker.com — Track your ICP results digitally at app.reeftanker.com
Track Your ICP Results Over Time
Upload your ICP results to ReefTanker and auto-parse 60+ elements. See trends, spot problems early, and compare results across tests.