May 12 2021 While all laboratory pipettes perform the same functions of aspirating, transporting and dispensing liquids, performance and accuracy can vary significantly between models. Below, we spotlight some of the most common lab pipette types used in modern science. Some are staples in high school laboratories, while others are reserved for cutting-edge research institutions. Air displacement micropipettes The most common micropipettes use air displacement to aspirate and dispense liquid. An air cushion in the pipette tip is used to expel air and create a vacuum that draws liquid into the chamber. Advanced laboratory-specific air displacement micropipettes feature air cushion volume settings that can be adjusted to fit the needs of the operator. Once set, the pipette expels the amount of air indicated on the volume setting and replaces it with the same volume of liquid.