FAQ: Which thermophilic DNA polymerase should I use?

The choice of a DNA polymerase for use in PCR-based applications is highly dependent on the characteristics of the system as well as the desired result. For routine amplifications or high AT or high GC amplifications where yield and ease of use are priorities, NEB's OneTaq® DNA Polymerases and Q5® High-Fidelity DNA Polymerases are the recommended choice. For routine amplifications where cost per reaction and yield are the priorities, NEB's Taq DNA Polymerase (NEB #M0267, NEB #M0273) is the industry standard.

OneTaq Hot Start DNA Polymerase (NEB #M0481 ) offers high specificity and yield, while Q5 (NEB# M0491) and Q5 Hot Start High-Fidelity DNA Polymerases (NEB# M0493)  lead the industry for extreme fidelity, yield and robustness. For our product offerings that address specific applications such as long or difficult PCR, PCR from blood, and multiplex PCR, in addition to convenient kits and master mixes, see our PCR Selection Tool.

OneTaq® and Q5® are a registered trademarks of New England Biolabs, Inc.