NovaSeq X Series specifications

A new standard for high-throughput sequencing

Next-level sequencing output, sample throughput, and specifications for the NovaSeq X and NovaSeq X Plus Systems

NovaSeq X Series render

Output per flow cell for various read lengths*

NovaSeq X Series

Flow cell type	1.5B	10B	25B
2 × 50 bp	~165 Gb	~1 Tb	N/A
2 × 100 bp	~330 Gb	~2 Tb	N/A
2 × 150 bp	~500 Gb	~3 Tb	~8 Tb

* Specifications based on Illumina PhiX control library or a TruSeq DNA Library created with NA12878 at supported cluster densities.
NovaSeq X Plus system is capable of single flow cell runs or dual flow cell runs. Dual flow cell run delivers twice the output listed above.
NovaSeq X system is capable of single flow cell runs.

Reads passing filter per flow cell

NovaSeq X Series

Flow cell type	1.5B	10B	25B
Single-end reads	1.6 billion	10 billion	26 billion
Paired-end reads	3.2 billion	20 billion	52 billion

Quality scores* and run time^†

NovaSeq X Series

Quality Scores
Flow Cell Type	1.5B	10B	25B
2 × 50 bp	≥ 90% of bases higher than Q30
2 × 100 bp	≥ 85% of bases higher than Q30
2 × 150 bp	≥ 85% of bases higher than Q30
Run Time
2 × 50 bp	~17 hr	~18 hr	N/A
2 × 100 bp	~20 hr	~22 hr	N/A
2 × 150 bp	~23 hr	~25 hr	~48 hr

* A quality score (Q-score) is a prediction of the probability of an error in base calling. The percentage of bases > Q30 is averaged across the entire run. Quality scores are based on NovaSeq X series 10B reagents using an Illumina PhiX control library. Performance may vary based on library type and quality, insert size, loading concentration, and other experimental factors.
† Run time includes automated cluster generation, sequencing, automated post-run wash, and base calling. Run times are based on Illumina PhiX control library at supported cluster densities. Performance may vary based on library type and quality, insert size, loading concentration, and other experimental factors.

Estimated sample throughput for key applications*

NovaSeq X Series

Flow cell type	1.5B	10B	25B
Human genomes per flow cell	~4	~24	~64
Exomes per flow cell	~41	~250	~750
Transcriptomes per flow cell	~30	~200	~520

*All sample throughputs are estimates per single flow cell run. Human genomes assumes > 120 Gb of data per sample to achieve 30× genome coverage. Exomes assumes ~8 Gb or ~40M reads per sample to achieve 100x coverage. Transcriptomes assumes ≥ 50M reads. Throughput may vary based on many factors including exome panel size, depth required, and library preparation kit used.

Instrument specifications

NovaSeq X specifications

Laser wavelengths

532 nm, 457 nm, 655 nm
Dimension with monitor
W × D × H

86.4 cm × 93.3 cm × 158.8 cm
(34 in × 36.7 in × 62.5 in)
Dry weight of instrument
(not including UPS; no core consumables)

1171 lb
Dry weight of instrument
(including UPS; no core consumables)

1253 lb
Wet weight of instrument
(not including UPS; loaded with core consumables)

1296 lb
Crated weight of instrument

1591 lb (722 kg)
Accessories pallet weight

525 lb (238 kg)

View in-depth specs sheet (PDF)

Innovation powers the NovaSeq X Series

Go on a virtual tour of the many innovations in the NovaSeq X Series and an overview of XLEAP-SBS chemistry. Learn about the integrated bioinformatics, reduced data footprint, lyophilized reagents, and other innovations.

Breakthrough technology innovations delivering a leap forward in sequencing

Powered by XLEAP-SBS chemistry

The NovaSeq X Series is powered by XLEAP-SBS chemistry, our fastest, highest quality, and most robust sequencing by synthesis (SBS) chemistry to date. Built upon the proven foundation of standard Illumina SBS chemistry, XLEAP-SBS chemistry delivers improved reagent stability with two-fold faster incorporation times.

Ultra-high density patterned flow cells

The NovaSeq X Series incorporates patterned flow cell technology to generate an ultra-high level of throughput for a broad range of sequencing applications. NovaSeq X patterned flow cells contain tens of billions of nanowells at fixed locations, a design that provides even spacing of sequencing clusters. This delivers significant increases in sequencing reads and total output of the system.

Streamlined, comprehensive informatics

The NovaSeq X and NovaSeq X Plus Systems are integrated with the DRAGEN Bio-IT Platform for ultra-rapid, accurate genomic data analysis. Run multiple secondary analysis pipelines in parallel, onboard or in the cloud. Run up to four simultaneous applications per flow cell in a single run.

Genomic data compression

Integrated DRAGEN ORA (original read archive) can perform lossless compression to reduce FASTQ file sizes by up to five-fold. This optimized genomics data compression enables faster data transfers and easier data management. The smaller data footprint also reduces storage and energy consumption costs.

More discoveries, more sustainably than ever

The NovaSeq X Series was purpose-built for improved sustainability. Innovations include lyophilized reagents that arrive at room temperature and a ~90% reduction in packaging waste for reagents. Plastic mass is reduced by over 50% and the buffer cartridge is made with a plant-based biopolymer.

Ultra-high-resolution optics

The NovaSeq X Series achieves ultra-high-resolution imaging through higher numerical aperture, a custom CMOS sensor, and two-channel SBS with blue-green optics. The smaller wavelengths allow for tighter spacing between nanowells for up to 26 billion single reads on NovaSeq X Series 25B flow cells.