RNA next-generation sequencer NovaSeq X series

for DNAclinicallaboratory

Overview
Built on decades of Illumina innovation, the NovaSeq X Series are production-scale, ultra-high-throughput sequencers designed to maximize throughput and accelerate large-scale genomics and translational research projects. These systems deliver high output and accuracy via ultra-high-density flow cells, ultra-high-resolution optics, and XLEAP-SBS chemistry. The NovaSeq X Series supports high-volume whole-genome sequencing and data-intensive clinical research applications including single-cell, exome, ctDNA, and multi‑omics workflows.

Key capabilities

• Ultra-high throughput across multiple flow cell types to scale studies from thousands to tens of thousands of genomes per year.
• XLEAP-SBS chemistry: enhanced sequencing-by-synthesis for faster runs and consistent data quality.
• High read accuracy and ultra-high-resolution optics enabling billions of reads per flow cell.
• Flexible data analysis options: DRAGEN available onboard, on-premises, or in the cloud; automated, touchless secondary analysis workflows; automated lossless data compression.
• Operational simplicity with push-button operation, automated onboard cluster generation, and automated post-run wash.

Sustainability and cost-efficiency

• Design improvements across reagents and packaging to reduce environmental impact and shipping weight.
• Compact cartridges and packaging to maximize storage efficiency and minimize waste.
• No dry ice or ice packs required for reagent shipping, lowering disposal complexity and costs.

User experience and workflow

• Push-button operation with automated onboard cluster generation and automated post-run wash to simplify routine workflows.
• Individually addressable flow cell lanes with automated independent lane loading for flexible sample throughput.
• Flexible run planning, on-instrument or cloud-based secondary analysis, and integration with common library prep kits and LIMS for streamlined laboratory operations.

Applications & methods
The NovaSeq X Series is optimized for ultra-high-throughput whole-genome sequencing and a broad menu of high-data clinical research applications (population sequencing, single-cell, exome, ctDNA, multiomics), enabling larger cohorts, higher depth, and improved sensitivity for low-frequency variant detection.

Specifications (summary)
Output range: ~165 Gb–21 Tb per run
Reads per run: ~1.6–52 billion single reads; up to ~104–140 billion paired-end reads depending on flow cell and configuration
Max read length: paired-end up to 2 × 300 bp
Run time: ~14–48 hr depending on run type and flow cell

Detailed features

• Support for three flow cell types, enabling flexibility in scale and throughput.
• Ultra-high-density flow cells and ultra-high-resolution optics delivering tens of billions of reads per flow cell (device- and configuration-dependent).
• Onboard accelerated secondary analysis via DRAGEN with options to run on-server or in the cloud for integrated informatics.
• Automated, ergonomic instrument design for efficient, repeatable high-throughput operations.

Technical specifications

• Commercial name: NovaSeq X Series
• Manufacturer / Brand: Illumina
• Chemistry: XLEAP-SBS (enhanced sequencing-by-synthesis)
• Output (per run): approximately 165 Gb up to 21 Tb (varies by flow cell and system)
• Reads per run: approximately 1.6–52 billion single reads (configuration-dependent)
• Maximum read length: paired-end up to 2 × 300 bp
• Run time: approximately 14–48 hours depending on configuration and read length
• Systems in family: NovaSeq X System (single flow cell) and NovaSeq X Plus System (dual flow cell)
• Onboard analysis: DRAGEN platform available onboard; also supports cloud and on-server workflows
• Workflow features: automated onboard cluster generation, independent lane loading, touchless secondary analysis, automated lossless data compression
• Sustainability: reduced packaging weight and waste, compact cartridges, no dry ice required for reagent shipping
• Intended use: research use (not for diagnostic procedures)