Drug Test Kit Differences: Key Cups vs. Test Strips

Drug Test Kit Differences: Key Cups vs. Test Strips

When it comes to workplace safety, rehabilitation programs, or medical screening, choosing the right drug test kit is essential.

With multiple testing options available, it’s important to understand the differences between the various kits to determine which one best fits your needs.

This blog will break down two common drug testing methods—key cups and test strips (also known as dip cards)—highlighting their advantages, limitations, and the best product recommendations available in Malaysia.

Key Cups: The All-in-One Drug Testing Solution

Key cups are self-contained, all-in-one urine drug testing kits designed for quick and secure drug screening. These cups simplify the drug testing process by integrating the sample collection, testing, and results display into one sealed unit.

Pros of Key Cups

  • Tamper-proof design – The sealed system prevents contamination and sample adulteration.
  • Fast results – Provides multi-drug detection within minutes.
  • Convenience – No manual dipping or handling required.
  • Reliable for workplace testing – Designed for on-site and professional use.

Cons of Key Cups

  • Higher cost – More expensive than test strips and dip cards.
  • Bulkier size – Requires more storage space compared to compact test strips.

The SureStep EZ Split Cup: 6-in-1 and 10-in-1

SureStep 6-in-1 drug test kit

The SureStep EZ Split Cup is available in two versions: a 6-in-1 and a 10-in-1 test kit, capable of detecting multiple drugs with the following cut off levels in ng/ml:

  • AMP 500
  • MDMA 500
  • MOR 2000
  • BZO 300
  • THC 50
  • COC 150
  • BAR 300
  • OXY 100
  • MTD 300
  • PCP 25

Features:

  • Secure: Eliminates exposure to urine and provides temperature verification to confirm urine samples. Inbuilt adulteration strip.
  • Convenient: Simple, easy-to-use procedure – collect the urine, push the key, and read results within 5 minutes.
  • Stable: Long shelf life when stored at room temperature or refrigerated (2-30°C).
  • Performance: High accuracy with a strong correlation to GCMS reference methods.
  • Certifications: MDA & CE approved.

For comprehensive workplace drug testing, the SureStep EZ Split Cup offers a built-in specimen validity test, leak-proof design, and fast, multi-panel drug detection.

Dip cards: A Cost-Effective Drug Screening Option

Test strips are small, disposable strips used for urine drug testing. They require dipping into a urine sample and provide rapid results, making them a popular choice for frequent, cost-effective screening in various settings.

Pros of Test Strips

  • ✅ Budget-friendly – More affordable than key cups, making them ideal for bulk testing.
  • ✅ Compact and lightweight – Easy to store and transport.
  • ✅ Versatile testing options – Available in single-drug or multi-drug detection formats.

Cons of Test Strips

  • Higher risk of tampering – Since they require manual dipping, there is an increased risk of sample contamination.
  • More handling required – Manual interaction increases the chance of user error.
  • Not ideal for legal or workplace testing – Lacks the security of key cups for regulated environments.

ProDetect 5-in-1 Dipcard Urine Drug Testing Kit

ProDetect 5-in-1 urine drug test kit dip card

The ProDetect 5-in-1 Urine Dipcard tests for 5 major drug groups with the following cut-off levels (in ng/ml):

  • AMP 1000
  • MET 1000
  • MOP 300
  • BZO 300
  • THC 50

Features:

  • Fast: Provides test results in as fast as 5 minutes.
  • Convenient: Each kit is individually sealed for single-time use. Shelf life of up to 24 months.
  • Efficient: Tests for 5 drug groups in one sample.
  • Economical: Lower cost with the ability to store samples separately in sealed collection cups for later testing in a fridge or freezer.
  • Certifications: MDA approved.

The ProDetect 5-in-1 Urine Dipcard is an efficient and budget-friendly drug testing solution designed for quick and easy detection of multiple substances.

Ideal for rehabilitation centers, educational institutions, and frequent screening environments, this dip-and-read test provides rapid and reliable results.

Choosing the right drug test kit for your needs

Choosing the right drug test kit depends on your specific requirements:

  • Use Key Cups if you need a tamper-proof, secure, and multi-drug testing solution for workplaces or professional settings.
  • Use Test Strips if you need a cost-effective, quick, and compact drug testing option for frequent screening in non-regulated environments.

If you're unsure which drug test kit best suits your needs, contact Andatech Malaysia today. Our team can help you find the most effective solution for accurate and reliable drug testing.


Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general reference only. Please seek advice from professionals according to your business’s needs.

Written by Andatech Malaysia

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