| Purpose | Protects the product/sample from contamination. | Protects the product, operator, and environment. |
| Airflow | Unidirectional HEPA-filtered airflow toward the work area. | HEPA-filtered airflow with controlled inflow and exhaust. |
| Operator Protection | No protection. | Provides operator protection. |
| Environmental Protection | No protection. | Protects the environment from biohazards. |
| Sample Protection | Protects the sample. | Protects the sample. |
| Suitable For | Media preparation, sterile product handling, and aseptic operations. | Handling infectious microorganisms, cell cultures, and biohazardous materials. |
| HEPA Filters | Usually one HEPA filter for incoming air. | HEPA filters for both incoming and exhaust air. |
