The SciAps X-505 Handheld XRF Analyzer is a high-performance handheld XRF designed for soil contamination screening and environmental field testing, providing a strong balance of speed, sensitivity, and rugged practicality. The X-505 is one of the lightest and most responsive XRF analyzers ever made, enabling rapid elemental data collection directly in the field with minimal operator fatigue.

Weighing just under 3 lbs. with the battery, the X-505 delivers the performance of the SciAps X Series in a compact and ergonomically balanced form factor that is easy to use all day, even in hot field conditions.

Want to compare other soil testing handheld XRF analyzers? Check out our complete collection of the Best Handheld XRF Analyzers for Soil Testing here. 

Key Benefits for Soil Testing

• One of the smallest and lightest handheld XRF analyzers available, ideal for extended field use.
• Fast, non-destructive soil screening with results available in seconds.
• Effective detection of common soil contaminants such as lead (Pb), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), and related elements.
• Designed for sustained operation with excellent thermal management in hot field conditions.
• Strong balance of performance and cost for environmental professionals.
• Supports field-based soil testing when used with appropriate QA/QC procedures.

Typical Applications

• Soil contamination screening
• Environmental site assessments and due diligence
• Identification of impacted soil zones prior to lab submission
• Brownfield and remediation projects
• Field decision support prior to confirmatory laboratory analysis

Included Modes/Apps

This configuration is designed around the Soil App for soil testing. 

• Typical elements screened in Soil mode may include: Ag, As, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Ni, Pb, S, Sb, Sc, Se, Sn, Sr, Ti, V, Zn

Optional Analytical Modes (Available as Add-Ons)

The SciAps X-505 is a multi-application platform, and the following analytical modes can be added depending on how the analyzer will be used.

• Mining / Geochemistry App – Optimized for elemental analysis of rocks, ores, and soils, including light elements and pathfinder elements used in mineral exploration and evaluation.
• Alloy App – Used for elemental analysis and alloy identification across ferrous and non-ferrous metals in industrial and verification applications.
• Precious Metals App – Designed for non-destructive elemental analysis of precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.
• RoHS / Regulatory Compliance App – Supports non-destructive screening for regulated substances, including RoHS, Halogen-Free, CPSIA, and lead-related compliance testing.

Hardware & Technical Specifications

The SciAps X-505 is engineered for reliable soil testing in real-world field conditions, combining a high-power X-ray source, advanced detector technology, and efficient thermal management in a compact handheld platform.

What’s Included

• SciAps X-505 handheld XRF analyzer configured for soil testing
• Soil analysis software and calibration
• x2 Rechargeable Li-Ion Batteries
• Battery Charger & Power Adapter
• Alloy Geek virtual installation and training

Final configuration details are confirmed during the quote process to ensure the analyzer matches your specific soil testing requirements.

Optional Accessories

• Soil sample cups and XRF film for fine or bagged samples
• Safety Interlocked test stand for testing sample cups, bagged samples, and longer test times
• Spare batteries, Battery Chargers, Power Adapters
• Spare XRF windows
• Field backpack

Accessory selection depends on sample type, testing duration, and site conditions.

Documents:

• SciAps X505 Spec Sheet Geochemistry
• SciAps X505 Spec Sheet RoHS
• SciAps X505 Limits of Detection

To Request a Quote

• Request a Quote Online
• Call us at 919-400-1216
• Email us at [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the SciAps X-505 be used for soil contamination screening of Pb, As, or other elements?

Yes. The X-505 can be configured for soil analysis and is commonly used to detect heavy metals and provide field-based decisions before laboratory testing.

How does the X505 compare to the X555 for soil testing?

The X-505 delivers strong soil screening performance at 50 kV and is more cost-effective, while the X-555 offers higher sensitivity and lower detection limits for demanding soil contaminants. For most applications, the X505 will work well and the improved detection limits for the X555 are not required.