Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Always talk to a qualified doctor.

Haemocytometer Cell Count Calculator

Enter the number of cells counted, the number of large squares counted and the dilution. Each large square of an improved Neubauer chamber holds 0.1 µL.

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For learning and checking your own calculations. Always follow your laboratory's SOPs and verified procedures.

Good to know

Formula: cells/µL = cells counted × dilution ÷ (large squares × 0.1). Count both sides of the chamber and average them; if the two sides differ a lot, recharge the chamber. Common set-ups: WBC — 4 corner squares at 1:20; undiluted CSF — all 9 squares. Count cells touching two agreed borders only (for example top and left).

Formula

Cells/µL = cells counted × dilution ÷ (large squares × 0.1)

Cells/L = cells/µL × 10⁶

Common questions

How do I calculate a manual WBC count?

With 4 corner squares at 1:20: cells/µL = cells counted × 20 ÷ (4 × 0.1), which is cells counted × 50.

What volume is one large square?

0.1 µL (1 mm × 1 mm × 0.1 mm depth).

How do I count undiluted CSF?

Count all 9 large squares: cells/µL = cells counted ÷ 0.9.

Sources

  • Dacie and Lewis Practical Haematology (manual cell counts with a haemocytometer)