The choice depends on the thermal cycler or the roboter system used. Especially roboter systems need the skirt to hold the plates correctly.
BRAND offers a compatibility chart for BRAND PCR plates and compatible thermal cyclers. The compatibility between plate and cycler is especially limited by the position of the cut away corners of the plate.
BRAND is continuously updating this chart with information from manufacturers and feedback from customers. Do not hesitate to ask for free samples of BRAND PCR plates to check the compatibility with your thermal cycler! A short feedback from you will help to complete the table!