Table 1 Comparisons of the different methods for the detection of subtypes of SARS-CoV-2

Genome sequencing

High accuracy and reliability, gold standard for identifying variants

Low sensitivity, specialized laboratories and technical skills, be time-consuming and expensive

[95]

RT-qPCR

High sensitivity, reliability

primer/probe mismatches, expensive equipment

[94, 112]

RT-LAMP

High specificity, portability, be rapid and costly

low tolerance to highly variable target sequences, limitations of a single reaction

[96, 97]

CRISPR

High specificity and sensitivity, experimental simplicity, versatility

Shortage of multiplexing capabilities

[98, 99]

ELISA

Fast response, Portability and simplicity

Low sensitivity

[93, 113]

Electrochemical method

High sensitivity, fast response and low cost, small size, and portability

Weak stability and susceptibility to interference

[114, 115]

Magnetic biosensors

low cost, high signal-to-noise ratio test

Bulky equipment

[116, 117]

SPR-based biosensors

Label-free and real-time detection

Bulky equipment and expensive, low sensitivity

[118, 119]

SERS-based biosensors

High sensitivity, Portability and simplicity, low cost

Poor spectra repeatability

[120]