There are several different types of buffer solutions used in gel electrophoresis. They are used to provide the necessary current-carrying ions and to maintain the pH at a relatively constant value.

The two most common types of buffer solutions used in gel electrophoresis are Tris/Acetate/EDTA (TAE) and Tris/Borate/EDTA (TBE). Both these buffers have a relatively constant pH. Both are also capable of conducting electricity because of their hydrogen ion concentration. These properties allow a current to pass through the sample while resisting pH changes in the overall solution in gel electrophoresis.