Background: Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) likely derive from clones in the primary tumor, suggesting that they can be used for all biological tests applying to the primary cells. Materials and methods: The ScreenCell® devices are single-use and low-cost innovative devices that use a filter to isolate and sort tumor cells by size. Results: The ScreenCell® Cyto device is able to isolate rare, fixed, tumor cells, with a high recovery rate. Cells are well preserved morphologically. Immunocytochemistry and FISH assays can be performed directly on the filter. The ScreenCell® CC device allows isolation of live cells able to grow in culture. High quality genetic materials can be obtained directly from tumor cells isolated on the ScreenCell® MB device filter. Conclusion: Due to their reduced size, versatility, and capacity to isolate CTCs within minutes, the ScreenCell® devices may be able to simplify and improve non-invasive access to tumor cells.