The lab-scale tensile and compression tester Zwicki 2.5 kN allows the determination of mechanical properties such as Youngs modulus, compression modulus, ultimate tensile strength and elongation at break for solids and gels. With different geometries, we detect forces up to 200 N with a elongation rate up to 3000 mm/min. A temperature chamber is available as well as a setup for experiments in wet environment, e. g. for hydrogels.