- Quality
- Anticipated Usage
- Comfort
- Cost
- Additional features
Quality
First and foremost, the stethoscope should faithfully reproduce sounds originating from the target organ. While the majority of stethoscope usage is for the heart, the device is also used to auscultate the lungs, abdomen, carotid arteries, and other various structures as indicated. A useful device should perform well across this range of indications.
Anticipated Usage
Do you foresee using this only for required rotations and no more? Or, do you foresee doing a lot of primary clinical work, or perhaps even becoming a cardiologist? If you anticipate having a long-term relationship with your stethoscope, it is better to invest in a higher quality, more versatile device.
Comfort
This varies by individual, but if this is something you need to carry around all day, you want to make sure it's lightweight, portable, and sets comfortably in your ears.
Cost
Medical school is expensive enough. While a stethoscope is a great investment, you want to make sure it is the right one for you. The budding cardiologist is likely to get more out of the extra dollar spent than the future psychiatrist.
Additional Features
Newer stethoscopes now include various extensions, such as smartphone apps or other technology. Each person will have to decide on their own if such items are necessary.
In the US, the majority of medical students, residents, and physicians using Littmann stethoscopes by 3M. They perform well and have stood the test of time. The overall most common type is the 3M Littmann Cardiology III:
Pros:
- Two-in-one tube design reduces noise interference
- Dual side chestpiece for adult and pediatric patients
- Two tunable diaphragms
- Weight: 15.7 ounces
Cons: Cost
Personally, I have owned a Cardiology III for years and have had zero issues with it. I have never encountered a clinical situation in which the Cardiology III was not up to the task, or felt that I wish I had a different stethoscope. Littmann has released the Cardiology IV, which is very highly reviewed but looks to be mostly evolutionary changes over the III. For the future cardiologist, the Master Cardiology version is a consideration, but likely too advanced for the beginning medical student.
For the more budget conscious student, the next best option is the 3M Littmann Cardiology II SE:
Unlike the III, the II SE has slightly lower acoustic performance and a shorter warranty. However, it is a more economical choice.
Here is a table with a full comparison of Littmann stethoscopes features:
Source: Amazon
Have questions about your stethoscope choice? Feel free to contact us using the link at the top of this page. Happy hunting!
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