The Best Stethoscopes for 2023

When it comes to finding the best stethoscope in 2023, there’s a world of choice out there for any healthcare professional. In fact, whether you’re looking for the best stethoscopes for nurses, doctors, paediatricians, or even medical students, the number of manufacturers producing quality pieces of kit has exploded in recent years with technological and engineering advances leading the way.

Naturally, however, there’s a lot to consider when looking to buy a stethoscope, and whether it’s a replacement or your first, you should take some time to review  your specific needs and the different types of stethoscope currently available.  To help you do that, we’ve put together a list of the best stethoscopes on the market in 2023. Read on to discover the perfect piece of equipment for your needs and rest assured that Medshop has everything you need to do your job to the best of your ability. 

 

3M Littmann CORE Digital Stethoscope — The Best Stethoscope for Doctors

A relatively new addition to the market and ready to push stethoscopes towards a new industry standard, the 3M Littmann CORE Digital Stethoscope is a leap forward in high-performance medical technology. Released in September 2021, this high-quality stethoscope deliver a new class of clarity with outstanding acoustics, comfortable design, and powerful digital technologies that allow you to visualise, record and share data.

The 3M Littmann CORE Stethoscope uses the Eko software on iOS and Android devices to  provide HIPAA compliant ways to save and annotate 15, 30, 60 or 120-second recordings. It also offers Littmann's celebrated tunable diaphragm, active noise cancelling technologies, up to 40x amplification, and the option to toggle between analog and digital modes for the ultimate in flexibility. 

 

3M Littmann Cardiology IV Stethoscope – The Best Stethoscope for Cardiologists

As one of the best Littmann stethoscopes currently on the market, the Cardiology IV features top-of-the-range acoustic performance, uncompromising build quality and exceptional versatility. Combining innovative features such a single-piece tuneable diaphragm on each side of the chest piece that allows fast switching between high and low frequencies, the 3M Littmann Cardiology IV Stethoscope offers unrivalled precision and outstanding audibility for cardiologists.

Made in the USA, and with a 7-year warranty for increased peace of mind, this top-rated cardiology stethoscope is a sound investment that will stand the test of time. Additionally, the adjustable headset and silicone ear tips provide superior comfort over long periods, and the colour options of Navy Blue, Burgundy & Caribbean Blue, Black & Raspberry offer you the chance to grab your own customised favourite.

Littmann Classic III Stethoscope - The Best Mid-Range Stethoscope

 

Known for consistent quality and durable design, the Littmann Classic III features open bell flexibility using single head that allows you to add a non-chill rim in place of the single-piece diaphragm, tunable diaphragms for use in both adults and children, next-generation tubing with enhanced resistance to skin oils and alcohol, and a worry-free warranty that extends to five years. 

For these reasons, this is among this particular model is among the most popular mid-range stethoscopes around, balancing superior acoustic stethoscope technology with durability and peace of mind. Many medical professionals prefer this model over the Littmann Lightweight II S.E because of that extended warranty.

 

3M Littmann Master Cardiology Stethoscope - The Best Analog Stethoscope

Known for consistent quality and durable design, the Littmann Classic III features open bell flexibility using single head that allows you to add a non-chill rim in place of the single-piece diaphragm, tunable diaphragms for use in both adults and children, next-generation tubing with enhanced resistance to skin oils and alcohol, and a worry-free warranty that extends to five years. 

For these reasons, this is among this particular model is among the most popular mid-range stethoscopes around, balancing superior acoustic stethoscope technology with durability and peace of mind. Many medical professionals prefer this model over the Littmann Lightweight II S.E because of that extended warranty.

Prestige Medical Clinical Lite Stethoscope– The Best Budget Stethoscope

This classic dual-head piece is definitely among the best budget stethoscopes around today. Featuring a fully stainless-steel construction for improved acoustic performance, and available in a range of colours, the Prestige Medical Clinical Lite is a great for both low and high-frequency sounds. 

 

 

With fibreglass diaphragm to detect S1, S2 and Korotkoff sounds alongside a traditional bell side for S3 and S4 sounds, versatility is ensured even at this low price point. Additionally, the snap-on diaphragm retaining ring makes maintenance a breeze, while the non-chill bell ring enhances patient comfort.

 

 

Welch Allyn Harvey Elite Stethoscope – The Best Stethoscope for Nurses

A good stethoscope at a great price, the Welch Allyn Harvey Elite has been around a while but still makes it into our top ten best stethoscopes. Well suited to any application, it has been a favourite of nursing professionals since its release, and with a 10-year warranty its easy to understand why. 

Offering a selection of both soft and hard ear tips in different sizes for increased comfort in the ear canal, the Welch Allyn Harvey Elite also features dual-lumen tubing for superb audibility and durable chest pieces designed to last. Additionally, the diaphragm and bell chest pieces are designed to accentuate important sounds so that you never miss a beat while on your rounds!

  

Student Welch Allyn Professional Stethoscope –The Best Stethoscope for Medical Students

For a high-quality, durable and accurate piece of kit for your studies, then this Welch Allyn is one of the best student stethoscopes around. While not as cheap as some of the entry-level stethoscopes aimed at students, with the Welch Allyn name attached, you know this is going stay the course through your studies while ensuring you get the kind of accuracy you need while on placement or in class.

Featuring a stainless-steel double-head (bell and flat diaphragm) cheat piece with non-chill rim, rotating binaurals and earpieces that are interchangeable with full comfort seal, the lightweight and ergonomic design means you can use this piece of equipment over long periods. Add to this a 5-year warranty and the option of both adult and paediatric versions, and you've got a stethoscope fit for a lifetime of healthcare.

ACU Student Paramedic Kit 1 Black Spirit Traditional – The Best Student Paramedic Stethoscope

 

This traditional Sphygmomanometer stethoscope kit was originally designed to meet the requirements of ACU paramedic students. However, today, this kit is now widely used by students from many other universities around Australia since it offers great value for money and plenty of useful accessories.

Alongside a high-quality stethoscope, you'll also find, an LED penlight, safety glasses with Five Tick approval, a roomy nursing pouch and handy ID retractor, and a CPR face shield among other useful devices and accessories that are ideal for a student just starting out on their careers. 

Prestige Sprague Rappaport Kit — The Best Stethoscope Combo Pack

 

For the ultimate in flexible combinations, the Prestige Basic Aneroid Sphygmomanometer and Sprague Rappaport Kit delivers a boatload of functionality in one, easy to use package. Offering a Sprague Rappaport stethoscope with five-in-one design, alongside a high-quality aneroid sphygmomanometer, this kit has everything you need to ensure you are prepared for everything your daily rounds can throw at you.

Features include a latex-free nylon cuff, a selection of index and range markings, an artery indicator mark, a standard inflation bulb and air release valve, a matching 6"x9" nylon carry case, and a full accessory pouch for superb versatility and convenience. Added to this is a one-year warranty for increased peace of mind.

Spirit Fun Animal Stethoscope – The Best Paediatric  Stethoscope

Whether you work in a hospital or in a paediatric clinic, its always a good idea to have a lighthearted infant stethoscope around to put children at ease. The Spirit Fun Animal Stethoscope is ideal for pediatric patients and helps put restless children at ease during assessments, giving them something to focus on as you do your work.

Featuring seven interchangeable animal faces that clip right onto the floating diaphragm, alongside latex-free tubing and high impact crack resistant plastic materials, this fun stethoscope is designed to last even when examining curious kids. Finally, the floating diaphragm is designed to improved sound transmission, making it suitable for taking blood pressure as well as auscultation tasks.

Prestige Clinical I Stethoscope Gold Edition – The Best Stethoscope for a Gift

 

If you're looking for something a little special to present the student doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional in your life, then look no further than the Prestige Clinical I Gold Edition. A simple and reliable piece of equipment with a gold chest piece and binaurals, it’s the perfect gift for graduation or other special occasion. 

Featuring the same high build quality as all of the Prestige range, this top stethoscope is comfortable and ergonomic in use. Additionally, a non-chill bell optimised for S3 and S4 sounds comes as standard, while the snap-on fibreglass diaphragm is optimised for S1, S2, and Korotkoff sounds for superb versatility while in use.

 

3M Littmann Electronic Stethoscope Digital 3200 ­ – The Best Electronic Stethoscope

 

Among the top electronic stethoscopes currently on the market, the 3M Littmann Digital 3200 boasts a broad range of advanced features in a lightweight and ergonomic package. With 24 amplification levels and the ability to eliminate 85% of background noise, accuracy is assured, while the soft-seal, snap-tight ear tips remain comfortable even over prolonged periods.

Linking to a computer is quick and simple with Bluetooth connectivity fully supported, allowing the fast transfer of data completely wirelessly. For any healthcare professional looking for a great stethoscope that is fully future proof, then look no further than the digital 3200.

Stethoscope Accessories 

Naturally, any medical professional using a stethoscope on a regular basis is going to need a few accessories to make examinations, and the time in between examinations, as efficient as possible. Thankfully, Medshop has a huge range of stethoscope accessories to help ensure you always have your most important tool to hand. 

These include accessories such as the Prestige Hip Clip Stethoscope Holder that attaches to your scrubs or other garments to ensure you stethoscope is always within easy reach. Other items such as the 3M Littmann ID tags help you to identify your stethoscope among countless others, while the Prestige Quick Equip Stethoscope LED Light helps provide medical professionals with illumination in low-light areas. 

In addition to a full range of accessories, Medshop also provides free laser engraving for stethoscopes so you can personalise any model with any message you would like. This makes the ideal gift for doctors and nurses, and is great idea for your own stethoscope so others can't mistake it for their own! 

Other Stethoscope Brands to Consider

While the 3M Littmann vs Welch Allyn debate rages on, with both brands proving hugely popular with all kinds of medical professional, there are also many other high-quality stethoscope brands on the market, and each has its merits. Including advanced functionality that can be used to identify heart murmurs and while also listening to lung sounds, you will find a broad range of high-quality models available. Additionally, features may include dual-lumen tubing, additional blood pressure cuffs, teardrop shape chest pieces, and full noise cancellation, alongside lifetime warranties and a range of replacement parts. 

Some of the top brands to look out for include MDF, ADC, Omron, EKO, and FriCARE. Naturally, when it comes to choosing the right stethoscope for you needs, balancing features and functionality with a name you can trust is important, so choose carefully when making your investment. 

Finally, whether you work with children or adult patients, whether you're in ICU or on the wards, here at Medshop we have a broad range of stethoscopes to buy that ensure you have the right equipment for your role. Browse our different types of stethoscopes in the shop or stay tuned to the Medshop blog for more information on all kinds of medical equipment.