Medical science is one of the most progressive fields. There have been various advancements and inventions over the past few decades. Technology has further brought various advancements and helped us find the cure for some of the critical illnesses. Stethoscopes are one of the medical inventions that has changed the way medical professionals treat patients. It has become an integral part of a healthcare provider’s life and is commonly used to listen to the sounds made by the organs in our body. You’d have seen medical professionals and practitioners carrying the stethoscopes around their necks all the time. It is also one of the first medical equipment that students enrolled in the medical field handle. Here, we have the best stethoscopes in India 2022 that are equipped with modern technological features and will help you diagnose the patients easier.
What is a Stethoscope?
A stethoscope is medical equipment that medical professionals use for detecting the sounds produced by the organs in your body. It is certainly used to listen to the heartbeat and analyze breathing. Doctors also use stethoscopes while measuring blood pressure to detect the amount of blood flow in the arteries and veins. French physician R.T.H. Laënnec invented this instrument in 1816 to diagnose the sounds produced by the patient’s chest. By listening to the heartbeat and sounds, the healthcare providers can identify the problem you might be diagnosed with. The experts will also be able to identify the seriousness of the disease by hearing the sounds on the stethoscope.
Uses of Stethoscope
A stethoscope carries significant importance and can be used to serve multiple purposes in a medical room. Here are some of the most crucial ways in which a stethoscope can be used:
To calculate blood pressure
A stethoscope can be used to listen to the heartbeat at the brachial artery and detect blood pressure. Medical professionals will use attach the blood pressure cuff to your arm and use this equipment to hear the beats.
Detect lung sounds
Stethoscopes can be used to detect the sounds produced by the lungs. It will help doctors determine if there is any blockage or inflammation in the lungs. This will help detect the abnormalities and determine if you’re breathing properly.
Detect heart sounds
The medical professionals can use the instrument to detect heart sounds and check if there are ‘murmurs’ or ‘gallops’ present. It may help understand them the right conditions, which can be helpful to them in providing the right medication.
Check congestive heart failure
An individual may be at high risk of suffering from congestive heart failure when their heart works less efficiently. The heart may not be able to pump the blood the way it should, which could be a serious health ailment. The irregularities in the sound produced by the heart and lungs may help detect this condition. Detecting at an early stage will also help in finding the appropriate diagnosis for the condition.
Track the sound of different body parts
Healthcare professionals can use stethoscopes to detect the sounds of different body parts. Thus, it can be used to track and monitor the condition effectively. The doctors may identify how well you are doing and check if your condition is improving.
Measure liver size
It is one of the most surprising uses associated with stethoscopes. It can help note the vertical length and detect the size of the liver.
Check the recovery rate from the surgery
Patients often feel uneasy after undergoing surgery. Medical experts can certainly use a stethoscope to determine the patient’s state of healing. It can help identify if they have any critical symptoms or need any further diagnosis.
Types of Stethoscopes
If you’re in the medical care field, you must have knowledge about the different types of stethoscopes. You will find different types of stethoscopes in the market, depending upon the patient’s group, specialized tasks, and the size of the chest piece. Let’s learn more about the different types of stethoscopes available.
Neonatal
Newborn babies are at a higher risk of developing breathing and other critical illnesses. Therefore, it is necessary to treat them properly and diagnose the condition at the right time. Neonatal stethoscopes are ideal for newborn babies and may help detect accurate sounds without any ambience noise. One can also consider using a regular stethoscope. However, it won’t be that effective and may not help detect accurate levels of noise. Henceforth, one must choose the stethoscope according to the patient category and tasks that they are catering to.
Infant
The infant stethoscope delivers high acoustic sensitivity and is ideal for smaller patients. Neonatal is ideal for the smallest diameter of the chest piece, which may be around 2 cm. While these are around 2.7 cm and feature specialized non-latex construction. This certainly helps in preventing the risk of allergic reactions.
Pediatric
These are ideal for pediatric patients. One can always use a regular stethoscope on pediatric or infant patients. However, there may be a risk of ambient sound difference. This is why it is suggested to use the right stethoscope according to the age group of the child. Pediatric stethoscopes offer precise placement and are certainly available in colours. Children might consider it as a toy and will not get frightened.
Fetal
This category has been designed to amplify the fetal heartbeat. A special bell is placed against the mother’s belly which helps in transmitting the sound.
Veterinary
Animals have different needs and face different concerns that may not be relatable to humans. Henceforth, one must consider investing in specific equipment that solves the concerns. They are designed in a way that can help make it easier to work with the animals.
Electronic
One may face sound detection problems with acoustic stethoscopes. Electronic are the advanced version and electronically amplifies the sound. Hence, it helps in overcoming the challenge low-level sounds. It may certainly take some time to get used to the electronic stethoscope if you have been using the conventional one. These can be further categorized into two types: amplifying and digitizing stethoscopes.
Amplifying
An amplifying stethoscope is preferably used by professionals who are suffering from hearing loss. It can certainly be used as an Assistive Listening Device (ALD) which allows the medical experts to listen to the sounds more effectively. This stethoscope will amplify the sound electronically and also reduce the background noise. They are certainly useful for adjusting the sound frequency from low to high. With a stand-alone amplified stethoscope, you will not have to wear any specific hearing aid. On the other hand, there are certain stethoscopes that may work with different types of hearing attachments.
Cardiology
The noteworthy difference between the cardiology and regular stethoscopes is that they offer excellent acoustic quality. Hence, you will not miss out on any subtle sounds and will be able to hear more clearly. The tubing is also thicker, and the earpieces will ensure that there is no blockage from the background noise.
Digitizing
A digital stethoscope is a type of electronic stethoscope that can help you transmit the signals and visually capture them on the computer or laptop. You can certainly switch between different modes and settings for different types of diagnostic sounds. They mostly run on batteries and are easier to charge. The transducers equipped on these stethoscopes are of a wide variety. The signals are certainly displayed on the screen, which makes it easier for medical professionals to view and manage medical care.
Best Stethoscopes in India: Our Top Picks
3M Littmann
It offers high acoustic sensitivity and exceptional performance for monitoring general assessments. It features a versatile two-sided chest piece with tunable diaphragms, that can certainly be used for both adults and paediatrics.
It offers high acoustic sensitivity and exceptional performance for monitoring general assessments. It features a versatile two-sided chest piece with tunable diaphragms, that can certainly be used for both adults and paediatrics.
PAL
The PAL Stethoscope is ideal for cardiology purposes and offers excellent sound quality at a reasonable price. It features stainless steel chest piece and frame tubes, which adds to its durability and makes it worth the price.
The PAL Stethoscope is ideal for cardiology purposes and offers excellent sound quality at a reasonable price. It features stainless steel chest piece and frame tubes, which adds to its durability and makes it worth the price.
MDF
It delivers excellent and accurate auscultation of heart, and lungs. The sound quality is clear, and you will not experience any issues as it is extremely comfortable. The ergonomic design further adds to its versatilities and makes it an ideal choice for medical professionals.
It delivers excellent and accurate auscultation of heart, and lungs. The sound quality is clear, and you will not experience any issues as it is extremely comfortable. The ergonomic design further adds to its versatilities and makes it an ideal choice for medical professionals.
3M Littmann
It certainly provides more details and is equipped with a tunable diaphragm and dual-lumen tubing. One can listen to high-frequency and low-frequency sounds with the utmost clarity. The elegant design, adjustable headset, and prolonged tubes are some of the other features which make it worth every penny.
It certainly provides more details and is equipped with a tunable diaphragm and dual-lumen tubing. One can listen to high-frequency and low-frequency sounds with the utmost clarity. The elegant design, adjustable headset, and prolonged tubes are some of the other features which make it worth every penny.
MDF
With this stethoscope, you will also receive three parts of comfort small ear tips. The dual leaf spring construction further enhances the features and makes it an ideal choice. Moreover, it is versatile equipment and can be used for diagnosing infants, paediatrics, as well as adults.
With this stethoscope, you will also receive three parts of comfort small ear tips. The dual leaf spring construction further enhances the features and makes it an ideal choice. Moreover, it is versatile equipment and can be used for diagnosing infants, paediatrics, as well as adults.
Dr. Morepen
This is a multi-function 3-in-1 (printing, copying, scanning) laser printer that yields excellent output.
Dr. Morepen is another trusted player in the market that you can trust for quality stethoscopes. This one is certainly one of the most reasonably priced stethoscopes and may be an ideal choice for beginners.
3M Littmann
Cardiology IV Stethoscope is superior in build and the quality of the stethoscope is excellent. The chest piece is 29 centimetres, which is larger than that of the previous versions. Additionally, it is equipped with a 60% deeper bell, which ensures the sound quality is clearer and more precise.
Cardiology IV Stethoscope is superior in build and the quality of the stethoscope is excellent. The chest piece is 29 centimetres, which is larger than that of the previous versions. Additionally, it is equipped with a 60% deeper bell, which ensures the sound quality is clearer and more precise.
3M Littmann
The Core digital stethoscope is an excellent choice as it offers 40x amplification. The stethoscope is certainly an ideal choice for experts who are in the medical field. The active noise cancellation feature will further help reduce unwanted sounds.
The Core digital stethoscope is an excellent choice as it offers 40x amplification. The stethoscope is certainly an ideal choice for experts who are in the medical field. The active noise cancellation feature will further help reduce unwanted sounds.
Pulse
The stethoscope by Pulse is one of the best stethoscopes in India available under the range of INR 1,000. The brand also offers a wide range of colour options in this one. Additionally, you will get features that may be ideal for medical students and beginners.
The stethoscope by Pulse is one of the best stethoscopes in India available under the range of INR 1,000. The brand also offers a wide range of colour options in this one. Additionally, you will get features that may be ideal for medical students and beginners.
IndoSurgicals
IndoSurgicals is an Indian player making its name in the medical industry with its range of effective products and solutions. The chest piece is made of stainless-steel material which makes it durable and sturdy. Additionally, it offers excellent sound quality and reduces background noise.
IndoSurgicals is an Indian player making its name in the medical industry with its range of effective products and solutions. The chest piece is made of stainless-steel material which makes it durable and sturdy. Additionally, it offers excellent sound quality and reduces background noise.
The 3M Littmann Classic III is the latest and most advanced version to the previous model, Classic II. It offers high acoustic sensitivity and exceptional performance for monitoring general assessments. It features a versatile two-sided chest piece with tunable diaphragms, that can certainly be used for both adults and paediatrics. The ear tips also have a smooth surface which provides a comfortable fit. You won’t experience any pain in your ears and the length is also comfortable. The tubing material is also comfortable and will provide resistance to skin oils and alcohol. Above all, the brand offers a five-year warranty on the stethoscope and will cover all kinds of defects.
Features
- Two-sided chest piece
- Tunable diaphragms
- Lightweight
- Ideal length of the tubing
Pros
- Comfortable and convenient
- Durable material
- Tubing resistant to skin oils and alcohol
- High acoustic sensitivity
- Accurate diagnosis
- Also, comes with a five-year warranty
Cons
- Slightly overpriced
The PAL Stethoscope is ideal for cardiology purposes and offers excellent sound quality at a reasonable price. It features stainless steel chest piece and frame tubes, which adds to its durability and makes it worth the price. Additionally, the high-acoustic level adds to its functionalities and will ensure you don’t experience any issues. The ear knobs are also comfortable to wear and adjust. The double-sided and lightweight design makes it ideal for professional use. The only con is that it is relatively a new product and there is no information available related to the warranty of the stethoscope.
Features
- High-quality stainless-steel construction
- Double-sided design
- Sealed ear knobs
Pros
- Comfortable
- Lightweight and durable
- Metal tube earpiece
- Excellent acoustic quality
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- No warranty available
- The sound quality of stethoscopes by Littman is certainly more clear
MDF Instruments is one of the most renowned US healthcare instrument manufacturers, known for their range of medical instruments. MDF747XP-BO by MDF is certainly one of the most popular stethoscopes by the brand. It delivers excellent and accurate auscultation of the heart, and lungs. The sound quality is clear, and you will not experience any issues as it is extremely comfortable. The ergonomic design further adds to its versatilities and makes it an ideal choice for medical professionals. There is an ultrasensitive diaphragm sealed on the chest piece and extra-large bell which provides greater sound amplification. The tubing is made of latex-free PVC and the safety lock features present in the ear tips prevent accidental ruptures. Above all, the brand provides a lifetime warranty which makes it worth each penny.
Features
- Safety ear lock
- Ergonomic design
- Latex-free PVC material
Pros
- Accurate auscultation
- Greater sound amplification
- Lifetime warranty
- Value for money
Cons
- Some users have complained about the audio intensity
If you’re a medical professional, then this stethoscope would be the perfect investment. The company also claims that this stethoscope certainly has the best acoustic response and is better than the wide range of stethoscopes by the brand. It certainly provides more details and is equipped with a tunable diaphragm and dual-lumen tubing. One can listen to high-frequency and low-frequency sounds with the utmost clarity. The elegant design, adjustable headset, and prolonged tubes are some of the other features which make it worth every penny. The stethoscope can also be used for pediatric or neonatal auscultation. Besides this, the brand offers a seven-year warranty on the stethoscope.
Features
- Tunable diaphragm
- Dual-lumen tubing
- Excellent acoustic response
- Adjustable headset
Pros
- Comfortable and convenient
- Can be used for pediatric and neonatal as well
- Also, comes with a seven-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
MDF is a major player and MDF797CC-11 Pro is one of the best stethoscopes in India, equipped with all the advanced features. With this stethoscope, you will also receive three parts of comfort small ear tips. The dual leaf spring construction further enhances the features and makes it an ideal choice. Moreover, it is versatile equipment and can be used for diagnosing infants, paediatrics, as well as adults. Additionally, you will get a lifetime warranty on their range of products. We can say that this stethoscope is worth your investment and the medical professionals must consider this. The ergonomic design and excellent sound quality further make it an ideal choice for professionals during extended use.
Features
- 3-in-1 stethoscope
- Excellent sound quality
- Three parts of comfortable ear tips
- The brand also offers a lifetime warranty
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Convenient and lightweight
- Can be used for infants, paediatrics, and adults
- Reputed brand
Cons
- Also, may not be ideal for medical students
Dr Morepen is another trusted player in the market that you can trust for quality stethoscopes. This one is certainly one of the most reasonably priced stethoscopes and may be an ideal choice for beginners. If you are a medical student, you can choose the ST01 deluxe stethoscope by the brand. It comes with a chrome-plated chest piece and a special diaphragm that enables you to hear high and low levels of frequency. The seamless PVC tubing further adds to its flexibility and makes it a good choice.
Features
- Chrome-plated chest piece
- Special diaphragm
- PVC tubing
Pros
- An ideal choice for beginners and medical students
- Lightweight and convenient
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Earpieces are not stable
- Sound quality also could have been better
You should note that stethoscopes by 3M Littmann are considered one of the best stethoscopes in India by medical professionals. They provide accurate results and are a highly trusted brand across the world. Cardiology IV Stethoscope is superior in build and the quality of the stethoscope is excellent. The chest piece is 29 centimetres, which is larger than that of the previous versions. Additionally, it is equipped with a 60% deeper bell, which ensures the sound quality is clearer and more precise. The tubes are designed with natural rubber latex, and you will not face any issues with the staining. It is an excellent choice for medical professionals who demand brilliant quality and excellent performance.
Features
- Superior build quality
- Natural rubber latex
- 60% deeper bell
- Chest piece – 29 cm
Pros
- Brilliant acoustic performance
- Precise sound quality
- Ideal for medical professionals and experts
- Tunable diaphragm
Cons
- Not suitable for medical students
- Comparatively expensive
Digital stethoscopes are worth it and will help you find the right diagnosis. The clear sound quality and the visual representation of the data on the computer screens will solve your purpose. The Core digital stethoscope is an excellent choice as it offers 40x amplification. The stethoscope is certainly an ideal choice for experts who are into the medical field. The active noise cancellation feature will further help reduce unwanted sounds. One can connect it with the Eko software to visualize the entire data. Moreover, the soft sealing ear tips will ensure a comfortable fit. However, it is extremely expensive, and the brand only offers a warranty of two years which could be one of the biggest limitations of this equipment.
Features
- 40x amplification
- Soft sealing ear tips
- Excellent choice for medical practitioners
Pros
- 40x amplification
- Soft sealing ear tips
- Excellent choice for medical practitioners
Cons
- Premium pricing
- 2 years warranty only
The stethoscope by Pulse is one of the best stethoscopes in India available under the range of INR 1,000. The brand also offers a wide range of colour options in this one. Additionally, you will get features that may be ideal for medical students and beginners. It is lightweight and easy to carry around the neck. You can also carry it around comfortably. The stainless-steel material adds to its durability and makes it long-lasting. The headset is chrome-plated which makes it resistant to corrosion. The tube is also made of high-quality PVC material. It is an excellent budget-friendly option that you can consider.
Features
- Stainless-steel material
- Resistant to corrosion
- Chrome-plated
- High-quality PVC material
Pros
- Lightweight and convenient
- Reasonably priced
- Ideal for medical students
Cons
- Sound quality, however, could have been better
IndoSurgicals is an Indian player making its name in the medical industry with its range of effective products and solutions. The Silvery II-SS stethoscope is an excellent medical equipment that is equipped with multiple functionalities. It is also available in multiple colours, which makes it a good choice. The chest piece is made of stainless-steel material which makes it durable and sturdy. Additionally, it offers excellent sound quality and reduces background noise.
Features
- Stainless-steel chest piece
- Easily picks up murmurs
- Contains extra ear piece and diaphragm
Pros
- Lightweight and convenient
- Multiple colour options
- Excellent sound quality
- Reasonably priced
- Reduces background noise
Cons
- Limited seven days warranty
It is one of the most common medical instruments that professionals and students use. They are an examination tool that may be required even during medical training purposes. If you are buying for the first time, then you may be confused between the budget and top-notch advanced ones. You can always upgrade to a higher version later. But it is necessary to be aware of the critical features you must consider while looking for the best stethoscopes in India. Here, we have created a buying guide to make the task easier and help you make an informed selection. You must consider all these aspects while making the selection.
Earpieces
Earpieces are an essential part of this medical instrument and may impact the quality of the sound you will experience. A stethoscope generally has two earbuds, made of rubber or silicone. It is necessary to ensure that you find the right fit for the earpieces so that it doesn’t impede your hearing. However, you should make sure that they are not that tight. Some brands may even offer varied sizes to ensure that the fit is appropriate. If you don’t find the right fit, you can also buy them separately online.
Chest Piece: Diaphragm and Bell
The chest piece consists of the following two parts:
- Diaphragm – It is responsible for picking up high-frequency sounds and is ideal for measuring blood pressure. It may certainly help detect the sounds produced by the lungs, heart, and bowels.
- Bell – The dual-sided version of the chest piece may have a curved side, known as the bell. It is responsible for picking up low-frequency sounds such as bruits or heart murmurs.
Stethoscope length
You should note that they are available in a variety of sizes, and you should pay special attention to the length of the stethoscope. With the shorter length, you will have to stay close to the patients. You should keep in mind that it can also make them feel uncomfortable. Additionally, if you have any back problems, you’d be required to lean. The length of the stethoscope won’t have any impact on the sound quality. Hence, you must consider the length and choose an ideal one that fits your requirements.
Tubing material
The material of the tubing may have an impact on its durability. Don’t go for thinner and cheaper ones as they will crack and wear out sooner. Ideally, you should look for quality PVC or rubber material that will certainly last for a long time.
Reputed Brand
While looking for the best stethoscopes in India, you should pay special attention to the brand. There are a variety of brands and manufacturers available on the market. It may get overwhelming to choose the right one. You must research well on the brand to ensure that you are picking the right one. You shouldn’t choose a cheaper one without considering the features of the stethoscope. Additionally, there are different types of stethoscopes available for different purposes such as paediatrics, gynaecologist, infants, and electronics. Hence, you must first determine your own needs and then look for the one. Understanding your requirements will help you make the right choice.
Durable and lightweight
Pay attention to the quality of the material that has been used. Besides this, it should be easy to carry and lightweight. It shouldn’t cause any stress on your neck and must be comfortable to carry all day long. You should also cross-check and read the online reviews to find out more about the quality claims by the manufacturer.
Accuracy
Accuracy is one of the critical aspects that you must consider while making the selection. The electronic stethoscopes are certainly more accurate than the acoustic ones. They are also preferable for noisy areas as they tend to amplify the sound. Hence, you must look for this aspect and choose the right one that fits your needs.
Warranty
You should also keep this factor into consideration while making the selection. If the brand doesn’t offer any warranty, then you may be at loss. It won’t cover any product or manufacturing defect. You may certainly have to invest in another instrument if it stops functioning. Warranty serves as an added advantage and the instrument will be either replaced or repaired. It is a promise by the seller, and you must choose a brand that offers a warranty on their range of stethoscopes. However, you must consider the services offered by the seller in your region.
Price
Your budget will also limit your options for the best stethoscopes in India. If you’re a medical student, you can certainly set a low budget. You can upgrade to a higher and advanced version later as you progress. Therefore, you must set a budget and try to find the best option within that budget.
These are some of the critical aspects that you must consider to ensure that you choose the right stethoscope.
How does a stethoscope work?
The chest piece is connected to the earpieces which certainly help in transmitting the sound. When the chest piece is pressed against the patient’s body, it will pick up the vibrations. It will reach the examiner’s ears through the earpiece.
How to operate a stethoscope?
To wear it properly, you must twist the earpiece part so that it points towards your nose. Make sure it’s sealed properly and the noise in the room becomes softer. You should also pay attention to the way you hold the stethoscope. Ideally, you should hold it between the index and middle finger to hold it still. Try to place it right above the skin or just one layer of clothing. The experts will provide you with training in the medical school on how to hold and operate it properly. For instance, you will have to put the pressure on the left side to detect the heartbeats. On the other hand, you will have to put pressure on the right side to detect the sounds produced by the lungs.
Best stethoscopes in India – Summing Up
Our experts have compared different stethoscopes and found these as the top ten and best stethoscopes in India. We have included multiple players from the Indian market and brands that are trusted by medical professionals worldwide. We have also included certain options for students and professionals who are beginning their careers. To summarize, our team would suggest you first understand your requirements and then compare the features of different products available on the market. You may also refer to the buying guide to ensure you are making an informed choice. If we have missed out on anything, feel free to comment down below. We certainly hope our guide helps you narrow down your search for the best stethoscopes.