Source: Flickr.
An otoscope is a surprisingly versatile tool. For doctors, it can be used to help determine what may be causing ear pain, inflammation, or discharge. For medical students, it is used to learn how to identify the causes of these symptoms. There are even home use applications – like when a youngster decides to see if peas can fit into the ear. This guide will help you find the best otoscope for your needs, whatever they may be.
The Best Chart for Otoscopes
Otoscopes might be a handy tool to own, but you need one that provides consistent results. If you can’t see the targeted area that needs an examination, then you won’t be able to maximize the effectiveness of this tool. The chart below offers you the chance to compare and contrast the best otoscopes available in the industry today.
| Picture | Name | Our Rating | Warranty | Power | Light | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Dr. Mom Otoscopes Fourth Generation Disposable | 4.5 | 90 days | 5x | LED | $$ |
 | RA Bock Diagnostics Bright White LED Otoscope Set | 4.3 | 3 years | 5x | LED | $$ |
 | Welch Allyn 22820 PocketScope | 4.1 | 12 Months | 5x | LED | $$$$$ |
 | Fiber Optic Mini Otoscope Set | 4.4 | 12 Months | 3x | Halogen | $ |
 | Itybity Otoscope | 4.9 | 12 Months | 5x | LED | $ |
| Picture | Name | Our Rating | Warranty | Power | Light | Price |
Hearing Care Requires an Otoscope
An otoscope is one of the most important pieces of equipment that a hearing care provider is going to use on a regular basis. Although it may be used to check the back of the throat or other areas of the body, this tool was specifically designed to provide an illuminated level of magnification so the tympanic membrane and ear canal can be properly examined. Since they are used virtually every day, it is a tool that will pay for itself.
This means the different features that are available on the otoscope must match up the care needs you may have. For doctors, having advanced technologies like a video otoscope may be more of what is needed in your practice. Medical students benefit from the portability of a pocket otoscope with a long-life battery so they can haul this tool from class to class.
And there are home uses for an otoscope as well. Parents can check the ears of their children to determine if there are stuck objects or injuries present. Although a medical diagnosis should always be performed by a doctor, there are times the home use of an otoscope could prevent a trip to the doctor.
Two Key Considerations When Selecting the Best Otoscope
There are two important components of an otoscope that cannot be seen from the outside. The first is how the otoscope is actually powered. Most are battery operated, but some may require a charging station in order to properly operate. You may need to purchase the battery separately from the otoscope as well, which is where each review can be beneficial to the selection process.
The actual light that is provided by the otoscope is also something that must be considered. Full-sized otoscopes have an advantage in this area because as light technologies improve, you can often swap out an older bulb for a new and brighter option. When you purchase a pocket otoscope, the opportunities to switch out components are quite rare. If you want to upgrade your equipment, then you’re going to need to purchase the latest model of the tool.
What Are the Prices of Otoscopes?
Most otoscopes are going to be priced below $100. Some pocket-sized otoscopes can even be found in the $20-$50 range, depending on the number of features you want or need in the tool. Full-sized models are typically priced above $100 and there is no real maximum price level found in the industry.
What Do Our Reviews Have to Say?
Dr. Mom Fourth Generation
If you’ve been looking for a utility otoscope, then this might be the perfect option for you. It’s affordable enough to be practical for medical students, but useful enough for a general practice need as well. It comes with disposable specula tips for adults and kids so you can use it right away and a protective case makes storage a snap. 5X magnification is offered and links are provided by the manufacturer to help with the studying process. We particularly like the larger size of the glass lens. All in all, this is a small investment to make and the returns are quite large.
Click here to view the price on Amazon and find a great deal.
RA Bock Diagnostics
This is another high quality disposable otoscope for those times when portability is just as important as power. Although the leatherette case which accompanies this otoscope didn’t blow us away, the equipment on its on is pretty awesome. A glass lens offers 5X magnification and the LED bulb provides you with plenty of light to make a diagnosis. Take out the 2 C-sized alkaline batteries when the power runs out and you’ll be able to keep using this otoscope for years to come. It’s backed by a full 3 year warranty and a 30 day money back guarantee.
Click here to view the price on Amazon and find a great deal.
Welch Allyn
This pocket-sized otoscope might not be the cheapest option in this category, but it certainly earns our recommendation as one of the best. The halogen light gives you consistent results and access to true tissue colors – something that not every LED bulb can provide. There are fewer reflections and obstructions when using this otoscope compared to some of the competitor’s models as well. The AA batteries give you a running time that is a little short, so we recommend purchasing some rechargeable batteries from your preferred brand for best results.
Click here to view the price on Amazon and find a great deal.
RT Otoscope Set
If you’re looking for an otoscope set that is perfect for home use, then this is the model that we highly recommend. It may not have the durability to stand up to the daily use a general practitioner may require, but it is a great tool for parents to use to check on the health of their children before making a decision to visit the doctor. It’s got a plastic housing, but is reasonably sturdy, and will work for you if it gets some tender loving care.
Click here to view the price on Amazon and find a great deal.
Welch Allyn Mini
This small otoscope fits into your pocket with ease. The clip is sturdy so you won’t have to worry about it falling out of scrubs or coat. It’s also surprisingly lightweight, which makes it great for those who are on their feet all day during rounds. The versatility of this design makes it a nice addition to the office for a veterinarian as well and parents will love having this tool around. It comes with 4 different sizes of specula and the magnification is right where it needs to be.
Click here to view the price on Amazon and find a great deal.
The best otoscope reviews will help you find the right tool to meet your needs, whether they are daily or just occasional. Determine the features you need, select the model that is right for you, and you’ll be satisfied with what your new otoscope will be able to do.
