The best otoscopes for parents, medical students and pet owners in 2024

Doctor using the best otoscope to examine a woman's ear
(Image credit: Getty Images)

When it comes to diagnosing ear conditions, the best otoscope is an essential tool. Whether you're a doctor, nurse or just an ordinary member of the public, you can benefit from a new generation of otoscopes that are more efficient, user-friendly, and accessible than ever before – with many having built-in cameras that display a live image on your phone.

In case you didn't know, an otoscope is a relatively simple device that allows you to peek into someone's ear canal and get a view of the ear drum (aka the tympanic membrane). It's vital not to go no further, though: beyond here lie the Ossicle bones and nerves, which are not somewhere to push these probes.

In this article, we look at options from traditional optical devices to advanced digital imaging otoscopes with smartphone connectivity. We'll describe the top features you need to look for, and highlight the best picks for specific needs. 

Adam Juniper headshot
Adam Juniper

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including drones, timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and otoscopes.

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The best otoscopes in 2024

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Best overall otoscope

(Image credit: Vitcoco)

1. Vitcoco Otoscope

The best otoscope overall

Specifications

Focal length: Fixed
Resolution: 5 megapixel
Smartphone requirement: iOS 9+ / Android 4.4+
Lighting: LED
Live video: 1080p
Power: Charged via USB

Reasons to buy

+
Useable on self
+
Record to phone
+
IP67 waterproof lens

Reasons to avoid

-
Requires a smartphone
-
Image lag

The Vitcoco Otoscope is digital, and you need to install an app on your smartphone to use it. It comes with a 5MP endoscope-like camera that's 3mm in diameter, surrounded by six LEDs, which can be adjusted for brightness. Best of all, you can inspect your own ear as well as those of others. 

On the downside, lag is a slight issue, as is having the coordination to adjust your ear to get a clear view. But once you master it, you can attach one of the many tiny scoop-like tools to conduct your own earwax cleaning. 

Only the lens is IP67 waterproof for cleaning, but that is enough, and the focal length is 1.5-2cm, which is closer than earlier otoscopes. The tidy design of the case is great too, as is the picture quality. And while it's not the cheapest on this list, it's very affordable. Taking all that into account, we'd say this is the best otoscope overall we can recommend today.

Best budget otoscope

(Image credit: Bysameyee)

2. Bysameyee Otoscope

The best budget otoscope

Specifications

Focal length: Fixed
Resolution: Optical
Lighting: LED
Battery: 2 x AAA

Reasons to buy

+
Budget price
+
No-nonsense design
+
Tongue depressor included

Reasons to avoid

-
Low-cost construction

If all you’re looking for is a tool to sit in the first-aid drawer, in case you quickly check an ear, there's no need to spend a lot of cash. And this is the best cheap otoscope we can recommend today.

The Bysameyee Otoscope is cheap for a reason: it's essentially just an LED torch with an otoscope adapter, and some other accessories. Two AAA batteries live inside the stainless steel tube, likely providing all the power you’ll need for the device’s lifetime, though you might find that it needs a bit of a shake to get the power flowing. A tongue depressor is also included, so you can use this light for checking throats as well as ears.

Best otoscope for ear wax removal

(Image credit: Bedird)

3. Bedird R1 Earwax Remover

The best otoscope for ear wax removal

Specifications

Focal length: Fixed
Smartphone requirement: iOS / Android
Lighting: 6 x LED
Live video: 1080p
Battery: Rechargeable via USB-C

Reasons to buy

+
1080p HD image
+
Choice of ear tips
+
Extra accessories for versatility

Reasons to avoid

-
Requires connection to phone Wi-Fi

Some people need to clean their ears more than others. Users of AirPods and other earbuds, for instance, can find it particularly difficult to keep wax under control. In which case, here's our recommendation. 

What we like about the Bedird Earwax Remover is the choice of accessories included. There are six silicon tips of different shapes and sizes, plus a selection of tools to cover pets, or to clean mouths and noses. 

The integrated 3-megapixel camera feeds a 1080p HD video to your iPhone or Android phone, so you have a good view as you clean. And it’s rechargeable, so you don’t need to swap out the battery.

Best otoscope for the family

(Image credit: Dr Mom)

4. Dr Mom Professional Otoscope 5th Gen

The best otoscope for family use

Specifications

Focal length: Fixed
Resolution: Optical
Smartphone requirement: No
Lighting: Soft-white LED
Live video: No
Battery: 2 x C-Cell

Reasons to buy

+
Traditional firm grip
+
Illustrations to help diagnosis included
+
Spare speculas available

Reasons to avoid

-
C-cell batteries are less common
-
Not professional grade optics

As the name suggests, this otoscope is firmly aimed at concerned and responsible parents. While it's quite pricey, this pocket-size, traditional-style otoscope is well made, featuring an optical quality glass lens with anti-scratch treatment, a female insuflation outlet and the ability to add and remove a disposable specula. 

The LED gives off bright light, a battery is included, and the lens provides good magnification. All in all, this is a quality product that would suit any home medicine cabinet.

Best otoscope for use with pets

(Image credit: Equinox)

5. Equinox Veterinary Otoscope

The best otoscope for dogs and cats

Specifications

Focal length: Fixed
Resolution: Optical
Lighting: Filament
Battery: C-type battery

Reasons to buy

+
Good magnification
+
Easy to clean
+
Different tubes for different breeds

Reasons to avoid

-
Uses old C-type batteries

Want to keep an eye on your pet's ears? This device is both good-looking and functional, with engraved metal providing you with a firm grip. The three polypropylene speculars (the pointy end) can be sterilized in an autoclave (medical washing machine) too, making this ideal for regular use. 

The brightness is adjustable thanks to the rheostat at the top of the handle, which is easily manipulated with the thumb. Furthermore, the magnifying power is 4x, putting it ahead of most rivals. It’s a shame the storage box is plastic – somehow it feels like it deserves engraved wood – and, seriously, who uses ‘C’ batteries any more? Those are both minor niggles, though.

Best otoscope for medical students

(Image credit: Welch Allyn)

6. Welch Allyn Pocketscope Jr

The best otoscope for cash-strapped medical students

Specifications

Focal length: Adjustable
Resolution: Optical
Lighting: Halogen
Battery: Rechargeable lithium

Reasons to buy

+
Designed for professionals
+
All-in-one-system
+
Premium optics

Reasons to avoid

-
Could be tougher

Premium otoscopes from Welch Allyn are commonly used by medical practitioners in the US, and typically cost more than a $500. That's going to be overkill for home use, and even medical students might struggle with this cost. In which case, the Welch Allyn Pocketscope Jr provides a good alternative, offering real professional quality at a much more affordable cost.

While it has good consistent halogen illumination, cool and unobstructed thanks to fibre-optic design, the device – and especially the switch – doesn’t feel quite as tough as the premium models. Plus, you’ll have to swap traditional AA batteries from time to time rather than drop it in the charger.

How to choose the best otoscope

An otoscope is an essential tool for healthcare professionals, allowing for a visual examination of the ear canal and tympanic membrane. When selecting the right otoscope, there are several factors to take into consideration.

First, the light source should be bright and adjustable. LED lights are often preferred due to their longevity, energy efficiency and ability to provide clear illumination in dark environments. The magnification level should be appropriate for the specific needs of the user. For general practice, a magnification of 3x to 5x is typically sufficient. However, for more detailed examinations or specialized applications, higher magnification levels may be necessary.

The otoscope head should be lightweight and comfortable to hold, with a sturdy and secure handle. Some otoscopes come with a variety of attachments, including specula of different sizes and shapes. Ensure the model you choose is compatible with the attachments you need. Additionally, consider the battery life, especially if you'll be using the otoscope frequently or in remote locations. Some models offer rechargeable batteries, while others use disposables.

Finally, a reputable otoscope manufacturer will provide a warranty to protect your investment. Also consider the availability of customer support and technical assistance in case you encounter any issues.

FAQs

What is an otoscope?

An otoscope is a medical device used to examine the ear canal and eardrum. The traditional otoscope consists of a light source and a magnifying lens, while modern versions often use digital camera technology. The primary purpose of an otoscope is to visually inspect the ear canal and eardrum for signs of infection, injury, earwax buildup, or other ear-related issues.

Why buy an otoscope?

Regular inspections with the best otoscope can help you catch problems such as hearing loss, ear pain, discharge or lumps early, and alert your doctor or vet, who can stop them developing further and hopefully treat them. That makes an otoscope an important investment in the health of your loved ones.

Who can use an otoscope?

Otoscopes are used by healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, audiologists, and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists, to examine patients' ears. Parents or caregivers may also use home otoscopes to monitor ear health in children or themselves. 

However, it is essential to receive proper training and guidance on how to use them safely and effectively. Improper use of an otoscope may lead to damage to the ear canal, or push earwax further into the ear canal, leading to earwax impaction. Inserting the otoscope too deeply or aggressively can damage the eardrum, potentially causing hearing loss, bleeding, or a perforation of the eardrum. 

One final danger is that inexperienced or untrained users may miss important diagnostic signs or misinterpret what they see in the ear canal, potentially leading to missed medical conditions or incorrect treatment.

What are the two types of otoscope?

There are two types of otoscope: traditional optical otoscopes, and ones that incorporate digital cameras. The former, which are often used by doctors, tend to feature a light and lens with about 3x magnification. Modern versions are more like a borescope, a favorite tool of DIY enthusiasts. Some even let you examine your own ears. 

What maintenance do otoscopes require?

Otoscopes should be cleaned and disinfected according to the manufacturer's instructions to prevent cross-contamination. If this does not happen, it can spread infections from one person to another. Regular maintenance includes replacing light bulbs, ensuring proper functioning of the device, and keeping it in a clean, protective case. 

Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones. 

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 

He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot's Handbook

With contributions from