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
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.
We'll start with the best otoscope for most people today. With good lighting, plenty of tools and a neat design, this ticks all the boxes – and at a respectable price too. Read more below
Here's our best budget buy. There’s not a lot to this otoscope, but its low price and decent functionality means it’s still a good option to keep around in case it’s needed. Read more below
Specifically interested in wax removal? This affordable kit includes a choice of ear tips for added comfort and safety, plus accessories for cleaning mouths and noses. Read more below
If you're a responsible parent concerned for your kids' health, here's our top buy. This family-oriented otoscope is not the cheapest, but we appreciate the attention to detail. Read more below
Need to check your dog or cat's ears? If you can keep them sat still long enough, this is a quality tool that delivers a firm grip, easy sterilization and high magnification. Read more below
If you're a med student, this is the brand of otoscope used by a lot of doctors. This model can’t quite match the professional options for build quality, but the lighting is excellent. Read more below
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
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Record to phone
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IP67 waterproof lens
Reasons to avoid
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Requires a smartphone
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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All-in-one-system
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Premium optics
Reasons to avoid
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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.
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.
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.
