3M Littmann Cardiology III vs IV vs Master (Best stethoscope 2024)


So come and see what this guide on Littmann Cardiology III vs IV vs Master has to offer.

Among the highest-quality stethoscopes out there, you will find the Cardiology line-up from 3M Littmann.

This top-notch set of stethoscopes delivers outstanding performance and hearing aid for physicians and cardiologists – and here we are going to teach you why.

But even more important than that, we will tell you which of the three models in the series is the best, why, and how you can pick the right one for yourself.

We are going to tackle everything from similarities and differences, to design, sizes, performance, accessories, customer’s feedback, and more.

Littmann Cardiology III vs IV vs Master Compassion


Runner-upTop PickBest For High Performance
3M Littmann Cardiology III3M Littmann Cardiology IV3M Littmann Master
3M Littmann Cardiology III3M Littmann Cardiology IV3M Littmann Master
Ideal ForDiagnosis/CardiologyCardiology/High PerformanceCardiology/High Performance
Chestpiece-Double Sided/Machined Stainless SteelSingle Sided/Cast Stainless Steel
DiaphragmTwo Patented Tunable DiaphragmRedesigned Single-Piece Tunable DiaphragmTunable Diaphragm
Tube Design-Dual Lumen TubingDual Lumen Tubing
Length-167, 177 grams Available in 22” / 56cm and 27” / 69cm175, 185 grams Available in 22” / 56cm and 27” / 69cm

Littmann Cardiology Stethoscope Design


When it comes to design, we can find the three pretty similar in many ways, but not at all the same. For example, when we compare the Littmann Cardiology IV vs Master Cardiology, we can see how the Cardiology IV comes with a tunable diaphragm, on each side of the chestpiece.

This means you can use both parts to listen according to the desired result.

The Master Cardiology does not offer this advantage, but still provides superior design when it comes to effectiveness when using the chestpiece.

Apart from all that, both use dual lumen tubing which means they provide excellent durability and flexibility for years.

Something similar happens when you compare the Littmann Cardiology III vs Master Cardiology Stethoscope. While both offer tunable diaphragms, the Cardiology III is a two-piece chestpiece while the Master only has one.

Finally, there’s a difference between the Cardiology III and the Cardiology IV. The Cardiology III offers two-piece tunable diaphragms chestpiece, while the Cardiology IV is a single-piece chestpiece with the double diaphragm.

Stethoscope Accessories & Parts


While all the devices offer slightly different results, they are made with almost the same parts & accessories. Here, we go over the slight differences between each.

  • DiaphragmLittmann Cardiology III vs IV

While both the Cardiology III and the Cardiology IV come with a tunable diaphragm technology, you can find the Cardiology IV with a two-piece chestpiece and two diaphragms.

Still, the technology being the same, both devices will perform similarly, despite the Cardiology IV having the advantage due to the double-diaphragm feature.

On the other hand, you have the Master Cardiology stethoscope, which offers the same diaphragm design from 3M, yet provides slightly superior performance.

The device will perform amazingly without having to reposition the chestpiece on the patient. This saves time and lets the Master Cardiology model become a better choice when it comes to the diaphragm.

  • EartubesLittmann Cardiology III vs Master

All three stethoscopes come with the high-quality tension eartube that offer excellent comfort and superb results. They come with a snap-tight eartips set, which boasts a soft-sealing design will provide superior sound reproduction and less distortion.

In the three models, the eartubes fit comfortably on practically any person and demand little effort to use.

  • TubingLittmann Cardiology IV vs Master Cardiology

The innovative tubing design of the Cardiology IV vs Master Cardiology vs Cardiology III stethoscopes merely is top-notch.

With dual-lumen tubing, the three devices can promote a more precise sound performance while eliminating interference, as the sound travels in two pathways instead of one.

All the tubes are made with different materials avoiding latex, or any plasticizer that could harm the environment or user. However, both the Master Cardiology and the Cardiology III come with rubberized tubes, while the Cardiology IV is entirely synthetic.

Performance Tests


Stethoscope Performance Tests

Even though the three devices are pretty alike when it comes to parts and features, there’s a significant dissimilarity when it comes to performance. As you should know, all the Cardiology stethoscopes are made with a mechanical design, which means they are slightly more responsive to sound than other models. So, they perform somewhat better overall.

Here, however, there’s a massive advantage from the Master Cardiology vs Cardiology III, as the Master offers the most precision and better noise-reduction out there. The tunable diaphragm with only one-side chestpiece provides exceptional results.

Then, when comparing the Master Cardiology vs Cardiology IV, you find out that both are almost the same device – but the Master Cardiology comes with an additional feature. The single diaphragm chest piece with tunable function allows the device to get better sound, reduce noise, and promote a smoother reproduction.

In short, the Master Cardiology is slightly better than the Cardiology IV and much better than the Cardiology III, when it comes to performance.

3M Littmann Cardiology III vs IV vs Master Size & Dimensions


Here is the only part where you won’t find any difference between the three stethoscopes. They all come with the same options & overall dimensions depending on the model.

For example, they all come with a small 22’’ (56 cm) model that offers a smaller design. This design is perfect for children use, yet also works correctly for adults and other large users.

Then you have the 27’’ (69 cm) model in all three stethoscopes, which is a much larger option for those who want more sound performance and better reproduction.

This means that all the sizes and dimensions between the three devices are the same. So, you won’t have to consider this part.

Customer Feedback Comparison


All 3M Littmann stethoscopes are incredibly useful in providing the perfect quality in sound, durability, flexibility, and even comfort. So, all of them come with exceptional feedback from all customers.

The Cardiology III mode, for example, comes with an 84% appreciation from customers thanks to its small and flexible design.

Similarly, the Cardiology IV offers an outstanding 84% appreciation as well, and it is all because it provides a top-notch synthetic build and brilliant double-diaphragm chest piece.

Lastly, you have the Master Cardiology, which despite being slightly better than the other two options when it comes to acoustics, the heavy and somewhat clunky design may feel too burdensome for a few customers, which makes it have an 80% appreciation.

Bottom Line- The Winner Master Cardiology


Despite having less appreciation than the other two models, there’s no doubt the Master Cardiology will provide the perfect performance. Having a single-piece chest piece diaphragm, this outstanding stethoscope surpasses the acoustic quality of the others by far.

But if you want excellent versatility, ease of use, and a less bulky stethoscope going for the Cardiology III as a cheap model, or the Cardiology IV for a mid-range option, won’t hurt you at all.

Now, we have discussed all the details that you should know about the comparison between 3M Littmann Cardiology III vs IV vs Master.

So don’t hesitate and choose the best one for your needs.

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Last Updated on January 2, 2024