3M Littmann Classic III Soft-Sealing Stethoscope

Last updated: June 1, 2023


You'll get a high acoustics rating and accuracy from this stethoscope. One of this stethoscope's best features is that it has a separate side for adults and children. So, you can use it on everyone in your household. You can also tweak the pressure you're putting on the chestpiece to better hear lower and higher sound ranges.

We looked at the top Stethoscopes and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Stethoscope you should buy.

Product Details

Key Takeaway: This stethoscope has two sides, one for adults and one for children.

In our analysis of 26 expert reviews, the 3M Littmann Classic III Soft-Sealing Stethoscope placed 1st when we looked at the top 18 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

The compact and sensitive Littmann Classic III stethoscope is the perfect instrument for clinicians who monitor and assess children or adults in non-critical environments. Manufactured with strong yet lightweight materials for hours of comfortable use. Education at your fingertips. Get exclusive training content on your mobile device that will help you improve your auscultation skills and use your stethoscope more effectively. The 3M Littmann Learning Institute App includes self-paced lessons with heart and lung sounds, patient scenarios to help improve your diagnostic thinking, self-tests to track your progress, a sound library, and more. Get the app and start training today! Here’s how: Find Find the Littmann Learning Institute App in the App Store or Google Play. Download Download the free app to your mobile device. Unlock Enter the serial number, found on your 3M Littmann Stethoscope chestpiece, or voucher code to unlock unique educational content.

Our Expert Consultant

Dr. Anis Rehman 
Endocrinologist and assistant professor of internal medicine

Dr. Anis Rehman is a board-certified endocrinologist who treats diabetes, obesity, thyroid diseases and osteoporosis, as well as general endocrine diseases. He also serves as an assistant professor of internal medicine at SIU School of Medicine.

Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

Offers almost every feature medical professionals need, including clear acoustics, adults/pediatric sides and tunable diaphragms
The Classic III is very high-quality and almost universally well-reviewed, giving excellent, accurate acoustics and adjustability for any purpose. It’s comfortable and well-constructed of quality materials. It’s also available for an excellent price, much less expensive than higher-end models but far superior to cheaper ones, making it a great choice for an all-around, versatile stethoscope.
The 3M Littmann III Monitoring Stethoscope employs a two-sided chest piece that has tunable diaphragms for adults and pediatric patients

What reviewers didn't like

The earpieces may fit some users a bit loosely
Not as comfortable as other stethoscopes. Ear pieces sometimes fall off.
After years of using, the tubing can sometimes break due to more extended skin exposure
View our Stethoscope buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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