Ultrasound helps doctors diagnose all kinds of conditions, including gall bladder issues, thyroid problems, kidney problems, etc. Doctors also use them in obstetrics to check the health of unborn babies.
Portable ultrasound machines, also known as point-of-care ultrasound, are small and easy to move. They can be taken to the patient instead of the patient going to them. These machines are cheaper than full-sized ones and may even replace the traditional stethoscope. They create clear clinical images, and paramedics can use them to take images in the field.
They usually look like medium-sized laptops in size, weight, and style. However, they have a special keyboard to control the image. They are also a little thicker than a laptop of comparable size to allow more space for ports and have onboard storage for images.
Two of the top contenders in this area are the Samsung HM70 EVO and the Mindray M8 Elite. Both are high-quality devices you might consider when shopping for your hospital or clinic, but which one should you choose? As with many other things, it depends on your specific needs and use case.
Overview of Samsung HM70 EVO and Mindray M8 Elite
These devices are high-quality diagnostic ultrasound systems that hospitals and clinics can consider. However, they have some important differences. Choosing between them requires careful thought about how you will use them.
Samsung HM70 EVO ($9,999.00)
The manufacturer made the Samsung HM70 EVO a small, portable unit. It can be used in any situation, even outdoors. Its versatility and durability make it ideal for paramedics, along with its easy-to-use interface.
It uses the same imaging engine as Samsung’s cart-based products. However, it is mainly designed to make quick diagnoses in emergencies. The tool offers presets to help users start common exams and provides a guide to ensure they complete the exam correctly.
It supports a wide range of clinical applications. The ultrasound system, transducers, and accessories are carried in a case.
This makes it easy to use in the field. If it is charged often, it can be easily added to an ambulance. An extended battery pack is available to increase mobility further.
Mindray M8 Elite ($6,999.00)
The Mindray M8 Elite‘s compact design offers excellent image quality. It uses state-of-the-art adaptive algorithms and 3T technology to deliver the highest quality imaging.
It is used at the bedside, in the office, or in clinics. It is great for vascular, obstetric, gynecological, and shared service needs.
It has 3D/4D imaging and iPage function and offers contrast imaging. The image quality is usually very high, including color images. The device has many probes and transducers for almost all uses.
Both units are about the same size and weight but have different focus and use cases. Many people consider the M8 Elite a higher-quality device but find it less suitable for field work.
Key Features Comparison
Let’s take a look at some of the key features of the two models:
Samsung HM70 EVO
Key features of the Samsung HM70 EVO include:
- Screen size: 15″
- Weight: 13.23 lbs.
- Scanning time per charge: 75 minutes
- Image storage: 256 GB
- Input/output: USB, HDMI and ethernet.
- Imaging modes: 2D, Color Doppler, Power Dopler, S-Flow, M-Mode, Pulsed Wave, TDI, TDW, 3D/4D, RealtisticVue, 3DXI, XI STIC, 2D & 5D Follicle, 2D NT.
- Keyboard protection: KeySkin protects from dust, liquids, and contaminants.
- 1 transducer port.
- Multiple clinical applications with live scanning and the EzAssist program for reference images, allowing clinicians to practice
- Lung and FAST presets for emergency medicine.
- Shockproof carrying case.
Mindray M8 Elite
Compare to the Mindray M8 Elite:
- Screen size: 15.6″
- Weight: 12.8 lbs.
- Scanning time per charge: 90 minutes
- Image storage: 240 GB
- Input/output: USB, HDMI, and internal WiFi
- Imaging modes: B-Mode, THI, PSH, M-mode, Color M-mode, Anatomical M-mode, curved anatomical M-mode, Color Doppler, Power Doppler, Pulsed Wave, Continuous Wave, TDI, UWN+, Contrast Imaging, Low Mi Contrast, Tissue Tracking, Stress Echo, Elastography, Panoramic Imaging, 3D/4D
- Keyboard protection: Spill resistant
- Single crystal transducer
- 3 transducer ports
Performance in Clinical Applications
These two machines have different use cases. The HM70 EVO is mainly made for emergency medicine and field use, but it also works well in clinics.
To support this, it is made easy to use. It has examination presets and a workflow that guides the user through the exam.
It is made for paramedics to use easily. They can take scans and send the information to the hospital, improving emergency care. Because it can easily be carried, it is also useful for mobile imaging services.
The Mindray M8 Elite is mainly used in hospitals. It provides advanced imaging right at the bedside. It generally has better imaging modes and quality but worse durability (although a better battery life).
Doctors use it for general imaging but find it particularly valuable for vascular and OB/GYN Ultrasound applications. This makes it a good choice for gynecological practices and clinics. It is also suitable for vascular clinics and smaller clinics that do not need a large cart-based system. For hospitals, it reduces patient movement and heavy equipment.
Both devices use the same software platforms as the company’s cart-based products, and both work well for point-of-care ultrasound. Both also have optional carts for use in hospitals. The Mindray cart has a longer battery that lasts three hours for scanning.
Both produce high-quality images, but the M8 Elite has a higher resolution. The HM70 EVO is great for quick scans in emergencies or field situations. It is also good for critical care, making it suitable for emergency rooms and urgent care clinics. However, it is less ideal for gynecological use, where high-quality imaging is more important than speed.
Both types perform well for portable units. However, larger units are still better for some abdominal uses. Depending on your clinic or hospital, potable units may replace or support larger devices.
Price & Value for Money
The manufacturers do not share prices publicly, and prices vary widely. Samsung ranges from $10,000 to $21,000. For the M8 Elite, they go from $16,000 to $30,000.
The HM70 EVO is more flexible. However, the M8 Elite offers higher resolution and more imaging modes, like contrast imaging. The higher price shows the image quality.
However, the Samsung unit may give better value for money. It is very versatile and easy to use in the field. The HM70 EVO is a good option if you have a lower budget.
However, if you can afford it, choose the M8 Elite. The HM70 EVO is best if you need a portable field and emergency medicine unit.
You can shop around for a better deal, but buy from a reputable supplier. Remember that accessories can increase the price.
This includes adding a cart, extra transducers, or optional items like extended battery packs. Carts are available for an added price for both models. Check these prices too to ensure you cover everything you need in your budget.
Price direct from the manufacturer may vary, and is not available except by asking for a quote. We recommend getting a quote from multiple sources before purchasing any medical device.
Pros & Cons of Each Model
Let’s go through some pros & cons to help you decide between the two models for your clinic.
Samsung HM70 EVO Pros
- Easy to use for fast diagnosis in the field
- Rugged case and keyboard protection
- Quick save to store images quickly
- Supports a variety of applications and patients
- Intuitive interface
- High level cybersecurity protections
- High quality software that allows presets, optimizes imaging parameters, tools for women’s health, etc.
Samsung HM70 EVO Cons
- No Wi-Fi means that you have to plug in to transfer images.
- Higher price.
- Smaller number of available languages for keyboard input.
- Slightly higher weight due to the rugged, rigid case.
Mindray M8 Elite Pros
- High quality adaptive algorithms for better performance
- Single crystal transducers
- Lightweight
- High quality color imaging
- Internal WiFi for easy connectivity
- Higher number of available languages
- Supports more imaging modes, such as contrast imaging.
- More transducer ports means less switching of transducers between patients, saving time.
Mindray M8 Elite Cons
- Higher price
- Less rugged case, making it less suitable for field use
- Somewhat harder to use
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The main difference is that the HM70 EVO is made for field use, while the M8 Elite is for bedside use. However, the HM70 EVO also works well for bedside use, making it more versatile.
The M8 Elite is made for use at your bedside. It offers better image quality and more probe options. Hospitals and clinics, especially vascular and ob/gyn, should choose the M8 Elite if their budget runs to it.
Samsung is okay for these uses, but it is not the best, especially for kids. If it can be avoided, saving money should not be a priority in this area. Emergency rooms should choose the HM70 EVO. It is easy to use and works well in tough environments.
However, you should look at the full list of features to determine exactly what you need for your specific use case. This also includes looking through the transducers and probes available. A lot of overlap exists, but some probe types are only available with one of the models.
For example, only the M8 Elite has a single-crystal transducer for higher image quality. It also has a pediatric TEE for cardiac use, while Samsung only has an adult transducer available. Based on the availability of the right transducers, one may be better than the other for your clinic.
Choosing the right portable ultrasound helps you care for your patients. Knowing the differences can help you make that choice.
Think about the M8 Elite for gynecological and vascular uses. It is excellent for bedside situations because it offers better image quality. However, the HM70 EVO is the better choice for emergency and field medicine overall.
FAQs
Which ultrasound machine is better for OB/GYN applications?
The Mindray M8 Elite is better for this use. It provides higher quality images and special modes for pregnancy and labor. The HM70 EVO is usable and has the right transducers. However, it does not penetrate as well, making it harder to get a clear image.
Is the Mindray M8 Elite worth the higher price?
It depends on your use case. It is worth it for in-clinic use, especially for vascular and women’s health. However, it might be better to go with Samsung for emergency medicine.
The M8 Elite generally has better image quality and offers more imaging modes, which can help with accurate diagnosis.
Which model has better probe options?
The HM70 EVO has 19 probe options, while the M8 Elite has 18. However, only the M8 Elite has single-crystal transducers, while the Samsung device has more linear options. The M8 Elite also has more pediatric choices. You should look at the probe options to see which your clinic needs.
How does portability compare between the two models?
The M8 Elite is slightly lighter. The HM70 EVO is more portable because it has a carrying case. It can also handle rough conditions and drops better, making it more suitable for field use.
Which ultrasound is best for cardiology imaging?
The M8 Elite has better penetration and higher resolution for cardiology, making it the better choice in most circumstances.
