When Butterfly reached out and asked if I’d review their new Butterfly IQ3, I couldn’t resist the opportunity. “Compare it to any other point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) device on the market,” they said. I was intrigued as someone who’s used the Philips Lumify S4-1 extensively in both clinical and teaching environments. Could the iQ3 rival the Lumify, the current favorite in my POCUS arsenal?
The Probe: First Impressions
The Butterfly iQ3 is undeniably sleek, with its hallmark microchip technology consolidating multiple probe modes (phased array, curved linear, linear) into a single device. This design offers versatility in scenarios where time is critical—no more swapping probes for different views.
Compared to the Lumify, the iQ3 is heavier, thanks to its built-in power supply. While this makes it independent of external power sources (a significant win for Apple device users), it can be slightly less ergonomic during prolonged use. On the flip side, the Lumify draws power directly from the Android tablet it’s connected to, making it lighter but reliant on an external source for compatibility with iPads.
Buttons and Connectivity
The iQ3 wins points for its built-in buttons, which can be programmed to adjust gain, depth or even start recording. This feature minimizes the need to fumble with the tablet during scans. That said, accessing the buttons mid-scan can feel awkward at times.
Connectivity-wise, the Butterfly iQ3 excels. Its locking mechanism ensures the probe stays securely attached—no more accidental disconnections when scanning a patient. In contrast, the Lumify’s connection can occasionally feel less robust, especially in tight spaces like a helicopter.
Image Quality: A Closer Look
For many EMS providers, the gold standard for POCUS is cardiac imaging and lung sliding. Here’s how the two probes stack up:
Cardiac Views: The Butterfly iQ3’s image quality has improved dramatically, delivering clarity comparable to the Lumify. Both devices make it easy to answer critical clinical questions, but the iQ3 surprised me with its sharpness and depth.
Lung Sliding: The iQ3’s ability to adapt its microchip technology to replicate a linear probe offers a slight edge. The visceral-parietal pleural interface appears crisp and unmistakable, a significant plus for prehospital lung evaluations.
Vascular Access: The iQ3’s biplane mode is a standout feature, allowing simultaneous short- and long-axis views. This is particularly useful for advanced vascular access procedures.
Cost and Usability
The Butterfly iQ3 is priced competitively—$4,699 retail. The Lumify is listed at $12,000, but I found that after you drop it in your E-Cart, it discounts to $5,142. This makes the Lumify slightly more expensive. However, you have to keep in mind that you are getting three probes in one with the iQ3, compared to the Lumify, where if you want a curved linear or linear array probe, you would have to purchase two additional probes at a similar price point.
Both devices deliver incredible value, but the iQ3 edges ahead with its integrated Compass QA/QI software. This feature is a game-changer for programs without an established QA/QI process.
Final Thoughts
The Butterfly iQ3's versatility, image quality, and built-in QA/QI platform make it an attractive option for EMS programs looking to implement ultrasound into their protocols. While the Philips Lumify remains a trusted and high-quality device, the Butterfly iQ3’s innovation gives it a unique edge, especially for those starting from scratch.
Both are excellent choices, but for EMS providers seeking a comprehensive, future-ready ultrasound system, the Butterfly iQ3 might be the new benchmark.
