Clarius PAL HD3 vs. Butterfly iQ3: Which Handheld Ultrasound Should You Choose?

If you’re in the market for a handheld ultrasound system, chances are you’ve heard of the two front-runners: the Clarius PAL HD3 and the Butterfly iQ3. Both have carved out reputations in the point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) space, offering compact form factors, mobile device connectivity, and rapidly improving software ecosystems. But which one fits better in your clinical workflow?

As a fellow clinician, I’ve had the opportunity to test both devices in real-world scenarios—emergency medicine, vascular access, MSK, and cardiac applications. Below, I’ll break down how each performs, where they shine, and what limitations you might want to consider.

At-a-Glance Comparison: Clarius PAL HD3 vs. Butterfly iQ3

Feature	Clarius PAL HD3	Butterfly iQ3
Probe Configuration	Single-head (Linear + Phased)	Single head (Linear, Phased, Convex)
Frequency Range	1–15 MHz	1–10 MHz
Imaging Depth	Up to 40 cm	Up to 30 cm
Connectivity	Wireless (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth)	Wired (USB-C/Lightning)
Device Support	iOS, Android	iOS, limited Android
On-Device Storage	Yes (export with membership)	No
Cloud Storage	Yes (membership-based)	Yes (subscription-based)
DICOM Integration	Yes (with membership)	Yes (with subscription)
Battery Life	~60 minutes	~120 minutes (sealed)
Doppler Modes	Color, Power (Pulsed Wave with membership)	Color, Power, Pulsed Wave (subscription required)
AI Tools	Auto Preset, Auto Measurements, Voice Controls	AI Annotation, B-line Counter, iQ Slice™
Price	~$5,395 (device) + optional $595/year	~$3,899 + mandatory $420/year

Clarius HD3 vs. Butterfly iQ3: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Both the Clarius PAL HD3 and Butterfly iQ3 are top-tier handheld ultrasound devices packed with innovative features. But under the hood, they differ significantly, starting with the core technology that powers them.

1- Foundational Technology: Chip vs. Crystal

The Clarius PAL HD3 is part of Clarius’s third-generation lineup. It features a dual-array probe—linear and phased—using traditional piezoelectric crystal technology. Although this means you’ll need a separate probe for convex applications, Clarius compensates with superior image resolution and deeper penetration.

The Butterfly iQ3 runs on the company’s proprietary Ultrasound-on-Chip® platform. This system uses capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers (CMUTs) to deliver a unique advantage: it combines linear, convex, and phased array capabilities into one probe. This all-in-one versatility makes it convenient for clinicians who need to scan across multiple modalities.

Key takeaways:

• Butterfly iQ3 offers all-in-one scanning flexibility.
• Clarius PAL HD3 delivers higher fidelity imaging—especially in soft tissue and vascular exams.

2- Image Quality & Clinical Performance

Clarius PAL HD3 consistently impresses with its true piezoelectric beamforming. The result is:

• Crisp vascular detail
• Strong soft tissue contrast
• Clear cardiac windows, even in obese patients
• Excellent resolution across a wide depth range

These imaging characteristics are often comparable to what you’d expect from mid-range cart-based systems, giving Clarius a distinct edge in high-resolution needs like MSK or vascular applications.

Meanwhile, the Butterfly iQ3—a notable upgrade over the iQ+—does a solid job in most clinical scenarios but occasionally lags in image fidelity due to CMUT technology. While innovative, it can show:

• Slightly lower dynamic range in superficial imaging
• Mild softness in image crispness, especially in MSK or thyroid studies
• A minor drop in frame rate when imaging fast-moving targets like the heart or during trauma scans

Key takeaways:

• Clarius is better suited for image-critical specialties.
• Butterfly is more versatile for general practice but may fall short in high-detail scans.

3- Probe Design and Portability

The Clarius PAL HD3 is a fully wireless unit, measuring approximately 148 x 76 x 32 mm and weighing around 307 grams. Its design is sleek yet rugged, with two programmable buttons on the probe that allow quick access to key functions. The overall form factor feels well-balanced in hand, reducing wrist strain during extended scanning sessions. This also allows for better maneuverability and especially in tight ICU bays or sterile environments.

Butterfly iQ3, on the other hand, requires a physical cable connection to your mobile device via USB-C or Lightning. While this tether limits freedom of movement slightly, it does allow for real-time data transfer. The probe itself is slimmer (152 x 52 x 37 mm) and weighs 300 grams, making it very portable. It also features three programmable buttons, which offer more customization for fast-paced workflows.

Battery life on both is decent. Clarius gives about 60 minutes of active scanning, and the recharge time was just under 90 minutes. Butterfly lasts around 2 hours of continuous scanning on a full charge, catering to longer examinations 

Key Takeaways: 

• Clarius is better for sterile fields and cluttered spaces.
• Butterfly is slightly more compact, but the cable can hinder movement in fast-paced settings

3- Software Features and AI Integration

Both devices run intuitive, feature-rich apps, but their software ecosystems and AI enhancements differ in scope and clinical emphasis.

Clarius’s app offers a clean UI with helpful features aimed at enhancing clinical control and workflow:

• Smart presets tailored by specialty
• Real-time annotations and measurements
• Standard imaging modes include B-mode, M-mode, Color Doppler, and Power Doppler
• Voice commands to adjust gain, depth, or freeze—perfect for sterile procedures
• Cloud integration for instant backup and device switching

Butterfly’s app brings an impressive array of AI tools and workflow optimizers, especially beneficial for POCUS users in emergency or primary care:

• AI-assisted tools such as Auto B-Line Counter, Auto Bladder Volume Calculation, NeedleViz™ for needle tracking, and more
• ScanLab: Enhances teaching, documentation, and clinical review
• Integrated exam worksheets and reporting tools via a clinic subscription
• Seamless PACS and EMR compatibility for clinic-level deployments

Key takeaways: 

• Clarius focuses on customizable, hands-free control and cloud mobility
• Butterfly emphasizes AI automation, education tools, and structured reporting

3- Image Storage and Connectivity

The Clarius PAL HD3 embraces a completely wireless design, connecting via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to both iOS and Android devices. You can scan comfortably offline, as scans save locally on your mobile device, though you need a cloud for sharing. Export options include DICOM, JPG, and MP4 formats, with cine loops up to 30 seconds.

• Full DICOM integration with PACS connectivity and Modality Worklist support comes as part of the Clarius Membership.
• Offline scanning capability ensures you’re never reliant on internet access during critical procedures.

In comparison, the Butterfly iQ3 requires a wired connection to supported iOS and select Android devices. Unlike Clarius, Butterfly does not offer local storage; all scans are saved within the app and are available after automatically syncing to the Butterfly Cloud when online.

• Butterfly Cloud supports secure sharing, de-identified studies, and TeleGuidance™—a powerful remote assistance feature for supervision or collaborative care.
• Some advanced imaging tools, such as iQ Slice™ and iQ Fan™, are currently limited to iOS.
• Export options include DICOM, MP4, and JPG, with PACS integration available through a subscription.

Key takeaway:

• Clarius is ideal for users needing offline independence and local control.
• Butterfly excels in cloud collaboration and telemedicine workflows but requires internet access.

4- Pricing and Subscription Models

Pricing is one of the most critical—and often misunderstood—aspects of choosing a handheld ultrasound. Both Clarius and Butterfly follow a hardware + software subscription model, but the structure and flexibility vary significantly.

Clarius PAL HD3

• Device Price: Starting at $5,395
• Subscription: Optional, but strongly recommended for full functionality
• Clarius Membership: $595/year
  • Includes: Access to all imaging presets, pulsed-wave Doppler, AI-powered tools, DICOM integration, cloud storage, and workflow support.

Without membership, you can scan and save locally. However, advanced features like Doppler, AI automation, and DICOM export are locked.

Butterfly iQ3

• Device Price: Starting at $3,899
• Subscription: Required – the device is essentially non-functional without it
• Membership Options:
  • Core Plan – $299/year

Includes all 20+ imaging presets, cloud storage, and access to Butterfly Academy.

• Advanced Plan – $420/year

Adds Doppler, DICOM, TeleGuidance™, ScanLab AI, and expanded measurement tools.  Suitable for clinics and private practices.

• Clinics Plan – $3,500/year

For institutions, with EHR integration, team management, customizable worksheets, and training.

Without a subscription, Butterfly users are limited to basic B-mode scanning with no save, export, or collaboration options.

Key takeaways:

• Butterfly’s Core Plan offers the most affordable entry point. However, most clinical settings will require the Advanced Plan to access Doppler and DICOM features essential for thorough exams.
• Clarius, while more expensive upfront and long-term, offers partial functionality even without a subscription.

Total Cost of Ownership (3-Year Estimate)

Device	Device Price	3-Year Subscription	Total Cost
Butterfly iQ3 (Core)	$3,899	$897	$4,796
Butterfly iQ3 (Advanced)	$3,899	$1,260	$5,159
Clarius PAL HD3	$5,395	$1,785	$7,180

6- Clinical Applications in Practice

In day-to-day clinical use, depth and frequency dictate what you can scan effectively, and here’s where both devices show their strengths.

Clarius PAL HD3 (1–15 MHz, depth up to 40 cm): Excellent for multi-specialty use, covering everything from lung and abdominal scans to cardiac, vascular, and deep MSK applications.

• The phased array is ideal for echocardiography, pericardial effusion checks, and even focused cardiac protocols like FoCUS and RUSH.
• The linear side gives crisp imaging for MSK, nerve blocks, vascular access, and soft tissue scanning.
• Advance doppler modes support arterial/venous flow evaluation, valve assessments, and hemodynamic studies.
• The device offers automated bladder volume calculation, ejection fraction estimation, and detailed tools like M-mode, area tracing, and distance measurements, crucial in emergency and outpatient care. 

Butterfly iQ3 (1–10 MHz, depth up to 30 cm): Designed to be one probe for everything, it has presets for over 20 applications, including nerve blocks, OB, soft tissue, MSK, lung, cardiac, and more. 

• Its general-purpose capabilities work well for FAST exams, soft tissue, MSK, early OB, and basic cardiac assessments.
• Color and PW Doppler are excellent for flow visualization in superficial vessels and limited fetal/maternal circulation assessment.
• Needle Viz™, a very popular feature among anesthesiologists and ED physicians for nerve blocks or vascular access.
• Measurement tools—bladder volume, OB calculations, cardiac dimensions, distance, area, etc., make general scans easier and accurate.
• The Auto Preset and Scan Assistant tools can be helpful for newer users.

The Takeaway: Clarius PAL HD3 vs. Butterfly iQ3

Both the Clarius PAL HD3 and Butterfly iQ3 offer broad clinical versatility, but how much you can actually do with either device depends heavily on subscription tier access.

• If you’re a high-frequency user in fast-paced environments like emergency medicine or anesthesia, Clarius may justify its higher upfront and long-term cost for its premium imaging and Doppler performance.
• If you’re focused on teaching, general diagnostics, or primary care and working on a tighter budget, Butterfly may be “good enough”.

But here’s the catch: While both are technically multi-application scanners, their true clinical utility depends on recurring subscription fees, which can add up significantly over time.

But what if you’re looking for a truly one-time investment—a high-performance ultrasound without the tether of a yearly subscription?

Introducing TodoPocus™ D3-Ultra: A Cost-Effective, Subscription-Free Alternative

The TodoPocus™ D3-Ultra is a triple-array device with a 192-channel architecture, delivering high-resolution imaging across linear, convex, and phased scanning modes—all in one probe.

• Depth Range: 10–30 cm
• Applications: MSK, anesthesia, cardiac, abdominal, soft tissue, and OB
• What’s Included: Full feature access out-of-the-box—no subscription required

Features: Pulsed Doppler, DICOM export, cine loop, measurement tools, needle guidance, 15+ scanning presets, and 27+ auto measurements.

Comparison Table: Clarius PAL HD3 vs. Butterfly iQ3 vs. TodoPocus™ D3-Ultra

Feature	Clarius PAL HD3	Butterfly iQ3	TodoPocus™ D3-Ultra
Probe Type	Single-head (Linear + Phased)	Single-head (Linear + Convex + Phased)	Dual-head (Linear + Convex + Phased)
Frequency Range	1–15 MHz/Up to 40 cm	1–10 MHz/Up to 30 cm	2–10 MHz/Up to 30 cm
Doppler	Yes (Pulsed with Subscription only)	Yes (All Subscription only)	Yes (Included)
Connectivity	Wireless (Wi-Fi, BT)	Wired (USB-C / Lightning)	Wireless (Wi-Fi)
Subscription Required	Yes (for full features)	Yes (to use at all)	None
DICOM Export	Yes (Subscription)	Yes (Subscription)	Included
Speciality presets	5-10	Extensive- 20+ presets	15+
Warranty	3 years standard	3 years standard	3 years standard
Base Price	~$5,395	~$3,899	~$3,470 (one-time)

Final Thoughts

The handheld ultrasound market is rapidly evolving. Whether you’re a hospital-based clinician, a mobile sonographer, or an educator, there’s a device that aligns with your clinical needs and financial reality.

• Clarius PAL HD3 – For advanced users who need high-frequency performance and deeper imaging.
• Butterfly iQ3 – For general diagnostic needs on a budget—but only if you’re okay with recurring fees.
• TodoPocus™ D3-Ultra – For those who want full features without a subscription, and a true one-time investment.

If you liked this comparison, also check out our recommendation of Top 10 Budget-Friendly Handheld Ultrasound Scanners You Can Rely On for 2025. Need help choosing the right handheld ultrasound for your practice? Contact the TodoPocus™ Team for personalized support, expert recommendations, and guidance tailored to your specialty.

References

1. Butterfly Network. (n.d.). Butterfly iQ+. Retrieved June 7, 2025, from https://store.butterflynetwork.com/us/en/device-iq/
2. Butterfly Network. (2024, January 23). Welcome to Butterfly iQ3 [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1zc0PsRnbE
3. Butterfly Network. (2024, Feb 2). Butterfly ScanLab™ demo: How to use the app [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fvpKpO_FYI
4. Clarius. (n.d.). Clarius PAL HD3™ point-and-care abdominal & cardiac ultrasound. Retrieved June 7, 2025, from https://store.clarius.com/products/package-pal-scanner-hd3
5. Clarius. (2022, November 14). Clarius HD3 | Introducing the world’s only 3-in-1 handheld wireless ultrasound scanner [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qK7tVasvxuU
6. Clarius. (2023, April 19). How to perform a FAST exam with Clarius HD3 handheld ultrasound [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zw9B0nYQaQ
7. Clarius. (2022, November 14). Introducing the new Clarius PAL HD3 | The complete point-of-care solution [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLCHZBG8nv0
8. Clarius. (2022, November 14). See the difference with Clarius HD3 | High-definition handheld ultrasound for your specialty [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNXRSdPY5Sc
9. TodoPocus. (n.d.). Buttfly-iq3-vs-clarius-pal-hd3-vs-best-budget-alternative-todopocus-d3-ultra [Image]. Retrieved June 7, 2025, from https://todopocus.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/buttfly-iq3-vs-clarius-pal-hd3-vs-best-budget-alternative-todopocus-d3-ultra-753×1024.webp
10. TodoPocus. (n.d.). D3-Ultra. Retrieved June 7, 2025, from https://todopocus.com/multipurpose-handheld-ultrasound/d3-ultra/
11. TodoPocus. (2024, June 3). Top 10 budget-friendly handheld ultrasound scanners you can rely on for 2025. https://todopocus.com/top-10-budget-friendly-handheld-ultrasound-scanners-you-can-rely-on-for-2025/