How Much Does an Ultrasound Machine Cost?

Healthcare professionals use ultrasound machines for several purposes, including diagnostic exams, cardiac assessments, pregnancy evaluation, guiding procedures and numerous other areas of patient care. However, the cost of an ultrasound machine can vary significantly depending on the type of machine and configuration.

In this article, we'll review some of the differences that influence ultrasound machine cost, including diagnostic capabilities, AI features, transducers, mobility, and ergonomics. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect when shopping for an ultrasound machine and how to make the best investment for your facility, patients and staff.

Price Begins with Understanding Diagnostic Capabilities

The prevailing factor affecting an ultrasound machine’s cost is its capabilities. A cardiac system does not necessarily cost more than a non-cardiac machine. Instead, cost depends on the software and examination features that are onboard each machine, whether it’s cardiac or not.

A machine like the ACUSON Bonsai from Siemens Healthineers is designed for a variety of routine and advanced cardiac exams, at an acceptable cost that fits its capabilities. Auto EF, stress echo, strain, auto IMT and anatomical M-mode can help sonographers confidently assess cardiovascular patients, and yet it still comes in at a very reasonable price point, particularly for a laptop-style, portable unit.

But, in staying within the cardiac realm, it also lacks some of the AI technology that one would expect with an advanced system like the ACUSON Origin, which only recently received FDA approval. The Origin can help physicians and sonographers perform cardiac procedures more efficiently. It addresses the entire continuum of cardiovascular patient care, including diagnostic, structural heart, vascular, electrophysiological, and pediatric procedures. AI features support those goals, and as a result, the price point will be higher than that of the Bonsai.



This applies to general imaging as well. With a system like the ACUSON Sequoia, you’re going to have the ability to conduct liver elastography and fat quantification, contrast enhanced ultrasound, 3D/4D imaging and more. A premium system provides the highest detail resolution for pathology assessment as well as superior penetration for your most difficult exams, and thus it will cost more than non-advanced systems.

For a mid-range system, some of the advanced features may not be included, which can help with the overall cost. Yet if you still have needs that aren’t covered, mid-range systems have scalable configurations or ‘a la carte’ options to let you build a system to meet all of your scanning and budget needs, even if it never quite reaches the heights of the Sequoia, one of the most advanced systems on the market.

What’s great about the modern era of ultrasound is the level of sheer customization you get with your hardware and software.

Transducers Play a Factor

The type and number of transducers you require will also impact the ultimate cost of your ultrasound machine. You have a variety of transducers to choose from, and their design and function can vary widely depending on your needs.

Common Types of Transducers

• Convex Transducers – Used for abdominal scans, ob/gyn and general imaging.
• Linear Transducers – Best for vascular imaging, small organs and superficial structures.
• Phased Array Transducers – Small footprint with good penetration and high temporal resolution. Typically used in cardiac imaging.
• 3D/4D Transducers – Provide real-time, moving images, commonly used in obstetrics for detailed fetal scans.

Transducer Costs
The more specialized your transducers are, the higher the cost will be. Machines that can accommodate multiple types of transducers will usually cost more but offer greater diagnostic versatility. And each transducer you purchase will necessarily increase the cost.

Mobility

Mobility is another factor that can affect how much an ultrasound machine costs. And while all ultrasound is inherently portable, that portability isn’t created equal.

Point-of-Care Ultrasound Machines

Traditional Ultrasound Machines

This is the typical machine that will be used in a radiology or ultrasound department, as it can provide access to advanced tests that a point-of-care setup might not have, and it tends to have more penetration and higher resolution. And while they don’t come in the laptop style that lets you carry it in one hand, they are still quite portable, with sonographers able to easily wheel them from one room to another to accommodate patient needs.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is often overlooked when considering the cost of an ultrasound machine, but it plays an important role in the system’s long-term usability and efficiency. Machines designed with user-friendly controls, adjustable monitors, and ergonomic user interfaces can enhance workflow and reduce strain on operators.

Ergonomics Features To Consider

• Adjustable console height: Improves operator comfort, especially during long scanning sessions.
• Swiveling monitors: Allows easy viewing from multiple angles, which is important in crowded or fast-paced environments.
• Touchscreen interfaces: Simplifies navigation and reduces button pressing, speeding up workflow.

Machines with advanced ergonomic designs often have a higher price tag, but the investment can pay off in improved efficiency and reduced operator fatigue.


So, How Much Does an Ultrasound Machine Cost?

Now, with all that said, and to help you better understand the cost of an ultrasound machine, here’s a breakdown of typical price ranges based on the features you may be considering.

Point-of-Care Ultrasound Machines

        Cost: $25,000 - $50,000

Mid-Range Ultrasound Machines

        Cost: $40,000 to $100,000

High-End, Advanced Ultrasound Machines

        Cost: $80,000 to $200,000+

Find Your Next Ultrasound Machine with Specialized Expertise

The above is just a general reference, and that price only applies to the base cost of the system, not necessarily any additional transducers, upgraded software features, service contracts, transportation and the like.

As a general rule, most healthcare facilities will spend anywhere from $25,000 to $200,000+ on a high-quality, multi-functional ultrasound machine.

Wading through a list of features and requirements can be challenging, but Cassling is here to help. We can walk you through your options to help you decide the best ultrasound system for your practice. Our team is devoted to both our clients and the equipment we sell and service. We’re an Advanced Partner of Siemens Healthineers and a leader in the diagnostic imaging field.

Talk with our team today—we can help you find the right ultrasound machine for your people, practice, and your patients.