Ultrasound Probe Types

Ultrasound probe types explained: convex, linear, phased-array and transvaginal transducers, and what each is used for.

The four main transducer types

Ultrasound probes are classified by the shape of their transducer and the shape of the image it produces. A convex, or curvilinear, probe produces a wide, fan-shaped image and is used for deeper structures, especially in abdominal imaging. A linear probe produces a rectangular image and is used for superficial structures, including vessels, thyroid, breast, musculoskeletal and nerve imaging. A phased-array probe produces a small-footprint sector image and is used for cardiac imaging through the narrow spaces between the ribs. A transvaginal probe is a specialised endocavitary probe used for gynaecological imaging. Those four types cover most handheld ultrasound work, and most multipurpose probes combine two or three of them in one device.

Frequency and depth

Frequency and depth are linked: lower frequencies penetrate deeper but give less detail, while higher frequencies give more detail but penetrate less deeply. Abdominal probes therefore use lower frequencies, typically in the range of a few megahertz, while superficial and high-frequency probes use higher frequencies, up to and beyond 18 MHz in the high-frequency linear range. A buyer should check the published frequency and depth for the exact model they plan to order, because a general statement about a probe type does not tell you what one model does. The product pages on this site give those figures model by model, where they are published.

Before you inquire

Before payment, confirm the exact model, probe type, frequency range, scanning depth, connectivity, battery specification, included accessories, minimum order quantity, lead time and price for your order in writing. The minimum order quantity and lead time figures quoted on this site come from the supplier's marketplace listing (for example, a listed minimum of 1 piece and delivery within 15 workdays) and are shown only as listed values to confirm per order, not as a fixed quotation. Certificates available upon request.