Today, there are different laser therapies available on the market. Each of these laser therapy system have unique specifications and settings. This makes it difficult to determine which one is best for your clinic.

Two of the most common options are class 3B and class 4 laser therapies. Knowing the difference between the two laser devices will help you understand how each of them will affect the treatment.

In this guide, we will highlight the major difference between class 3B vs class 4 laser devices.

What is class 3B laser?

Class 3B lasers are classified as non-heating instruments. These laser devices are not hazardous to skin, but can be painful for your eyes.

This type of laser therapy is used for pain reduction and tissue repair inflammation. It is not only considered safe, but also very affordable.

What is class 4 laser?

Class 4 laser are classified as heating devices. It poses risk of thermal damage when the wavelength and power level increases beyond the safe limit. Unlike class 3B lasers, it is harmful for both skin and eyes.

This type of laser devices needs to be used carefully as they can burn your skin. Also, it is more expensive than class 3 lasers. It uses fibre optic cables, which costs hundreds of dollars.

 

Class 3B Laser vs Class 4 Laser

Now that you know what class 3B and class 4 lasers are, let’s point out the differences between the two. This will help you understand how they affect treatment.

  • Power output

The biggest difference between the two is the maximum power output. While class 3B lasers have a power output between 5-500mW, class IV laser is a device with power output above 500mW.

Remember, wavelength is not the same as maximum power output. So it is possible to find class 3B and class 4 lasers with the same wavelength.

  • Effect

Class 3B lasers are hazardous to your eyes, but they don’t have an effect on your skin. But in case of class 4 lasers, it is hazardous for both your skin and eyes.

You are advised to wear protective eyewear while using these devices. Apart from that you will also need safety interlock and key switch features.

Final Word

Since class 3B and class 4 laser are different, they use different treatment strategies. To use these laser devices properly, you must understand their differences, features, and functions.