Amboss vs iatroX (2025): US-Centric Platform vs. Free UK-Guideline Tool
At a Glance
Who is it for?
iatroX:UK Clinicians & Students
Amboss:US & Global Medical Students (especially for USMLE)
Why choose iatroX?
- **Completely free**
- **UK-centric by design** (NICE, CKS, BNF)
- Governed as a **UKCA-marked medical device**
- Natural language AI Q&A ('Ask iatroX')
Why choose Amboss?
- **Incredibly comprehensive** library and Q-bank
- Excellent for USMLE Step 1/2/3 preparation
- Slick, integrated platform (Library + Q-bank)
- Strong global brand for medical students
Feature Comparison
| Capability | iatroX | Amboss |
|---|---|---|
| Price | **Free** | Paid Subscription |
| Geographic Focus | **UK-centric** | **US-centric** / Global |
| Core Function | AI-Assisted UK Guideline Q&A + Quiz | Encyclopedic Learning Library + Q-Bank |
| Primary Exam | UKMLA, MRCGP AKT | USMLE, Shelf Exams |
| Governance | **UKCA-marked Class I Medical Device** | N/A (Educational platform, US-based) |
In-Depth Analysis
Overview
The primary difference between Amboss and iatroX is their geographic focus and target exam.
Amboss is a premium, subscription-based medical learning platform designed primarily for the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination). It features a massive, in-depth library and an extensive Q-bank, making it a market leader for US and international students.
iatroX is a free, AI-powered assistant built specifically for the UK healthcare system. Its primary function is to provide fast, cited answers from UK national guidelines (NICE, CKS, BNF) and to provide an integrated quiz bank for UK exams (like UKMLA and MRCGP AKT).
When To Use Each
- Use Amboss when: You are a student (anywhere) preparing for the USMLE exams and need a comprehensive, premium library and Q-bank.
- Use iatroX when: You are a UK-based clinician or student and need a free tool for answers aligned with NICE guidelines or for practicing for UK-specific exams.
In-Depth Comparison: The "Right" Answer for UK Practice
For a UK clinician, the "right" answer must align with UK guidance.
- iatroX is UK-centric. Asking about hypertension management will always return answers based on NICE NG136.
- Amboss is US-centric. Its library and questions will follow ACC/AHA guidelines, which differ significantly from UK practice.
In-Depth Comparison: Governance & Cost
iatroX is a UKCA-marked Class I Medical Device and is completely free. Amboss is a US-based educational platform and is a paid subscription service.
Public information as of 4 Nov 2025. Trademarks belong to their owners.
Use-Cases
UKMLA / MRCGP Prep
When to choose iatroX
- **Recommended.** 'Quiz' is free and UK-guideline based.
When to choose Amboss
- **Use with caution.** Content is US-focused and not aligned with NICE guidelines.
USMLE Prep
When to choose iatroX
When to choose Amboss
- **Recommended.** A market leader for USMLE prep.
Point-of-Care (UK)
When to choose iatroX
- **Recommended.** 'Ask iatroX' for NICE/CKS answers.
When to choose Amboss
- **High Risk.** Will provide US-based management advice.
FAQs
- Is Amboss free?
- No, Amboss is a premium subscription service, though it offers a limited free trial.
- Is iatroX free?
- Yes, iatroX and all its features (Ask, Brainstorm, Quiz, CPD) are completely free.
- Is Amboss good for UKMLA or MRCGP?
- No. Amboss is an excellent tool, but it is targeted at the USMLE. Its content is not aligned with the NICE/CKS guidelines that form the basis of UK exams. Using it for UK prep can lead to confusion.