9 Affordable Hearing Aids That Aren't Cheaply Made

October 4, 2023
Blake Cadwell
Written by
Blake Cadwell
Blake Cadwell

Blake Cadwell is a hearing aid wearer and co-founder at Soundly. He regularly tests and reviews hearing technology to share his experience with Soundly’s readers. Blake's research and perspectives have been featured in the The New York Times, Washington Post, LA Times, AARP and FastCompany.

Amy Sarow, AuD, CCC-A
Reviewed by
Amy Sarow, AuD, CCC-A
Amy Sarow, AuD, CCC-A

Dr. Amy Sarow is a practicing clinical audiologist and serves as Audiology Lead for Soundly. Her expertise and experience span topics including tinnitus, cochlear implants, hearing aid technology, and hearing testing. She holds a doctoral degree in audiology from the University of Iowa. During her residency at Mayo Clinic, Dr. Sarow was inspired by the three-tiered, patient-centered approach, incorporating clinical work, teaching and research.

Review Process For This Guide

Soundly conducts in-depth research to guide prospective hearing aid wearers. Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

To get to this list we underwent the following research:

- 50+ Hours Research Conducted Each Month
- 3 Licensed Audiologists Consulted
- 50 Total Brands Reviewed
- 1,000+ Customer Reviews Considered

Best Affordable

Less Than $300 / pair

  • U.S.-based licensed hearing professionals available
  • All hearing aids come with free shipping and a 45-day trial period
  • 10+ years of customer care with 1M+ hearing aids shipped

9.4
GOOD
Best Selling OTC

Our Top-Rated OTC Hearing Aid

  • Starting at $799 per pair
  • Intuitive self-fitting app
  • Carried at Best Buy, CVS, Walmart and more
9.3
Excellent
Best Overall Value

No Doctor's Visit and 100 Day Returns

  • Bluetooth enabled and rechargeable
  • 100-day risk-free trial
  • Nearly invisible with a sleek design
9.5
Excellent

The average price of hearing aids in the U.S. is $4,500. That's a big ticket item by anyone's standards and leaves many people looking for alternatives.

The good news is that there has never been a better time to buy hearing aids (at any price).

While prices for traditional  prescription devices have not gone down (and likely won’t anytime soon), the number of quality options for consumers has dramatically increased. 

Just a few years ago, you had one credible option - prescription hearing aids through a local clinic.

In 2023 you can get quality devices through prescription, telehealth or OTC channels.

If you are considering your first pair (or your 10th) and want a pair of hearing aids that doesn’t break the bank. This guide is for you! 

Prefer to watch?

Watch our video breakdown of the best affordable hearing aids.

Our research process.

The Soundly team is made up of hearing aid wearers and audiologists who vet hearing aids and hearing brands with the goal of making you a more informed consumer. 

In preparation for this guide we reviewed over 50 affordable products for quality, met directly with more than one dozen brands, did a lot of secret shopping and ultimately narrowed things down to the list below.

What's the cheapest hearing ai that is still good? 

We reviewed several products in the $100-$400 price range including Audien ($99 / pair), Nano ($250 / pair) and EarCentric ($199 / pair). Ultimately we just didn't feel like these products delivered in any-level of background noise. In some cases they were quite uncomfortable. The most affordable hearing aids we would suggest for our friends and family is from MDHearing (read more about MDHearing below). There are several other good options in the $700-$1,000 price range.

What goes into hearing aid prices?

To understand why average prices are so high, you'll need to know a few things about the hearing health space.

  1. Bundled Care - Most traditional hearing aids come with 1-3 years of unlimited support and adjustments from a hearing professional. You're paying for the technology + the time.
  2. Distribution - Most hearing aids are sold in local clinics. Clinic owners have lots of overhead from rent to receptionists and internet bills. Each of those costs gets passed on to the consumer.
  3. Specialized R&D - 5 large holding companies make most hearing aids. Each has thousands of employees and invests heavily in R&D. You guessed it, those costs get passed on to the consumer.
  4. Insurance Shortfalls - Most insurance (including Medicare) does not cover the cost of hearing aids. We can all agree that this is absurd…but it’s where we are today. You can read more about hearing aids and insurance here.

Before you throw your coffee at the screen, hang with us. Affordable options DO exist. 

What are the options for affordable hearing aids? 

Our research led us to three main options to get cheaper (but still quality) hearing aids.

Option 1: Telehealth ($1,200 - $2,000 per pair)

Jabra Enhance Select and Audicus are two leading Telehealth brands that jumped into the hearing health mainstream during the pandemic.

Both brands have a team of in-house hearing professionals that walk you through a test, program your hearing aids and provide follow up services all through your phone or computer. 

The process is significantly more efficient than local care and those savings get passed to consumers. 

Option 2: Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids ($700 - $2,900)

OTC hearing aids are the brand new disruptors on the market as of October 2022. Unlike the previous three options, OTC hearing aids put programming in the hands of the user and cut out the need for hearing professionals. OTC hearing aids aren’t right for everyone but they can be a good place to start.

Option 3: Discount Local Care($2,900 - $4,500 per pair)

Let’s say you want to get the top-of-the line hearing aid from a big prescription leader like Oticon.

Typically you would  call a local clinic, set up a test and pay around $6,500 for a pair with three years of service. 

That's not your only option though. There are a few large groups of clinics that offer pre-negotiated pricing to customers based on their size and scale. There’s a good chance that the clinics in their program are the same ones you might find in a phone book (just with better prices.)

Click here to find a brand and get paired with discount local care.

Ok, enough preamble, let’s get to our list of the best affordable hearing aids on the market in 2023. 

Option #1 - Telehealth

Based on our testing, the hearing aids with the best overall value sit in the Telehealth category. This group of products is only right for simpler cases of hearing loss and requires some comfortability with technology.

Two brands lead the category.

Jabra Enhance Select Hearing Aids
Jabra Enhance Select
Best Overall Value

Jabra Enhance Select

Jabra Enhance Select

$1,195 - $1,995 / pair
Listen to a demo
pause
Affordable
Behind the Ear
Bluetooth
Rechargeable
Professional Fitting

Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids are made by the world's 4th largest hearing aid manufacturer (ReSound). Jabra Enhance (originally called Lively) made a name for itself by recreating the full-service audiology service online.

Instead of requiring you to come into their office, Jabra reduces the cost by programming remotely and shipping to your home.

All Jabra products come with a 100-day return policy and 3 years of unlimited remote care. You can find the same product for sale at a local clinic for around $4,500.

Get started by filling out Jabra's online survey via the right-hand corner of their website.

  • Overall notes: If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, are on a budget, and want a hearing professional to program your hearing aids to match your hearing loss, this is one of the most compelling products on the market.
  • Price: $1,395 for a pair of battery-powered - $1,695 for a pair of rechargeable, $1,995 for enhanced sound quality
  • Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth (not hands-free), Behind The Ear Style
  • What audiologists say: “Their audiologists can personalize and program Jabra hearing aids in real-time; highlighting the benefits of telehealth and competent professionals.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Soundly Scorecard
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Pros

One of the most affordable and convenient ways to purchase online while maintaining professional care

Comes with a 100 day free-return period

Offers rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming

Cons

Remote care requires users to be somewhat tech savvy

Jabra only offers styles that sit behind the ear

Get Jabra Enhance Select prices and details 👉
See Price
Orka Two Hearing Aids
Orka Two
Best Bluetooth Connection

Orka Two

Orka Two

$1,899 / pair
Listen to a demo
pause
Affordable
Behind the Ear
Bluetooth
Rechargeable
Professional Fitting

Orka Two is one of the most exciting products to join the category in a long time. The product’s design is second to none (although only available in white), and the underlying technology is impressive. Unlike hearing aid incumbents, Orka has figured out how to use a much more powerful General Chip inside their devices (the same chip as AirPods and other consumer tech).

The chip gives them up to 1,000 times the processing power and unlocks features like AI Denoise and universal Bluetooth connection. The tradeoff is battery life - Orka Two lasts 12 hours on a single charge compared to 20-30 hours among traditional options.  

Importantly, Orka’s hearing aids are built-from scratch vs. white labeled from an existing manufacturer. That means Orka can freely deliver updates to their devices over the air (similar to a software update on your phone).

  • Overall notes: A hearing professional on the Orka team programs your hearing aids to match your hearing loss. The product quality and design is top-tier.
  • Price: $1,899 for a pair (Orka just has one product at this time)
  • Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth streaming to Android, iPhone, TV or Laptop, Behind The Ear Style
Soundly Scorecard
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No items found.
Pros

A compelling new entrant into the category from ex. Apple and Facebook designers

Comes with a 45 day free-return period and three year warranty

Strongest and most flexible Bluetooth connection on the market

Cons

Remote care requires users to be somewhat tech savvy

Orka only offers styles that sit behind the ear

Orka Two only comes in white at this time

Learn More About Orka 👉
Learn More
Audicus
Largest Telehealth Selection

Audicus

Audicus

$998 - $2,998 / pair
Listen to a demo
pause
Affordable
Behind the Ear
Professional Fitting
Bluetooth
Rechargeable

Audicus was one of the first brands to program hearing aids remotely and ship them to your door. When the brand launched nearly 10 years ago, Audicus was dubbed the Warby Parker of hearing aids. They make their service simple to use and offer a range of simple but effective products.

Unlike other over-the-counter style devices like Eargo and Lexie, you do not need to program your own hearing aids. The Audicus team of hearing specialists walks you through an online test or accepts an existing audiogram.

With the results in hand, they program your hearing aids before shipping. This streamlined process saves you time and cuts the cost by about 50%-70% compared to traditional options.

  • Overall notes: Audicus has more than 7,000 reviews with an impressive average of 4.7 stars. Their customer service and lifetime specialist support are unique to the industry. If you are on a budget and want fully customized hearing aids, Audicus is among the best options available.
  • Price: Models available, ranging from $699-$1,299 per ear.
  • Features: Full range of styles (invisible and behind the ear) and features (Bluetooth and rechargeable)
  • What audiologists say: “Audicus is a fair option for anyone looking for remote care. The Telehealth model helps reduce the final price.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Soundly Scorecard
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Pros

Audicus hearing aids are programmed remotely which leads to lower prices and more convenience

Audicus offers a diverse range of styles and pricing including an affordable in-the-canal product

Audicus offers their products with a monthly subscription starting at $99

Cons

Audicus hearing aids are more expensive than some other Telehealth alternatives.

Audicus hearing aids do not come with hands-on support at a local clinic.

Get $100 off any Audicus product with code 100HEARING 👉
See Price

Group #2 - OTC Hearing Aids

The next group of hearing aids is the cheapest. OTC devices are self-fit and sold over the counter (no doctor involved). You'll need some tech-savvy to take advantage of this group of up-and-comers.

We've included five leading brands in this second group.

MDHearing Aid Image in Hand
MDHearing Volt Max
Most Affordable and Rechargeable

MDHearing Volt Max

MDHearing Volt Max

$297 - $699 / pair
Affordable
Behind the Ear
OTC
Rechargeable

MDHearing is a Chicago-based brand that has sold over 500,000 pairs of affordable hearing aids since 2009. The brand's most advanced product (Volt Max) has directional microphones and respectable noise reduction. MDHearing's latest in-the-ear product is impressively small and nearly invisible in many ears. Importantly, MDHearing devices are significantly less expensive than traditional products. Prices range from $297 - $699, depending on the model and promotion period.

MDHearing offers four models of hearing aids ranging from their in-canal, NEO XS to their budget-friendly, Air model. MDHearing offers four pre-set listening configurations based on expected hearing losses. This approach makes MDHearing less advanced than traditional competitors, but many customers feel the price is worth the tradeoff. MDHearing sells exclusively online and does not require a trip to a local audiologist. The brand has recently invested in a remote care team that includes audiologists and hearing aid dispensers. Customers who need further tune-ups or care can set up a telecare appointment with a professional for free.

All four MDHearing products are rechargeable with 12-20 hours of battery life (depending on the model).

MDHearing comes with a one-year warranty and a 45-day trial period for each purchase of the MDHearing Volt. These hearing aids have manual controls, allowing for volume adjustment and program changes.

  • How it works: 
  • ✔️ Start by purchasing from MDHearing online
  • ✔️ Unbox your product and choose an environment setting
  • ✔️ MDHearing has a team of hearing professionals who can coach you through the self-fit process.
  • Price: Starting at $297 for a pair 
  • Features: Rechargeable batteries are available for all models, four pre-set listening modes are available for most models, and no Bluetooth streaming is available
  • Our take: MDHearing devices offer less customization, background noise management, and features than prescription devices, but at 10% of the price, they are a compelling option for some folks with more straightforward listening needs.
Pros

Less than $500 for a pair

Rechargeable

Multiple styles available

Cons

No Bluetooth streaming

Slightly larger size

Only one color available

Less advanced than prescription devices

Compare MDHearing Products
Learn More
Go Ultra Product Images
Go Ultra From hearX
Affordable Bluetooth

Go Ultra From hearX

Go Ultra From hearX

$499
Affordable
In the Ear
Rechargeable

hearX's Go Ultra hearing aids sit behind-the-ear and come with four pre-set programs, Bluetooth streaming capabilities, and rechargeable batteries. Significantly, Go Ultra will sell for half the price of hearX's other product line (Lexie's B2 Powered By Bose). There's a clear dropoff in sound quality between Lexie B2 and Go Ultra, but the tradeoff may be forgiven by some users looking for a simple device at a lower cost.

  • Overall notes: These devices do not manage background noise as well as premium options on the market. Still, Go Ultra gets some serious points for bringing the price point down to just $499 and packing in premium-style features like streaming and rechargeable batteries.
  • Price: $499 / pair
  • Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth (not hands-free), Behind The Ear Style

Pros

One of the most affordable options on the market

Rechargeable batteries

Bluetooth streaming for Android and iPhone

Cons

Limited fine-tuning options

Less comfortable than premium RIC hearing aids

Larger than premium alternatives

Learn More About Go Ultra 👉
Get Started
Image of Bose rechargeable hearing aids
Lexie B2+ Powered By Bose
Affordable and Rechargeable

Lexie B2+ Powered By Bose

Lexie B2+ Powered By Bose

$999 / pair
Affordable
Behind the Ear
Rechargeable
OTC
Bluetooth (iPhone Only)

In July 2022 Bose formed a strategic partnership with Lexie (a well respected hearing healthcare company) to release Lexie B1 hearing aids. In October they released a second model with rechargeable batteries. Then in May 2023 they added Bluetooth streaming capabilities for iPhone users. In January 2024 Lexie released a new and improved charger. Constant improvement on an already great product - we love to see it.

Lexie B1 and Lexie B2+ hearing aids are self-fit using an innovative app that allows hearing aid wearers to fit, program, and control their hearing aids with clinically proven, audiologist-quality results. Purchase B1 hearing aids for $849 or rechargeable B2+ hearing aids for $999 (compare models here).

  • How it works:
    ✔️ Start by purchasing Bose online or at a local retailer
    ✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
    ✔️ If you need further adjustments, Lexie has a team of licensed professionals who can make remote updates or provide technical advice.
  • Overall notes: If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, are comfortable with smartphone tech, and are on a budget, Bose is one of the most compelling products available.
  • Price: $849 for a pair of B1 hearing aids or $999 for a pair of B2+ hearing aids
  • Features: Rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth Streaming for iPhone users, Programming app, Behind The Ear Style
  • What audiologists say: “One of the simplest to use OTC hearing aids, at a very competitive price. A solid option for those who want to self-manage their mild to moderate hearing loss.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Pros

Strong underlying technology

Self-fitting using the Lexie app

Affordable and rechargeable

Cons

Bluetooth for iPhone only  

Only comes in one color

Costs $150 more than disposable battery version

More Reviews + The Latest Pricing and Discounts 👉
See Price
Hand holding Sony invisible hearing aids
Sony CRE-C10 Hearing Aid
Best Budget Invisible Style

Sony CRE-C10 Hearing Aid

Sony CRE-C10 Hearing Aid

$999 / pair
Affordable
In the Ear
OTC

Sony teamed up with WS Audiology (the second-largest hearing company in the world) to co-create its products. Sony's CRE-C10 devices are nearly invisible and offer prescription-grade sound quality controlled through your smartphone. CRE-C10 does not offer Bluetooth streaming or rechargeable batteries.

CRE-C10 uses a size 10 disposable battery that offers over 70 hours of continuous wear. Size 10 batteries are widely available and commonly used in small devices. Sony's hearing aids were released in mid-October, so there are few reviews of the product, but it's safe to say this will be a leading consideration for those who want an in-the-ear style device.

  • How it works:
    ✔️ Start by purchasing Sony hearing aids online (likely coming to brick-and-mortar stores soon)
    ✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the Sony Hearing Control app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
    ✔️ Use the app to make real-time volume and sound quality adjustments.
    ✔️ If you need customer support, you can contact Sony's customer service team.
  • Price: $999 on Amazon
  • Features: Self-fit using an app, nearly invisible in most ear canals
Pros

Nearly invisible

High quality sound for a lower price

Self-fit at home

Cons

Not as small as OTC competitors like Eargo

Not rechargeable

Does not allow Bluetooth streaming

Purchase On Amazon 👉
See Price
Eargo 7
Only Rechargeable and Invisible Product On The Market

Eargo 7

Eargo 7

$1,650 - $2,950 / pair
In the Ear
OTC
Affordable
Rechargeable

Eargo is the disruptor in hearing health. Their product is rechargeable, invisible, and designed with a patented tip that allows your ears to breathe.

Eargo 7 was released in 2023 with new features that adapt to your environment as you move through your day. Eargo has raised hundreds of millions to design their product from scratch and what they've pulled off is impressive.

Think of this product as the Tesla of hearing health. Eargo is best for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. If you want to try something new, this is a great option.

  • How it works:
    ✔️ Start by purchasing Eargo online or over the phone (or get a free sample product here).
    ✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you’ll receive instructions to download the app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
    ✔️ If you need further adjustments, Eargo has a team of licensed professionals who can make remote updates or provide advice.
  • Overall notes: Eargo stands out for its design, innovation, size, and telecare team. The price is a bit higher than other OTC options but still lower than the national average.
  • Price: $2,950 for Eargo’s newest product (currently on sale)
  • Features: Invisible, self-programmed, rechargeable
  • What audiologists say: “If you are looking for invisible devices Eargo is one of the best options on the market.” - Ramsay Poindexter
Pros

Eargo is a tiny device that sits entirely inside the ear

Eargo is more affordable then custom mold hearing aids

Eargo is self fit using an app

Cons

Only appropriate for those with mild to moderate hearing loss

Requires some tinkering to fine tune the product

Eargo is not Bluetooth enabled due to the tiny size

Get a free (non-working) Eargo sample 👉
Learn More
Lucid OTC Hearing Aid Customization
Engage From Lucid Hearing
Sam's Club Upgrade Option

Engage From Lucid Hearing

Engage From Lucid Hearing

$799
Affordable
Behind the Ear
Rechargeable
OTC
Bluetooth

Lucid Hearing is an under-the-radar brand in the OTC market but has some of the strongest technology and experience. The brand is best known as the manufacturer behind all of the Sam's Club hearing center hearing aids.

The brand released two impressive OTC devices in late 2022. Engage is Lucid's rechargeable, Bluetooth enabled and self-fit hearing aid that sits behind the ear. The product comes in several colors and has one of the most stable Bluetooth connections due to a patented antenna.

  • How it works:
    ✔️ Start by purchasing Lucid Engage hearing aids online.
    ✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
    ✔️ If you need further adjustments you can take your hearing aids to a nearby Sam’s Club for free service or call Lucid’s hearing specialists.
  • Price: $799 for a pair  
  • Features: Rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth streaming enabled for Android and iPhone, fully customized to your hearing loss using an app, behind the ear style.

Pros

Bluetooth streaming for iPhone and Android

Rechargeable

Self-fit

Cons

Packaging and recharge case are less sleek than Bose and Sony

Purchase Lucid Engage online or at select retailers 👉
See Price

Group #3 -  Discount Local Care

Finally, our favorite traditional prescription products with local care (25%-40% less) are below. These hearing aids are made by the largest manufacturers and come with local care from a hearing professional.

We've included three leaders below but you can explore here to see all options and get paired to a local discount care provider. If you like the idea of local care you might also consider Costco.

Phonak Audéo Lumity
Best Bluetooth Connection

Phonak Audéo Lumity

Phonak Audéo Lumity

As low as $3,198 / pair
Behind the Ear
Professional Fitting
Bluetooth
Rechargeable

Phonak Lumity hearing aids are new in August 2022 and replace the world's most popular hearing aid (Audéo Paradise).

Lumity get’s top marks from audiologists for stable Bluetooth connection, precise customization and impressive accessories like the Phonak Roger Pen.

Think of this hearing aid as the Mercedes level. High-end, built by the world's largest hearing company and packed with all the tech you could want.

  • Overall Notes: Audéo Lumity is the #1 hearing aid on the market by sales volume. It offers best-in-class Bluetooth streaming, powerful sound algorithms, remote care, and an innovative ear vent. If you can swing the cost for this premium device, chances are that you'll be very happy.
  • Price: The national average price for Phonak Lumity is $6,213 per pair. In my price research I found two larger providers who offer lower prices starting at $3,195/pair. Click here for more on prices.
  • Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth and hands-free calling, behind the ear style, motion sensors
  • What audiologists say: “Our patients say that the sound is clear and crisp, while maintaining natural sound quality. Patients also love the unique ability to pair with almost any cell phone and take calls hands-free.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Pros

Top of the line customization, Bluetooth connection and rechargeable batteries

Enhanced background noise reduction

Highly water-resistant option available for active lifestyles

Cons

Audeo Lumity is a premium product with an average price of $3,198 - $7,000 per pair

Phonak manages sound quality in a way that can lead to a "closed off" feeling compared to Oticon or ReSound's more open sound quality

Get the full Phonak Lumity breakdown 👉
Learn More
Hand holding Oticon hearing aids
Oticon Intent
Most Advanced Sensors

Oticon Intent

Oticon Intent

As low as $4,898 / pair
Behind the Ear
Bluetooth
Professional Fitting
Rechargeable

Oticon is the second most popular hearing aid brand (after Phonak). The brand has built a fanbase around its “open” sound philosophy by using advanced methods to support natural sound. Their newest device, the Oticon Intent, goes a step further, offering open sound quality customized to the user’s intent.

The newly designed devices continuously adapt based on four built-in sensors. Together, the brand calls this MoreSound Intelligence 3.0.

  • Conversation sensors: Search your soundscape for speech sounds.
  • Head sensors: Track your movement to gather information about where you are focused.
  • Body sensors: Track your movement through the room and open the field of sound when you walk
  • Acoustic sensors: Analyze background noises, echo and room dimensions

None of these sensors are brand new to the world of hearing aids, but Oticon claims to be the first brand to use all four together in one connected system. Add in Oticon's already impressive Deep Neural Network and you get what might be the smartest hearing aid in the industry.

  • Overall notes: Oticon Real is an undisputed leader among top-tier hearing aids. If you are attracted to the idea of hearing more of the sounds around you vs. solely focusing on voices, this product is a great choice.
  • Price: The national average price for Oticon Intent is $6,330 per pair. In my price research I found some national providers with prices as low as $2,898/pair. Click here for more on prices.
  • Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth LE Audio, Behind The Ear Style
  • What audiologists say: “Oticon is among the best. If you are looking for all-around, top-of-the-line technology, this is an excellent choice.” - Ramsay Poindexter, AuD
Pros

Open sound quality that many users prefer

Bluetooth streaming from Android and Apple devices

Offered with both rechargeable and disposable batteries

Cons

Oticon Real hearing aids start at $2,898 and can cost as much as $7,000 with walk in care

Oticon Real hearing aids require a visit to an in person audiologist and are not sold online

Get the full Oticon Intent breakdown 👉
Learn More
Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Best Custom Invisible Hearing Aids

Starkey Genesis AI Custom

Starkey Genesis AI Custom

As Low As $2,998 / Pair
In the Ear
Professional Fitting
Rechargeable
Bluetooth

Starkey is a U.S.-based manufacturer with a full line of hearing aids that includes behind the ear and in-the-ear styles. They make the list for their elite status in custom molded (nearly invisible products). If you can afford to pay medical-grade prices and want an invisible style, you won’t be disappointed by Starkey.

Starkey is known for intelligent features like fitness tracking, a virtual assistant, and the smallest Bluetooth hearing aid on the market.

  • Overall Notes: Starkey Genesis AI is broadly considered the best for custom mold hearing aids. If you want a custom mold, and lead an active lifestyle, this product is a great choice.
  • Price: The national average price for Starkey Genesis Custom hearing aids is $6,443 per pair. Our research indicates that you can get Starkey Custom devices for as low as $3,198 for a pair. Click here for more on prices.
  • Features: Full range of styles and features including Bluetooth, rechargeability, and fitness tracking for larger devices.
  • What audiologists say: “Starkey has been making the smallest and best custom hearing aids for decades. Genesis AI is currently the smallest custom device on the market with Bluetooth streaming capabilities.” - Ramsay Poindexter, AuD
Pros

Smallest models are almost entirely invisible

Starkey is a leader in comfortable custom molded products

Larger sizes come with Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable batteries

Cons

This is a premium device which costs $3,000-$7,000 per pair

Custom molds require additional lead time and replacement time

The smallest version of Starkey Genesis AI customs are not Bluetooth enabled or rechargeable

Get the full Starkey Genesis breakdown 👉
Learn More
No items found.
No items found.

That's it for now.

We hope you enjoyed this guide to the best affordable hearing aids in 2023. We update this page regularly and will be back with new models as they come.

We created this site to make finding hearing products and care more accessible.

Use the compare page to compare all the leading products on the market (with prices), or check your hearing with our 5-minute hearing test.

If you have questions, you can email our team at any time [email protected].

Frequently asked questions

Does insurance cover hearing aids?
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Some insurance policies cover hearing tests, but the majority of policies do not cover hearing aid devices. It's a good idea to call your insurance company to double-check on this. Read our full guide on the topic here.

Does Medicare pay for hearing aids?
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Original Medicare does not cover hearing aid costs. It does cover hearing tests in many cases. One option is to get a covered hearing test locally and use it to find a good option online for less. Some Medicare Advantage plans do cover hearing aids. Read our full guide on Medicare and hearing aids.

How to access veteran benefits for hearing aids?
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If you have served in the U.S. military, there is a good chance the VA could cover your hearing aids and hearing care.

Process Overview:

  1. Apply for VA benefits.
  2. Schedule an appointment.
  3. Meet with a VA audiologist.
  4. Schedule an appointment to be fit with hearing aids.

Here's a full breakdown of the VA hearing aid application process.

Are hearing aids worth the money?
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Absolutely. Hearing aids are transformational in many social settings, and research indicates they improve connection, overall health, and earning potential. Around 80% of hearing aid wearers across budget levels are happy they made the purchase.

Are hearing aids tax deductible?
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The short answer is, yes, hearing aids qualify for a tax deduction. However, the answer in your specific situation will depend on a few factors:

  • Did your out-of-pocket medical care expense exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income?
  • Did you pay for your hearing aids through a health savings account (HSA)?
  • Do you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the disability tax credit?

Read our full guide to taxes and hearing aids.

Are cheap hearing aids actually good?
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We've tested dozens of hearing aids, and typically find that the break-point for quality is around $700 / pair. Most products under that price are not meaningfully helpful or have major issues with background noise. If you have a common hearing loss in the mild-moderate range, an OTC product from Bose or Sony could be a great option (many people swear by these brands). If you want a more affordable device with prescription programming, we suggest Jabra Enhance Select

These hearing aids aren't perfect, but they give you maybe 80% of the benefit for 25%-50% of the cost.  

Where can I buy the most affordable hearing aids?
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The best place to buy most OTC products is directly through the brand's website, and you can compare products and find links to OTC brands throughout this site. Some OTC devices are available at Walgreens, Walmart, CVS, and Best Buy. Here's our LIVE tracker of OTC brands.

The most affordable way to purchase prescription devices is through a buying group like ZipHearing or Yes Hearing. Use our shopping tool here to find pricing on top devices. 

If you are open to Telehealth care, the most affordable place to purchase is Jabra Enhance Select. They sell a prescription-grade product for less than half the price of local clinics. 

How much should I spend on hearing aids?
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Your hearing is a vital part of your overall well-being, and they are effectively augmenting one of your five senses. If you can afford, top-end hearing aids, it's probably a good investment. 

That said, decent, affordable hearing aids typically start at around $700/pair. Anything below that typically has issues in customization, quality, or service.

How expensive are hearing aids on average?
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The national average for a pair of hearing aids is $4,500. If you go to a local clinic with bundled care, the cost is typically $6,500-$8,000 for a pair.

Will hearing aid prices go down?
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The stated goal of new OTC hearing aid legislation was to bring down hearing aid prices. In reality, it appears that OTC devices will create a new robust (and quality) budget option, but traditional prescription models will stay at roughly the same prices due to their hands-on service. 

Conventional wisdom is that prices for both OTC and prescription devices will remain roughly the same for the next few years.

Can seniors on a fixed income get free hearing aids?
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Getting hearing aids on a fixed income can be challenging. While there aren't any government programs that make hearing aids free for seniors (hopefully someday!) There are many local organizations around the United States that can provide financial support for hearing aids. 

These range from hearing providers to local Lions Clubs and nonprofits. The Hearing Aid Project has an excellent resource for finding these programs here. The Hearing Aid Project also accepts hearing aid donations.

The Hearing Loss Association of America has a list of published resources along with a PDF guide here.

What should I do if I can't afford hearing aids?
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Don't give up too fast. You've got options. If OTC hearing aids aren't within your budget or don't meet your needs, you might be a candidate for non-profit financial assistance. 

The Hearing Aid Project has an excellent resource for finding these programs here. The Hearing Aid Project also accepts hearing aid donations.

The Hearing Loss Association of America has a list of published resources along with a PDF guide here.

What is the difference between entry-level and premium technology levels?
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This is an important (and slightly complex) topic. Most prescription hearing aids come in a few different technology levels. The "economy option" typically has fewer bells and whistles, and the premium option has more. In general, "economy options" are still very credible and achieve significant benefits. Read our full guide to technology levels here.

Is it more affordable to get rechargeable or non-rechargeable hearing aids?
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Rechargeable hearing aids usually cost anywhere from $200-$400 more per pair. Disposable batteries typically cost $5-$7 per month. Over a three-year lifespan, rechargeable batteries pretty much pay for themselves. Read our full guide on the topic here.

What are the best affordable hearing aids with Bluetooth?
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This depends a bit on your budget.

Jabra Enhance Select is our favorite at the $1k-$2K price range. 

Lucid Engage is our top choice for under $1K. 

You might also want to try AirPods pro (a guide to turning your AirPods into hearing aids here)

What are the best affordable and invisible hearing aids?
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Eargo and Sony have the leading in-the-ear (and affordable) devices. Both devices are self-fit using an app and come from credible companies. 

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