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No Doctor's Visit and 100 Day Returns
- Bluetooth enabled and rechargeable
- 100-day risk-free trial
- Nearly invisible with a sleek design
As we head into April, it's worth reflecting on how much has changed in the world of hearing aids over the last few years. In late 2022, the FDA made it possible to sell hearing aids over the counter for the first time in 50 years. That move sparked a flurry of activity in the category and prompted new brands like Sony and Sennheiser to release their devices.
Johns Hopkins created another big news moment in the summer of 2023 with a landmark study showing that hearing intervention slowed cognitive decline by 48% over three years. Hearing aids themselves are also changing quickly. Advanced products now have built-in Bluetooth streaming, rechargeable batteries, and artificial intelligence-based sound algorithms.
Every month, the Soundly team works to rank the best hearing aids on the market. We trial, record, and compare new products side-by-side and publish our favorites across the spectrum of price and features. We added new sound recordings for over a dozen top products across the site. Access those recordings on the "compare" page.
Notable releases: Oticon recently overhauled their flagship product with the new Oticon Intent, and Widex released a new form-factor with enhanced microphone placement that promises to offer better sound in background noise.
If you are searching for a specific type of hearing aid, click one of the guides below. If you need help figuring out where to start, check out our beginner's guide here.
Best Invisible Hearing Aids | Best Affordable Hearing Aids | Best Bluetooth Hearing Aids | Best OTC Hearing Aids | Best Hearing Aids for Tinnitus
How to choose a pair of hearing aids.
Let’s take a step back and look at the landscape. There are over 100 hearing aid brands on the market. Some are modern marvels with fitness tracking and Bluetooth. Others are just not great.
Outside of technology, hearing aid buyers also need to consider price, care type, and style. All of these variables make finding the perfect hearing aid a puzzle. Take heart, this is a puzzle we can figure out.
Prefer to watch?
Check out our full video review to the best hearing aids for 2024. 👇
First, know your hearing loss.
Before we dig into hearing aids or technology, you'll want to know what you are working with. If you don't have a hearing test, start with our five-minute test here.
With your hearing test complete, it's time to get familiar with the results. I suggest watching the video below. If you are in a hurry, you can jump to 2:30 where the video discusses typical hearing loss patterns. See if you can spot your hearing loss shape (I have a cookie-bite). You can also read more about types of hearing loss here.
Next up, let's talk about care models.
The other big decision you’ll need to make before you get new hearing aids is how you want to have them programmed to match your specific hearing loss.
If you search for hearing aids on Amazon you’ll find a lot of devices that boast one-size-fits-all. The reality is that every hearing loss has a different shape and it’s very important to get a product that can match that shape.
So how does that happen? You have basically three options.
Option #1 Telehealth
There are a couple of leading brands that offer telehealth programming at a distance. You’ll take a hearing test online or send in a test you get locally. A professional will program your hearing aids to match that test and ship them to your door. The price for this service is typically 50% lower than local care. Jabra Enhance Select is our favorite telehealth option.
Option #3 OTC
If you want to program your own hearing aids using a smartphone you can purchase over-the-counter. OTC hearing aids were formalized in late 2022 and are popular for first-timers and budget shoppers. OTC is only a good option if you have mild-moderate hearing loss. Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose is my favorite product in this category.
Option #2 Local Clinic
You’ll visit a local doctor who will conduct a hearing test and use special software to program a hearing aid to match your prescriptive targets. This option is typically the most precise and the most expensive.
Here's a breakdown of our top reviewed hearing aids organized by care method. 👇
Final stop, hearing aid styles.
Hearing aid styles generally fall into two groups: behind-the-ear styles and in-the-ear styles.
Behind-the-ear styles are chosen by around 80% because they tend to have more features and are often more comfortable.
In-the-ear styles are most often chosen for their invisibility (for the smallest sizes), ease of handling (for the larger sizes) and comfort with glasses, masks or oxygen.
If you aren’t sure which style you want, you can read more about each one here.
Putting it all together.
Ultimately, there are great products across care models and styles. The essential question is which one is best for you. Take a few minutes to think through your priorities and jot down some notes.
- What is your level and type of hearing loss?
- Which care model will fit your budget, location and appetite for hands-on support?
- Do you want in-the-ear or behind the ear devices?
With these notes in hand, the list below will be less daunting.
Group 1 - Telehealth Prescribed
This first group of hearing aids come with professional programming through video and phone calls.
The brands below go direct to consumers and use their scale to save money. The average cost of the products below starts at $1,200 instead of $4,000. For that reason, we are BIG fans of this category for anyone who is relatively tech savvy.
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
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
Remote care requires users to be somewhat tech savvy
Jabra only offers styles that sit behind the ear
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
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
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
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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
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
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.
Group 2 - Over-The-Counter
The second group of hearing aids puts the power of tuning in your hands. Each of the brands below sends you an un-programmed device in the mail and walks you through the customization process using a smartphone app.
This model saves you money, and some studies have found that self customization leads to more wearer comfort and satisfaction.
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
Strong underlying technology
Self-fitting using the Lexie app
Affordable and rechargeable
Bluetooth for iPhone only
Only comes in one color
Costs $150 more than disposable battery version
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
Nearly invisible
High quality sound for a lower price
Self-fit at home
Not as small as OTC competitors like Eargo
Not rechargeable
Does not allow Bluetooth streaming
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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.
Less than $500 for a pair
Rechargeable
Multiple styles available
No Bluetooth streaming
Slightly larger size
Only one color available
Less advanced than prescription devices
Group 3 - Locally Prescribed
Local audiologists prescribe this final group of hearing aids. They are typically more expensive ($3,000-$8,000 for a pair) and come with top-tier technology.
A few big hearing aid brands manufacture nearly all locally-prescribed hearing aids. The "Big 5" spend millions in R&D and typically lead the way on tech.
There are style and philosophy differences between these traditional options, but they offer the same features and generally the same prices. Think of them as BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus. Different, but also a lot the same.
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
Top of the line customization, Bluetooth connection and rechargeable batteries
Enhanced background noise reduction
Highly water-resistant option available for active lifestyles
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
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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
Open sound quality that many users prefer
Bluetooth streaming from Android and Apple devices
Offered with both rechargeable and disposable batteries
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
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Signia Styletto hearing aids have a unique design to the hearing health category. The sleek devices look more like tech products than medical devices and are a favorite among style-seeking customers.
Styletto combines this fashion-forward design with all the features you would expect, like Bluetooth streaming, rechargeability, and clear speech in background noise.
Styletto hearing aids come with an AirPod-like charging case and use motion detection to gather information about your surroundings as you move from one space to the next.
The hearing aids automatically sense when you start walking or sit down and make intelligent decisions about where to focus. Styletto also gets top marks for the Signia Assistant feature in their app.
- Overall Notes: If you are looking for a more fashion forward hearing aid with all the top-of-the-line features, look no further. If you need button controls onboard your device, you may consider another option.
- Price: The national average price for Signia Styletto is $7,400 per pair. We've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Full range of styles and features including Bluetooth, rechargeability, and motion detection.
- What audiologists say: “Not your grandfather's hearing aid! The Styletto is a refreshing update to traditional hearing aid design.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Sleek product design
Bluetooth streaming enabled
Rechargeable
Slightly less processing power than Signia's traditional design
Signia Styletto is a premium hearing aid that requires professional fitting and costs $3,000-$7,000 per pair
ReSound unveiled NEXIA in October 2023. If you’ve read our past reviews, you might know that ReSound is a regular innovator in the hearing category.
The brand was the first to partner with Apple for Bluetooth streaming back in 2013. In 2022, ReSound released an impressive algorithm update with improved beam-forming tech that boasted a 150% improvement in background noise.
ReSound is also the only manufacturer that places a microphone inside the ear to use the natural shape of the pinna to sort out background noise. Those popular features will remain with ReSound NEXIA with some exciting additions.
The first is a visible reduction in size. Impressively, NEXIA maintains a 30-hour battery life while cutting 25% off the overall size—big thumbs up from us.
The second big announcement is that NEXIA has an updated Bluetooth capability that allows Auracast streaming in public places. If you aren’t familiar with Auracast, check out our guide to the topic here.
ReSound is among the best in the industry at separating speech and noise in a background situation. Our lead audiologist recently put NEXIA in a test box and found the hearing aids could consistently provide up to 8-10 dB of background noise reduction.
ReSound NEXIA is on most of our shortlists for the best premium, receiver-in-canal hearing aids on the market.
- Overall notes: ReSound NEXIA is an all around excellent product with an innovative approach to microphones and one of the smallest form factors in the industry. ReSound NEXIA has strong Bluetooth connection that now boasts Auracast compatibility.
- Price: The national average price for ReSound NEXIA is $7,410 per pair. In our price research we've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth with hands-free calling for iPhone and iPad, Small behind the ear style
- What audiologists say: “ReSound offers elegant design and good (if not elite) sound quality. These hearing aids are high quality and reliable.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Great for background noise management
Auracast compatible
Small form factor and an optional 3rd microphone in the ear
More expensive compared to direct to consumer and OTC options
NEXIA's in-ear M&RIE microphone is a bit larger and can be uncomfortable for some
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Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Starkey Genesis AI Custom
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
Smallest models are almost entirely invisible
Starkey is a leader in comfortable custom molded products
Larger sizes come with Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable batteries
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
Hearing aids to avoid.
Junk hearing aids have been racking up sales on the internet for a decade, and the problem isn't going anywhere.
The brands listed above have their pros and cons, but each is a reputable option with an actual operation behind it.
In contrast, some internet-advertised brands are just junk. If you aren't sure about the brand you are considering, here are a few factors to watch for.
Customizable - The first feature to look for is program customization. Avoid products that amplify all sounds, offer a limited number of preset programs or advertise one-size-fits-all. The word “customization” gets thrown around a lot so let’s look at what it really means.
The image below shows a fairly common audiogram. This person’s hearing loss is progressively worse for higher pitched sounds.
If the person with the sloping hearing loss (above) purchases “one-size-fits-all” amplifiers the highest points in their audiogram will become too loud and uncomfortable.
This is what our example hearing loss should look like with a custom programmed product.
Note that hearing aids can not fully replace your natural hearing.
Clear pricing
Be on the lookout for flash sales, more than 50% discounts, and buy one get one free offers are all red flags. Importantly, double-check whether you are getting a PAIR or a SINGLE hearing aid for the advertised price. Many brands advertise a low cost for just one hearing aid.
Return policy
Make sure any hearing aid you buy has at least a 45-day return policy. Also, double-check that there is no minimum trial period. Some cheap brands try to make it hard to return products by requiring that you keep your product for 30 days and then giving you a short time to return them before the 45 day deadline.
Reviews
If you choose to purchase hearing aids outside of an audiologist, make sure you find reviews on a 3rd party site. You might consider searching YouTube for product reviews as well.
Avoid Amazon or Alibaba Only
If a product doesn't have an actual website, I would avoid it. A brand that only sells on Amazon or Alibaba is likely trying to make a quick buck.
That's a Wrap
Thanks for reading this month's guide to the best hearing aids available. We'll be back next month to do it again.
We created this site to make finding hearing products and care more accessible.
Use the compare tab 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
Phonak Lumity is the clear leader among Bluetooth options. Read our full Bluetooth hearing aid guide here.
Starkey is the leader in custom-molded products and Eargo is a clear favorite for ready-to-wear products. Full invisible hearing aid guide here.
We like Lexie B2 Powered By Bose. You can see our full OTC guide here.
Starkey Genesis and Signia Pure Charge&Go have the longest-lasting batteries. Read more about rechargeable hearing aids here.
Hearing aids come in two main styles with some sub-categories within each. Let’s break it down:
Style #1 - Sits behind the ear with a wire or tube that reaches into the ear canal.
Around 80% of hearing aid wearers choose a behind-the-ear style device due to the style’s comfort and advanced technology. Two popular form factors sit behind the ear.
Receiver-in-canal (RIC) is the most popular. This style has a wire that sends a digital signal from the body of the hearing aid to a tiny speaker that sits inside your ear.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) is prescribed for severe or profound loss. This style has a larger tube reaching the ear and is typically coupled with a custom earmold.
Style #2 - sits inside the ear canal
Some users prefer in-the-ear hearing aids for aesthetics (this style can be invisible) or comfort (out of the way of masks and glasses.
In-the-ear devices can be invisible or fill the visible space outside your ear like headphones. Audiologists typically refer to the available sizes with the following terms:
In the ear (ITE) - Usually visible and files the outer ear.
In the canal (ITC) - Still visible but sits mostly in the ear canal instead of spilling out
Completely in the canal (CIC) - These devices are nearly invisible but might still be seen from the side.
Invisible in the canal (IIC) - The smallest versions sit entirely inside the ear canal and are not visible to the people around you.
Ultimately the decision between in-the-ear and behind-the-ear depends on many personal factors. Most people choose behind-the-ear styles, but others swear by in-the-ear styles.
Learn more about hearing styles here.
This question warrants a blog post of its own (you can read that here).
Here’s a quick answer. There are six big manufacturers that make up about 90% of all hearing aids. Hearing aid makers sometimes white-label their technology under various names, confusing things. All that said, here’s a short list of the most trusted brands in hearing health:
Leading prescription brands include: Phonak, Oticon, Starkey, Widex, Signia, ReSound
Leading telehealth brands include: Jabra Enhance Select, Audicus
Leading OTC brands include: Lexie/Bose, Sony, Eargo, and Lucid
If you have severe hearing loss, you’ll need higher volume levels, often requiring a custom earmold and/or a collaborative customization process with a doctor. Said another way, you are looking for a luxury car, and you’ll want to customize it to your specific needs.
OTC devices have limited volume outputs (typically best for mild-moderate hearing loss), and Telehealth solutions are limited in their ability to customize your earmold.
Both in-the-ear and behind-the-ear style devices can work well for severe hearing loss (depending on your specific type).
Good hearing aids are a significant investment, and prices can vary widely based on the brand and model of care.
Prescription devices purchased at a local office are typically the most expensive because they often include 2-3 years of bundled service and follow-up appointments. Your purchase includes overhead and time. Most prescription hearing aids come with three years of follow-up appointments, cleanings, and support.
Telehealth options like Jabra Enhance Select still include three years of bundled services but are less expensive because Telehealth overhead is lower.
OTC devices are the least expensive because they do not involve bundled services. Quality OTC hearing aids come with free customer service but less built-in time from a doctor.
Each of the leading six manufacturers has a flagship hearing aid that offers similar levels of technology. There’s no runaway winner, but these are the flagship products.
People with mild-moderate hearing loss can fit into a wide range of products, including OTC products, prescription products, and every style of hearing aid.
If you hear well in the lower-frequencies, you’ll likely enjoy a more open-fit hearing aid vs. one that completely plugs up your ear.
Try Eargo, Jabra Enhance Select, or Signia Charge&Go
If you choose an OTC hearing aid, you’ll be prompted to program your hearing aids using an app.
Most leading prescription devices allow wearers to make some adjustments in their smartphone app, but major adjustments require a remote in-person visit to a hearing professional.
The short answer is yes. OTC hearing aids and Telehealth brands can be a good way to save money.
The slightly longer answer is that if you have severe hearing loss, you’ll likely need to visit a local doctor. Certain hearing aid brands like Phonak, Signia, Starkey, Oticon, Widex, and ReSound are primarily only sold through local doctors.
You can find some websites that sell and program those brands remotely, but they are typically off the radar and less of a known entity.
If you want to buy online, look at a known Telehealth company like Jabra or Audicus or purchase an OTC product.
Auracast is an exciting Bluetooth protocol that will likely replace standard Bluetooth over the next several years. Right now, ReSound NEXIA is the only hearing aid with Auracast. It will take 2-5 years for phones, TVs, and public spaces to build in Auracast broadcast capability. You can read more about Auracast here.
A few decades ago, many people opted for one hearing aid instead of two. Over time this trend has reversed due to advances in technology. Most hearing aid manufacturers now link both left and right sides together to make sound quality decisions.
It is possible to wear one hearing aid, but you might miss out on some tech. One option is to try two hearing aids during your 45 trial and return one if you don’t receive the benefit.
What is the best CROS hearing aid for single-sided hearing loss?
CROS hearing aids are specially designed for those with significant hearing loss or deafness on one side. CROS devices look like standard hearing aids, but one side acts as a microphone and sends sound from the poor-hearing side to the better-hearing ear.
Phonak, Oticon, and Signia have the leading CROS hearing aids on the market at this time.
Read more about CROS hearing aids here.
The short answer is probably not. There are exceptions that you can read about here. Here’s to hoping that congress adds hearing health to medicare in the future, but we aren’t there yet.
What are the big differences between prescription and OTC devices?
OTC hearing aids and prescription hearing aids have similar underlying technology. In general, the biggest difference is that OTC hearing aids are self-fit using an app, while prescription devices are programmed by a hearing professional.
In general, prescription-level hearing aids are still more advanced than most OTC devices. This might change over time.
This is a great question. Streaming sound quality will rely less on your hearing aids and more on the style of dome or earmold that you wear. Sound is typically richer when your ear is fully sealed. Open-fit hearing aids (with a small rubber dome) typically sound clear but somewhat tinny. Streaming through custom earmolds will sound more like a pair of traditional headphones.
Every person’s hearing loss is a bit different. You can get a quick hearing chart for free here.
Instead of making all sounds louder, hearing aids boost the frequencies you cannot hear well. There are three main ways to customize your hearing aids to match your specific hearing loss:
If you go to an audiologist, your doctor will use advanced software to program your devices to match your hearing test results.
If you purchase through telehealth (through a brand like Jabra), a remote professional will customize your device based on the hearing test you take online or upload.
If you choose OTC devices, you’ll likely use an app to customize your own hearing aids using an onboard hearing test or frequency controls.
Regardless of the option you choose, beware of products that have one-size-fits-all approaches to programming. Many products on Amazon offer 3-4 presets and no further opportunity for personalization.
Used hearing aids can save money, but it can be difficult to find an audiologist that will program your used devices. In some cases hearing aids that have been claimed as “lost or stolen” are resold on Ebay. If you send that second-hand hearing aid in for repairs, it could be held by the manufacturer.
Buying used hearing aids is a wild card with some real opportunities for complications.
If you are looking for budget options, I’d suggest you start with a lower technology level or OTC device with a trackable history.
To use the Made for iPhone hearing devices, you need one of these models:
- iPhone 5 or later
- iPad Pro (all models)
- iPad Air (all models)
- iPad (4th generation) or later
- iPad mini (all models)
To use Android for Bluetooth streaming it is recommended that your phone use OS 11 or later. You can find out your version number through the following steps.
- Open your phone's Settings app.
- Near the bottom, tap About phone. Android version.
- Find your "Android version," "Android security update," and "Build number."
Use the pages below to double check your phone compatibility by brand.
Here’s a quick list to get you started:
Sound quality and customization
Form factor and comfort
Bluetooth streaming capability
Rechargeable batteries
Easy-to-use app
Remote adjustment capability after the first appointment
Find my hearing aids feature (helps track down lost devices)
CROS functionality (for single-sided hearing loss)
