7 Best Hearing Aids of 2023 – Market News Data

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An estimated 15% of American adults — roughly 37.5 million people — suffer from some form of hearing loss, according to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Of these, approximately 28.8 million could benefit from a hearing aid.

To help you find the best hearing aid for your particular needs, we’ve compiled a list of the top models in the industry today.

Read on for our list of the seven best hearing aids and a guide on how to find the right one for you.

Our Top Picks for Best Hearing Aids

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Best Hearing Aid Reviews

Sleek designFacemask mode to better hear mask wearersResistant to debris and water (IP68 rating)5 colors availableNo disposable battery optionTinnitus relief program only available in 2X-7X technology levelsNo telecoil option

Specs Hearing aid type Behind the ear (BTE) receiver in the canal (RIC) Type of hearing loss Mild to severe hearing loss Technology levels 5 (1X, 2X, 3X, 5X, 7X) Price range per pair $2,500-$4,500 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Bluetooth, Iphone and Android connectivity, hands-free calls, debris and water resistant (IP68), binaural sound processing, feedback cancellation, high-frequency compression, extended dynamic range, tinnitus relief (2X-7X models only) Manufacturer’s warranty 1 year

Why we chose the Signia Styletto X: With a very slim profile, tinnitus relief options and a wide array of additional features, the Styletto X is a great all-around option that delivers great sound quality.

The Signia Styletto X is our choice for customers looking for high-quality, lightweight and stylish behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids.

The devices weigh about the same as a set of AirPods, making it among the lightest on the market. The device runs on Signia’s new Xperience platform, which adds improved features, like sound and motion sensing.

The Styletto X series packs a lot of features into its slim housing. First, it offers bluetooth connectivity to Apple devices so you can stream directly into the hearing aid. (Note that you need to purchase the StreamLine Mic separately in order to connect to Android devices.) You can also buy the StreamLine TV to get Dolby quality sound directly from the television.

You also get long runtimes, with up to 19 hours on a single charge, and approximately three more full charges in the case. The case can be charged via USB-C or with Qi-certified wireless chargers.

Most importantly, this series of hearing aids boasts some of the best sound processing technology available today. They feature binaural sound processing, which provides a more natural hearing experience and increased directionality, that is, the ability to recognize where sounds are coming from.

From the 2X level and up, the Styletto X also provides tinnitus relief, which allows the user to focus on different sounds instead of the continuous noise caused by tinnitus. Signia is also, at this moment, the only brand to offer built-in Notch Therapy, which can help relieve tinnitus symptoms in the long term.

Only hearing aid on the market with IMU (movement tracking/fall detection)3-year manufacturer warrantyIn-the-canal (ITC) model availableHas disposable and rechargeable battery optionsSeven colors availableVery expensive (average price around $4,376)Only the premium level includes the IMURechargeable battery only available on the RIC model

Specs Hearing aid type Behind the ear (BTE), receiver in the canal (RIC) Type of hearing loss Mild to severe hearing loss Technology levels 5 (1000, 1200, 1600, 2000, 2400) Price range per pair $2,000-$4,000 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Bluetooth, iOS and Android connectivity, hands-free phone calls, debris and water resistant (IP58), volume/program control button, inertial measurement unit (IMU), directional microphone, user-tuning, remote programming available Manufacturer’s warranty 3 years

Why we chose the Starkey Livio Edge AI: An industry exclusive built-in IMU, long three-year warranty and a feature-packed premium model make the Livio Edge a perfect companion for people who also want to keep track of their daily activities.

The Starkey Livio Edge AI behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid is a great device if you have an active lifestyle, as it’s the only hearing device on the market that has an inertial measurement unit (IMU) in its circuitry. The IMU includes an accelerometer and a gyroscope with broad tracking capabilities — it can track your heart rate, movement and positioning. This makes it effective at detecting falls as well.

The device displays this information in its “Thrive” app, which keeps track of your daily calorie burn, steps taken and daily movement. However, this feature makes the Starkey Livio AI one of the most expensive devices on this list as well, especially considering that the IMU is only available on the model that costs almost $4,000, so you must consider whether a workout-oriented hearing device is worth it.

The lower-cost models (model numbers 1000-1200) not only lack the IMU, but also other features such as increased background noise filtration and cancellation, which can be very helpful when exercising in urban settings. This means that they’re not ideal for exercise, hiking or similar activities.

The Starkey Livio Edge AI is still a great device for daily wear, though. The IntelliVoicespeech recognition is top notch, even with face masks on. You can also take phone calls and stream directly into the device with an iPhone — unfortunately, you need an additional device to connect to Android phones.

It also boasts a three-year warranty, whereas many hearing aids have one-year warranties.

However, this information was hard to find, as well as some of the documents for the device. While this particular fact was a good surprise, transparency is something to keep in mind when buying Starkey products: look deep into the documentation, read the fine print and ask a lot of questions when talking to a doctor or representative.

Rechargeable, 30-hour battery lifeThree hours to fully chargeExtra microphone inside the receiver improves sound qualityBasic models start at around $3,000Telecoil option only available in premium technology level

Specs Hearing aid type Behind the ear (BTE), microphone and receiver in the ear (M&RIE) Type of hearing loss Mild to severe hearing loss Technology levels 4 (ReSound One 4, One 5, One 7, One 9) Price range per pair $3,000-$3,700 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Dual microphones (in the ear and over the ear), Bluetooth, iOS, and Android compatibility, telecoil (only on premium technology level), IP68, handsfree calling, background noise tracker, tinnitus sound generator, wind and noise reduction Manufacturer’s warranty 3 years

Why we chose the ReSound One: With up to 30 hours of runtime featuring telecoil, bluetooth connectivity and an innovative microphone in the canal, the ReSound One maximizes its behind-the-ear housing.

Most rechargeable hearing aid batteries typically last around 20-24 hours or even less, especially if you’re using it to stream music and/or podcasts. The ReSound One, on the other hand, offers up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge. The case can also provide up to three full additional charges for the pair.

Another great feature is the inclusion of an additional microphone in the receiver component of the hearing aid, which increases sound localization by 15% when compared to BTE devices with omnidirectional microphones. Also, since the device has two microphones (one inside the receiver and one inside the device’s chassis), it allows you to more accurately recognize where sounds are coming from.

The ReSound One also offers several settings for noise/wind reduction and noise tracking. Also, every technology level or model tier includes ReSound’s Tinnitus Sound Generator (TSG), which can drown out tinnitus and helps the brain refocus on other sounds.

DNN technology improves sound and speech recognitionTelecoil compatibility available in all technology levelsSeven color models to choose fromIt only has three technology levelsStarting technology level is expensive, averaging over $2,700

Specs Hearing aid type Behind the ear (BTE) Type of hearing loss Mild to severe hearing loss Technology levels 3 (More 3, More 2, More 1) Price range per pair $2,700-$3,900 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Hands-free phone calls, iOS and Android compatibility, push button (program, volume, and mute control), telecoil on all technology levels, noise reduction, automatic acclimatization, bass boost, feedback protection, neural noise suppression, IP68 Manufacturer’s warranty 1 year

Why we chose the Oticon MORE: The Oticon MORE has one of the most advanced sound processing systems out there, using deep neural network technology to recognize and filter sound.

Oticon’s MORE hearing aid model stands out due to the device’s artificial intelligence, which includes “deep neural network technology” (DNN).

This technology is trained to recognize more than 12 million real-life sounds, helping the wearer’s brain recognize nuanced sounds that would be filtered out otherwise. At the moment, this is the only hearing aid that uses DNN to actually recognize and filter sound.

Additionally, the company’s own Center for Applied Audiology Research states that DNN increases speech understanding by fifteen percent, so you will be able to listen to friends and family more clearly in all situations.

Another great perk is that the Oticon MORE includes telecoil compatibility in all its technology levels, so you don’t have to worry about spending more for this feature.

The Oticon MORE can sync with most Apple products for direct streaming and two-way phone calls. It’s only compatible with some Android devices, however, so make sure to check its compatibility page and see if your device is listed.

Compatible with all Bluetooth devicesTelecoil and tinnitus balance available in all technology levels3-year manufacturer warrantyNo rechargeable battery optionModel is bulkier than other BTEs

Specs Hearing aid type Behind the ear (BTE) Type of hearing loss Severe to profound hearing loss Technology levels 4 (P30, P50, P70, P90) Price range per pair $2,800-$3,600 Battery type 675 zinc-air Features Bluetooth, iOS and Android compatibility, push button (program, volume, and audio control), hands-free calling, IP68, Telecoil on all technology levels, noise reduction, sound amplifier, feedback suppression, Tinnitus balance program on all technology levels, user-preference tuning, auto acclimatization Manufacturer’s warranty 3 years

Why we chose the Phonak Naida Paradise UP: The Naida Paradise UP with a zinc-air battery provides powerful sound processing for those with profound hearing loss, along with telecoil, bluetooth and a wide array of features.

In addition to its powerful sound processing, the Phonak Naida Paradise UP stands out thanks to its wireless compatibility. This means it can pair with most devices such as phones, tablets and computers to get direct streaming into the hearing aid. Additionally, each of the aid’s technology levels includes telecoil and tinnitus balance, so you can enjoy these features without paying extra, making it a better value than many competitors.

This UP version listed here is the most powerful model, and the most appropriate one for severe hearing loss. The UP uses a zinc-air non-rechargeable battery as opposed to the lithium-ion battery used in other models. This battery is more powerful and more efficient, providing a much more stable and consistent performance.

Unique tinnitus relief program”Soundsense Learn” feature saves and updates your sound preferencesSmallest rechargeable lithium-ion battery on the marketNeeds additional devices for Android and TV connectivityRemote care/tuning only available through an extra accessory

Specs Hearing aid type Behind the ear (BTE), Receiver in the canal (RIC) Type of hearing loss Mild to moderate hearing loss Technology levels 4 (110, 330, 440) Price range per pair $1,971-$3,521 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Machine-learning capabilities, Bluetooth, iOS connectivity, push button (program and volume control), IP 68, noise reduction, tinnitus balance (Zen program), wind and feedback protection Manufacturer’s warranty 2 years

Why we chose the Widex Moment: Widex provides a unique tinnitus relief program, with a catalog of sounds and techniques, along with an easily customizable sound platform.

There are many hearing aids that address tinnitus, but none do it like the Widex Moment. The device uses a phone app called “Zen” that provides tinnitus relief using music or calming tones. To do this, you access the Zen program on your mobile device, link it to your hearing aid, and cycle through various types of sound that can help you manage tinnitus effectively.

This is part of the Widex Zen Therapy, a four-part approach to not just relieve tinnitus, but decrease symptoms in the long term. The company provides a wide array of resources that can help with tinnitus — including ways to customize your device to fit your particular needs and tips on techniques on how to manage it.

All technology levels come with Widex’s “Soundsense Learn” option, which helps your hearing aid adapt to your surroundings more efficiently. When you’re at a specific location — a family meeting, for example — you can access the Soundsense section of the phone app, and it will prompt you to listen to two sound profiles linked to your vicinity. When you choose your preferred sound setting, the device will record it to a personal noise profile, so that you can access it again if you find yourself in a similarly noisy environment.

Rechargeable battery with up to 18 hours of runtime
Customizable sound profile on mobile app
Charges through USB-C
Doesn’t stream content from the phone
No telecoil

Specs Hearing aid type Behind the ear (BTE), Receiver in the canal (RIC) Type of hearing loss Mild to moderate hearing loss Technology levels 2 (B1, B2) Price range per pair $999 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Payable through FSA and HSA, intuitive and guided mobile app for self-tuning, World Volume settings raises low sounds for better awareness Manufacturer’s warranty 1 year

Why we chose the Lexie B2 OTC: The Lexie B2 OTC hearing aid, which is powered by Bose, provides the most customizable experience among over-the-counter options, while still maintaining its competitive price.

Now that hearing aids are available over the counter, Lexie has instantly become the most prominent name in the category. The B2, powered by Bose, is the company’s latest version of its popular product.

The Lexie B2 is a self-fitting and self-customizable hearing aid sold for $999 at major retailers, mainly Walgreens and CVS. The guide helps you select wire length and the package includes different domes for the in-canal receiver.

Through the Lexie app, which provides clear instructions, users are able to tune the aid to their particular specifications and preferences. The app provides control for bass and treble, and the World Volume feature, which helps turn up lower surrounding sounds for a more immersive experience, and customizable directionality. You can also preset favorite settings that fit the places you frequent the most.

Unfortunately, the B2 does not stream content from your phone nor does it include telecoil. However, Lexie does offer the Lumen model, which has telecoil and retails for less at $799; it does, however, have fewer features and less customization than the B2 model, though.

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Other Hearing Aid Brands We Considered

Some of the hearing aids in this section are direct-to-consumer (DTC) hearing devices, meaning devices that can be purchased directly online or through retailers. DTC devices are ready to be used upon purchase or after fine- tuning at home, without the support of an audiologist.

These types of hearing devices are relatively affordable, making them very popular. However, studies show that DTC devices can potentially deliver poor sound quality and uncomfortably loud sounds.

Eargo – Eargo 5 IIC
Sleek, invisible-in-canal (IIC) designRechargeable case45-day, no-questions-asked return policyNo professional help available for hearing adjustmentSome users say the device didn’t improve their hearingExpensive replacement parts

Specs Hearing aid type Invisible-in-canal (IIC), direct-to-consumer (DTC) Type of hearing loss Mild to moderate hearing loss Technology levels 1 Price range per pair $2,950 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features 4 preset sound profiles, User preference tuning, noise reduction, feedback cancellation, wind noise reduction, water resistant (no IP stated) Manufacturer’s warranty 2 years

Why it didn’t make the cut: Although tuning can help greatly with adjusting the device to your hearing, it won’t be as precise as getting tested and having the device fine-tuned by a professional according to your needs. The company doesn’t offer professional help, so you are left on your own to figure out how to adjust your device.

Jabra – Jabra Enhance Select series
Excellent warranty (three years for repairs and three years for loss or damage)
100-day risk free trial
Free shipping and returns
Users must own compatible iOS or Android device to operate the hearing aids
The most affordable model doesn’t include rechargeable batteries

Specs Hearing aid type Receiver-in-canal (RIC) Type of hearing loss Mild to moderate hearing loss Technology levels 3 Price range per pair $1,195- $1,995 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Noise reduction, speech clarity, sound amplification, wireless connectivity, music enhancement, directional microphone Manufacturer’s warranty 3 years

Why it didn’t make the cut: Jabra’s Enhance Select line may not work for tech-illiterate users. The hearing aids are designed to work with the Jabra Enhance App and support from hearing specialists is only available through that platform so those who don’t own compatible devices won’t be able to access many of its features.

Audien Hearing Atom series
Inexpensive models
Rechargeable batteries on all devices
Limited features
Not water resistant
Limited information and device specs online

Specs Hearing aid type In-the-canal Type of hearing loss Mild to moderate hearing loss Technology levels 2 Price range per pair $99-$249 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Feedback cancellation Manufacturer’s warranty 1 year

Why it didn’t make the cut: Audien Hearing devices lack features like background noise reduction, water resistance, telecoil and wireless connectivity. More importantly, the company product page doesn’t make a clear distinction between its PSAP hearing devices and its FDA-registered over-the-counter hearing aids, which may confuse consumers.

Audicus
Some models allow remote adjustment
Water resistant
45-day trial
Multiple payment options: upfront, financing or monthly membership
Online hearing test may not be as accurate as an in-person evaluation
In-person service is only available in Chicago, Denver and New York City

Specs Hearing aid type Completely-in-canal, receiver-in-canal Type of hearing loss Mild to moderate hearing loss Technology levels 3 Price range per pair $699-$1,499 per ear Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) and disposable Features Feedback cancellation, bluetooth connectivity, directional microphone, telecoil, tinnitus masker, noise reduction, moisture resistance, binaural synchronization Manufacturer’s warranty 2 year

Why it didn’t make the cut: Audicus diagnoses your level of hearing loss with an online hearing test and this testing format might not be as accurate as an in-person test administered by a specialist. Customers who’d like a more thorough test have limited options — there are only four Audicus locations available if you want a professional to properly fit and adjust the hearing aid.

MD Hearing Aids – Volt Hearing Aid
Inexpensive at $599.98Two-year warranty45-day risk-free trial periodFree shipping on all devicesSound profiles are preset and you can’t change themMoney-back guarantee is limited to 45 days

Specs Hearing aid type Behind-the-ear (BTE), direct-to-consumer (DTC) Type of hearing loss Mild to moderate hearing loss Technology levels 1 Price range per pair $599.98 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Sound amplification, rechargeable battery, noise reduction, feedback reduction, water resistant (no IP stated), 4 sound profiles Manufacturer’s warranty 2 years

Why it didn’t make the cut: The Volt lacks smartphone or Bluetooth connection, which means that users can’t program or adjust the hearing aid from a mobile device. MD Hearing does have a premium model called “Core” that includes programming via an app, but the device falls short for two reasons: it isn’t water resistant and doesn’t include rechargeable batteries.

Costco – Kirkland Signature 10.0
Device has telecoil and Bluetooth capabilitiesHearing aids can be adjusted by professionals at Costco hearing aid centersCharging case includedNot all Costco locations have hearing aid centersDevice will likely be set by a hearing instrument specialistYou need a Costco membership to access a hearing professional

Specs Hearing aid type Behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), direct-to-consumer (DTC) Type of hearing loss Mild to moderate hearing loss Technology levels 1 Price range per pair $1,399.99 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Telecoil, Bluetooth, iOS and Android connectivity, remote adjustment available, four sound profiles Manufacturer’s warranty 3 years

Why it didn’t make the cut: Not all Costco store locations have a hearing aid center, and they mostly employ hearing instrument specialists, not trained audiologists. These two factors kept the Kirkland 10.0 device out of our top choices.

Signia Active Series
Long 26-hour runtimeSleek, earbud-style designAI smart assistant helps you determine the best sound settingsMight appear to be too similar to headphonesExpensive, premium model surpasses $4,000

Specs Hearing aid type In-the-ear (ITE) Type of hearing loss Mild to severe hearing loss Technology levels 1 Price range per pair $2,600-$4,100 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features 26 hour runtime, Bluetooth connectivity, speech enhancement, Signia Xperience app, ambient noise control Manufacturer’s warranty 1 year

Why it didn’t make the cut: We found that the high price tag of the Signia Active hearing aid doesn’t justify the features it offers. The device has an exceptional battery life but it isn’t water resistant and doesn’t have control buttons on the earbuds. This might be frustrating for users who’d like to make adjustments on the fly without needing to reach for their smartphone.

Phonak Audéo Fit
Its health tracking capabilities make it a great option for active lifestylesPhysical button makes it much easier to use while on a runOnly two technology levelsOutdated micro-USB charging port

Specs Hearing aid type Behind the ear (BTE), receiver in the canal (RIC) Type of hearing loss Mild to severe hearing loss Technology levels 2 (P70, P90) Price range per pair $3,300-$3,700 Battery type Rechargeable (lithium-ion) Features Bluetooth, iOS and Android connectivity, hands-free phone calls, debris and water resistant (IP68), physical button, , directional microphone, health tracking Manufacturer’s warranty 1 year

Why it didn’t make the cut: The Audéo Fit falls short when it comes to technology levels and features. We found that other competitors within the same price range offer more features. There’s also a lack of available information even on the spec sheet, which doesn’t provide essential information such as estimated battery runtime.

Hearing Aids Guide

When buying a hearing aid, it’s important to understand how they work and the features you may want or need for your lifestyle. Most hearing aids do an excellent job at capturing daily environmental sounds and regular conversations so you’ll have plenty of options if these are your main concerns.

However, a musician with hearing loss might need a device that’s also capable of picking up all the complex sounds in a piece of music. Or you might be an avid fan of the theater and need a device with a telecoil so you can hear the performance directly from the actor’s microphone.

Make sure to consult a doctor before starting your buying process, so you know how much hearing loss you have and get help for any underlying conditions that might be causing it.

Read on to learn more about hearing aids.

What are hearing aids and how do they work?

Hearing aids are electronic devices worn in or behind the ear that improve hearing by amplifying sound. Although they can look like earbuds, they are sophisticated devices meant to mitigate hearing loss.

All modern hearing aid brands have three basic parts: a microphone, an amplifier and a speaker. The device’s small microphone receives sound and sends it to a microchip that converts it into a digital signal. The amplifier then increases the strength of the digital signal and the speaker reproduces the amplified sound into the ear.

You’ll need to undergo a hearing test first. Then, a hearing specialist will program the new hearing aid to the specific degree of hearing loss observed in the test. Some hearing aids have automatic features that adjust volume for improved hearing in different listening environments.

Hearing aids can help with almost all levels of hearing loss, although profound hearing loss is usually handled by a special hearing aid called a cochlear implant, which connects the hearing aid to the inner ear.

Types of hearing aids

There are two main types of hearing aids: behind the ear (BTE) and canal hearing aids. Both styles come in a variety of configurations to best suit the user’s comfort and hearing loss level.

BTE-style hearing aids include receiver-in-canal (RIC) aids, while canal hearing aids can be further broken down into four more different styles. We explain each one below.

Behind-the-ear style hearing aids

Device position diminishes sound blocking
Can address mild to profound hearing loss
Chassis size makes it possible to include other functionalities
Chassis is more durableReceivers can break easily and require frequent maintenance
Not as discreet as canal hearing aids

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are large casings placed behind the user’s ear, with a tube that redirects sound into the ear canal. Despite this tube, all of the aid’s hardware is inside the case. This means that it can often house bigger and better components, usually making it the most powerful alternative for profound hearing loss and for people who want feature-packed devices.

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) aids

Smaller than BTE hearing aids
Easy to fit to patient’s ear compared to in-ear and in-canal models
Receiver and microphone placement render a clearer sound and reduced feedback
Less powerful than BTE models
Receiver is more susceptible to moisture and earwax buildup

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) aids have a speaker inside the ear canal, connected to the rest of the device via a thin wire. This makes them smaller than their BTE counterparts, usually at the expense of more power, rendering them less suitable for people with profound hearing loss. Nevertheless, sound can be clearer due to the speaker being directly placed in the canal, and farther from the microphones, which reduces feedback.

Despite their name, it’s important not to confuse RIC hearing aids with other in-the-canal models described below. While the receiver and speaker are located inside the canal, the rest of the device is placed behind the ear and it’s much bigger than its in-the-canal counterparts, making it more powerful and better suited for severe or profound hearing loss.

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids

Custom fitted to fit the contours of your ear
Easy to remove and adjust as needed
Available in two styles: full or half-shell
More noticeable, compared to other in-canal aids
May pick up more background noise

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids can include other, smaller in-canal aids — we go over these models below — but it’s commonly used to refer to full-shell hearing aids. These hearing aids fit into a large portion of the outer ear and are almost completely visible. In-ear hearing aids provide significant comfort and have a higher chance to fit a telecoil, a small coil that picks up electromagnetic waves from compatible systems used in places like movie theaters and concert stages.

In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids

Except for in-the-ear (ITE) models, most canal models are discreet
They are custom-molded to your ear canal
They use less battery power than BTE models
Batteries are smaller thus have shorter runtimes
Can be problematic to put on if you have dexterity challenges
Their small size makes it difficult to add features like Bluetooth
They are easier to lose or misplace
They only address mild to moderate hearing loss

In-the-canal (ITC) aids are slightly smaller and are made to fit inside the ear canal, and only a small part of them is visible from the outside. They can provide better hearing since they’re so close to the eardrum. However, the size does limit the number of features it can have and the device’s amplifying power.

Completely-in-canal (CIC) and invisible-in-canal hearing aids

Smaller and almost indetectable
Less sensitive to wind
Reduces the occlusion effect that can happen with other devices
Small batteries may be difficult to handle
Less features than other hearing aid models
Best for mild to moderate hearing loss

Completely-in-canal (CIC) devices and their smaller cousins, invisible-in-canal (IIC), are very small hearing aids designed and custom made to fit deep inside the ear canal. These are the most invisible hearing aids available and this is their main advantage, along with a more natural listening experience.

However, the smaller hearing aids get, the less power they have to amplify and process outside noise. This also limits the amount of features, such as bluetooth connectivity, telecoil and its battery runtime.

Hearing aids vs. cochlear implants

While they both treat hearing loss, these devices work very differently. Hearing aids are wearable devices that can be easily removed while cochlear implants require surgery.

Hearing aid Cochlear implant Wearable devices that can be easily removed (no surgery required) Surgically implanted and connected directly to the auditory nerve Amplifies sound and makes it easier for users to detect and understand these sounds Transmits signals to the auditory nerve, which the brain then processes and understands as sound Suited for people with mild to profound hearing loss and fair speech understanding Used by deaf people or people with severe hearing loss
Hearing aids vs. personal sound amplification products (PSAPs)

Also known simply as amplifiers, PSAPs are very similar to hearing aids in look and overall functionality as they amplify sound for the benefit of the user. However, they’re not medical devices whereas hearing aids are made specifically as an aid to hearing loss.

Hearing aid PSAPs Wearable medical devices that can be easily removed Auditory equivalent of binoculars for people with normal hearing — they pick up and amplify sounds in the environment They amplify sound and make it easier for users to detect and understand these sounds Often used for tactical purposes, hobbies or other activities that require noise enhancement The device is able to differentiate between different types of sound, process it and amplify it to the necessary degree Not suitable for people with any degree of hearing loss

While PSAPs are typically more affordable than hearing aids, they’re not a good substitute. These devices could result in further hearing loss since, without a doctor’s involvement, it will not address the actual root cause of your hearing loss. Additionally, indiscriminate amplification could make sounds loud enough to be harmful to the ear.

How do hearing aids work?

Hearing aid technology levels

All hearing aids come in a variety of technology levels. Technology levels are very important, since they determine how many features the hearing aid has.

When we say features, we don’t just mean physical characteristics, such as telecoil, but programs that are added to the hearing aid’s processor. It’s similar to the features in a smartphone: there’s the device itself and the apps you have installed. In this case, the hearing aid’s features would also include the apps.

Technology levels used to average at around three to four, but nowadays some manufacturers offer from one to six. The table below breaks down the average technology level name, and the features normally found on that level.

Technology level Features Basic Feedback suppression, noise reduction (1 level), speech compression Standard Feedback suppression, noise reduction (1-3 levels), speech compression, wind noise management, tinnitus relief, binaural processing Advanced Feedback suppression, noise reduction (1-4 levels), speech compression, wind noise management, tinnitus relief, binaural processing, wireless capabilities, directional microphone adaptability, auto volume, music enhancer, telecoil Premium Feedback suppression, noise reduction (1-4 levels), speech compression, wind noise management, tinnitus relief, binaural processing, wireless connectivity capabilities, directional microphone adaptability, auto volume, music enhancer, telecoil, natural sound smoothing, sound classifier, range extender
Hearing aid features to know

Telecoil

Telecoil, also known as T-coil, is a coiled copper wire that can be added to your hearing aid. The coil is sensitive to magnetic fields, and it creates a magnetic signal that can be picked up by other objects with a T-coil. This gives you the option to switch from listening with your hearing aid’s microphone to hearing through the signals that’s picked by the coil.

For example, if your hearing aid and your smartphone have a telecoil installed and linked, you would hear what a caller is saying without having to put the phone on your ear. Telecoil is typically offered by hearing aid manufacturers at the advanced technology level, but there are some, like the Phonak Naida Paradise UP, that provide it with every hearing aid level.

Telecoil isn’t limited to phones, since many theaters, cinemas, places of worship, and meeting rooms have what is known as a “Hearing Loop” system. Using a microphone, an amplifier, and a copper loop cable, hearing loops directly transfers sound picked up by the system into your hearing aid’s telecoil.

Feedback suppression

Feedback is a sound loop that occurs when a microphone picks up sound from a speaker that’s simultaneously transmitting sound from that same microphone. The resulting sound is a high-pitched humming, whistling or screeching noise that is often uncomfortable to hear.

Feedback suppression identifies feedback sounds and digitally reduces or eliminates them before they reach the wearer’s ear, thus reducing discomfort and improving the hearing experience.

Speech compression

A hearing aid works by amplifying the sounds of speech in the user’s ear. People naturally have a dynamic volume range when speaking — some sounds are louder and others are softer. A person with hearing loss needs amplification to pick up quiet, soft speech sounds and without speech compression, this amplification may then over-amplify loud sounds to the point of distortion.

Speech compression processes incoming speech digitally (soft, normal and loud sounds) to amplify quiet sounds while keeping loud sounds at an appropriate level. An audiologist can set the speech compression settings while programming and fitting the hearing aid for the first time.

Speech compression is available in all hearing aid technology levels, from basic to premium

Tinnitus relief

Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, clicking or roaring sensation in the ear. It can happen anytime, anywhere, and only you can hear it. The condition has a variety of causes (old age, exposure to loud noises, damage to the inner ear and even certain medications) and often affects people with hearing loss. It can be very intrusive, disrupting the day-to-day activities and the sleep of those who suffer from it.

There is currently no cure for tinnitus but its perception can be managed with hearing aids. Most devices mask tinnitus by making the sounds around you loud enough to shift your attention away from the ringing noise. Newer models can also mask tinnitus by playing sound therapy such as white noise or music.

Binaural processing

Binaural processing is a digital feature that processes sound from each ear and combines all this auditory input to create a better hearing experience, with better sound quality and less background noise.

Without binaural processing, the user would be receiving unregulated input from both ears at the same time, resulting in an overwhelming listening experience at times.

Wireless connectivity capabilities

Wireless connectivity — bluetooth or WiFi — connects your hearing aid to other devices such as smartphones, tablets, TVs and computers without a cable.

Wireless connectivity and bluetooth streaming create a direct connection between the hearing aid and the third-party device, eliminating any background noise that would otherwise interfere with the user’s listening experience while answering phone calls or listening to music and movies. You’ll also be able to modify hearing sound levels and other settings from your smartphone instead of having to adjust your hearing aid through manual control buttons.

Directional microphone adaptability

One of the most recent technological advancements in hearing aids, directional microphone adaptability allows the microphone in your hearing aid to automatically change the direction it’s pointing towards depending on where the speech and sound is coming from. If, for example, you’re in a noisy environment and someone to your right starts speaking, the microphone would aim at the person that’s speaking and zero in on their voice while reducing distracting background noise.

Music enhancer

Hearing aids are optimized to pick up speech sounds, not so much music. Music has a wider range of sounds that are challenging for hearing aids to amplify accurately.

Advanced and premium hearing aids may include customizable settings that you or your audiologist can program to pick up sound better in certain environments like a concert venue or if you’re listening to music at home. When the situation requires it, you change the settings of your hearing aids to a pre-set program designed specifically for music.

Sound classifier

Also known as environmental classification, this feature identifies the sound and in which environment it is occurring, and adjusts the device settings accordingly. A hearing aid with a sound classifier is able to distinguish speech in a quiet environment (like your home) versus speech in a noisy environment, such as a crowded restaurant and turns on the settings that are most appropriate for where you are.

How much do hearing aids cost?

Retailers such as Walgreens and CVS report that prescription hearing aids cost $2,000 to $8,000 a pair, depending on the model and retailer. Over-the-counter alternatives are slightly more affordable, priced around $200 to $3,000 per pair.

Over–the-counter hearing aids

As of October 17th, 2022, the Federal Drug Administration(FDA) allowed retailers to sell hearing aids without a prescription to customers 18 years of age and older. The new legislation by the Biden-Harris administration allows people with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss access to over-the-counter devices without a medical exam, prescription or professional fitting. Stores like Walmart, Walgreens, CVS and Best Buy have started selling over-the-counter models since then.

Previously, you could get direct-to-consumer (DTC) models that lacked the customization and expert fitting of more specialized models, but these still required a prescription. Now, however, customers can simply purchase a hearing aid at a moment’s notice and, along with the included guides, fit the wire and dome, and customize it to their hearing needs.

It’s important to keep in mind that this doesn’t mean that all hearing aids — such as devices designed for severe hearing impairment or minors — are available this way nor that prices will immediately plummet. Many of these devices are designed to be molded and custom-fitted by professionals to fit the user’s diagnosis. Nevertheless, brands that were already direct-to-consumer, such as Eargo, can more easily make the switch.

Over-the-counter vs prescribed hearing aids

Close to 30 million adults in the U.S. may benefit from hearing aids. However, not all hearing aids are created equal and even though OTC models are now more accessible, prescription devices are still necessary for particular cases.

Over-the-counter Prescribed hearing aids Intended for mild to moderate hearing loss Suitable for all degrees of hearing loss, from mild to profound Sold at pharmacies, online and physical stores without a medical exam or professional fitting Available through an audiologist after a medical exam and diagnosis Prices range from $799 to $1,000 Prices range from $2,000 to $8,000 Not sold to people under 18 years of age Suitable for patients of all ages Regulated by the FDA Regulated by the FDA

*Based on hearing aid price ranges reported on White House press release. Retailers include Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, Best Buy and Hy-Vee..

Things to keep in mind when buying hearing aids

One of the things users might notice first is just how costly hearing aids can be. Keep in mind these are high-tech medical devices meant to help with hearing loss, and will cost upwards of $1,000, often surpassing $3,000.

It’s not just the technology that leads to the high price point — most hearing aids need to be custom-fitted into the user’s ear and manufactured accordingly. There are also any additional features or upgrades, such as bluetooth connectivity, health tracking and tinnitus relief.

Technology levels raise overall cost

It’s important to check technology levels when comparing hearing aid prices. How much each level costs and the number of features it includes can vary widely depending on the manufacturer.

For example, the Signia Styletto X model has five technology levels which range from $1,808 for the level one tier up to $3,401 for the level five tier. On the other hand, the ReSound One hearing aid has four technology levels and they all range around $3,000.

Most healthcare insurance policies don’t cover hearing aids

Unfortunately, most insurance companies don’t fully cover hearing aids since they see them as elective rather than a necessity.

This could be partially due to the fact that, in the United States alone, 48 million people are affected by hearing loss and hearing aids are fairly expensive devices. Nevertheless, some insurance policies, such as Medicare Part B, do cover other things related to hearing loss, such as diagnostics and balance exams.

However, as of October 17, 2022, there is hope for affordable hearing aids. The FDA’s new category of over-the-counter hearing aids are available without a medical exam, prescription or audiologist fitting in retailers nationwide. These hearing aids would be programmable, and you could take them to a hearing specialist to fit them to your hearing needs.

Hearing aid longevity

The typical hearing aid life span is between three to seven years, depending on the model, how well you take care of them and how much you use them.

Their longevity is also dependent on the combination of the material used to make its chassis and circuitry, and the hearing aid’s style/type. For instance, an IIC hearing aid is smaller than an RIC one, and its delicate components have a higher risk of being damaged by accident. As another example, CIC hearing aids are more susceptible to moisture and wax damage due to being deep inside the ear canal.

If you want your hearing aids to last as much as possible, we recommend that you clean them thoroughly, bring them to your hearing care provider for adjustment and maintenance and keep them away from damp environments.

Hearing aids are not waterproof

Like many electronics, hearing aids have a debris and water resistance rating known as the ingress protection rating (IP). While the IP rating reflects how resistant a device is to these factors, it does not indicate that a device is entirely waterproof.

For example, a high rating of IP68, which many aids have, means it can withstand a level of submersion (about 1.5 meters) for a certain amount of time (typically 30 minutes).

This still doesn’t mean you should swim or shower with your device, as it can deteriorate over time. The high resistance is mostly meant to help it withstand sweating and accidental drops.

If you leave your devices in damp areas or live in a humid environment, you should take extra precautions to protect them and extend their longevity. You can buy disposable hearing aid dehumidifiers, or even UV light devices that remove humidity overnight.

Hearing aids for musicians

Even the best hearing aids are limited when it comes to processing music. The same features that excel at amplifying speech fall short when processing the dynamic shifts in loudness, frequency and timber that add complexity and richness to a piece of music. As a result, the music may sound unclear, distorted or flat.

This poses a challenge for musicians, but there are ways to optimize the device and improve the listening experience. An audiologist can tweak your hearing aid device to create a custom, pre-programmed setting just for music. You can also splurge on custom ear molds, which are better than a standard ear dome at picking up lower frequency bass sounds.

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How to choose the best hearing aid for you

When choosing a hearing aid, keep in mind your level of hearing loss, your personal preferences and your overall lifestyle. These are expensive medical devices that will be in your ears for the better part of three to seven years.

Consult a hearing care professional

Always consult a hearing care professional, such as an audiologist or an otolaryngologist. You need to check your hearing properly in order to identify your level of hearing loss and any underlying conditions that could be affecting your hearing health.

There are countless websites that offer free online hearing tests, but none will be as precise as a professional one.

Also, hearing experts use what is known as “real ear measurements,” a method that guarantees that your hearing aid will be programmed to your exact needs. A proper appointment and care will provide you not only with the information you need regarding your condition, but with the tools to get a hearing aid that fits you comfortably. Hearing care professionals will also schedule follow-up appointments to see how you’re adjusting to the device and make any necessary modifications. It can take several months to get used to a new hearing aid and find the settings that work best.

Keep an eye on warranties, payment plans and trading discounts

Since hearing aids can be a huge investment, you need to know how to plan financially for them.

First, know how long your warranty is, and whether you’d like to extend it. Most companies allow you to extend your warranty for an extra two to three years. Although this comes at an additional cost, having an extended warranty is very helpful, since it can protect you from having to spend even more on a new pair.

Secondly, check to see if you can pay for your hearing aids in installments. Most manufacturers and hearing centers have payment plan programs designed to make them more accessible. Direct-to-consumer devices can also offer payment plans.

Finally, check to see if your hearing expert allows you to trade in your old hearing aids for new ones. Some companies also allow you to trade them for discounts and upgrade them to newer models.

Look for financial assistance

There are many programs and organizations that can help you obtain or pay for hearing aids. Each organization offers different services and has different requirements, so you need to do a little research before you apply. We have listed a few of these programs below.

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