The 10 best hearing aids of 2024, according to experts | Fortune Recommends Health (2024)

In a world of innovation and technology, it’s only fitting that hearing aids continue to advance at a remarkable pace. The landscape of hearing solutions has evolved dramatically ( 1 ), offering individuals with hearing loss the chance to embrace life with greater clarity and confidence than ever before ( 2 ). The expert review team set out to uncover the best hearing aids of 2024, exploring the latest offerings from leading manufacturers.

Our team of experts, audiologists, and consumers with hearing loss conducted a thorough evaluation of dozens of over-the-counter and prescription hearing aid models, scrutinizing their performance across various parameters, including sound quality, ease of use, design, connectivity options, and affordability.

Our picks for the best hearing aids in 2024

• Best overall: Jabra Enhance Select 300

Best hearing aid overall: Jabra Enhance – Select 300

Why we like Jabra Enhance Select 300 as best overall

The Jabra Enhance Select 300 hearing aids stand out as a superb overall choice due to their advanced technology, discreet design, and user-friendly features. These hearing aids are designed to provide users with a remarkable auditory experience that combines clarity and comfort.

Jabra Enhance offers two Select 300 models: Basic, which comes pre-programmed to fit, set up, and manage yourself out of the box; and Premium, which is custom-programmed to your unique hearing needs.

One of the standout features of these hearing aids is their sleek and comfortable design. They are Jabra’s most inconspicuous model when worn, making them an attractive choice if you prioritize aesthetics and want your hearing aids to blend almost seamlessly into your daily life. During testing, the our staff found them to be so comfortable that they thought they had misplaced them—but the devices were still in their ears.

The Jabra Enhance Select 300 hearing aids are equipped with advanced sound processing and noise reduction features, which enhance sound quality and speech understanding in a variety of environments.

There are two other versions of the Jabra Enhance:

• Select 50: best for quieter situations like watching TV at home
• Select 100: for active lifestyles and tricky situations like conversations at a noisy restaurant

We like the Select 300 of all the models because it has the best sound processing. They’re ideal for the most complex listening situations, such as hearing multiple people at a loud gathering.

The Jabra Enhance Select 300 also comes with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to wirelessly connect to their smartphones and other devices. This feature enables you to stream phone calls, music, and other audio directly to their hearing aids, enhancing your overall listening experience and convenience.

However, our testers did find the music streaming to be a bit fuzzy on the Select 300. But this was a small downside to the benefits they enjoyed, such as ease of use, comfort, and listening quality.

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Best invisible hearing aid: Eargo 7

Why we Like Eargo 7 as best invisible

The Eargo 7 hearing aids are an exceptional choice if you’re looking for invisible hearing aids, thanks to their unique and discreet design. Like Eargo’s previous versions, its Eargo 7 devices sit deep within the ear canal, making them virtually invisible when worn. Their inconspicuous appearance addresses the cosmetic concerns if you prefer a discreet hearing solution ( 3 ), allowing you to regain your hearing without drawing attention to your ears.

Despite their small size, the Eargo 7 hearing aids offer impressive performance. They incorporate advanced technology that helps ensure you can hear comfortably in various environments. Additionally, Eargo’s innovative design allows for natural sound amplification, preserving the nuances of speech and environmental sounds while minimizing the discomfort or occlusion effect often associated with in-ear hearing aids.

The user-friendliness of Eargo 7 further enhances their appeal. They are easy to insert, remove, and clean, and they come with a convenient charging case.

What customers are saying

Amazon customers like how small and discreet the Eargo 7s are—they sometimes forget they’re wearing them. They also like how much they improve the sound of people’s voices.

“My experience with the Eargo 7 has so far been wonderful, boasts verified Amazon reviewer Linda. “I have had them for about three weeks, and I do wonder how I managed before them. Not only have they allowed me to hear extremely well, I love their invisibility, as well. I have always avoided wanting to wear hearing aids because I often wear my hair up and I did not want them to show. I did experience some soreness from wearing the hearing aids the first few days and maybe that’s because my ear canal is small or just wearing some in your ear takes some getting used to, but since then I usually forget they are there, but I never forget how well I hear now.”

Some negative reviews on Amazon note that the maintenance is too much for them to handle. Others note that they have a hard time fitting the hearing aids into their ears.

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Best affordable hearing aid: Audien Atom 2

Why we like Audien Atom 2 as best affordable

Audien is known for its affordable over-the-counter hearing aids, with some versions costing as little as $189 a pair. Their Audien Atom 2 hearing aids are a cost-effective option if you have mild to moderate hearing loss and are looking for budget-friendly hearing aids.

Audien’s Atom 2 hearing aids are their most powerful in-the-ear version. After testing, our product reviewers noted that the hearing aids were easy to use and had straightforward features, such as four listening modes, a wireless charging case with additional charges, and a UV sanitation light.

Our testers also found them to be lightweight and comfortable with none of that “congested” feel you get with some hearing aids. They also stay put—our testers didn’t notice them moving when they shook their heads.

What customers are saying

Amazon users like how the Atom 2 reduces background noise, that they are comfortable enough to wear all day, and that the controls are easy to use and settings easy to adjust.

“These are my first hearing aids,” begins verified Amazon reviewer Mike. “The manual was clear, straightforward, and complete. The hearing aids are very comfortable in place. There is some squeal as you put them in place but once in place it’s gone. I have mild to moderate hearing loss so I only needed the second of five volume levels. There are four different environments you can select: conversation, restaurants, TV, and outdoors. You can also change volume settings when they are in place since there are different tones for all of the settings. They work great.”

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Best hearing aid for seniors: Lexie B1

Why we like Lexie B1 as best for seniors

The Lexie B1 hearing aids are an excellent choice for older adults because they are designed with the unique needs of seniors in mind. Our product testers found the setup to be very intuitive and the app easy to understand with plenty of images, videos, and graphics to explain how to fit the devices into your ears.

The Lexie B1s also feature user-friendly controls and interfaces, making them accessible and easy to operate if you are not very tech-savvy or have problems with dexterity. You can adjust settings and customize your hearing experience with minimal effort.

Additionally, the Lexie B1 is made by Bose, a powerhouse of sound innovation. These hearing aids have impressive Bose technology built right in.

The Lexie B1 also offers personalized sound adjustments, allowing you to fine-tune your hearing aids to match your specific hearing needs. This customization can significantly enhance speech clarity and overall sound quality, ensuring you can engage in conversations and enjoy various listening situations with ease.

Affordability is often a crucial factor for older adults, and Lexie B1 hearing aids often provide a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality. They offer the opportunity to improve your hearing and overall quality of life without breaking the bank.

While the devices’ controls are user-friendly, one potential drawback for people with limited vision or dexterity may be the batteries. They can be difficult to change due to their small size and the hearing aids’ small battery doors.

What customers are saying

Amazon users appreciate the sound quality and the comfortable fit. They also like how they work well in a variety of settings.

“Almost two weeks have passed since my Lexie B1 aids arrived and I could not be happier, boasts verified Amazon reviewer Jim. “They’re not uncomfortable at all, and I can hear! I am 68, and worked in a very noisy environment during my state trooper firearms instructor and siren above my head career. Sounds that I have not perceived in years are clear to me now. I found that the smaller ear bits are more comfortable and efficient than the larger bits. The other evening a pleasant female voice said ‘low battery’ in my ear which kept me from replacing batteries prematurely. The iPhone app is great and easy to use, although sometimes they might not connect but restarting the Bluetooth on the phone sorts that issue out. I wish I had been able to use these for the past ten years, as I have obviously missed a lot in conversation and surroundings. I am impressed with the quality and support. After all, they’re Bose! Color me ecstatic.”

Many Amazon customers note having issues connecting to the app. Others note having trouble finding the right size for their ears.

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Best OTC hearing aid: MDHearing

Why we like MDHearing as the best OTC

MDHearing aids have gained a reputation as a reliable brand in the over-the-counter (OTC) ( 4 ) hearing aid market, earning the trust of many individuals seeking affordable care. While MDHearing devices are sold over the counter, its hearing aids are backed by lifetime support from its U.S.-based audiologists and hearing aid specialists.

MDHearing’s hearing aids are known for their low price point, offering a cost-effective option if you’re looking to address mild to moderate hearing loss without breaking the bank. Since they’re sold over the counter, you can purchase them without a prescription or an audiologist appointment, making them a convenient choice for quick hearing improvement.

There are four MDHearing varieties currently on the market:

• NEO XS
• NEO
• VOLT
• AIR

The NEO and NEO XS are in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids, while the VOLT and AIR are behind-the-ear (BTE). They range in price from $297 to $397 per pair. All are designed with user-friendliness in mind. Our product testers have tested the NEO, VOLT, and AIR models. They appreciated the straightforward controls and settings that empower you to make adjustments independently.

However, they did find it difficult to learn some of the settings, like how to adjust the volume. Otherwise, once they got used to the settings, they had few problems.

What customers are saying

Amazon customers like how MDHearing devices are easy to use, especially for older people with dexterity issues. The sound is clear with no echo. They say they work well for the modest price.

Verified Amazon reviewer William purchased the MDHearing AIR and says, “Overall, I really like these hearing aids. They are easy to charge, although you have to pay attention to make sure they are both charging. The controls are super easy. The sound is digital, meaning that it is a bit thin and sometimes shrill, but overall, it has good sound and very consistent. It does an excellent job of making voices easy to understand.”

“After several weeks, I have been extremely pleased with this product,” boasts verified Amazon reviewer Jim, “ I have slight hearing loss in one ear and moderate loss in the other. From the moment I put the MD hearing aids on, I realized what an amazing difference there was. I was hearing things that I didn’t even know that I was missing. The hearing aids are well made and the controls are easy to master and provide a wide range of volume and programs for various situations. Also, the batteries are rechargeable and that is a real plus. These are great over the counter hearing aids at a great price point. I am hearing things better than I have in years.”

Many negative Amazon reviews note a high-pitch noise in the hearing aids every time they try to adjust them.

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Best Bluetooth hearing aid: Lexie B2

Why we like Lexie B2 as best Bluetooth

The Lexie B2 Plus hearing aid emerges as an excellent choice for those seeking a Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid due to its blend of cutting-edge technology and user convenience.

Like the Lexie B1, the Lexie B2 is equipped with powerful Bose sound technology and Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to wirelessly pair your hearing aids with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and televisions. With the Lexie B2 Plus, you can effortlessly stream audio directly to your hearing aids, enhancing your listening experience for phone calls, music, and video content.

Our product testers found the clarity to be excellent. Setting up audio streaming on the B2 was a breeze. They also said the streaming sound quality is very strong and clear through their iPhones.

The Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids also come equipped with user-friendly apps that enable you to control and customize your hearing experience via your smartphone. This level of personalization ensures you can adapt their hearing aids to suit your specific preferences and listening environments with ease.

Additionally, the Lexie brand’s commitment to affordability makes the Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids an attractive option for those seeking Bluetooth-enabled devices without breaking the bank. This combination of advanced connectivity, customization, and cost-effectiveness positions the Lexie B2 Plus as a top choice for anyone who wants to seamlessly integrate their hearing aids with their digital lifestyles while enjoying clear and comfortable sound.

They do come at a higher price than their counterpart, the Lexie B1 ($849 vs. $999, respectively). However, they’re still a cost-effective option, as some hearing aids can cost $2,000 or more.

What customers are saying

Amazon users love the Bluetooth connectivity of the Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids and that it can stream music and calls, unlike the Lexie B1. They also like how well the app works with their devices.

Verified Amazon reviewer David F. says, “I’ve had them in for almost a week and I have no complaints. Feeling them in my ears is kind of weird and when I think about them I feel like I want to scratch my ears, but only if I’m thinking about them. I wore them while playing music with friends and they really helped in that regard. I could clearly hear my guitar and also my voice when I was singing. I no longer have to turn down the base and turn up the volume and treble on my sound system to understand a narrator reading an audiobook. The free Lexie app is very easy to use and they were easily set up for use. They charge in three hours and the charge is supposed to last for about 15 hours. Overall, I think it was a great investment. I’m very satisfied.”

Verified Amazon reviewer Tom notes that it takes time to adjust the volume settings to what works for you. He states, “These units do improve hearing overall. The higher frequencies, however, aren’t the sharpest. These are comfortable, and once the proper domes are selected, they work well all day long. The battery life is excellent, easily lasting at a useful level for an entire day. It does take some adjusting of the sound levels and bass and treble to get what works best for you. Overall I recommend these for anyone with moderate hearing difficulties.”

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Best hearing aid for severe hearing loss: Phonak Audéo Lumity

Why we like Phonak Audéo Lumity as best for severe hearing loss

The Phonak Audéo Lumity hearing aids are designed to provide powerful amplification and exceptional clarity, making them highly effective in addressing the needs of those with significant hearing losses ( 5 ).

With their advanced technology and robust sound processing capabilities, the Phonak Audéo Lumity hearing aids can accommodate the greater amplification requirements that severe hearing loss often demands. They are a significant step up from Phonak’s Paradise line with added features to help improve your listening experience.

For example, the Audéo Lumity hearing aids feature adaptive programs and speech enhancement technologies, helping you better understand speech in noisy environments despite severe hearing loss. This can greatly improve communication and overall quality of life if you have struggled in challenging listening situations in the past.

These hearing aids come with a range of customizable features, allowing you to fine-tune your devices to your unique preferences and specific hearing needs. They are also compatible with the MyPhonak mobile app. This app allows you to track additional health data, such as total daily steps and heart rate.

Our product testers found the multi-function button works great to transition between on/off, phone calls, flight mode, and Bluetooth connectivity. But it is pretty small, so if you have difficulty using it, we suggest switching to the app to make these adjustments instead.

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Best CROS hearing aid: Signia Pure Charge

Why we like Signia Pure Charge as best CROS

For individuals with single-sided deafness or significant hearing loss in one ear, traditional hearing aids may not be as effective. Contralateral routing of signals (CROS) technology enables hearing aids to reroute sound between the deaf and hearing ears and can provide an innovative solution for unilaterally deaf individuals ( 6 ).

Our pick among CROS hearing aids is the Signia Pure Charge CROS. These hearing aids excel in offering a seamless way to improve sound awareness and speech understanding for individuals with single-sided deafness. It is a small, behind-the-ear device with Bluetooth connectivity. It’s designed to understand your personal hearing environment in greater detail to deliver sound catered precisely to your needs due to its auto-motion sensor technology.

The Signia Pure Charge devices capture sound from the non-hearing ear and transmit it to the ear with better hearing, effectively bridging the gap and allowing you to hear sounds from all directions. This innovative technology enhances overall sound awareness, making it easier for you to engage in conversations and navigate your surroundings more effectively.

The Signia Pure Charge CROS hearing aids are also equipped with lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, reducing the need for constant battery replacements. This feature is particularly beneficial if you have dexterity or mobility challenges.

Also, note that the Signia Pure Charge CROS hearing aids require a prescription. You must get an evaluation at a hearing clinic before you can buy them.

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Best hearing aid for tinnitus: ReSound Omnia

Why we like ReSound Omnia as best for tinnitus

ReSound Omnia hearing aids are an outstanding choice if you’re dealing with tinnitus, a condition characterized by the perception of ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ears ( 7 ). These hearing aids incorporate specialized features and technology to help manage and alleviate the symptoms of tinnitus, making them a valuable solution if you have both hearing loss and tinnitus.

“Tinnitus is a condition that causes continuous ringing or buzzing in the ears. This can often lead to sleep deprivation in those who experience it,” states Dr. Raj Dasgupta MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. “The persistent ringing caused by tinnitus can make it difficult to fall asleep due to distraction and anxiety, resulting in both sleep deprivation and daytime drowsiness.”

One key feature of ReSound Omnia hearing aids is their built-in Tinnitus Sound Generator (TSG). This feature allows you to choose from a variety of soothing, customizable sounds, such as white noise, ocean waves, or gentle melodies. These sounds can be adjusted to your preference and mixed with their amplified environmental sounds or streamed audio, effectively masking the tinnitus noise and providing relief.

Furthermore, ReSound’s comprehensive app ecosystem provides tools to aid in tinnitus management. You can access these apps to further customize your tinnitus relief experience, allowing for real-time adjustments and personalization. However, some users may find the ReSound Omnia more complex and difficult to use compared to other models.

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Best rechargeable hearing aid: Starkey Evolv AI

Why we Like Starkey Evolv AI as best rechargeable

The Starkey Evolv AI hearing aids are our top choice among hearing aids with rechargeable batteries due to their combination of advanced technology and convenience. Rechargeable hearing aids eliminate the need for regular battery replacements, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run. With the Starkey Evolv AI, users can enjoy a sustainable and hassle-free hearing solution.

One standout feature of the Starkey Evolv AI hearing aids is their powerful rechargeable battery system. These hearing aids offer long-lasting battery life—up to 24 hours on a single charge—ensuring that users can enjoy uninterrupted hearing throughout the day. The Evolv AI also has fall detection and health-monitoring technology to help you keep track of your activity.

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How we chose the best hearing aids

We combined real, hands-on user testing with deep industry knowledge to narrow the market down to a few top choices. Then, we relied on fact-checkers and medical reviewers to ensure our list was complete and accurate.

Our team chose the best hearing aids by considering consumer-focused criteria, such as performance, features, value for the price, and customer experience. These factors combine to provide a full picture of the user’s experience from start to finish.

How we tested the best hearing aids

Our methodology for testing hearing aids is designed to provide in-depth insights into their performance, durability, and overall value. Our goal is to empower you with information that guides you toward making an informed decision when choosing the hearing aid that best fits your lifestyle and needs. Read our hearing aids testing methodology for an expanded review of each factor.

How do hearing aids work?

Hearing aids are sophisticated electronic devices that operate through a series of key components and processes ( 8 ). First, microphones within the hearing aid capture surrounding sounds, converting them into electrical signals. These signals are then amplified by an internal amplifier, making them louder and more audible.

Modern digital hearing aids employ advanced signal processing algorithms to fine-tune the captured sounds. This involves tasks such as noise reduction to minimize background noise interference, directional processing to focus on specific sound sources, and frequency shaping to adjust amplification levels across different frequency ranges, aligning them with the user’s unique hearing profile.

After processing, the amplified and optimized sound is delivered to the user’s ear canal through a small speaker or customized earpiece. This allows wearers to hear improved sound quality, making communication and overall engagement with their surroundings more accessible. Hearing aids are customized to each individual’s hearing needs, with audiologists or hearing specialists conducting assessments to tailor the settings precisely.

Types of hearing aids

There are several types of hearing aids available, each designed to cater to specific hearing loss needs and preferences of individuals ( 9 ). Here’s an overview of the different types:

• Behind-the-ear (BTE) : BTE hearing aids are among the most common and versatile types. They consist of a small plastic case that rests behind the ear, connected to an earmold or a thin tube that directs sound into the ear canal. BTE hearing aids are suitable for a wide range of hearing losses and are often preferred for their durability and ease of handling.
• In-the-ear (ITE) : ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit inside the ear canal or fill the outer ear’s bowl-shaped area. They are less visible than BTE devices but may be more noticeable than smaller styles. ITE hearing aids are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and offer convenient controls and features.
• In-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) : ITC and CIC hearing aids are even smaller and more discreet than ITE models. They fit partially or completely inside the ear canal, making them less visible. However, due to their size, they may have fewer features and controls. They are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and are preferred for their cosmetic appeal.
• Receiver-in-canal (RIC) or receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) : RIC hearing aids are similar in design to BTE devices but with a thinner wire or tube connecting the case to the receiver (speaker) inside the ear canal. This design allows for a more open and comfortable fit while providing excellent sound quality. RIC hearing aids are versatile and suitable for various hearing loss levels.
• Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) : These are the smallest and most discreet hearing aids, as they fit deep inside the ear canal and are virtually invisible when worn. IIC and CIC hearing aids are custom-made to fit each individual’s ear canal shape. They are ideal for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss and those who prioritize discretion.
• Bone conduction hearing aids : Unlike traditional hearing aids, bone conduction devices work by transmitting sound vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear, bypassing the ear canal and middle ear. These are suitable for individuals with conductive or mixed hearing loss, where sound cannot effectively reach the inner ear through the normal route.
• Disposable hearing aids : These are budget-friendly, pre-programmed hearing aids designed for temporary or occasional use. They are typically available over the counter and are not custom-fitted. Disposable hearing aids are a cost-effective solution for individuals who need short-term hearing assistance.

What to consider before buying a hearing aid

Choosing the right hearing aid is a significant decision that can greatly impact your overall quality of life. Here are several important factors to consider before buying a hearing aid:

Hearing loss type

Before purchasing a hearing aid, it’s crucial to undergo a comprehensive hearing evaluation by an audiologist or hearing specialist ( 10 ). They will assess your hearing loss type, degree, and specific needs. This evaluation will guide the selection and customization of the right hearing aid for you.

Hearing aid style

Different hearing aid styles are available, from behind-the-ear (BTE) to completely-in-the-canal (CIC) models (see types of hearing aids, above). The choice depends on your cosmetic preferences, dexterity, and the severity of your hearing loss. Discuss these options with your audiologist to find the most suitable style.

Technology level

Hearing aids come in various technology levels, from basic to advanced. Consider your lifestyle and daily listening environments. If you’re frequently in noisy or challenging settings, you may benefit from more advanced features like noise reduction, directional microphones, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Customization

Hearing aids should be customized to your individual hearing profile and needs. Ensure that your audiologist or hearing specialist fine-tunes the settings to address your unique requirements for amplification, frequency response, and sound processing.

Cost and insurance

Hearing aids can vary widely in price from as little as $99 to $7,500 or more a pair, so establish a budget beforehand. Additionally, check if your insurance or any financial assistance programs can help cover the cost of hearing aids.

Trial period

Many hearing aid providers offer a trial period—usually 30 to 60 days—during which you can test the device in different real-life situations. This allows you to assess its effectiveness and comfort before making a final decision.

Maintenance and repairs

Consider the maintenance requirements and potential repair costs associated with your chosen hearing aid. Some models may require more frequent servicing or battery replacement.

Warranty

Inquire about the warranty coverage for your hearing aid, including the length of the warranty and what it covers. Most companies offer at least a 12-month warranty. This can be crucial in case your device needs repairs or replacement parts.

Battery life

Depending on the style and technology, hearing aids may use disposable or rechargeable batteries. Consider which option suits your lifestyle and preferences. For example, if you are more active, you may prefer disposable batteries, so you only have to change them every three to 22 days. Or, if you are more concerned about the environment, you may prefer a rechargeable option. Also, be aware of the expected battery life.

Accessories and connectivity

If you have specific connectivity needs, such as streaming audio from your phone or TV directly to your hearing aids, ensure that the chosen device is compatible with the necessary accessories and technology.

Comfort and fit

Hearing aids should fit comfortably and securely in your ears, especially if you are more active and want to ensure they don’t slip loose. Discuss any concerns about comfort and fit with your audiologist to ensure that adjustments can be made if needed.

Follow-up care

Be aware of any ongoing care and follow-up appointments that may be required for your hearing aids. Regular check-ups, adjustments, or cleaning may be necessary to maintain optimal performance.

Expectations

Finally, realistic expectations are essential. Hearing aids can significantly improve your hearing, but they may not fully restore your hearing to its natural state. Understand what your hearing aids can and cannot do.

How much do hearing aids cost?

The cost of hearing aids can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of hearing aid, its features and technology level, the brand, and where you purchase them. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per hearing aid.

In addition to the cost of the hearing aids themselves, you may need to factor in expenses for hearing assessments, fitting and programming appointments, accessories (such as batteries or cleaning kits), and ongoing maintenance and servicing.

It’s also important to consider that most individuals with hearing loss require two hearing aids (one for each ear) to achieve balanced and effective hearing. Therefore, the total cost is often double the price of a single hearing aid.

Keep in mind that some insurance plans may cover part or all of the cost of hearing aids, so it’s worth checking with your insurance provider. Additionally, some hearing aid manufacturers and hearing care professionals offer financing options to help make hearing aids more affordable.

How to buy hearing aids

There are several ways to buy hearing aids. Many over-the-counter and direct-to-consumer hearing aids are available that do not require an audiologist’s involvement. You can purchase them directly from the company’s website or through online retail shops. These hearing aids are designed for individuals with mild hearing loss and are often pre-programmed for general use. They can be more affordable and accessible than prescription hearing aids, but they may not offer the customization and professional care that you would receive with prescription hearing aids.

Individuals with specific needs or more complex or severe hearing loss may benefit more by scheduling an appointment with an audiologist or hearing care specialist. During this assessment, they will evaluate the type and extent of your hearing loss and gain valuable insights into your unique hearing requirements.

Once your hearing assessment is complete, discuss with your audiologist your lifestyle and personal preferences. Factors like your work environment, social activities, and technology preferences will help shape the selection of hearing aids that best align with your needs. Your audiologist will present you with a range of hearing aid options, explaining various styles, technology levels, and features available in the market.

When you’re ready to make a decision, discuss the cost of the hearing aids, including insurance coverage and financing options. Clarify the total expenses, encompassing assessments, fittings, and any subsequent appointments for adjustments and maintenance.

Upon selecting your hearing aids, your audiologist will take impressions of your ears (if custom-fit models are chosen) and meticulously adjust the settings to match your hearing profile. They will provide comprehensive instructions on inserting, removing, and maintaining your hearing aids, as well as guidance on using any accompanying accessories or features. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to fine-tune the devices and address any concerns you may have.

Keep in mind that many providers of OTC and prescription hearing aids offer free trial periods which allow you to experience the comfort and performance of the devices in your everyday life, ensuring they meet your expectations. If you’re not satisfied with the hearing aids you’ve chosen, you can send them back within the trial period, provided the company offers a free trial and you return them within the specified time frame.

Does Medicare cover hearing aids?

When purchasing hearing aids, you may have to pay out-of-pocket for them—or find another avenue to cover the costs because Medicare typically does not cover the cost of hearing aids. One option is to see if your state has an agency devoted to helping those who are deaf and hard of hearing. Visit the National Association of State Agencies of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing website and search their database to see if your state is listed. ( 11 ) They sometimes have ways to assist people in getting hearing aids at a lower cost.

Several nonprofit groups will offer financial help, such as the Foundation for Sight and Sound, Starkey Hearing Foundation, Hearing Aid Project, and Miracle-Ear Foundation. ( 12 ) If you’re a veteran, you can check with Veteran Affairs to see if they will cover the cost. Meanwhile, children and young adults under age 21 with Medicaid can usually expect to have their hearing aids covered. ( 13 )

Prescription vs. OTC hearing aids

Prescription hearing aids and over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids serve different purposes. Prescription hearing aids can treat any level of hearing loss—mild to profound—and are appropriate for both kids and adults, while OTC hearing aids are designed only for people over the age of 18 with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Many people with mild to moderate hearing loss choose OTC hearing aids for their cost and easy access. Not only can they purchase them without a prescription, but they also tend to cost significantly less than prescription hearing aids. They can also be found online, in a pharmacy, or in some large retail stores. Remember, though, that OTC hearing aids primarily amplify sound and are not customized to your hearing loss like a pair of prescription hearing aids would be.

Prescription hearing aids, on the other hand, can treat any level of hearing loss from mild to profound. Your hearing also will be evaluated and tested and your ear will be examined so that your provider can find the best hearing aids to address your needs and the shape of your ears. These hearing aids are also programmed to your individual hearing loss. In other words, the frequencies you struggle to hear will be amplified and those you can hear will remain in normal range. Many people also find that prescription hearing aids provide a better overall experience and appreciate their provider’s ongoing hearing support.

Digital vs. analog hearing aids

When selecting hearing aids, you may have the option to choose between analog hearing aids and digital hearing aids—though analog hearing aids are becoming less common. These two types of hearing aids function in different ways but they both can improve your hearing.

With analog hearing aids, sounds and speech are amplified similarly—the receiver sends sounds, regardless of what they are, into your ear and does not differentiate between background noises and speech sounds. However, analog hearing aids contain a microchip that can be programmed for different settings like restaurants, at home, or sporting events. To control the settings, you click the hearing aid button to select which setting you want to use.

Meanwhile, digital hearing aids rely on tiny computers in the hearing device that convert sounds into digital signals. This process results in a more precise duplication of the sound you’re hearing. Because of their unique technological design, digital hearing aids can distinguish between speech sounds and environmental sounds. This gives them more clarity when amplifying sounds and filtering out unwanted noises like background noise and feedback.

Determining which version is best for you depends on your hearing loss, budget, and goals. Your healthcare provider can help you decide which would be best to address your hearing.

Which is better: in-the-ear or behind-the-ear hearing aids?

When it comes to choosing between in-the-ear or behind-the-ear hearing aids, the best choice for you will depend on your personal preference, your individual needs, your hearing goals, and your budget. For instance, some people prefer the discreteness of in-the-ear (or in-the-canal) hearing aids. They also prefer this style’s ease of use and simplicity—though some people find it hard to get used to having something in their ear—especially because it can make them feel like their ears are plugged.

Meanwhile, other people prefer behind-the-ear hearing aids because they offer a wide range of hearing amplification, while in-the-ear hearing aids can have limited capabilities due to their small size. People also like that behind-the-ear hearing aids are a little bigger and easier to handle—especially if they struggle with fine motor skills. Ultimately, the best choice is to find a provider who will let you test the hearing aids to see which style you like best.

How to care for your hearing aids

While caring for your hearing aids will vary depending on the type and the manufacturer’s instructions, there are some basic things you can do to keep them in good working order. For instance, you should plan to wipe the wax and oils off of your hearing aids each time you take them out. Doing so will keep them clean and sanitary and prevent buildup that can cause issues down the road.

You also should use an approved disinfectant spray—as long as this is recommended in your owner’s manual. Also, try to store your hearing aids in a safe, dry location. Caring for your hearing aids consistently will help extend the life of your devices. It also will prevent issues and reduce the number of repairs you need. But more importantly, proper care ensures you continue to hear at the level you have come to expect.

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