The 12 Best Hearing Aids: Reviewed (2024) - Audiologists.org (2024)

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The 3 key takeaways

• The best hearing aids are always going to fit your personal needs – That means that prescription hearing aids will always work best, though perhaps budget-friendly options are what you’re looking for.
• When it comes to over-the-counter hearing aids, no one beats Jabra – Our audiologists agree that the Jabra Enhance Select 100 is the best OTC hearing aid on the market, since it’s a rebranded ReSound hearing aid.
• A hearing test is always best – Whether you’re shopping online or visiting an audiologist, be sure to get either a virtual or in-person hearing test to truly discover what’s best for you.

According to a recent study, many older adults struggle to purchase and use hearing aids because of the negative societal stigma. However, we know that treating hearing loss with either over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription devices often reduces depression, increases motivation, and allows users to better interact with the world around them.

With the FDA’s work to improve access to OTC hearing aids, there are many options available, and it can be hard to decide on the device that’s right for you. We’ve collaborated with the audiologists on our review board to provide you with the best OTC and prescription hearing aids on the market today.

Whether you’re struggling with mild to moderate hearing loss and looking to purchase OTC hearing aids, or have a prescription from a licensed provider and want to find your perfect match, our list provides a comprehensive overview of the best hearing aids of 2024.

The best over-the-counter hearing aids

• Best overall: Jabra Enhance Select 500
• Most affordable: Audien Atom Pro 2
• Best invisible hearing aid: Eargo 7
• Best app and user experience: Lexie B2 Plus
• Best for all-day comfort: Sony CRE-E10
• Another great budget pick: MDHearing NEO XS

The best prescription hearing aids

• Our audiologists’ pick:
• Best invisible hearing aid: Phonak Lyric
• Best custom hearing aids: Oticon Own
• Most advanced features: Starkey Genesis AI
• Best for background noise: ReSound Omnia 9
• Best for musicians: Widex Moment

Our top over-the-counter picks

Best overall: Jabra Enhance Select 500

Why we picked Jabra Enhance Select 500

The Jabra Enhance Select 500 is the standout in Jabra Enhance’s “Select” lineup, offering an advanced hearing solution that combines cutting-edge technology with ease of use. It’s designed to provide a premium, customizable listening experience, making it ideal for those who want high-quality sound without compromising on convenience.

One of the most impressive features of the Jabra Enhance Select 500 is its advanced speech clarity and noise reduction capabilities. With specialized programs like “Speech Clarity Mode,” users can enjoy clear conversations even in noisy environments. The Select 500 also boasts high-definition sound quality, making it perfect for streaming music, taking calls, and watching TV.

The Select 500 comes with a portable charging case that provides up to three additional full charges, ensuring you have power throughout the day. A three-hour charge delivers up to 30 hours of battery life, while a quick one-hour charge provides 15 hours of use. With the Jabra Enhance Select mobile app, users can easily adjust their hearing aid settings and enjoy seamless streaming from their smartphones.

Combining medical-grade technology with exceptional customer support, the Jabra Enhance Select 500 stands out as a top choice for those seeking over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in 2024.

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What we like

• Available Online: The Jabra Enhance Select 500 can be ordered online, providing convenience and accessibility. Customers can also schedule a video appointment with a specialist for personalized advice or take an online hearing test to find the best device for their hearing needs.
• Tinnitus Masking: The Jabra Enhance Select 500 includes a specialized tinnitus masking feature, one of the few OTC hearing aids to offer this function. Some users may need assistance from an audiologist to access this feature, but it’s a valuable tool for those who experience tinnitus.
• Long-Term Follow-Up Care: Jabra is known for its industry-leading support, offering three years of personalized hearing care, including remote adjustments with licensed audiologists. This long-term care ensures users get the most out of their hearing aids.
• Easy Financing Options: Jabra provides flexible financing options, including 0% APR for 12 and 18-month plans, making it easier to afford high-quality hearing aids. The premium package for the Select 500 starts at $65 per month per device, allowing users to spread out the cost.

What we don’t like

• Not Suitable for Severe or Profound Hearing Loss: As with most OTC hearing aids, the Jabra Enhance Select 500 is best for mild to moderate hearing loss. Those with severe or profound hearing issues should consult an audiologist for prescription devices.
• Not Compatible with All Devices: While the Select 500 supports wireless streaming on most Apple devices and newer Android phones (OS version 9.0 or later), users with older Android devices may need the additional Phone Clip+ accessory, which costs $199, to fully utilize Bluetooth features.
• Only Available in Behind-the-Ear Styles: The Select 500 is only available in a behind-the-ear (BTE) style, which may not suit everyone. Those who prefer in-the-ear (ITE) designs or have difficulty with BTE devices may need to consider other options.
• Requires Some Tech Savvy: Users who are not comfortable with smartphones may find the app and remote care features challenging. A bit of a learning curve may be required for older users or those less familiar with technology.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson, AuD likes that Jabra Enhance hearing aids are developed by ReSound for a look and feel similar to a true prescription. She recommends the Select 100 to anyone with mild to moderate hearing loss who struggles to understand speech in quiet and low-noise environments.

Dr. Danielle Morgan, AuD also points to ReSound technology and customer support as Jabra Enhance top features, adding that they’re a lower-cost choice you can trust since certified audiologists can sell and program them. Dr. Morgan is also a fan of Jabra’s lengthy 100-day trial period across all hearing aid models.

Dr. Ruth Reisman,AuD agrees that Jabra Enhance makes higher quality direct-to-consumer hearing aids thanks to the rebranded ReSound tech, and she likes that they come in a variety of colors to accommodate patient preferences. Dr. Reisman also points out that Jabra offers the only fully virtual hearing aid with assistive listening devices.

Audien Atom Pro 2

Why we picked Audien Atom Pro 2

For a condition that’s so common it affects 1 in 8 Americans, hearing loss is expensive to treat. Ever since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved over-the-counter hearing aids in 2022, alternatives to the over four-figure prescription aids began to emerge, but these listening devices can still ring up a hefty bill.

Enter the Atom Pro 2, the latest in-the-ear (BTE) offering from the Arizona-based brand Audien Hearing. At $289 a pair, they’re a welcomed alternative to higher-cost OTCs like the Eargo 7 and Sony CRE-C10. And with four hearing modes, they cover a lot of ground.

We also liked the included portable charging case, which carries 3 additional charges for the already impressive 24-hour battery life of the device. But the real innovation here is in the UV light that’s built into the case for sanitization, saving users money on cleaning supplies or pricey UV kits. Audien Atom Pro 2’s treat mild to moderate hearing loss and are recommended for people who aren’t interested in high-tech or audiologist support.

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What we like

• Affordability. The Audien Atom Pro 2 is a fraction of the cost of prescription devices, and even many OTC competitors. It comes with a one-year warranty and customers can use their FSA.
• UV sanitization. The built-in UV lights in the carrying case are a huge selling point for the Audien Atom Pro 2. UV kits run in the $150-200 range on their own, so it’s impressive that such a feature is included in the device’s $289 price point. This also saves the wearer from having to apply potentially harmful chemicals to their aids.
• Listening modes. Users can toggle between five volume levels and four hearing modes: Conversation, Noisy Environment, Road Vehicle, and Outdoor. You do this by tapping on the device when it’s in your ear, which is an improvement from earlier models where you had to remove the aid to switch settings.

What we don’t like

• No Bluetooth or app. The Audien Atom Pro 2 can only be controlled by pressing on the physical device, as there is no mobile app to further customize your settings or check on battery life. You also won’t be able to stream any media via Bluetooth with these hearing aids.
• Self-fitting issues. Because these are over-the-counter hearing aids, users will have to fit the device themselves. Users have reported difficulty keeping a tight seal with the Audien Atom Pro 2 and say that there can be harsh feedback when the aids fall out of place. There also tends to be more feedback at the higher volume settings.
• They’re not invisible. Although the Audien Atom Pro 2 is a very small, in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid, they still tend to stick out of the ear a good amount. This will be a drawback for anyone that is prioritizing discretion in their hearing aid.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson, AuD: “The ATOM ITE style is sticking out of the ear pretty far in every photo advertised. Also, the ATOM does not designate a right and left aid, therefore, they do not fit snugly in the ear. Overall, Audien is a very cost-efficient economy hearing device geared towards those with mild hearing loss. I wouldn’t recommend them for noise reduction or speech clarity functions, considering the devices do not take your hearing test into account; however, they could be a good option for those who simply need a little volume. Unless you have large, straight, ear canals, I would not recommend the Atom, but would steer you towards the BTE model. The charging station is straight forward, which is great for those with poor dexterity who hate to change batteries weekly; however, to make adjustments to your Audien devices, you’ll have to use a small screwdriver or learn the push-and-hold button functionality.”

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “This can be a good introductory OTC device for patients but I anticipate most patients will not like the sound quality or the feeling of something completely in the ear. Thankfully they have a 45 day trial period with the option to return the device if needed.”

Dr. Danielle K. Morgan, AuD: “Audien markets themselves as hearing aids, however these are really just amplifiers. They have an in the ear and behind the ear model, both of which are rechargeable. Unfortunately, these cannot be programmed to a hearing test and have no way to even apply app-based hearing screening results, like many other OTC models. They lack Bluetooth capabilities that are the standard for most hearing instruments. I would not recommend these to patients. They are also very misleading in how they advertise their instruments are suitable for all types of hearing loss.”

Best app and user experience: Lexie B2 Plus

Why we picked Lexie B2 Plus

Like the Jabra Enhance Select 100, the Lexie B2 Plus OTC hearing aid incorporates directional microphones, background noise reduction, and feedback management to offer quality sound at a fairly affordable price.

In fact, the Lexie B2 Plus, powered by Bose, offers users programmed preset “Environment Settings” so they can adjust their hearing aid to fit their different listening needs, rather than constantly fine-tuning their devices.

Best for those struggling with mild to moderate cases of sensorineural hearing loss, the Lexie B2 Plus comes with a slick, easy-to-use app that makes it accessible even for those wary of advanced technology.

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What we like

• Backed by Bose. You won’t have to worry about poor sound quality when you go with the Lexie B2 Plus. Developed by a team of audiologists, engineers, and Bose scientists, Lexie hearing aids are packed with features that work to bring you a natural sound.
• Affordable. The Lexie B2 Plus is one of the more affordable hearing aids on the market, starting at just $999 for a pair. The company also offers a subscription plan that allows you to pay in monthly installments for up to 24 months.
• Flexible tuning options. Lexie’s user-friendly smartphone app allows users to even out the sound between both hearing aids with Balance controls, or switch between “Front” and “Everywhere” modes to help you focus on where sounds are coming from.
• Plenty of online support. The Lexie app and website both offer a wealth of information regarding maintenance and use. The comprehensive guides should be able to answer your questions, or you can reach out to their customer service team.

What we don’t like

• Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids do not stream music or take calls. While you can connect your Lexie B2 Plus to your smartphone to self-tune the device, it doesn’t support direct audio streaming or hands-free phone calls.
• Relatively short battery life. We like that the Lexie B2 Plus comes with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, but a single three-hour charge only gives you 18 hours of continuous use — substantially less than the battery life of other models on this list.
• No guarantee of professional support. While Lexie does a good job of offering ample online customer support through their sales team, you may not be able to speak to an actual audiologist about your particular hearing loss needs.
• Limited color options. The Lexie B2 Plus is only available in light gray, which seriously limits those with different hair or skin tones from enjoying a more discreet appearance.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Ruth Reisman likes the Lexie B2s as an over-the-counter rechargeable option that doesn’t have too many technological bells and whistles. She says this makes them more accessible for those who don’t want to deal with complicated technology.

Dr. Jessica Hinson praises Lexie as an affordable option for patients with mild hearing loss who struggle in quiet environments or in low noise. She likes that the devices are backed by Bose and that they were created in tandem with engineers and audiologists alike.

Dr. Danielle Morgan also likes that Lexie hearing aids were originally researched and designed by audiologists and that they offer remote support seven days a week. She still recommends a diagnostic hearing evaluation before purchasing, just to make sure you don’t need something a bit more powerful.

Best for all-day comfort: Sony CRE-E10

Why we picked Sony CRE-E10

With Bluetooth streaming to iOS devices and pristine customer reviews that rave about the all-day comfort of the Sony CRE-E10s, we knew we had to include them as part of our best OTC hearing aids list.

The Sony CRE-E10s come equipped with both rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth compatibility. Users with an iPhone will be able to stream music directly to their CRE-E10s, a capability that isn’t often seen in OTC devices. What’s more, the fit is similar to that of Sony earbuds, which should give curious shoppers an idea of what to expect when it comes to comfort level.

What we like about the Sony CRE-E10

• Comfort, comfort, comfort. There’s a reason we selected the CRE-E10s as the most comfortable OTC options. Across various customer review platforms, the number one positive when it comes to Sony CRE-E10s is that they’re perfect for all-day wear, given that they’re so comfortable.
• They allow for Bluetooth streaming. If you have an iPhone, you will be able to connect your CRE-E10s and stream music to your devices the same way you would be able to stream music to Sony earbuds.
• The devices are rechargeable. Unlike the CRE-C10, the CRE-E10s are rechargeable—combine this with the Bluetooth streaming capabilities, and you’ll find you have more convenient features than you’d get with most other OTC devices.
• You can easily customize your settings using the smartphone app. Like the Lexie app, Sony’s smartphone app is user-friendly, making it easier to customize the CRE-E10’s settings.

What we don’t like about the Sony CRE-E10

• They do not stream to Android phones. While the CRE-E10s offer Bluetooth streaming to iOS devices, people with Android phones will not be able to stream music or phone calls directly to their devices.
• You cannot customize them to fit a hearing test. This is one of the major downsides to all OTC devices. Audiologists will not be able to program the hearing aid to match the results of a hearing test, meaning it may not meet all of your hearing deficits.
• Not great for those with dexterity issues. The CRE-E10s are quite small, which means they may be difficult to adjust or to remove those with poor dexterity.
• Some users complain of occlusion. This means that sometimes, users perceive their own voice to be louder than it actually is, which may warp the sound or cause some discomfort.

What our audiologists say about Sony OTC hearing aids

Dr. Reisman says that Sony is a trusted brand that partnered with one of WS Audiology’s brands, Signia, to provide OTC devices that offer discreet solutions to eligible patients.

Dr. Hinson says Sony hearing aids are simple and can work well for people with mild hearing loss or difficulty in quiet listening situations. However, she does not recommend these devices for those with poor dexterity or those with small ear canals, as they will likely have problems with keeping the aids in their ears.

Great on a budget: MDHearing NEO XS

Like other devices by the Midwestern brand, the NEO XS is fully rechargeable. Its 18-hour battery life is only slightly longer than its predecessor, the MDHearing NEO, but its noise reduction and audio processing upgrades surpasses the NEO. And while it falls short on Bluetooth compatibility, the device itself does have a push button to toggle through its nine volume levels and four preset listening programs: Quiet, Social, Noisy, and Restaurant.

The NEO XS is best suited for people with mild to moderate hearing loss that are looking for a subtle device that’s comfortable and saves them a trip to the doctor for diagnosis, prescription, and fitting. All in all, it’s an affordable option for customers who don’t feel they need a ton of tech and customization in their hearing aid.

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What we like

• Discreet. The NEO XS is a completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aid that is barely visible to onlookers. Aside from keeping your condition private, the small size makes the device more suitable for glasses wearers who don’t want their aids to class with their spectacles.
• Affordable. While the original $1,500 listing price MDHearing for the NEO XS is far too high for the sound quality and lack of customization settings this device offers, its discount tag of $397 makes it a far more affordable invisible hearing aid than competitors like the Sony CRE-C10 or the Eargo 7.
• All day battery life. The NEO XS has an 18-hour battery life, which is a little less than bulkier MDHearing models like the behind-the-ear (BTE) VOLT, but still enough for all-day use. It also comes with a portable charging case that can give you six additional charges for over 100 hours of use before the case itself dies.

What we don’t like

• Feedback. The NEO XS gains more and more feedback the higher you raise the volume on the device, making speech clarity difficult at the top volume settings.
• No Bluetooth compatibility. The VOLT is the only MDHearing device that works with the brand’s mobile app. Those who wear the NEO XS will need to utilize the button on the physical hearing aids to adjust volume and listening programs, which can be difficult to do given the small size of the hearing aids. Because of this, we wouldn’t recommend the NEO XS to people with dexterity issues.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson, AuD: “MDHearing is far from quality when discussing hearing devices. Their budget-friendly hearing aids come at a cost, resulting in poor speech quality in background noise and constant user maintenance. They are dated in design and technology, and lack customization or adjustments that account for your specific hearing loss. That being said, for users who don’t struggle with speech understanding but simply need a small volume increase, MDHearing could be a beginner’s option.”

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “The Neo is the most discrete of the MD hearing devices as it sits completely in the ear and can be adjusted based on the ear size of the patient. MD hearing aids can be a good entry level device for those looking to wet their palate with hearing aids.”

Our top prescription picks

Our audiologists’ pick:

Why we picked Signia Pure Charge&Go AX

When we asked our audiologists to review Signia’s product portfolio, all of them came back with a resounding, “Signia is one of my favorite brands on the market.” All three of them also suggested the for a variety of categories, including Bluetooth connectivity, advanced features, and discreet behind-the-ear style. With such glowing reviews from all of our hearing specialists, we knew the Signia Pure Charge&Go AX had to be on our list of best prescription brands.

Note that there are different versions of the Signia Pure Charge&Go AX, with the Pure Charge&Go 1AX as the least advanced and most affordable to the Pure Charge&Go 7 AX, the most advanced — and most expensive.

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What we like about the Signia Pure Charge&Go AX

• Provides high-quality, natural sound. Customers and audiologists rave about Signia’s sound quality. Compared to other hearing aids, many Signia users report quality sound that mimics the natural hearing process, making for a more pleasant listening experience.
• Comes equipped with telecoil options. Enjoy live theater and movies again with telecoil options that allow you to connect to non-Bluetooth systems, making it easier to experience the world around you.
• Designed for comfort. Given how lightweight the Signia Pure Charge&Go AX is, our audiologists say it makes for a comfortable fit. However, if you’re looking for an even more comfortable option, check out the Signia Styletto AX, still part of the same Signia AX family.
• Available as a CROS system. Those with single-sided deafness can purchase the receiver-in-ear CROS model.

What we didn’t like about the Signia Pure Charge&Go AX

• Only behind-the-ear models available. The Signia Pure Charge&Go AX is only available as a receiver-in-the-ear (RIE). However, Signia offers in-the-ear (ITE) models, such as the Signia Insio Charge&Go AX, the Signia Silk X, and the Signia Active Pro, which may be more discreet.
• Pricey. This will be a con we list for all prescription hearing devices. One of the biggest complaints throughout the hearing loss community is the giant price tag – Signia Pure Charge&Go AX devices run about $4,400/pair on ZipHearing.
• Requires internet connectivity to receive assistance in the app. If you live in an area where internet is spotty or where bandwidth becomes a problem, it may be difficult to connect to the app and request assistance.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Danielle Morgan says, “Signia is a leading hearing aid manufacturer that offers the latest technology in a wide variety of styles. They make products that improve quality of life and help users better access the world around them through sound.” She notes that many Signia hearing aids are Bluetooth compatible and have different compatible accessories. Their app is simple and user-friendly but also allows users to play around with different ways to customize their experience.

Dr. Jessica Hinson notes, “Signia is a great brand for those looking for a small, yet effective, device with an optional user friendly app. It is actually my favorite app on the market. Most of their devices come in rechargeable and replaceable battery models.” She also notes that they have options for those with single-sided deafness (called CROS or BiCROS hearing aids). Their sound quality isn’t too tinny, and their background noise reduction is comparable to other top-tier hearing aid manufacturers. She also says that she loves the color options, and notes the rose gold is her favorite.

Dr. Ruth Reisman says, “Signia is one of my favorite brands of hearing aids. In addition to their innovative styles like the Styletto, the Actives, and the Silks, they offer the most tools for the hearing impaired, including two options of tinnitus treatment, own voice processing, a mask-wearing booster, and a microphone directionality manager.”

Best invisible hearing aid: Phonak Lyric

Why we picked Phonak Lyric

Recommended by several of our audiologists as a top IIC device, the Phonak Lyric has a lot to offer hearing loss patients who want an entirely discreet option they won’t have to charge every single night.

This Phonak device is placed inside the ear by an audiologist or hearing aid specialist, and then the Lyric can be worn for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for several months at a time. It’s designed to be sweat and water-resistant, meaning you can shower, exercise, and do all of the things you love without having to worry about the device at all.

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What we like about the Phonak Lyric

• It sits completely in the canal. The Phonak Lyric is placed inside the ear canal, next to the eardrum, by an audiologist or hearing aid specialist. This guarantees 100% invisibility.
• You will not need rechargeable OR replaceable batteries. Lyric devices are built to stay charged and last for months at a time. When it’s time to get a new device, you will schedule a visit with your provider. Replacements typically take ten minutes.
• They reduce tinnitus and help users sleep better. Lyric customers have reported a dramatic reduction in their tinnitus, and, since the annoyance has gone away, many have said they’re getting a better night’s sleep.

What we don’t like about the Phonak Lyric

• Only made for people with mild hearing loss. You will pay a prescription price for a device that, while prescription-powerful, costs far more than an over-the-counter device. If this is your first time purchasing a hearing aid, you may choose to go the more affordable route first.
• You pay for a subscription. Rather than being able to pay off an admittedly expensive prescription premium, the Phonak Lyric uses a subscription system to both pay for your current devices and cover replacement devices. This monthly price can add up quickly, especially if you haven’t budgeted for it.
• It will demand more regular visits to the audiologist. While this is not necessarily a downside, your time is precious. Consider the fact that you will need to get your Lyric replaced every few months.

What our audiologists say

One of our audiologists, Dr. Hinson, uses a Phonak Audeo Lumity 90 herself and praises the brand for its comfort and its impressive background noise and feedback reduction. She can’t speak to the Phonak Lyric, given she hasn’t used it herself, but she does speak highly of the brand’s features and overall integrity.

Doctors Reisman and Morgan say that Phonak is a reliable brand that they have prescribed to their patients many times, and that their comfort and reliability speak for themselves.

Best custom hearing aid: Oticon Own

Why we picked Oticon Own

The Oticon brand of hearing aids boasts a reliable, ever-improving portfolio made specifically with the user in mind.

Designed with an onboard Deep Neural Network, the Oticon Own is the only in-the-ear hearing aid that offers up to 12 million real life sounds to better mimic the world around you and provide a more natural listening experience.

Oticon Own devices can be custom fit to your ear’s specific anatomy, making for a comfortable, personalized fit.

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What we like about the Oticon Own

• Custom made and available in five colors. Tailored to the specific shape of the user’s ear, the Oticon Own promises all day comfort, and, since they’re available in five different colors, they blend in pretty well.
• Discreet styles made for all levels of hearing loss. Many of the invisible styles from other prescription brands don’t offer the power necessary to treat severe to profound hearing loss. Oticon Own devices treat all types of hearing loss.
• Stream calls, music, and sounds from your TV. The Oticon Own offers direct streaming to certain iPhone, iPad and Android devices, and, with Oticon’s TV adapter, you can also stream sound directly from your television.
• BrainHearing technology provides a natural hearing experience. This unique technology provides the brain with more sound, helping to restore the brain’s access to sound and reduce cognitive decline, social isolation, and depression.

What we don’t like about the Oticon Own

• Not all Oticon Own styles are Bluetooth enabled. The invisible-in-the-canal and the completely-in-the-canal styles do not come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity. Those looking to stream music and take calls will need to purchase the in-the-canal, in-the-ear half-shell, or in-the-ear full-shell styles.
• As always, the expense. As a prescription hearing aid, a lot is wrapped up in obtaining Oticon Own devices. After your initial assessment, you will need to get fitted for the hearing aid, pay for each device, and cover the costs of your provider visits.
• They are not rechargeable. In addition to paying more for the device itself, you will also need to purchase replaceable batteries on a fairly regular basis to keep your devices charged.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson says, “Oticon is a great option when considering new hearing aids. They are known for their natural sound quality, and the newest technology is improving on common hearing aid complaints, such as wind noise and noise created when you touch the hearing aid microphones. The behind-the ear aids come in 8 trendy colors to match most hair colors, and the in-the-ear devices come in 5 colors to closely match most skin tones.” However, she would note that the lack of rechargeable batteries makes her less inclined to recommend this as a first choice.

Dr. Danielle Morgan says, “Oticon is a trusted hearing aid manufacturer that makes hearing aids for both children and adults. They have a large portfolio with products that can fit anything from mild to severe hearing loss. Oticon is constantly improving and making products that are reliable and user-friendly. They put a lot of research and development into their products, and it definitely shows. As a provider, I rarely see complaints regarding Oticon products.”

Dr. Ruth Reisman adds, “Oticon is a highly advanced medical grade hearing aid. Most patients are highly successful with these devices with all the flexibility and options that advanced hearing aids have to offer.”

Most advanced features: Starkey Genesis AI

Why we picked Starkey Genesis AI

Starkey’s Evolv AI hearing aids, updated to Starkey Genesis AI, are some of the most advanced prescription models on the market today, available in five different technology levels including Economy 1000, Basic 1200, Select 1600, Advanced 2000, and Premium 2400. Artificial intelligence automatically tailors speech amplification and noise reduction to practically any noise setting, while the accompanying Thrive Hearing Control app is full of extra features including personal reminders and social engagement tracking.

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What we like

• Unmatched AI technology. Starkey was the first company to integrate artificial intelligence into their hearing aids back in 2018, and they’ve only improved upon its functionality in the years since. The models that make up the company’s Evolv AI line boast new AI-powered features like Edge Mode, which allows the hearing aid to analyze the wearer’s listening environment and automatically adjust its settings for optimal sound quality all the time.
• Fall detection. Another new feature in the Evolv AI lineup, fall detection will automatically notify a pre-selected emergency contact whenever the wearer falls to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Great customization options. Starkey’s early history as an earmold lab shines through in their custom hearing aids, which can be tailored to comfortably fit any patient, including those with small or narrow ear canals.
• Wide array of styles. With a total of 14 available styles to choose from, including behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC), completely-in-canal (CIC) and invisible in-the-canal (IIC), Evolv AI hearing aids are suitable for several different budgets and degrees of hearing loss.

What we don’t like

• May not support direct streaming on some Android phones. Starkey Evolv AI hearing aids can stream to over 35 different Android devices — but that still leaves a lot of devices that won’t support direct streaming with them.
• Learning curve. While Starkey’s high-tech hearing aids are undeniably changing the industry as a whole, some older users may have a harder time making sense of all the new features, even at the most basic Economy 1000 level. However, the Starkey Thrive app gives you the option to switch into “Basic” mode to disable all the advanced features and facilitate a simpler user experience.
• Potential for overcorrection. While Evolv AI’s automatic adjustments can make for a seamless listening experience as the user moves between different noise environments, some users have reported occasional adjustment errors that result in a less comfortable listening experience, rather than a more comfortable one.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Morgan says Starkey is a tried and true hearing aid manufacturer and that they make a variety of hearing aids that suit most hearing aid users. They are especially well-known for producing excellent custom hearing aids, even for ears with more difficult anatomy.

Dr. Hinson says that Starkey hearing aids focus on clarity of speech and maintain good background noise reduction. Dr. Reisman notes that for tech-savvy users, the Thrive app allows for many amazing features such as Fall Alert, Reminders, Activity and Engagement tracking, and even a Translator. She says that when it comes to getting the most bang for your buck, Starkey is the way to go.

Dr. Hinson adds this fun fact: Starkey is the only American-made hearing aid device.

Best for background noise: ReSound Omnia 9

Why we picked ReSound Omnia 9

The ReSound Omnia 9 is heralded by customers and audiologists alike as a comfortable device supreme at reducing background noise. That means they’re ideal for people who enjoy or may work in louder environments.

As a premium-level ReSound hearing aid, the Omnia 9 scans the environment and makes changes automatically without the user having to fiddle with the device or make manual changes. Users who are not as tech-savvy may really enjoy it, since they don’t have to use the app to make adjustments.

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What we like about the ReSound Omnia 9

• Better hearing in noise. The Omnia 9 was specifically designed to reduce background noise. In fact, many reviews call it the best in background noise management.
• Wide choice of styles to fit your preferences. The ReSound Omnia 9 is available in a variety of models, from behind-the-ear (BTE) to in-the-ear (ITE) to in-the-canal (ITC) styles.
• All-around directionality. The ReSound Omnia 9 operates with directional microphones that adjust based on your listening environment, providing a more natural listening experience.
• Supreme comfort. ReSound claims that ReSound Omnia 9 users will forget they’re wearing hearing aids. While this will largely depend on the user, they were designed to be lightweight and made for all-day wear.

What we don’t like about the ReSound Omnia 9

• Of course, the expense. Like all prescription hearing aids, the ReSound Omnia 9 is pricey, coming in on ZipHearing at $4,598 a pair.
• They may need replacing in 5 years. And, at nearly $5,000 a pair, that’s $1,000 a year you may need to set aside for new hearing aids.
• Requires in-person care. Like with other prescription brands, you won’t be able to purchase the ReSound Omnia 9 outright. First, you will need a hearing test and a visit with an audiologist.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson says, “the Omnia hearing aids are specifically designed to perform better in background noise and complex listening situations. With rechargeable options for behind-the-ear and in-the-ear styles, you’ll be sure to find something that’s equally comfortable and effective. There are three technology levels to fit your budget, each offering different features to improve the clarity of speech and create a more natural hearing experience.”

Dr. Ruth Reisman adds that, “ReSound has some great tools for the hearing-impaired, including state-of-the-art devices, accessories, and smartphone apps.” She also likes that “they provide remote care via the Assist Live app, a tinnitus relief app, and a 360-degree surround sound.”

Best for musicians: Widex Moment

Why we picked Widex Moment

Widex Moment hearing aids deliver pure, natural sounds that make them fan favorites among audiophiles. Boasting the widest frequency response range on the market, a higher maximum input level than other prescription models, and an unparalleled processing time of just 0.5 milliseconds, Widex users are guaranteed to hear each sound in rich high definition the moment it occurs.

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What we like

• Ambient pass-through. Widex Moment users can program their hearing aids to allow a customizable amount of external noise to pass through from their surrounding environment while they’re streaming music — an especially helpful feature when performing tasks that require spatial awareness like running or cycling.
• A tinnitus management powerhouse. Widex hearing aid users can stream soothing sounds to their hearing aids through the Widex Zen tinnitus management app to help distract them from unwanted ringing and whistling.
• Easy-to-use mobile app. The Widex Moment apps gives users a high degree of control over their listening experience, enabling them to manually emphasize or diminish sounds like background noise.
  AI-enabled. These hearing aids are equipped with an artificial intelligence program called SoundSense Learn that recommends optimal listening levels based on the user’s current surroundings.

What we don’t like

• Issues with Bluetooth connectivity. Some users have trouble getting their Widex Moment hearing aids to successfully pair with their smartphones, particularly when they change locations.
• Battery significantly impacted by streaming. Just a few hours of streaming can drastically reduce the Widex Moment’s battery life, with some users reporting a drop to just 8 hours from the maximum 40 hours of standard use.
• Many models aren’t rechargeable. Of the eight models that make up the Widex Moment line, only two are available with rechargeable batteries.
• Unresponsive customer service. While Widex has a live chat up on their site that patients can use to ask questions during standard business hours (Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST), some users have complained that the company’s customer service department is less responsive than those of other prescription hearing aid brands.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Hinson recommends Widex Moment devices for music listeners or those who struggle with tinnitus. She says they have expanded their portfolio to offer listeners even more options, such as custom ITE models.

Dr. Reisman says that Widex devices are a great option for patients who need a hearing device that both amplifies sounds in a sophisticated manner and treats tinnitus with a peaceful zen feature. She says Widex also has the shortest processing times on the market, making them ideal for patients that wear a bone conduction or cochlear implant in the opposite ear.

Dr. Morgan praises their ability to produce clear, natural sounds and have many different styles to fit a variety of patient needs.

Best invisible hearing aids: Eargo 7

Why we picked Eargo 7

The Eargo 7 has exceptional speech clarity, noise reduction, and amplification for its price range. That’s why it’s one of our top recommendations despite its hefty price tag. At $2,490 a pair, we can’t understate that the device is abnormally expensive for an over-the-counter listening device. But unlike the prescription aids it costs as much as, the Eargo 7 can be self-fitted and customized on your own without the help of an audiologist. There are also financing options for as low as $96 a month to help with the steep cost.

The device comes with listening presets that you can browse through in the brand’s mobile app. Once you select three modes, like “restaurant,” “television,” or “music,” you can switch between them by tapping on your ears. The Eargo 7 was developed for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. Its small 18mm size makes it invisible in the ear, so wearers who value discretion will also benefit from them.

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What we like

• Sound quality. The Eargo 7 offers crisp speech clarity and sound amplification while filtering out background noise and feedback. The automatic adjustments the device makes when you’re on the go save you from having to pull up the app or switch between presets too much.

• All day battery. The hearing aids have excellent rechargeable batteries that last up to 16 hours with as much as 48 hours worth of recharges in its carrying case. The portable carrying case is also notably sleek with the ability to easily transport it in your pockets.

• Easy mobile customization. The Eargo mobile app makes adjusting volume simple, as well as allowing you to select which of the built-in listening presets you want to be able to toggle through when you tap your ear (you can select 3 at a time).

What we don’t like

• Cost. The Eargo 7 is extremely expensive for an over-the-counter hearing aid, and as good as the sound quality is, it’s hard to rationalize the expense.

• No Bluetooth streaming. While the Eargo 7 utilizes Bluetooth for pairing your mobile app to the device, it doesn’t offer any Bluetooth functionality beyond that like streaming media directly to your hearing aids.

• Can grow uncomfortable. While the petal design of the Eargo 7 is intended to minimize sound leakage and create a natural listening experience, users do report that they can start to feel itchy over time.

Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids

Despite hearing loss being a widespread problem in the United States, the high price tags of Rx hearing aids have made it difficult to manage the condition. That all changed in 2022 when the FDA approved the sale of certain over-the-counter hearing aids that didn’t require a prescription. Since then, a wide variety of these assistive listening devices have found their way onto the market to treat mild to moderate hearing loss for a fraction of the cost of prescription devices that can be anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000 per pair. This includes products from powerhouse tech brands like Sony as well as previously Rx-only brands like Eargo and Audien.

Pros

• They are more affordable. With prescription hearing aids costing patients as much as $8,000 a pair, over-the-counter devices are a welcomed alternative to those looking to their hearing loss without breaking the bank. And while over-the-counter aids can still ring up a hefty bill — with some devices in the $2,000 to $3,000 range — you can also find them under $1,000, with some as low as $100 a pair for a device that may be suitable for someone new to hearing aids.
• They can be purchased directly by customers. While there are certainly benefits to going through a doctor to treat your hearing loss, some may not require it. Over-the-counter hearing aids save you trips to the audiologist for hearing exams, diagnosis, and fittings, which can eat into your deductible.
• Many of them can be self-fitted and customized. Over-the-counter hearing aids usually come with a set of different domes to fit the device on your own. Likewise, the settings are typically more user-friendly than an Rx hearing aid and can be programmed on your own.

Cons:

• They don’t treat severe hearing loss. Those with severe or profound hearing loss will still want to consult an audiologist to treat their condition, as over-the-counter hearing aids are only approved for mild to moderate cases. It’s also important to note that the FDA has only approved over-the-counter hearing aids for adults, and they should not be used for children or anyone under the age of 18.
• They have minimal features. Prescription hearing aids are expensive because of the amount of tech features that go into them, like automatic adjustments as you move to different settings or state-of-the-art speech recognition. The amount of customization you can do on an over-the-counter device is also limited typically to just volume control or basic listening presets.
• You won’t have access to in-person care. While not having to go back and forth to the audiologist is a perk in many ways, it also means you’ll have to rely on the remote care offered by over-the-counter hearing aid brands for adjustments to your device or consultations about your condition. Likewise, you’ll be resorting to online hearing tests that cannot provide a detailed audiogram like an in-person facility.

Prescription hearing aid considerations

Pros:

• They are more technologically advanced. Prescription hearing aids offer some of the most innovative hearing aid features on the market, ranging from directional microphones that can allow for targeted speech recognition, telecoils that allow you to tap into event sound systems, and wireless Bluetooth connectivity to stream media directly to your devices.
• They treat more severe cases of hearing loss. The FDA only approved over-the-counter hearing aids for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. That means children and those with severe or profound hearing loss don’t stand to benefit from them. Luckily, prescription devices have the technology necessary to better manage these more extreme cases.
• They can be better customized to you. Over-the-counter hearing aids come with a set of domes in different sizes to choose from, which may or may not be sufficient for your needs. Prescription hearing aids can be fitted by a professional to your unique ear for a comfortable fit. Likewise, your audiologist can program the device according to your audiogram.

Cons:

• They are incredibly expensive. Like most medical products, prescription hearing aids are extremely expensive, making them inaccessible to many in need of hearing loss treatment. These devices can cost users between $2,000 to $8,000 a pair, and most insurance plans don’t cover them.
• They require professional calibration. Between your in-person hearing test, diagnosis, fittings, customizations, and routine maintenance, prescription hearing aids will require frequent visits with your audiologist, whether online or in person.

Hearing aid styles

Before you start looking into hearing aids, you should familiarize yourself with the different styles these devices are offered in. Each type of hearing aid is designed to address different clinical needs as well as customer priorities in terms of design or comfort. Here are the four styles of hearing aids available to users:

• Behind-the-ear (BTE). The image that comes to most people’s minds when they think of a hearing aid is a bulky tube tucked behind the ear with a wire that hooks around to an ear mold outside the canal. The behind-the-ear (BTE) is the largest hearing aid style, though newer models have been slightly more discreet. BTEs tend to have the most technology packed into them.

• Receiver-in-canal (RIC). Similar to the behind-the-ear style, receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids have a tube that rests behind the ear, with the key difference being the receiver rests inside the ear canal without the aforementioned mold. The tube also tends to be smaller than that of a BTE, making the devices more subtle.
• In-the-ear (ITE). In-the-ear (ITE) or in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids rest in the ear without any of the bulky tubes in BTEs or RICs. They still can have some advanced features like telecoil or Bluetooth, but their battery life and amplification power is usually less than that of the bigger models.
• Completely-in-canal (CIC). As the name suggests, completely-in-canal (CIC) devices rest entirely inside the ear canal of the wearer, making them virtually invisible. These are the smallest style of hearing aids and are popular among users who don’t want to alert others to their condition. They have a tiny retrieval wire that hangs just outside of the ear for removal.

Hearing loss basics

Common types of hearing loss

Perhaps the biggest consideration you should take into account when choosing hearing aids is the type of hearing loss that you experience. This comes down to one’s ability to hear frequencies, which can affect what they can and can’t hear while out in the world.

• Low-frequency hearing loss. If you have trouble hearing frequencies below 2,000 Hz, you likely are experiencing low frequency hearing loss. Examples of low frequency sounds that may be difficult to hear include vowel sounds, rumbling thunder, or a refrigerator hum.

• High-frequency hearing loss. Those who struggle to hear frequencies between 2,000 and 8,000 Hz likely have high frequency hearing loss. This can make it hard to hear women’s and children’s voices, birds chirping, and certain high-pitched consonants like “s” and “h.”

• Conductive hearing loss. In some cases, sound waves can’t travel to the inner ear because of hearing loss that occurs in the outer or middle ear. This is called conductive hearing loss, and can be caused by an obstruction in the ear canal like wax build-up or a foreign object, as well as trauma to the eardrum.

• Sensorineural hearing loss. Damage to the inner ear can or nerves that travel from your ear to your brain can result in sensorineural hearing loss, a condition that makes it difficult to process soft sounds. Sensorineural hearing loss requires immediate medical intervention for the best chance to avoid it becoming permanent.

Degrees of hearing loss

You’ll always want to know the degree of hearing loss you’re experiencing before choosing a hearing aid. Over-the-counter devices are only FDA-approved to manage mild to moderate cases in adults, while prescription hearing aids can address more extreme cases of the condition. This comes down to your ability to interpret tones at different decibels, which can be determined via a hearing test taken online or at an audiologists office.

Here are the four degrees of hearing loss:

• Mild hearing loss. When taking a hearing test, tones will be played at a variety of different decibels. If you can make out tones between 25 and 40 dB, you likely have mild hearing loss and can understand some speech with a difficulty to interpret softer sounds.

• Moderate hearing loss. In the case of moderate hearing loss, you can hear tones between 41 and 55 dB, making it hard to understand most conversational speech.
• Severe hearing loss. The next step above moderate hearing loss is a severe degree of the condition, in which you can hear between 56 and 90 dB. Those with severe hearing loss can’t understand speech at all and can only interpret loud noises.
• Profound hearing loss. The most extreme degree of hearing loss is a profound case of the condition, in which you can only hear about 90 dB. This makes even loud noises difficult to hear, like planes and alarms. Profound hearing loss is most common in seniors over the age of 65, but can affect younger people as well.

Hearing aids and tinnitus

If you or someone close to you experiences tinnitus, then you’re aware of how frustrating the condition can be. People with tinnitus hear non-existent external noise, typically in the form of ringing or buzzing sounds. It is a common condition for those who suffer hearing loss, and can be the result of trauma to the ear, an infection, or simply aging.

While there is no known cure for tinnitus, it can be managed with hearing aids. These devices distract you from tinnitus sounds through amplification of speech and other real world noise. Some devices will even play a fractal tone sporadically as a form of masking to turn your attention away from the head ringing. Many hearing aid brands also have mobile app features for tinnitus relief with different types of white noise.

How to buy hearing aids

Once you decide a hearing aid is right for you, it’s time to actually procure one. The assistive listening device market is highly saturated, making it overwhelming for first-time users to know where to begin. How you go about buying a hearing aid depends largely on some of the considerations mentioned above, like the degree of hearing loss you experience or the style that best fits your condition. But you’ll also need to know the different avenues available to consumers.

• Ask your doctor. Whether you’re going the prescription route of the over-the-counter route, a doctor can help guide you on the best hearing aid for your unique case of hearing loss and make product recommendations. They can also advise you on whether or not it is necessary for you to see a specialist for a professional audiogram versus an online test done at home.

• Stick to reputable brands. Unfortunately, a lot of low-quality hearing aids on the market won’t address your listening needs. There’s also a lot of brands that market their devices as hearing aids when really they’re amplifiers, which just boost the volume on outside sounds without any filtering or background noise reduction. Our team of audiologists recommend hearing aids from companies like Jabra, Audien, Eargo, Sony, and MDHearing, among others.

• Read up on return policies. It may take a bit of time to know if a hearing aid is a good fit for you. Companies that offer 30-day or longer trials give you the chance to truly test drive your device before deciding if you want to keep it.