Audien Hearing Aids Review and Pricing
Audien offers basic over-the-counter hearing aids starting at $99 per pair.
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Arthur Garber founded Audien in 2016 after he had trouble finding affordable hearing aids for his grandmother.1 He realized that prescription hearing aids were sold at a tremendous markup. He decided to shake up the industry by creating and selling accessible hearing aids that any senior could afford.
For many seniors, the cost of hearing aids can be overwhelming. With that in mind, I wanted to see how Audien’s budget-priced devices performed, so I tested out the Atom and Atom Pro ITE hearing aids. Below, we’ll dive into my experience with the hearing aids, including ordering, setup, and testing. Then, we’ll take a look at Audien’s entire product lineup.
The Audien Atom (left) and Audien Atom Pro (right) are dime-sized.
Comparing Audien to Top Hearing Aid Brands
Audien provides basic over-the-counter hearing aids for those on a tight budget. These devices may be a good choice for people with mild to moderate hearing loss who are new to the world of hearing aids. It’s important to note that these devices have limited features and customization. If you’re looking for an affordable hearing aid with more advanced features, check out some of the best OTC hearing aid providers we’ve reviewed below.
Pros About Audien
- Affordable prices: Audien makes simple hearing aids starting at just $99 per pair.
- Easy to use: Setup couldn’t be simpler. All you need to do is charge your hearing aids and put them in your ears.
- Discreet, comfortable fit: Audien’s hearing aids are nearly invisible and fit comfortably, thanks to a variety of earbud sizes that are included in your purchase.
- Simple online ordering: You can order Audien hearing aids online; no in-person hearing test or audiologist appointment or prescription needed.
Cons About Audien
- Only sold in pairs: Even if you only need one hearing aid, you’ll have to purchase two.
- Limited styles available: Audien only sells beige in-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss. If you want a different style or need a solution for severe to profound hearing loss, you will have to turn to other popular hearing aid providers.
- Not tuned to a specific level of hearing loss: Unlike some other direct-to-consumer hearing aid brands we’ve tested, such as Lexie, Audien hearing aids can’t be tuned to address your specific level or frequency of hearing loss.
- No hearing test or medical evaluation: While this might be considered a pro for some, the lack of a hearing evaluation means that you could purchase hearing aids that aren’t suitable for your hearing loss. It could also leave underlying medical conditions related to your hearing loss undiagnosed.
- No ongoing audiological support: Unlike brands such as Jabra Enhance, Audien doesn’t provide online access to audiologists or hearing professionals.
The Buying Process
Buying Audien hearing aids is pretty straightforward. Since Audien sells directly to consumers online, I didn’t need a hearing test or prescription to purchase their devices. I shopped directly on the Audien website, but Audien’s hearing aids are also available for sale on Amazon and on QVC.
FYI: While Audien offers inexpensive hearing aids, they lack customization, advanced features, and follow-up care with a hearing expert. Want to learn more about the features you might miss out on with Audien? Check out our list of the best hearing aids.
To shop on the Audien website, I followed these steps:
- Visit audienhearing.com.
- Select “Hearing Aids” at the top of the website.
- Click “Add to Cart” beneath the hearing model that you’d like to purchase.
Adding the Audien Atom Pro to my cart. Source: Audien website.
- Click “Checkout” to begin filling in your delivery and payment information.
Checking out on the Audien website. Source: Audien website.
I didn’t need to take a hearing test or answer any questions about my hearing loss before purchasing. In contrast, many of the top OTC hearing aids we’ve tested provide a free and fast online hearing test you can use, independent of purchasing their product.
It took less than five minutes to complete the order from start to finish. While the process is simple, keep in mind that hearing tests are designed to help you find the best solution for your hearing loss. Without a hearing test or medical evaluation, you may choose a device that’s not the best fit for your needs. In fact, scientific studies show that seniors tend to underestimate their own hearing loss2 Choosing a device that isn’t suitable for your specific level of hearing loss can be a frustrating, negative experience.
Did You Know?Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids or the related exams.3 Luckily, Audien’s budget-friendly devices shouldn’t break the bank.
Helpful Website Features
While on the website, I checked out the other resources Audien provides to make purchasing, tracking, and setting up your hearing aids as stress-free as possible.
- Track order status: Audien hosts an order tracker page on its website. Simply put in the email address you used when making a purchase to get tracking updates. I liked how easy this feature was to use. It’s a lot simpler than locating an order number in an email.
- Customer support: Audien is available via phone call, live chat on the website, and email to answer your questions. I tried out the live chat feature, which ended up just being a chatbot. However, the chatbot can provide information on setting up your hearing aids, maintenance, troubleshooting, and returns.
- Tutorial videos: Each hearing aid model has its own tutorial video. The video walks you through how to properly set up and wear your Audien hearing aids.
Savings Tip: When you visit Audien’s website, a $100 savings offer immediately pops up. You just need to enter your email address.
Unboxing and Setup
Audien sent me their Atom and Atom Pro hearing aid models to test. Both came in a sleek white box filled with everything you need to care for and charge the hearing aids. My mom and I gave both pairs a test run to see how well they fit, as well as their ability to improve our hearing.
What’s Inside the Box?
Everything that came with the Audien Atom hearing aids.
Everything that came with the Audien Atom Pro hearing aids.
| Model | Box contents |
|---|---|
| Atom | Carrying bag
2 hearing aids 6 sizes of silicone earbud pairs 3-point brush with screwdriver Wax guards Charging dock |
| Atom Pro | Charging case & charger
2 hearing aids 6 sizes of silicone earbud pairs 3-point brush with screwdriver Wax guards |
Hearing Aid Setup
Don’t let the common myth that “hearing aids are difficult to use” stop you from giving hearing aids a try.4 With the Atom and Atom Pro hearing aids, there isn’t much setup at all.
After unboxing, I charged both hearing aids. The Atom has a wireless charging dock, while the Atom Pro has a rechargeable case. After a few hours, a green signal light lit up, indicating that the hearing aids were fully charged. Since these hearing aids don’t utilize Bluetooth technology or custom programming, there isn’t an app to download or any settings to program. (Some of Audien’s other hearing aid styles offer these capabilities.)
The Atom and Atom Pro hearing aids don’t come with tap control or the ability to adjust sound through an app. You can, however, adjust the volume on both models. To do this, you’ll need to grab the small screwdriver that comes with your hearing aids. Use it to turn the volume control dial on each hearing aid. Audien recommends starting with the lowest volume setting and adjusting as needed.
Using the brush/screwdriver combo tool to adjust the volume on the Atom hearing aid.
Adjusting the volume is simple, but it might be a struggle for those with arthritis or dexterity problems. If that’s you, consider asking a friend or family member to help you set the volume. Once you have it adjusted to where you need it, you shouldn’t need to change it often.
Next, I looked through the different silicone tip sizes and opted for the smallest ones because my ears are on the small side.
The Atom and Atom Pro each come with 6 different pairs of silicone earbuds.
Need Help Finding the Right Hearing Aid?
Answer a few easy questions to find the hearing aid that’s right for you.
Testing the Hearing Aids
The Atom Pro
Sarah’s mom is wearing the Atom Pro hearing aids.
You can hardly see them!
After I had the silicone tips secured, it was time to test out the hearing aids. I found the Atom Pro hearing aids to be the most comfortable of the two models. They went into my ears easier, stayed in place better, and had a shape that fit my smaller ears better. I have sensorineural hearing loss (hearing loss caused by faulty sensory nerves), and while these differ drastically from my custom hearing aids, they still gave my hearing a boost.
One thing worth noting is that the Atom Pro hearing aids turn on as soon as you remove them from the charging case. If you hold them in a certain way, they make a high-pitched whining sound. You need to be careful with how you handle them to avoid making the sound while inserting them into your ear.
The Atom
Sarah’s mom wearing the Audien Atom hearing aids.
Compared to the Atom Pro hearing aids, the Atom model is bulkier and a little heavier. This pair doesn’t fit as well if you have smaller ears. Since studies indicate that most men have smaller ears than most women, these may not work for you if you’re genetically male.5 Plus, these hearing aids stick out a little further than the Atom Pro. The Atom still provided amplification, but the quality didn’t seem as impressive as the Atom Pro. One feature that I did like better about the Atom hearing aids, though, was the on/off switch. You can put these hearing aids in before turning them on. That means there’s no chance of triggering the high-pitched whining noise. This also enables you to preserve battery life.
Audien Hearing Aid Lineup
The Atom and Atom Pro aren’t Audien’s only hearing aid options. In total, Audien sells four ITE hearing aids and two BTE hearing aids designed to improve seniors’ hearing without breaking the bank.
Audien Atom: Best Budget Option With Wireless Charging
Audien Atom hearing aids inside and outside of the charging dock.
Cost
The Audien Atoms cost $99 per pair, making them a fraction of the cost of other budget hearing aids we’ve reviewed. Otofonix, for example, starts at around $500 per pair.
Equipment and features
The Audien Atom is an ITE hearing aid that’s 22 percent smaller than its predecessor, the EV1. It uses Audien’s new Atom sound technology to deliver better amplification for wearers. Other features include a 24-hour battery life and a wireless charger. I also liked that this hearing aid has an on/off switch. That makes preserving battery life a bit easier. Plus, you can wait until the devices are in your ears to turn them on. This prevents the static whining noise that I noticed these hearing aids emitted when handled.
Audien Atom Pro: Best for On-the-Go Seniors
Audien Atom Pro hearing aids inside and outside of the portable charging case.
Cost
The Atom Pro ITE hearing aids cost $249 per pair. Even at this price point, they’re far cheaper than many other direct-to-consumer brands. Given the rechargeable case, discreet design, and comfortable fit, they’re a good deal for what you get. Just know that the technology is limited and you’re not able to make adjustments like you can with hearing aids from other brands.
Equipment and features
These ITE rechargeable hearing aids are comfortable and discreet. They’re easier to insert into your ear than the Atom model. They also stayed in place well while I walked around and went about my day. This model provides crisp, clear sound and enhanced feedback cancellation, so there’s less wind noise and whistling.
My favorite part about their design is the portable charging case. The charging case holds up to four days worth of charge, so you can easily keep your hearing aids charged during a weekend getaway or camping trip without needing to plug in the case. This is similar to other OTC providers we’ve tested, including MDHearing, which offers charging cases that hold three full charges. To learn more, visit our MDHearing review.
Audien Atom 2: Best Affordable Hearing Aid With Four Hearing Modes
Audien Atom 2
Cost
The Atom 2 hearing aids are more expensive than Audien’s cheapest offering, but they’re still a bargain at $189 per pair. These hearing aids provide sharp, clear sound and added features you won’t get with Audien’s earlier Atom models.
Equipment and features
The A2 chip gives the Atom 2 hearing aids clearer sound quality and less background noise feedback than the earlier Atom hearing aids can. They also come loaded with four adaptable hearing modes and volume control. These devices hold a charge for up to 24 hours. They also have an antibacterial cleaning case that kills up to 99 percent of all known types of bacteria.
Audien Atom Pro 2: Best Sound Clarity in a Small Size
Audien Atom Pro 2
Cost
The small and compact Atom Pro 2 hearing aids cost $289, which is still a budget-friendly price. They have all of the features of the Atom 2 hearing aids, plus additional features that increase hearing clarity.
Equipment and Features
Atom Pro 2 hearing aids come with an additional background noise cancellation feature. If you enjoy social events and restaurants, these hearing aids may make following conversations in crowded rooms easier. They also come with a UV cleaning light and a sleek 24-hour charging case.
Audien Ion: Most Powerful BTE Hearing Aid
Audien Ion
Cost
The Audien Ion series is more expensive than both the Atom and Atom 2 series. They offer more technological bang for the buck and superior sound quality. The Ion hearing aids go for $489 per pair. Like every Audien hearing aid, they come with a 45-day money back guarantee.
Equipment and Features
Don’t assume that BTE hearing aids look bulky or more noticeable. The Audien Ion hearing aids are discreet and compact. Many seniors prefer the comfort and stability of a BTE hearing aid to ITE models that require wax buildup cleaning. These hearing aids only come in beige, however, which may make them more noticeable on some skin types.
These hearing aids come with Audien’s most advanced A2 Max chip, which delivers clear, crisp sound with limited to no feedback or background noise. They have four hearing modes so that you can more easily adapt to the hearing environments you frequent most. They also have directional sound technology, so you can better hone in on individual speakers during conversations.
Audien Ion Pro: Best for Bluetooth
Audien Ion Pro
Cost
The Ion Pro hearing aids are Audien’s most technologically advanced devices. At $689, they are also Audien’s most expensive offering. They’re still less expensive than some other OTC brands, such as Eargo. One of the main differences between the Ion and Eargo hearing aids is the Audien’s lack of ongoing audiological support.
Equipment and Features
Ion Pro hearing aids have all of the features of Ion models, but also come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity. Ion Pro hearing aids are Audien’s only hearing aids with Bluetooth and a mobile app. The app is available for both Android and Apple devices. If Bluetooth is important to you and you want to compare your options, check out our list of the best Bluetooth hearing aids.
Through the app you can adjust the volume, check on battery life, and choose between hearing modes such as TV, Conversation, and Crowd.
You can stream phone calls directly into your hearing aids from your phone, so if you love keeping in touch with friends and family via phone, these hearing aids may be a great choice for you.
Accessories
You can enhance your hearing aids with Audien’s lineup of accessories.
| Accessory | Price | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Audien Hearing Accessory Pack | $12 | 1x Accessory case
12x Replacement earbuds 1x Cleaning brush + screwdriver 8x Wax guards |
| Small sized earbuds for the Atom series | $12 | 3 pairs regular earbuds 3 pairs wax guard earbuds |
| Atom Pro Charge + Case | $24 | 1x Charging cable
1x Power block 1x Atom pro charging case |
| Atom Charger + Dock | $14 | 1 x Charging cable
1 x Charging block 1 x Atom dock |
Protection Plan
Accidents happen. Hearing aids can get lost. That’s why Audien offers customers a subscription-based protection plan to cover defective, lost, broken, or water-damaged hearing aids.6 The protection plan costs $4 per month for ongoing protection or $24 for a one-year protection plan.
If Audien determines that your hearing aids are defective, you will get a free replacement pair. If you need replacement hearing aids for another reason, you will pay a reduced replacement fee:
- EV1: $19 replacement fee
- Atom: $24 replacement fee
- EV3: $29 replacement fee
- Atom Pro: $34 replacement fee
Audien’s protection plan only allows for three hearing aid replacements per year per protection plan. We’d say this protection plan is affordable and offers great value, especially if you’re prone to misplacing things.
Comparing Audien to the Competition
Here’s how Audien stacks up against some other OTC hearing aid brands:
| Audien | Eargo | Jabra Enhance | MDHearing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price range per pair | $99-$689 | $799-$2,699 | $995-$1,995 | $297-$397 |
| Online hearing test? | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Styles available | ITE, BTE | ITE, earbud | BTE | ITE, BTE |
| Access to audiologists | No | Yes | Yes | No |
Audien and MDHearing are solid options if you want a basic, affordable hearing aid without frills. For those who want more advanced hearing aids, a mobile app with all models, and ongoing audiological support, Jabra Enhance may be a better option. Read our full Jabra Enhance review to learn more. If you’re looking for an OTC provider that specializes in discreet, in-ear hearing aids and you have wiggle room in your budget, Eargo is an excellent choice. Check out our Eargo review for all the details.
Our Methodology: How We Tested and Reviewed Audien
I ordered two of Audien’s most popular styles online – the Atom and the Atom Pro. I unboxed and wore both pairs for about a week each. During that time, I assessed each pair for sound quality, comfort, and ease of use.
I also researched Audien’s other hearing aids extensively online by reviewing the company’s website and reading customer reviews on multiple websites. Then I consulted with Audiologist Dr. Ruth Reisman for her feedback on and experience with Audien hearing aids.
I broke down my hands-on experience into the following categories:
- Price: Audien hearing aids are affordable, although their most technologically advanced style, the Ion Pro, falls into a more moderately-priced hearing aid category. Price is important to many seniors, so this was of optimum importance to us.
- Sound quality and personalization: Audien’s hearing aids offer decent sound quality, but their least expensive styles fall short in the personalization category. Seniors with hearing loss that is moderate, severe, or profound will need a more advanced hearing aid.
- Online hearing test: Audien doesn’t offer an online hearing test, which we find concerning. Even though some seniors may be happy to skip this step, in the long run it may result in getting the wrong hearing aids for your hearing loss level or type.
- Size: Audien ITE hearing aids may be too small for some people’s ears. They do come with a variety of sized domes that you can try out. Luckily, each pair has a 45-day free return policy so you can return them if they don’t work for you.
Final Thoughts on Audien
Overall, Audien fills a necessary spot in the hearing aid market. They sell affordable devices that are easy to use and comfortable to wear. Reviewers on their Amazon pages and website seem to love the hearing boost that Audien hearing aids provide and how they make holding conversations and watching TV more enjoyable. In my hands-on review, I found that setup is easy too. There’s no mobile app to download or a hearing exam to take. No matter your comfort level with technology, you’ll have no trouble getting started with Audien.
Just keep in mind that Audien’s devices are very basic and only suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. If you experience profound or severe hearing loss or hearing loss only at certain pitches, these devices won’t work as well for you. You also won’t get features like telecoil or Bluetooth for most of their hearing aids. However, these devices are a great choice if you’re on a limited budget or simply want to give hearing aids a try.
Frequently Asked Questions About Audien
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How long do Audien hearing aids last?
Audien’s rechargeable hearing aids last for 22 to 28 hours on a single charge, depending on the model.
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How do I return Audien hearing aids?
Audien offers a 45-day return policy. You can request to return your hearing aids on Audien’s website, where you will be given a USPS return shipping label. Your package must be dropped off and accepted at the post office by the 45th day to be eligible for a refund.
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What is the difference between Audien Atom and Atom Pro?
The Atom Pro hearing aid is smaller, more discreet, and more expensive than the Audien Atom. Additionally, the Atom Pro offers enhanced noise cancellation, making it easier to hear conversations in noisy environments.
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Which Audien hearing aids turn off while charging?
The Audien Atom Pro and Audien EV3 hearing aid models automatically turn off while charging. The Audien Atom and Audien EV1 devices need to be switched to the OFF position before charging if you want to speed up the charging time.
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What comes with Audien hearing aids?
Each pair of Audien hearing aids comes with slightly different starter supplies. However, all of the devices come with the equipment and cords needed for charging, a small cleaning brush, and a small screwdriver to adjust the volume on the hearing aid.
Audien Hearing. (2022). About Audien Hearing.
Ear and Hearing. (2015). Factors Associated with the Accuracy of Subjective Assessments of Hearing Impairment.
Medicare.gov. (2022). Hearing aids.
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2022). The Hidden Risks of Hearing Loss.
Journal of Craniofacial Surgery 33. (2022). Anthropometric Study of Human Ear: A Baseline Data for Ear Reconstruction.
Audien Hearing. (2022). Protection Plan Policy.