Our experts have researched 20 hearing aid companies and recommend our top picks for seniors.
SeniorLiving.org is compensated when you click on the provider links listed on this page. This compensation does not impact our ratings or reviews.
Price: $1,195 to $1,995 per pair
Best for: Mild-to-moderate hearing loss
Purchasing options: Online
Lively 2 Pro Hearing Aids
When it comes to online hearing aids, Lively offers the most bang for your buck, thanks to its many features and stellar support. Customers receive the latest technology, models for multiple lifestyles and budgets, an industry-leading 90-day free trial, and on-the-go adjustments from the Lively mobile app. The provider lends a long-term helping hand with three years of loss and damage coverage and virtual follow-up care, so you can make the most of your purchase. Lively’s financing options, free batteries, and free shipping help minimize out-of-pocket costs, especially for those living on a restricted income. All of these features come at a reasonable price when compared to leading providers that require in-person purchases and follow-up care.
Fun Fact: According to Lively, 95 percent of customers report better hearing after using Lively hearing aids.
Lively’s hearing aid line, available for online purchase, features the only fully virtual hearing aid with assistive listening devices. Consumers can make the most out of their hearing aid experience by integrating Lively’s high-tech wireless accessories. Lively’s TV streamer turns hearing aids into headphones, providing clear sound from up to 22 feet away. Their discreet, wearable MultiMic makes listening in loud settings a breeze by streaming voices to the hearing aids from up to 82 feet away. These add-on options seamlessly supercharge basic hearing aid capabilities.
Quick Tip: Head to our Lively hearing aids review to see how these online hearing aids stack up against the competition.
Price: $399.99 to $799.99 per device
Best for: Mild-to-moderate hearing loss
Purchasing options: Online
MDHearingAid devices
There’s no need to worry about struggling with hearing aids that come with a steep learning curve. MDHearing recognizes consumers have different comfort levels in hearing aid technology. The MDHearing models can be purchased online and include a low-tech traditional battery-powered model, a rechargeable water-resistant model with advanced features, and a tech-heavy smart model with cutting-edge sound mapping. MDHearing’s user-friendly designs eliminate the complication of pairing technology and pricing with product-specific features.
Providing direct-to-consumer hearing aids for over a decade, this U.S.-based company doesn’t skimp on customer service and support. Individuals can connect with MDHearing’s in-house audiologists via email for customized recommendations based on their online hearing test results. MDHearing’s 24/7 lifetime support by phone or email assists customers throughout their hearing aid experience. For an in-depth look at the three MDHearing models and what sets them apart from the rest, head over to our MDHearing review.
Current Deal: MDHearing is running a buy-one-get-one-free deal on their website! They’re also throwing in bonuses like an extra charger and ear cleaning kit.
While most online hearing aid options are limited to BTE styles, Eargo provides shoppers with a more discreet, completely-in-canal (CIC) device. Compared to the BTE’s noticeable hard plastic case fitted behind the wearer’s ear, CIC devices fit inside the ear and are nearly invisible to others. These in-ear hearing aids are small and slender, and deliver high cosmetic appeal.
Eargo’s hearing aid line is a great solution for first-time users who are comfortable with technology. These rechargeable hearing aids eliminate the hassle of changing batteries. In our full Eargo review, we test drove Eargo’s smartphone app, interface, and customer support.
Good to Know: You can finance the Eargo 6 for as low as $94 per month over a 36-month period.
* I highly recommend a medical evaluation before fully inserting CIC devices into the ear.
Quick Tip: Just beginning your hearing aid journey? Our expert hearing aid comparison guide walks you through the types of hearing aids, common features, and important questions to consider.
Price: $799 per pair
Best for: Mild-to-moderate hearing loss
Purchasing options: Online
Lexie hearing aids
Lexie Hearing makes it easy to shop, select, and purchase a pair of hearing aids online. The company offers one model, a BTE hearing aid, which streamlines the selection process. Lexie’s affordable devices can be purchased with a one-time payment or monthly subscription.
Lexie’s monthly subscription option delivers valuable benefits like extra hearing aid accessories, batteries, and a protection plan for breakage and loss. Users can save up to 5 percent in rewards points through the free Lexie Rewards program. Visit our Lexie review to learn more about ordering hearing aids online and having them sent directly to you.
More than 1 in 4 seniors forgo hearing aids because of cost, so if you’re on a tight budget, Otofonix’s competitive pricing should be on your radar. This U.S.-based company delivers one of the most affordable hearing aids on the market. Otofonix makes it easy to order hearing aids online (single or pair), and pricing is transparent. Even better, Otofonix regularly offers promotions for even more savings.
With Otofonix, hearing aid wearers don’t have to sacrifice technology for cost. These affordable hearing aids have a solid build with adaptive noise technology. The lifetime free phone support ensures help is just a phone call away. Check out our latest Otofonix review for all the details on this provider.
Current Otofonix Deal: Right now, you can save up to 60 percent on Otofonix hearing aids.
FYI: Savings alert! Otofonix’s wallet-friendly pricing made it onto our best cheap hearing aid providers list.
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
Signia hearing aids
According to the American Tinnitus Association, most patients develop tinnitus as a symptom of hearing loss, caused either by age, long-term hearing damage, or acute trauma to the auditory system.1 Signia understands the challenges of living with tinnitus, offering a large selection of hearing aids that can be purchased in-office with integrated therapies for tonal and non-tonal tinnitus. Relief solutions include static noise, ocean waves, and Notch therapy.
Signia’s hearing aids lead the pack in innovation. Their products cover the full range of hearing loss and offer an outstanding selection of wireless accessories. Signia delivers an innovative spin on the traditional hearing aid with their slim Styletto BTE model and the Active in-ear style that resembles an earbud. For more details on Signia’s fit, durability, and price point, head over to our Signia hearing aid review.
Inside Tip: Check out our best hearing aids for tinnitus for a comprehensive look at functions, features, and pricing.
Price: $1,000 to $4,000 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
Starkey Hearing Aids
American-owned hearing aid manufacturer Starkey has been in business since 1967 and can be found in over 100 markets worldwide. Hearing loss is one of several factors causing falls, and even a mild degree of hearing loss triples the risk of an accidental fall.2 Starkey is truly a hearing aid pioneer, offering features in line with top medical alert systems. They’re the only manufacturer that integrates fall detection, artificial intelligence, and machine learning into their hearing aids.
These cutting-edge hearing aids detect when a wearer falls and can immediately alert designated family or caregivers. Learn more about this unique fall detection feature in our Starkey hearing aid review. Health and wellness play a major role in all Starkey products. Their Thrive Hearing app allows users to schedule alerts for taking medications, track daily steps, and measure movements. These hearing aids must be purchased in person from a hearing care professional.
Return option: 45 to 90 days
Maximum warranty: 3 years
Online self-hearing test: Yes
iOS/Android app: Yes
Rechargeable: Yes
Buyer’s Tip: The choice is yours! Starkey’s hearing aid lineup offers multiple styles of hearing aids, ranging from BTE to CIC.
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-severe hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
Widex hearing aids
Widex’s hearing aid line is well known in the hearing health industry, as they have been making hearing aids since 1956. The company’s reputation and product quality are superior. Widex hearing aids are built with a wide frequency response range and musicians in mind, making them our go-to pick for music enthusiasts. And the benefits of music are remarkable: A recent study shows intervention with music improves cognitive function and quality of life in people living with dementia.3
With amplification up to 20kHz and additional pitch and timbre cues, wearers will enjoy a crisper, fuller sound. These sophisticated hearing aids provide a true-to-life listening experience without distortion. If you’re curious about where Widex’s pricing falls, visit our Widex pricing guide. Widex devices can be purchased in-office only.
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
ReSound hearing aids
ReSound is an industry leader with nearly 80 years in business and a trailblazer in rechargeable hearing aids. ReSound’s rechargeable models eliminate the need to replace batteries. Packed with power, the new ReSound ONE BTE style delivers best-in-class rechargeability, with more than a full day of use (up to 23 hours on just one charge). Simply charge your hearing aids each night, and you’ll have full power each day.
Did You Know: ReSound is the only hearing aid manufacturer with a three-microphone system (available on select models). This helps restore natural hearing by using the outer ear.
ReSound’s customer service, including telehealth support, is noteworthy. Through their ReSound Assist Live app, users can receive face-to-face care through their phone. Your hearing care professional can make real-time hearing aid adjustments and fine-tune while you remain in the comfort and safety of your home. To purchase a pair of ReSound hearing aids, visit your local hearing care professional.
From the Pros: Visit our full ReSound hearing aid review to see if this provider is the right fit for you and your hearing health needs. If you’re on the fence between Widex and ReSound, our Widex vs. ReSound comparison is a must-read!
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
Oticon hearing aids
In business since 1904, Oticon is one of the oldest hearing aid providers in the industry. From IIC to BTE models, Oticon’s product lineup delivers a full range of hearing aid options for all levels of hearing loss, available for in-office purchase.
As the only manufacturer that connects to the If This Then That (IFTTT) network, Oticon’s integration with smart devices is unmatched. The IFTTT network allows for wireless connections to multiple internet-based devices, like Wi-Fi doorbells, home security systems, and smoke detectors. This enables crucial environmental alerts that may be missed by the hearing impaired. Bonus points go to Oticon for their unique BrainHearing technology and ability to eliminate bothersome hearing aid feedback, such as whistling and squealing.
FYI: Oticon earned high marks and praise in our latest review of Oticon hearing aids.
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
Phonak hearing aids
Delivering hearing solutions for over 70 years, Phonak is a major player in the hearing aid industry, available in over 100 countries at local hearing clinics. While many hearing aid companies focus on mild-to-moderate hearing loss, leaving those with severe hearing difficulties out in the cold, Phonak doesn’t disappoint.
Phonak’s groundbreaking hearing aids for severe-to-profound hearing loss come out on top. These hearing aid powerhouses are both durable and reliable. Another standout feature is Phonak’s integrated microphone. Phonak offers one of the only Bluetooth-streaming hearing aids with an integrated mic for completely hands-free phone calls. Phonak’s higher prices may put a dent in your wallet, but if you have room in your hearing aid budget, this brand is certainly worth considering. Visit our Phonak hearing aid review to learn more.
Best Hearing Aids of 2022
Although on the surface many hearing aids may look similar, they each bring unique features to fit different users’ needs and goals. Knowing the differences is critical when making the right decision in amplifying hearing loss and improving the user’s quality of life.
To help you select the best hearing aid for your needs, budget, and lifestyle, we evaluated criteria including price, design, technology, add-on features, and customer support. As you explore hearing aid options, take time to consider how the hearing aid can improve your hearing health and how to choose the right device for your needs. Note that there are two kinds of hearing aids: those that can be purchased online and medical-grade hearing aids that are typically fit and bought in-office at a hearing clinic. We’ve listed these purchasing options for each hearing aid brand below. Read on for an in-depth look at the hearing aids that came out on top and what they have to offer.
Did You Know: There are two different types of hearing aids: those that can be purchased online and those that are medical-grade and must be purchased in office. It’s important to understand the differences between the two, so you can find the device that’s right for your needs and level of hearing loss. Jump down to our guide to buying hearing aids online vs. in person to learn more.
| Hearing Aid Company | Lively | MDHearing | Otofonix | Eargo | Lexie | Signia | Starkey | Widex | ReSound | Oticon | Phonak |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hearing loss | Mild to Moderate | Mild to Moderate | Mild to Moderate | Mild to Moderate | Mild to Moderate | Mild to Profound | Mild to Profound | Mild to Severe | Mild to Profound | Mild to Profound | Mild to Profound |
| Price | $1,195 to $1,995 per pair | $399.99 to $799.99 per device | $248 per device to $1590 per pair | $1,500 to $2,950 per pair | $799 per pair | $1000 to $3500 per device | $1000 to $4000 per device | $1000 to $3500 per device | $1000 to $3500 per device | $1000 to $3500 per device | $1000 to $3500 per device |
| Purchasing options | Online | Online | Online | Online | Online | In-office, insurance | In-office, insurance | In-office, insurance | In-office, insurance | In-office, insurance | In-office, insurance |
| Financing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | By office | By office | By office | By office | By office | By office |
| STD warranty | 3 years | 90 days | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
| Max warranty | 3 years | 90 days | 1 year | 2 year | 1 year | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
| Return option | 100 Days | 45 Days | 45 Days | 45 Days | 45 days | 45-90 Days | 45-90 Days | 45-90 Days | 45-90 Days | 45-90 Days | 45-90 Days |
| Rechargeable | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Zinc air batteries | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Self test | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Remote support | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| TV streamer | Yes | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| iOS app | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Android app | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tinnitus features | Yes | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Price: $1,195 to $1,995 per pair
Best for: Mild-to-moderate hearing loss
Purchasing options: Online
Lively 2 Pro Hearing Aids
When it comes to online hearing aids, Lively offers the most bang for your buck, thanks to its many features and stellar support. Customers receive the latest technology, models for multiple lifestyles and budgets, an industry-leading 90-day free trial, and on-the-go adjustments from the Lively mobile app. The provider lends a long-term helping hand with three years of loss and damage coverage and virtual follow-up care, so you can make the most of your purchase. Lively’s financing options, free batteries, and free shipping help minimize out-of-pocket costs, especially for those living on a restricted income. All of these features come at a reasonable price when compared to leading providers that require in-person purchases and follow-up care.
Fun Fact: According to Lively, 95 percent of customers report better hearing after using Lively hearing aids.
Lively’s hearing aid line, available for online purchase, features the only fully virtual hearing aid with assistive listening devices. Consumers can make the most out of their hearing aid experience by integrating Lively’s high-tech wireless accessories. Lively’s TV streamer turns hearing aids into headphones, providing clear sound from up to 22 feet away. Their discreet, wearable MultiMic makes listening in loud settings a breeze by streaming voices to the hearing aids from up to 82 feet away. These add-on options seamlessly supercharge basic hearing aid capabilities.
Quick Tip: Head to our Lively hearing aids review to see how these online hearing aids stack up against the competition.
Price: $399.99 to $799.99 per device
Best for: Mild-to-moderate hearing loss
Purchasing options: Online
MDHearingAid devices
There’s no need to worry about struggling with hearing aids that come with a steep learning curve. MDHearing recognizes consumers have different comfort levels in hearing aid technology. The MDHearing models can be purchased online and include a low-tech traditional battery-powered model, a rechargeable water-resistant model with advanced features, and a tech-heavy smart model with cutting-edge sound mapping. MDHearing’s user-friendly designs eliminate the complication of pairing technology and pricing with product-specific features.
Providing direct-to-consumer hearing aids for over a decade, this U.S.-based company doesn’t skimp on customer service and support. Individuals can connect with MDHearing’s in-house audiologists via email for customized recommendations based on their online hearing test results. MDHearing’s 24/7 lifetime support by phone or email assists customers throughout their hearing aid experience. For an in-depth look at the three MDHearing models and what sets them apart from the rest, head over to our MDHearing review.
Current Deal: MDHearing is running a buy-one-get-one-free deal on their website! They’re also throwing in bonuses like an extra charger and ear cleaning kit.
Price: $1,450 to $2,950 per pair
Best for: Mild-to-moderate hearing loss
Purchasing options: Online
Eargo hearing aids
While most online hearing aid options are limited to BTE styles, Eargo provides shoppers with a more discreet, completely-in-canal (CIC) device. Compared to the BTE’s noticeable hard plastic case fitted behind the wearer’s ear, CIC devices fit inside the ear and are nearly invisible to others. These in-ear hearing aids are small and slender, and deliver high cosmetic appeal.
Eargo’s hearing aid line is a great solution for first-time users who are comfortable with technology. These rechargeable hearing aids eliminate the hassle of changing batteries. In our full Eargo review, we test drove Eargo’s smartphone app, interface, and customer support.
Good to Know: You can finance the Eargo 6 for as low as $94 per month over a 36-month period.
* I highly recommend a medical evaluation before fully inserting CIC devices into the ear.
Quick Tip: Just beginning your hearing aid journey? Our expert hearing aid comparison guide walks you through the types of hearing aids, common features, and important questions to consider.
Price: $799 per pair
Best for: Mild-to-moderate hearing loss
Purchasing options: Online
Lexie hearing aids
Lexie Hearing makes it easy to shop, select, and purchase a pair of hearing aids online. The company offers one model, a BTE hearing aid, which streamlines the selection process. Lexie’s affordable devices can be purchased with a one-time payment or monthly subscription.
Lexie’s monthly subscription option delivers valuable benefits like extra hearing aid accessories, batteries, and a protection plan for breakage and loss. Users can save up to 5 percent in rewards points through the free Lexie Rewards program. Visit our Lexie review to learn more about ordering hearing aids online and having them sent directly to you.
Price: $248 per device to $1,590 per pair
Best for: Mild-to-moderate hearing loss
Purchasing options: Online
Otofonix hearing aids
More than 1 in 4 seniors forgo hearing aids because of cost, so if you’re on a tight budget, Otofonix’s competitive pricing should be on your radar. This U.S.-based company delivers one of the most affordable hearing aids on the market. Otofonix makes it easy to order hearing aids online (single or pair), and pricing is transparent. Even better, Otofonix regularly offers promotions for even more savings.
With Otofonix, hearing aid wearers don’t have to sacrifice technology for cost. These affordable hearing aids have a solid build with adaptive noise technology. The lifetime free phone support ensures help is just a phone call away. Check out our latest Otofonix review for all the details on this provider.
Current Otofonix Deal: Right now, you can save up to 60 percent on Otofonix hearing aids.
FYI: Savings alert! Otofonix’s wallet-friendly pricing made it onto our best cheap hearing aid providers list.
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
Signia hearing aids
According to the American Tinnitus Association, most patients develop tinnitus as a symptom of hearing loss, caused either by age, long-term hearing damage, or acute trauma to the auditory system.1 Signia understands the challenges of living with tinnitus, offering a large selection of hearing aids that can be purchased in-office with integrated therapies for tonal and non-tonal tinnitus. Relief solutions include static noise, ocean waves, and Notch therapy.
Signia’s hearing aids lead the pack in innovation. Their products cover the full range of hearing loss and offer an outstanding selection of wireless accessories. Signia delivers an innovative spin on the traditional hearing aid with their slim Styletto BTE model and the Active in-ear style that resembles an earbud. For more details on Signia’s fit, durability, and price point, head over to our Signia hearing aid review.
Inside Tip: Check out our best hearing aids for tinnitus for a comprehensive look at functions, features, and pricing.
Price: $1,000 to $4,000 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
American-owned hearing aid manufacturer Starkey has been in business since 1967 and can be found in over 100 markets worldwide. Hearing loss is one of several factors causing falls, and even a mild degree of hearing loss triples the risk of an accidental fall.2 Starkey is truly a hearing aid pioneer, offering features in line with top medical alert systems. They’re the only manufacturer that integrates fall detection, artificial intelligence, and machine learning into their hearing aids.
Starkey Hearing Aids
These cutting-edge hearing aids detect when a wearer falls and can immediately alert designated family or caregivers. Learn more about this unique fall detection feature in our Starkey hearing aid review. Health and wellness play a major role in all Starkey products. Their Thrive Hearing app allows users to schedule alerts for taking medications, track daily steps, and measure movements. These hearing aids must be purchased in person from a hearing care professional.
Return option: 45 to 90 days
Maximum warranty: 3 years
Online self-hearing test: Yes
iOS/Android app: Yes
Rechargeable: Yes
Buyer’s Tip: The choice is yours! Starkey’s hearing aid lineup offers multiple styles of hearing aids, ranging from BTE to CIC.
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-severe hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
Widex hearing aids
Widex’s hearing aid line is well known in the hearing health industry, as they have been making hearing aids since 1956. The company’s reputation and product quality are superior. Widex hearing aids are built with a wide frequency response range and musicians in mind, making them our go-to pick for music enthusiasts. And the benefits of music are remarkable: A recent study shows intervention with music improves cognitive function and quality of life in people living with dementia.3
With amplification up to 20kHz and additional pitch and timbre cues, wearers will enjoy a crisper, fuller sound. These sophisticated hearing aids provide a true-to-life listening experience without distortion. If you’re curious about where Widex’s pricing falls, visit our Widex pricing guide. Widex devices can be purchased in-office only.
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
ReSound hearing aids
ReSound is an industry leader with nearly 80 years in business and a trailblazer in rechargeable hearing aids. ReSound’s rechargeable models eliminate the need to replace batteries. Packed with power, the new ReSound ONE BTE style delivers best-in-class rechargeability, with more than a full day of use (up to 23 hours on just one charge). Simply charge your hearing aids each night, and you’ll have full power each day.
Did You Know: ReSound is the only hearing aid manufacturer with a three-microphone system (available on select models). This helps restore natural hearing by using the outer ear.
ReSound’s customer service, including telehealth support, is noteworthy. Through their ReSound Assist Live app, users can receive face-to-face care through their phone. Your hearing care professional can make real-time hearing aid adjustments and fine-tune while you remain in the comfort and safety of your home. To purchase a pair of ReSound hearing aids, visit your local hearing care professional.
From the Pros: Visit our full ReSound hearing aid review to see if this provider is the right fit for you and your hearing health needs. If you’re on the fence between Widex and ReSound, our Widex vs. ReSound comparison is a must-read!
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
Oticon hearing aids
In business since 1904, Oticon is one of the oldest hearing aid providers in the industry. From IIC to BTE models, Oticon’s product lineup delivers a full range of hearing aid options for all levels of hearing loss, available for in-office purchase.
As the only manufacturer that connects to the If This Then That (IFTTT) network, Oticon’s integration with smart devices is unmatched. The IFTTT network allows for wireless connections to multiple internet-based devices, like Wi-Fi doorbells, home security systems, and smoke detectors. This enables crucial environmental alerts that may be missed by the hearing impaired. Bonus points go to Oticon for their unique BrainHearing technology and ability to eliminate bothersome hearing aid feedback, such as whistling and squealing.
FYI: Oticon earned high marks and praise in our latest review of Oticon hearing aids.
Price: $1,000 to $3,500 per device
Best for: Mild-to-profound hearing loss
Purchasing options: In-office, insurance
Phonak hearing aids
Delivering hearing solutions for over 70 years, Phonak is a major player in the hearing aid industry, available in over 100 countries at local hearing clinics. While many hearing aid companies focus on mild-to-moderate hearing loss, leaving those with severe hearing difficulties out in the cold, Phonak doesn’t disappoint.
Phonak’s groundbreaking hearing aids for severe-to-profound hearing loss come out on top. These hearing aid powerhouses are both durable and reliable. Another standout feature is Phonak’s integrated microphone. Phonak offers one of the only Bluetooth-streaming hearing aids with an integrated mic for completely hands-free phone calls. Phonak’s higher prices may put a dent in your wallet, but if you have room in your hearing aid budget, this brand is certainly worth considering. Visit our Phonak hearing aid review to learn more.
With so many fantastic hearing aid options, it can feel overwhelming to make a final choice. In my opinion, it’s best to make a decision based on the device that will address most, if not all, of your hearing health goals.
Let’s take a look at the most common needs for those with hearing loss. Harvard Health recommends considering the nature of your hearing loss, its cause, and its severity.4 I’ll guide you through some of the best hearing aid options that match each goal in the chart below.
| I want to | Best hearing aid option |
|---|---|
| Hear better in background noise and social settings |
Almost all hearing aids will use some form of noise management or have directional microphones to help decrease background noise. Best online option: MDHearing Best in-office option: Oticon |
| Enhance speech understanding |
Once amplified appropriately, speech understanding should improve with all hearing aids. If it does not, the hearing loss may be more central than neural (this will not improve with traditional hearing aids). Best online option: Eargo Best in-office option: Phonak |
| Hear soft voices |
All hearing aids now have digital processing to help enhance soft sounds. To ensure proper amplification, it’s best to do some form of formal verification, like real ear measures or sound field testing from an audiologist. Best online option: Otofonix Best in-office option: Phonak |
| Improve tinnitus |
Tinnitus and hearing loss often go hand in hand. Several hearing aids include tinnitus management software or tinnitus noise therapy signals. Best online option: Lively Best in-office options: Widex and Signia |
| Enjoy music again |
Hearing aids with a sound adjust feature or intelligent sound automation combat music distortion and create an enjoyable listening experience. Best online option: Eargo Best in-office option: Widex |
| Reduce waste with rechargeable batteries |
Constantly replacing hearing aid batteries can be costly. Rechargeable hearing aids provide all-day use, with some aids lasting up to 30 hours. Best online option: Lively Best in-office option: ReSound |
| Have a cosmetic appeal |
CIC custom hearing aids deliver discreet hearing support. Best online option: Eargo invisible CIC Best in-office option: Starkey CIC |
| Get a great value for investment |
Key features in value for hearing aids include affordability, ease of selection, warranty, and professional support. Best online option: Lexie Best in-office option: Phonak |
| Receive continuous hearing loss support |
All hearing aid manufacturers have some form of support. These manufacturers provide the best ongoing in-office and online support: Best online option: Lively Best in-office option: Signia |
| Benefit from Bluetooth connectivity and an app for adjustments |
All receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) options and many in-the-ear devices (except Eargo) have Bluetooth direct audio streaming. A number of hearing aids also include a remote adjustment feature connecting users with their audiologist through a smartphone app. Best online option: Otofonix Best in-office option: ReSound |
Pro Tip: Our hearing aid buyer’s guide provides several hearing aid tools and resources so that you can make an educated purchase.
Want more help choosing hearing aids? Watch the video below with audiologist Brad Ingrao for more tips.
As you begin shopping for a hearing aid, you’ll most likely complete a Client Oriented Scale of Improvement (COSI). The COSI is a standardized questionnaire created by the National Acoustic Laboratories for the hearing impaired. Clinicians use the answers to document a patient’s goals and needs, and measure improvements in hearing ability. You’ll rank hearing challenges like conversations in groups, hearing the phone ring from another room, and listening to the television or radio at normal volume.
If you’re purchasing from an online hearing aid retailer, many companies include a hearing test on their website. You’ll answer a few questions (similar to the COSI questionnaire) and then plug your headphones into your computer to take the audio portion of the test. The entire process takes approximately five minutes, and your results help determine your personalized hearing needs.
Without a doubt, purchasing hearing aids online is convenient. With a few keystrokes, online shoppers can explore hearing aid brands, benefits, and pricing — all from the comfort of their homes. And there’s no hassle in scheduling (and going to) doctor’s appointments.
However, purchasing hearing aids online isn’t for everyone. These models are best for individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. And it’s important to keep in mind that online hearing tests are not medical tests. This means you’re waiving medical clearance and assuming the risk of undiagnosed ear disease when you purchase hearing aids online.
Purchasing medical-grade hearing aids from an in-office professional delivers a higher level of personalized medical care and hearing health support. This is especially critical for individuals who have severe-to-profound hearing loss, those who are not tech-savvy, and children.
As mentioned previously, most online hearing aid company websites include a hearing test. While it helps identify hearing loss levels, it’s not a medically administered test. Visiting an audiologist in the office ensures you receive an accurate evaluation. This includes hearing tests like the tympanometry test (to check how your eardrum moves), acoustic reflex measures (to test how well your ears respond to loud sounds), and the pure-tone test (to test how you react to the pitch and loudness of tones).
If the audiologist decides you need a hearing aid, you’ll receive a proper fitting and any undiagnosed ear conditions will be detected. However, an in-person hearing aid purchase usually comes with a heftier price tag and quite a few appointments with an audiologist.
Once you’ve chosen your hearing aids, an essential step in the hearing rehabilitation process is getting comfortable with them. Think of your hearing aids like a brand-new car with all the bells and whistles. It takes time to get used to a new car’s features and find that sweet spot for your rearview and side mirrors. Hearing aids are no different! Be patient with yourself as you learn how to use the hearing aid interface, adjust the volume settings, and put the aids in and take them out.
Here are my top five tips for maximizing your success with your hearing aids:
No, Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids. Annual hearing tests and other advanced tests will be covered only if they are medically necessary. Some Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like vision, hearing, and dental.
Prices for hearing aids vary dramatically by provider and technology level. The approximate range per pair is $800 to $8,000.
Your lifestyle, severity of hearing loss, dexterity, tech-savviness, and budget are key factors to consider.
The average lifespan of a hearing aid is five to six years. However, many hearing aids last much longer with proper care and repairs.6 Some individuals may choose to purchase new hearing aids, even though their current ones still work, due to advances in technology.
Ruth Reisman, AuD MBA, is a licensed audiologist and hearing aid dispenser in New York state and is certified by the American Speech and Hearing Association. After serving as an audiologist in the New York downstate hospital system, Dr. Reisman led the… Learn More About Dr. Ruth Reisman
American Tinnitus Association. (2022). Hearing Aids.
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (2019). Hearing Loss and the Increased Risk of Falls.
National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Music Therapy in the Treatment of Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Harvard Health. (2014). 7 tips for buying a hearing aid.
Medicare.gov. (2022). Hearing aids.
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2022). Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.
