Our experts researched and reviewed the industry’s leading invisible hearing aids and narrowed the list to their top eight recommendations.
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Hearing aids are designed to enhance hearing, and not be a burden! That’s why many older adults go with an invisible — or nearly invisible — style. Because they’re so discreet, wearers can go about their everyday lives without worrying about their hearing aids getting in the way.
While the choices are ample, invisible hearing aids are not all created equal. We have ranked the top eight invisible hearing aids to help you make a confident purchase. Four are invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) style for mild to moderate hearing loss, and four are mini behind-the-ear (BTE) devices, which are slightly more visible and typically suited for mild to moderately severe hearing loss.
Did You Know: Want to learn more about the different types of invisible hearing aids and who they’re best for? Jump down to our section on the types of invisible hearing aids.
If you are in the market for a discreet or nearly invisible hearing aid, Eargo may be a great fit. Though Eargo is a newer hearing aid brand, they offer affordable devices that you can purchase online. Eargo boasts high-quality, natural sound, and a sleek design. This company made the top of our list because invisibility, rechargeability, and affordability come standard with every pair of their hearing aids.
Eargo 6 Hero Hearing Aids
All four of Eargo’s hearing aid models fit snugly in the wearer’s ear canal, which reduces background noise and makes them invisible. If you want rechargeable invisible hearing aids that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, Eargo may be a great option. Since you can buy these IIC hearing aids online, you can forgo an appointment with an audiologist. Just remember, this also means they won’t be suitable for individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. When selecting an Eargo hearing aid, pay attention to the audio and connection features, which set each model apart.
Did You Know: Eargo offers some of the only rechargeable IIC hearing aids on the market. Check out our list of the best rechargeable hearing aids to learn more.
One great thing about this provider is that, unlike competing brands, Eargo is transparent with pricing. You can easily find pricing information online. Currently, their newest model — the Eargo 6 — costs $2,950 per pair; the Eargo 5 costs $2,450; the Eargo Neo HiFi costs $1,950; and the most affordable option — the Eargo Max — costs $1,450 per pair. You can also spread the cost over monthly payments for12 or 24 months if that works better for your budget. The most affordable financing option starts at just $67 per month for the Eargo Max.
With Eargo’s small-yet-mighty hearing aids, reasonable prices, and rechargeable products, they are worth considering if you’re shopping for an invisible hearing aid. The technology used in their devices allows you to customize the hearing experience to suit individual needs. And, thanks to their monthly payment plans, more people can afford Eargo devices without stretching their budgets too far. However, if you’re experiencing moderately severe to profound hearing loss or would prefer hearing aids that are fitted by a hearing care professional, you may want to consider some of the other providers on our list. Visit our full review of Eargo for a closer look.
Signia hearing devices are applauded for their phenomenal sound quality, comfort, and ease of use. As far as invisible hearing aids go, Signia carries a couple different models to choose from, including the Silk Nx and Silk X.
Signia Silk Hearing Aid
For ultimate discretion (but no Bluetooth connectivity), there’s Signia’s Silk NX IIC, which sits in your ear canal. Signa also offers the Insio Silk X, a small completely-in-the-canal hearing aid that’s totally invisible, depending on your ear canal size. What we really love about this model is the instant fit. You can walk in for your hearing test and then walk out with hearing aids perfectly fitted to your ears. This is thanks to their flexible Click Sleeve design, which provides an immediate, snug, and comfortable fit.
Signia’s pricing varies greatly depending on where you shop and purchase their hearing aids, as well as the specific features and design you choose. To find out whether any of these Signia models fit within your invisible hearing aid budget, visit your local hearing aid center to learn more.
Signia is continually integrating new technology into their hearing aids to meet the needs of people who are hearing-impaired. It can often be difficult for someone with moderately severe hearing loss to find a reliable invisible hearing aid, but Signia does take into consideration all hearing loss levels. Plus, the company website is filled with useful information, which is welcome news if you don’t feel like calling customer service.
You can also check out our review of Signia hearing aids to learn more about their full product line.
Phonak is the manufacturer of Lyric, the world’s first and only fully invisible extended-wear hearing device that delivers natural sound. Extended wear means that you wear Lyric 24/7 for four months at a time, even in the shower! Its unique placement in the ear canal allows it to stay fully hidden, while users are able to capture sound from the outside world naturally and experience exceptional sound quality, even in very noisy listening environments.
Phonak Lyric Hearing Aid
Since Lyric is 100 percent invisible and stays in all of the time, wearers essentially can forget about their hearing loss and start focusing on enjoying life. Those who purchase this invisible hearing aid will also get a Lyric subscription free for one year, which covers servicing on the device and technology updates when they become available.
The cost of Phonak hearing aids, including their Lyric model, varies by location. If you are interested in finding out whether or not this device is within your budget, visit your local hearing provider for more information.
Looking for a 100 percent invisible hearing aid that can operate for months at a time without removal? Phonak’s Lyric may be worth considering, if the pricing works with your budget. Since it is sold only under a subscription model, in the long run, this option might be on the pricier end compared to the other invisible hearing aid models we’ve discussed so far.
To learn more about Phonak and their other hearing aid options, take a look at our 2022 Phonak hearing aid review.
Many independent audiologists recommend Starkey‘s Picasso IIC when it comes to invisible hearing aids. This model is a small device that sits deep within the ear canal to support the way our ears naturally pick up sounds. Best of all, it’s personally customized to fit your ear anatomy. Your provider will make a fast and painless earmold during an office visit. Then, Starkey uses that mold to create an IIC device that perfectly fits your ear. Custom hearing aids aren’t just more comfortable and snug; they can also sound more natural.
Starkey Picasso IIC Hearing Aid
Picasso is compatible with the full line of Surflink wireless accessories, including remote controls, Bluetooth streamers, and remote microphones. Plus, it is packed with advanced features for speech understanding in noise.
Starkey does not sell any hearing aids through their website directly. Starkey products are available for purchase through a network of distributors and audiology centers. Those interested in pricing and other details should contact their local hearing facility to learn more. Be sure to ask about financing plans available, and check to see if your health insurance covers any part of a hearing aid purchase.
Starkey is an independent and family-owned hearing aid business. They have a long history of innovation and success in the hearing aid industry, making their invisible hearing aids a smart choice for those looking to improve their hearing and enjoy the sounds of the world clearly. Read more about this brand in our 2022 Starkey hearing aid review.
FYI: Not fully sold on invisible hearing aids? Review our list of the best hearing aids for seniors to learn about some other highly rated hearing aid manufacturers.
Lively gives customers who prefer BTE hearing aids a nearly invisible device at an affordable price. Traditionally, BTE hearing aids are more noticeable than in-the-canal (ITC) models since they rest on the outside of the ear. But Lively’s FDA-approved devices are less than half an inch wide and come in seven colors designed to blend in with hair color, making them even more discreet. Keep in mind that Lively offers just three BTE hearing aid models, so if you prefer a different style, you’ll want to check out another brand.
Lively Hearing Aids
We think the near-invisible design is just one of many perks of Lively hearing aids. Customers may choose from a rechargeable or battery-powered model, both of which are Bluetooth-enabled and come with a 100-day money-back guarantee. We know some seniors may be hesitant to purchase hearing aids online, but Lively offers three years of virtual professional audiology services with every purchase to put your mind at ease. This is a service that many over-the-counter hearing aid manufacturers don’t offer.
Unfortunately, most health insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids. With some hearing aids costing well over $5,000 for a pair, the purchase can make a dent in your wallet. Lively offers a more cost-effective option by selling hearing aids directly to consumers online or over the phone. Lively’s hearing aids start at $1,195 per pair and go up to $1,995 if you want the advanced, rechargeable model. That includes free shipping, three years of remote care with an audiologist, the Lively app, and more.
Money-Saving Tip: Lively runs online sales throughout the year that could save you a few hundred dollars on your hearing aids. Be on the lookout for these deals as you shop!
Though Lively lacks a truly “invisible” hearing aid model, they come pretty close with their BTE devices. The petite design and clever color options allow Lively hearing aids to blend in behind the ear. All three hearing aid models are Bluetooth-enabled and come with follow-up care from a Lively audiologist, while costing 50 percent less than the national average for hearing aids. Lively is difficult to top for older adults looking for an inexpensive nearly invisible BTE hearing aid they can buy online. Visit this year’s Lively review to learn more about this provider.
Similar to Lively, MDHearingAid offers only BTE hearing aids. Out of their three models, the AIR is the smallest and most lightweight, giving you the closest thing to a nearly invisible hearing aid experience. The AIR hearing aid is half an inch wide, which is about the same width as a pencil. The clear tubing that runs from the hearing aid inside of your ear is thin and discreet as well. This small, lightweight design ultimately makes wearing your hearing aids more comfortable.
MDHearingAids
At $799.99 per pair, the AIR model is highly affordable. The budget-friendly cost does come with a lack of features; the AIR model isn’t rechargeable, Bluetooth-enabled, or water-resistant like other MDHearingAid models. If those features are important to you, you may want to look at MDHearingAid’s VOLT and VOLT MAX hearing aid models. They are bulkier than the AIR but have more features and advanced hearing settings for wearers who need extra hearing support.
Savings Alert: MDHearingAid offers big sales throughout the year. You could save up to 50 percent on a pair of hearing aids if you snag one of these deals!
By offering limited features, models, colors, and technology, MDHearingAid can price their hearing aids very low. Plus, by cutting out the middleman and selling directly to customers via their website or over the phone, they let customers keep even more money in their wallets. Currently, the AIR costs $799.99 per pair, the VOLT costs $1,199.99 per pair, and the VOLT MAX costs $1,899.98 per pair. Sales are extremely common, so if you time it right, you can snag a pair for $299.98.
MDHearingAid offers value and comfort to older adults who want a basic, nearly invisible hearing aid. Though these BTE-style hearing aids aren’t as discreet as some others we’ve seen, they come pretty close, and they’re affordable. Keep in mind that if you’re looking for hearing aids that blend in, MDHearingAid offers beige devices only. Their hearing aids will be more noticeable on someone with darker hair or a darker complexion. Head to this year’s MDHearingAid review for a closer look at the brand.
Lexie makes selecting and buying a mini BTE hearing aid a breeze. This company sells only one hearing aid model, the Lexie Lumen, and it’s available for purchase online — no prescription or audiologist appointment needed. The Lumen isn’t the most advanced hearing aid on the market, but it’s reliable and offers many important features. Plus, it comes in five different colors, so you can match it to your hair color, skin tone, or glasses.
Lexie Lumen Hearing Aid
Features include directional hearing, noise reduction, and telecoil functionality. When you wear the Lumen, you’ll have no trouble speaking on the phone and focusing on the sounds you want to hear. Lexie also uses a smart-fit algorithm to customize your hearing experience based on your hearing profile. This is all done through a hearing test within the Lexie app.
Lexie lets customers decide if they want to purchase their hearing aids for $799 upfront or go with a monthly subscription for $49 per month (for 24 months) with a $50 one-time activation fee. The subscription model comes with no contract, so you can cancel and return the hearing aids at any time. Or, after 24 months of payments, you’ll own your Lexie Lumen hearing aids. Buying upfront is the cheaper option: $799 for ownership versus $1,176 over two years with a subscription. However, the subscription includes hearing aid accessories and batteries, along with a protection plan, which add value. At the $799 price point, Lexie is one of the best value hearing providers on the market.
While Lexie does make selection simple, the mini BTE model they offer might not be right for everyone. It’s not fully invisible like IIC hearing aids are, and you don’t have advanced features like Bluetooth streaming. However, we feel the technology offered and the easy-to-use Lexie app make this provider a viable option for many seniors. Read our Lexie review to learn about our hands-on experience with Lexie Lumen.
Otofonix made our list for its affordable, budget-friendly mini BTE options that start at just $496 per pair. While they can’t compete against the customized hearing aids you can get from your audiologist, they’re an accessible option for seniors who are strapped for cash or want to try out hearing aids before committing to a more expensive pair.
Otofonix Apex Hearing Aids
We also like that despite being a budget provider, Otofonix does offer four options to choose from. All four offer noise cancellation, directional microphones, and a digital sound processor to support clear hearing in different sound environments.
Prices for Otofonix hearing aids start at $248 per ear or $496 per pair. Their most advanced rechargeable mini BTE costs $1,590 per pair, which is the most expensive model Otofonix offers. The value is in line with the budget price, so don’t expect “fancy” features like super-long battery life, Bluetooth streaming, or advanced noise-cancellation technology. Since sales are commonplace on the Otofonix website, be sure to look for sales, coupons, and other ways to save before purchasing.
Otofonix offers the features you’d expect from a budget hearing aid provider. No bells or whistles, but enough technology to make a difference in your everyday hearing. If you have a larger budget for your hearing aid purchase, you might be better off choosing a different provider. However, if your budget is tight, this company is certainly worth exploring. Learn more about Otofonix in our most recent Otofonix hearing aid review.
To help you select the best invisible hearing aid for your lifestyle, we have chosen the top eight based on several criteria. Durability, ease of use, sound quality, size, value, and discreteness are some factors we took into consideration when ranking the best invisible hearing aids on the market.
If you’re in the market for invisible hearing aids, you have two types to choose from: invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) and mini behind-the-ear (mini BTE) hearing aids. Since IIC hearing aids are typically suited for mild to moderate hearing loss only, we wanted to include some mini BTE options too. Mini BTE hearing aids aren’t totally “invisible,” but they’re as close as you can get to invisible if you have severe hearing loss.
IIC hearing aids are for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. They sit deep within your ear canal and out of sight. Many people prefer this type of hearing aid because it’s small and as discreet as possible. Plus, it won’t interfere if you wear glasses or a mask. One thing to look out for with this style is wax buildup. Wax can quickly clog the speaker, making hearing more difficult. Proper hearing aid maintenance and cleaning are very important with the IIC style.
Mini BTE hearing aids are suitable for those with mild to severe hearing loss. This style isn’t totally invisible, but it comes close, especially if you have hair that goes past your ears. A BTE hearing aid consists of an earmold that sits in your ear canal and a receiver that sits behind your ear. A tube, called an ear hook, connects both parts. Providers typically offer the receiver in a variety of hair and skin tone colors for as much discretion as possible.
Earwax won’t damage mini BTE hearing aids, like it could with IIC hearing aids. So, if you are susceptible to earwax buildup, drainage, or moist ears, this style may work better for you. Just note that if you wear glasses, you may need to have them refitted, since your glasses and hearing aid will share space on your ear.
Invisibility is important to many people who have hearing loss, simply because it’s nice to have hearing aids that enhance hearing without getting in the way, especially if you regularly wear glasses or a mask. Of course, that doesn’t mean just any invisible hearing aid will do. Below are some other functions to look for in an invisible hearing aid.
Most hearing aids today offer background noise reduction and speech enhancement as standard features. They’re especially crucial when you find yourself in noisy situations, struggling to hear the people or sounds that you need to hear. Verify with your hearing provider that the model you are interested in comes with these features.
Caveat: Because IIC hearing aids have only one microphone, they will be limited in how well they can separate speech from background noise. If you are interested in an invisible hearing aid, it is advisable to request speech-in-noise testing during your hearing test to determine if a remote microphone is warranted. On the other hand, BTE hearing aids have dual microphones, so if you’re okay with slightly visible (but still discreet) hearing aids, they’re worth considering.
No hearing aid will completely eliminate feedback, but the good ones will significantly suppress it to make your hearing more comfortable. It’s important to ask your hearing provider for hearing aids that have advanced feedback cancellation if you are sensitive to feedback.
Quick Tip: Want to learn more about hearing aid technology? Visit our guide on how hearing aids work for a closer look.
Your doctor will ultimately determine whether your level of hearing loss will require multiple hearing channels for best hearing results, but it’s good to consider this. A multi-channel hearing aid isn’t necessarily better, but it helps the hearing aid divide sounds into more frequency sections for separate analysis. Having more channels may be beneficial if you have complex hearing loss.
Being able to communicate with others on the phone easily is important. See whether your potential invisible hearing aid offers Bluetooth streaming or some other form of easy phone use, like a specific program in your hearing aid that your provider may set up. Hearing aids and phones do not always work together seamlessly, so be sure to ask your hearing provider about the different setup options.
Some invisible hearing aids are “smart” enough to “learn” the wearer. By this, we mean that they can internally record the number of hours the hearing aids are worn, volume preferences, and the nature of the wearer’s usual sound environments, for example. This feature can help users to fine-tune their hearing experience and provide audiologists a way to identify and resolve certain types of hearing issues.
If you experience ringing in the ears, you will need an invisible hearing aid that boasts tinnitus masking as a feature. These hearing aids have sound generators that produce various sounds to offset the perceived loudness of tinnitus. While it’s a relatively new feature, it has proven to be useful, so it’s definitely worth looking into if it’s a concern for you. And, if tinnitus is the main reason you’re looking for hearing aids, be sure to review our list of the best hearing aids for tinnitus.
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
