The Best Invisible Hearing Aids of 2023
Our experts researched and reviewed the industry’s leading invisible hearing aids and narrowed the list to their top eight recommendations.
Updated Nov 27, 2023
Best wireless accessories
- 100-day free trial
- 3-year loss and damage coverage
- Designed for mild-to-moderate hearing loss
Best variety of technology
- Competitively-priced hearing aids
- 24/7 live customer support
- Available to purchase individually or as a pair
Best for tinnitus
- Options for all levels of hearing loss
- Tinnitus therapy
- Innovative hearing aids
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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.
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.
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1. Eargo
Overview
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 hearing aids.
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.
Eargo 6 Hero Hearing Aids
All 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 break the bank, 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.
Pros
- No prescription required
- Lower price, making them accessible
- Devices are nearly invisible
- Cases act as charging devices
- Lifetime support from a hearing aid professional
- Mobile app for remote adjustments
Cons
- Not designed for those with profound hearing loss
- Does not work with insurance companies
Pricing
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 7 — costs $2,950 per pair; the Eargo 6 costs $2,250; and the Eargo 5 costs $1,650. You can also spread the cost over monthly payments for 12 or 24 months if that works better for your budget. Federal employees may be able to take advantage of the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program to receive Eargo at no cost.1
Bottom Line
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.
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2. Signia
Overview
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 of 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. Signia also offers the 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 leave 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.
Pros
- Options for severe hearing loss
- Multiple colors to choose from
- Made with innovative technology
- Instant fit IIC if you go with Silk X
- Can use with over-the-ear headphones
- Mobile app for remote adjustments
Cons
- Silk X may not be compatible with all ear canals
- Silk Nx IIC lacks Bluetooth connectivity
Pricing
Signia’s pricing varies greatly depending on where you shop and purchase their hearing aids, as well as the specific features and designs 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.
Bottom Line
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 takes into consideration all hearing loss levels. Plus, the company website is filled with useful information, which is welcome news if you prefer skipping a call to customer service.
You can also check out our review of Signia hearing aids to learn more about their full product line.
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3. Phonak
Overview
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 can focus on enjoying life. The purchase of a Lyric hearing aid is coupled with an annual subscription, which includes replacement devices and technology updates as they become available.
Pros
- Extended-wear technology
- Long-lasting battery
- Moisture protection
- Exceptional sound quality
- Can be worn all the time, including while sleeping
Cons
- Yearly subscription model can be costly over time
- Older, analog technology (no digital speech processing)
- Needs to be professionally inserted by a hearing professional
- Not for moderately severe to profound hearing loss
Pricing
The cost of Phonak hearing aids, including their Lyric model, varies by location. If you are interested in finding out whether this device is within your budget, visit your local hearing provider for more information.
Bottom Line
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 with 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 2023 Phonak hearing aid review.
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4. Starkey
Overview
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.
Pros
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Very real and natural sound
- Custom-fit for optimal comfort
- Ear-to-ear streaming of phone calls
- Control via mobile phone using a free app
- Customizable tinnitus relief
Cons
- Requires small, disposable batteries
- Not recommended for those with severe or profound hearing loss
Pricing
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 can 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.
Bottom Line
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 solid choice for those looking to improve their hearing and enjoy the sounds of the world clearly. Read more about this brand in our 2023 Starkey hearing aid review.
Best Invisible-in-the-Canal Hearing Aids
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1. Jabra Enhance
Overview
Jabra Enhance gives customers who prefer BTE hearing aids a nearly invisible Jabra Enhance, previously called 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 Jabra Enhance’s FDA-approved devices are less than half an inch wide and come in five colors designed to blend in with hair color, making them even more discreet. Keep in mind that Jabra Enhance offers just three BTE hearing aid models, so if you prefer a different style, you may want to check out another brand.
Jabra Enhance Hearing Aids
We think the near-invisible design is just one of many perks of Jabra Enhance 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 Jabra Enhance offers three years of virtual professional audiology services with premium package purchases to put your mind at ease. This is a service that many over-the-counter hearing aid manufacturers don’t offer.
Pros
- Bluetooth-enabled
- No refurbished or recycled parts
- Nearly invisible BTE style
- 3-year warranty with premium packages
- Virtual hearing care from an audiologist with premium packages
- 5 color options
Cons
- Not suitable for severe to profound hearing loss
- Limited selection for hearing aids
Pricing
Unfortunately, most health insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids. With some hearing aids costing well over $5,000 per pair, the purchase can make a dent in your wallet. Jabra Enhance offers a more cost-effective option by selling hearing aids directly to consumers online or over the phone. Jabra Enhance hearing aids start at $1,195 per pair and go up to $1,995 if you opt for the Enhance Select 200 Premium package. That includes free shipping, three years of remote care with an audiologist, the Jabra Enhance Select mobile app, and more. Jabra Enhance also 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!
Bottom Line
Though Jabra Enhance lacks a truly “invisible” hearing aid model, they come pretty close with their BTE devices. The petite design and clever color options allow Jabra Enhance hearing aids to blend in behind the ear. All three hearing aid models are Bluetooth-enabled and come with follow-up care from Jabra Enhance’s audiology team with the purchase of a premium package, while costing up to 50 percent less than the national average for hearing aids. Jabra Enhance is difficult to top for older adults looking for a relatively inexpensive, nearly invisible BTE hearing aid they can buy online. Visit this year’s Jabra Enhance review to learn more about this provider.
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2. MDHearing
Overview
MDHearing offers three BTE models and two in-the-ear options. Out of all the models, the NEO XS is the smallest and most lightweight, giving you the closest thing to a nearly invisible hearing aid experience. It fits in the ear and is about the size of a pill, so it has minimal visibility.
MDHearing Aids
Savings Alert: MDHearing 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!
At $397 per pair, the NEO XS model is fairly affordable. The budget-friendly provider also offers three BTE models. MDHearing actually made our list for these BTE models, as they are some of the most comfortable on the market. If you’re looking for more high-tech features like a companion mobile app and Bluetooth with select models, the VOLT and VOLT MAX are excellent choices. They are bulkier than the NEO XS but have more features and advanced hearing settings for wearers who need extra hearing support.
Pros
- Low-priced hearing aids
- 45-day risk-free trial
- Friendly support team available 24/7
- Comfortable to wear with glasses
- Monthly financing options
Cons
- Available in beige only
- Lacks features and connectivity
Pricing
By offering limited features, models, colors, and technology, MDHearing 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, MDHearing’s prices range from $297 to $699.98 per pair thanks to year-round sales that keep pricing low.
Bottom Line
MDHearing offers value and comfort to older adults who want a basic, nearly invisible hearing aid. Keep in mind that if you’re looking for hearing aids that blend in, MDHearing 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 MDHearing review for a closer look at the brand.
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3. Lexie
Overview
Lexie makes selecting and buying a mini BTE hearing aid a breeze. This company sells three hearing aid models, the Lexie Lumen, Lexie B1, and Lexie B2, and they’re available for purchase online — no prescription or audiologist appointment needed. Lexie hearing aids aren’t the most advanced hearing aids on the market, but they’re reliable and offer many important features. Plus, they come in several 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. These features can help you focus 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.
Pros
- Low-priced hearing aid
- Sweatproof technology
- Algorithm customizes devices to your hearing profile
- Multiple colors to choose from
- No-contract subscription payment model available
- 45-day trial
Cons
- No rechargeable option
- No Bluetooth streaming
Pricing
Lexie lets customers decide if they want to purchase their hearing aids upfront, with costs ranging from $799 to $999, or with a monthly subscription ranging from $42 to $49 per month (for 24 months). Subscription purchases come with a one-time activation fee between $149 and $249 depending on your chosen model. The subscription 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 hearing aids outright. Buying upfront is the cheaper option overall. However, the subscription includes hearing aid accessories and batteries, along with a protection plan, which adds value. At the $799 to $999 price point, Lexie is one of the best value hearing providers on the market.
Bottom Line
While Lexie does make selection simple, the mini BTE model they offer might not be right for everyone. They’re not fully invisible like IIC hearing aids, and you don’t have advanced features. 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’s hearing aids.
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4. Otofonix
Overview
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.
Pros
- Low-priced models
- Rechargeable and battery-powered devices available
- Whistling-eliminating technology
- Ready to use out of the box
- No prescription or audiologist appointment needed
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Lacks advanced features
- Only for mild to moderate hearing loss
- Discreet, but not invisible
Pricing
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.
Bottom Line
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.
Best Micro Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids
How We Chose the Best Invisible Hearing Aids
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.
Types of Invisible Hearing Aids
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). 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.
Invisible-in-the-canal hearing aids
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 behind-the-ear hearing aids
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.
Important Features in an Invisible Hearing Aid
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.
Background noise reduction and speech enhancement
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 attempting 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.
Feedback cancellation
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.
Multiple hearing aid channels
Your doctor will ultimately determine whether your level of hearing loss will require multiple hearing channels for the best hearing results, but it’s good to consider this. A multichannel 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.
Telephone features
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.
Self-learning
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 with a way to identify and resolve certain types of hearing issues.
Tinnitus masking
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 tinnitus masking is 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.
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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. She is an associate adjunct professor for the CUNY Graduate Center and Touro College… Learn More About Dr. Ruth Reisman
Citations
AFGE. Eargo Hearing Aids. (2023).