Phonak vs Signia

Phonak and Signia (formerly Siemens Hearing Instruments) have long histories of advanced technology and customer service. Both companies are members of the “Big Six” club of multinational companies, meaning they are two of the biggest players in the industry. Below, we'll take a closer look at both providers so you can decide which one is best for your hearing needs.

An Introduction to Phonak
	World's first extended-wear hearing aids Hearing aids for seniors with cochlear implants Our pick for Bluetooth features Solutions for mild to profound hearing loss

An Introduction to Signia
	Stylish hearing aid designs Industry-leader for rechargeable hearing aids Broad product lineup Solutions for mild to profound hearing loss

Phonak vs. Signia

Our Experience with Phonak and Signia

I've fit patients with Phonak and Signia products for years. They both offer a full range of behind-the-ear and custom receiver-in-canal (BTE and RIC) products that fit hearing losses ranging from mild to profound.

Under the hood, the hearing aids are very similar with a few minor exceptions. Phonak's current Marvel line allows for direct streaming to both iOS and select Android devices. Signia can stream directly to iOS devices but requires an intermediary device to link up to Bluetooth. If you're looking for Bluetooth compatibility that doesn't require an extra device, Phonak will be the better bet.

Comparing Phonak and Signia Hearing Aids

Signia's most unique product is the Styletto, a very slim RIC device that looks nothing like other hearing aids. It functions the same as other products but certainly stands out for style and design. Signia is also recognized as an industry-leader in rechargeable hearing aid technology. Their latest rechargeable models come with inductive charging, which doesn't require charging contacts that are notorious for corroding over time.

Signia Styletto Hearing Aids

Phonak's Marvel platform reintroduces integrated wireless communication through their “Roger” system of advanced remote microphones. These devices significantly improve speech understanding in background noise. The Roger includes the receiver in the hearing aid, which reduces the hearing aid's size and makes the price of their BTE devices more competitive. Phonak also offers the Lyric, an “extended wear” ICC (invisible-in-canal) device. Unlike traditional hearing aids, this device is worn 24/7 and must be replaced every three to four months by a professional. For patients with severe hearing loss, Phonak is partnered with cochlear implant manufacturer Advanced Bionics to provide a truly integrated “bimodal” system of hearing aids, cochlear implants, and HAT devices.

Audeo Receiver in the Canal

Want to compare Phonak and Signia to other leading providers? Head over to our best hearing aids for seniors page.

A Quick Note on Pricing

In order to find out the exact cost of hearing aids from either company, you will need to contact a hearing aid professional that sells that company's products. These companies don't advertise hearing aid prices directly online. You'll find more information on how to purchase hearing aids in our Phonak and Signia pricing pages.

Wrapping up Our Thoughts on Phonak and Signia

Signia provides a very comprehensive line of products with solid connectivity to Hearing Assistive Technology (HAT) products and smartphone apps. They offer solutions for mild to profound hearing loss. The technology behind Signia's devices has been around for decades and has always proven reliable for my patients. For more on Signia hearing aid products, read our 2023 Signia review.

Phonak offers an immense product line to suit the needs of a variety of customers with mild to profound hearing loss. The company prides itself on providing the world's only extended-wear hearing aid and their compatibility with Advanced Bionics cochlear implants. For more details, see this year's Phonak review.