Widex vs Oticon

At first glance, hearing aids may all look the same. But, when you start doing your homework, you'll soon realize that there are many differences from brand to brand. Companies differ in how they make their hearing aids and the types of accessories and technology they offer. If you're in the market for a new hearing aid, it's essential to know how different providers compare to find the one that's right for you. Let's take a look at how Widex and Oticon products differ.

An Introduction to Widex
	Excellent options for musicians Our choice for listening in noisy environments Smartphone app for tinnitus relief

An Introduction to Oticon
	Our pick for severe hearing loss 360-degree sound approach One of the industry's oldest providers

Widex vs. Oticon: What’s the Difference?

When you look at the product listing of the different hearing aids offered, you'll notice that Oticon has slightly more options than Widex, as well as more accessories and apps. Widex offers solutions for mild to severe hearing loss, while Oticon has hearing aids for mild to profound hearing loss.

Widex stands out for its wide dynamic range of sound, making it an excellent option for musicians. The brand's Evoke model is also a highlight, as it automatically makes hearing adjustments suited to your needs and environment.

Oticon's OpenSound approach in their OPN generation devices aims to provide an accurate “360” representation of the world that allows the brain to select the signal you want to listen to. I don't see a significant difference between the two approaches for people with mild to moderate hearing loss in my clinical practice. For those with more severe hearing loss, particularly those with very poor hearing in background noise, the Widex approach works a bit better.

My Friend’s Father-in-Law wearing Oticon

Widex and Oticon Hearing Aid Lineups

Both companies offer a full range of hearing aids from IIC (invisible in canal) to BTE (behind the ear), making them appropriate for mild to profound hearing loss.

Widex and Oticon both offer wireless compatibility with Android and iOS directly with some products. Along with  their hearing aids, both companies have a range of hearing aid accessories for hearing better in noisy environments, on the phone, and when watching TV. Widex also has a unique Zen smartphone app designed to help those who struggle with tinnitus.

Widex Evoke Hearing Aids

How Much Do Widex and Oticon Hearing Aids Cost?

If you want to find out the price of a hearing aid from either company, you'll have to contact a local hearing aid professional; neither company advertises prices online. A hearing aid professional will give you pricing information and determine which style is right for you. Hearing aid cost is determined by several factors, including the model, technical features, location, and level of hearing loss.

Comparing Widex and Oticon

Widex vs. Oticon: The Bottom Line

For listening in quiet settings, Widex and Oticon stack up nearly head-to-head. In locations with a great deal of background noise, my patients with mild to moderate hearing loss tend to like the automatic “OPN” appraise from Oticon over Widex's “DIY” approach that offers more control to the user. For people with tinnitus, Widex has a bit of an edge with their “Zen” feature and smartphone app. If you're still on the fence about which provider is best for you, head over to our 2023 Widex review and the Oticon review for a closer look.