Taking Eargo’s Online Hearing Test

Eargo can easily recommend which of several stock settings will work for you because it has clearly defined its niche. The company’s remote hearing care professionals select the configuration most likely to meet your needs using an online hearing test and extensive interactive interviews. Eargo will then ship the hearing aids directly to you. Once you receive them, you can make any changes you want.

Screenshot of Eargo’s online hearing test

All Eargo products include a smartphone app that provides even more sound customization, including the Sound Match assessment. If you’d rather have an expert assist you, Eargo offers the option to remotely program the devices in a “telemedicine” format. This live or “synchronous” type of telehealth is, in my experience, also different from the typical manufacturer.

Screenshot of Eargo’s in-app SoundMatch test

During my conversation with Eargo’s in-house personnel, I asked them what happens if a person’s hearing loss is not quite right for their hearing aids. They were emphatic that they only want to fit individuals who will succeed, and they refer people who fall outside their lane to a partner audiologist for a more traditional hearing evaluation. They may also request a copy of a traditional hearing test before making a final decision on candidacy.

If you’re new to hearing aids and hearing tests, visit our 2024 hearing aid buyer’s guide to learn everything you need to know before purchasing a pair of hearing aids.

Comparing Eargo Hearing Aids

Testing Eargo Hearing Aids

Everything included in the Eargo 7 box

Unboxing My Devices

Shortly after my conversations with the Eargo audiology team, they were kind enough to send me a pair of the Eargo 7 hearing aids to try. The pre-delivery communication was excellent, including a recommendation that I have my ears cleaned so wax would not interfere with the fitting. I also received shipping updates and a delivery confirmation.

The Eargo 7 packaging was well-designed and efficient. One of my pet peeves is over-boxing, but Eargo’s box is just big enough to hold all the components and documentation. Plus, it offered instructions as you opened the package so that you know what to do each step of the way.

Simple instructions like “scan first” make Eargo unboxing and set up a breeze.

Right away, I noticed the sleek look of the charging case and the hearing aids. They are cool and modern! Even though the devices are very small, the right and left markers are large and clear, which is great for seniors with vision loss. In my 30 years of fitting hearing aids, I’ve found that one of the most common issues with new users is getting the devices in their ears correctly, so this is a big help.

Eargo 7 devices with easy-to-read “R” and “L” labels

Using the Eargo App

Once I unboxed the Eargo devices, I downloaded and installed the smartphone app (I use an Android device, but it’s also available for Apple devices). Below are a few screenshots to give you an idea of how the app looks. I found the app to be intuitive, cleanly designed, and, most importantly, functional. I was able to connect and set up the hearing aids in under 10 minutes (after first charging them for several hours).

Eargo app navigation menu

Temporarily adjusting the noise filter in the Eargo app

Adjusting the Eargo hearing aid volume independently or simultaneously within the app

You can also use the app to have one of Eargo’s online audiologists fine-tune your hearing aids if you’re still having problems after wearing them for a few weeks. That is an excellent balance of support and independence. I always encourage my patients to take charge of their hearing loss rehabilitation. I scheduled a video call with an Eargo professional through the mobile app and found that the schedule was wide open, so I had no trouble finding a time that worked for me.

Schedule a video call with an Eargo Hearing Professional within the app

Eargo’s approach will likely be best for people under 65 who have grown up with technology and tend to be more DIY than the previous generation. That said, it appears Eargo provides enough support for older adults who are less tech-savvy, as long as their hearing loss is within the range of what Eargo devices can accommodate.

The Details: Eargo Hearing Aid Models

The Eargo comes in three levels of technology, all built into rechargeable, in-the-ear-style hearing aids with either inductive or contact charging for optimal power.

LINK by Eargo

LINK by Eargo

LINK by Eargo is the most affordable option. It costs $799 for a pair or $26 per month with financing options. This is an earbud-style device instead of the CIC designs of Eargo’s pricier products.

It features Bluetooth capabilities so you can take calls and listen to music from your phone. While it’s not invisible, LINK by Eargo is discreet — you’ll look like you’re just wearing ordinary earbuds! Plus, the device has active noise and feedback cancellation for an easy hearing experience.

If you’re looking for versatility and have very mild hearing loss, LINK by Eargo is the way to go. While it doesn’t feature customizable settings like the more expensive models,  it has four preset listening programs to choose from. It’s great for those who want to try out an OTC hearing aid and aren’t concerned about getting the extra bells and whistles.

Eargo SE

Eargo SE

Eargo SE is compatible with Eargo’s mobile app, so adjusting and personalizing your hearing aids on the go is a breeze. This is a mid-tier model, priced at $1,650 per pair, or as low as $54 per month with financing. It comes with Eargo’s Sound Match technology, quicker charging, and free remote adjustments. The device also has great sound quality and noise-reduction capabilities for a clearer hearing experience. With a nearly invisible fit, it’s discreet, rechargeable, and great for everyday use.

Eargo 6

Testing out the Eargo 6

Eargo 6 is priced at $2,250 per pair with financing with financing options starting at $73 per month. This model is equipped with Sound Adjust features, which automatically optimize sounds when moving between environments. You can add programs for specific settings to your devices, such as TV, restaurant, and phone programs. I used the TV program while watching a show, and it made the experience more enjoyable; I didn’t have to rely on closed captioning to know what was going on.

Eargo’s various program settings

These devices also work to automatically reduce background noise for a clearer and more natural listening experience. Eargo 6 features a water-resistant coating that can withstand a depth of up to 1 meter for about 30 minutes, so it’s great for accident-prone users. Eargo 6 is a great rechargeable hearing aid option for daily use. Its microbattery has a powerful run time of up to 16 hours.

One important caveat to note about Eargo devices is that they may not be suitable for all ear shapes and sizes. Sarah, one of SeniorLiving.org’s writers who has hearing loss, tested out Eargo 6 and found that the devices did not fit well in her small ears, causing some discomfort. Eargo does offer various petal sizes for different ear sizes, but only medium and large. Luckily, Eargo has a 45-day return policy, so you can easily return your devices if they don’t work for you. You can read our full Eargo 6 review to learn more about Sarah’s experience.

Eargo 7

Eargo 7 in the charging case

Eargo 7 can last up to 16 hours on a single charge with a sleek, virtually invisible look. The largest update is the Sound Adjust+ feature, which includes Clarity Mode. I found that this feature is useful in many noisy environments, such as a busy coffee shop or loud office.

Clarity Mode determines how much to reduce background noise and amplify nearby sounds. I tried out this feature at my local cafe and found that I could still hear well despite the noisy atmosphere. Like the other Eargo models, Eargo 7 is primarily for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. Along with a two-year warranty, Eargo 7 is water- and sweat-resistant. When I tested out the product, I worked out and took a long shower, and the devices still worked like a charm.

Potential customers should also be comfortable with smartphone technology, as the mobile app is used to adjust the volume and other settings on the Eargo 7. When I tried out the mobile app, it took me a few tries to get my smartphone to connect to the Eargo devices. Luckily, the mobile app walks you through the setup process and offers lots of helpful videos and articles for all aspects of using the products, from charging to adjusting features.

Compared to some of its high-end competitors, Eargo 7 is affordable. Pricing for the Eargo 7 starts at $2,950 per pair or as low as $96 per month.

Customer Service

Every Eargo customer is paired with a personal hearing professional who will provide you with lifetime support. You will receive a welcome call when you first get your hearing aid so that all hearing aid functions can be explained to you. You can also reach out to this person for however long you have the hearing aid. Consultations and hearing checks are done remotely from the safety of your home — or wherever you happen to be when you need assistance.

There are video tutorials available online 24/7 as well as a customer service line that is staffed Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET. Plus, the Eargo app comes with helpful tutorials, videos, and FAQs.

30-day tutorial program inside the Eargo app

All hearing aids come with a 45-day return policy if you’re not 100 percent satisfied. This is longer than most manufacturer’s 30-day return option. Depending on the model you purchase, the hearing aids come with a one- or two-year warranty covering any manufacturer defects.