The 10 Best Hearing Aid Companies of 2021
| Company |
Styles Available |
Price Range |
Hearing Loss |
Available Online? |
| MDHearingAid |
Behind-the-ear |
$800 – $1,600 |
Mild – Moderate |
Yes |
| Lively |
Behind-the-ear |
$1,450 – $2,000 |
Mild – Moderate |
Yes |
| Eargo |
In-the-canal |
$1,500 – $2,950 |
Mild – Moderate |
Yes |
| Audicus |
Behind-the-ear, Completely-in-canal, Receiver-in-canal |
$998 – $2,798 |
Mild – Severe |
No |
| Widex |
Behind-the-ear, In-the-ear, In-the-canal, Receiver-in-canal |
$750 – $3,000* |
Mild – Severe |
Yes |
| ReSound |
Behind-the-ear, In-the-ear, In-the-canal, Receiver-in-canal |
$1,200 – $3,000* |
Mild – Profound |
No |
| Phonak |
In-ear, Receiver-in-canal, Behind-the-ear |
$1,500 – $3,000* |
Mild – Profound |
No |
| Oticon |
Behind-the-ear, In-the-ear, In-the-canal, Receiver-in-canal |
$1,500 – $3,000* |
Mild – Profound |
No |
| Starkey |
Behind-the-ear, In-the-ear, In-the-canal, Receiver-in-canal |
$1,500 – $3,100* |
Mild – Severe |
No |
| ZipHearing |
Behind-the-ear, In-the-ear, In-the-canal, Receiver-in-canal |
$999 – $2,499 |
Mild – Profound |
Yes |
In some cases, hearing aid companies may only sell their hearing aids through authorized audiologists and audiology centers. Because of this, exact pricing can be difficult to determine and will vary with the location purchased. An asterisk beside a price indicates that the company does not provide any pricing on its website or over the phone, and the price range is determined from third party sources.
MDHearingAid Review
Best for Low-Cost Digital Hearing Aids
MDHearingAid is a popular online hearing aid company that provides low-cost alternatives to what’s normally available through audiology offices. In addition to being available on its own website, some of its devices are offered through large online retailers such as Walmart. This brand was founded by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) physician whose goal was to provide his patients with more affordable devices, making hearing care more accessible. MDHearingAids’ US-based production and customer support are led by the advice of multiple knowledgeable audiologists.
MDHearingAid stands out among online competitors due to its very affordable prices. According to MDHearingAid’s website, some of its products offer savings of 90% compared to hearing aids purchased at an audiology clinic. While the level of care and personalization is not the same as one would receive working with an audiologist, these low-cost hearing aids can be a great solution for those with mild to moderate hearing loss who are looking for a hearing device that fits their budget.
Products
MDHearingAid’s three current hearing aid models are Air, Volt+, and Core. Older versions of some models can be found through other online retailers, though not on the main MDHearingAid website.
The brand’s devices are capable of canceling feedback and digitally processing sounds with 4 different programs, providing better clarity in multiple settings. Of the digital models, the Air has the fewest advanced features but includes a telecoil. The Volt+ features rechargeability, and the Core has advanced Bluetooth capabilities. With the Core model, users can customize their own sound quality via an easy-to-use app. Since no MDHearingAid models are custom-programmed by an audiologist, they are most beneficial for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, as opposed to severe and profound loss that may require professionally fine-tuned devices. Note that all MDHearingAid models come in the same beige color which will blend into fair skin tones.
| |
Air |
Volt+ |
Core |
| Hearing loss |
Mild – Moderate |
Mild – Moderate |
Mild – Moderate |
| Style |
BTE |
BTE |
BTE |
| Color Options? |
No |
No |
No |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
No |
No |
Yes |
| Sound control with app |
No |
No |
Yes |
| Price |
$799 |
$1,199 |
$1,599 |
In addition to its hearing aids, this brand offers a variety of accessories, including storage cases, cleaning kits, hearing aid dehumidifiers, and several different sizes and shapes for hearing aid tubing, domes, and tips. It also has its own brand of hearing aid batteries, though other brands can also be used. Customers who are interested can choose to add the MDShield Protection Plan to any model. While all devices come with a limited 90-day warranty, this protection plan goes beyond the terms of the warranty to provide better coverage. The MDShield Protection Plan costs between $10-$15 monthly.
Pricing
Per pair, MDHearingAid typically charges between $800-$1,600. Purchasing single hearing aids is also an option, though in most situations, both will be needed. Payment plans, offered through the third-party Affirm, start as low as $33-$83. Since ordering online without testing first can be nerve-wracking, all hearing aids from this brand have a 45-day return policy.
For more information about MDHearingAid, read our in-depth review of the company.
Lively Hearing Aids Review
Best Value
A relative newcomer to the hearing aid industry, Lively launched in January 2019 with a mission to simplify and destigmatize the use of hearing aids with its modern, affordable devices. Lively uses a direct-to-consumer (DTC) business model, enabling it to offer much lower prices for its hearing aids than comparable devices on the market. And unlike with some other DTC brands, Lively users don’t have to give up working with a hearing professional. Lively offers all users three years of remote follow-up care with an audiologist. With the Lively mobile app, users can access on-demand advice, adjustments, and consultations with an audiologist from the comfort of their own home and at no additional cost.
At its low price point, Lively still offers technologically advanced features like direct Bluetooth streaming, app-enabled adjustments, and background noise cancellation. Its hearing aids are always sold as a bundle including extra batteries or a charging case, remote audiology care, and three years of loss and damage protection, making it easy and affordable to receive a replacement device in the event of loss or accidental damage. Plus, Lively offers a 100-day money-back guarantee so new hearing aid wearers can try the Lively risk-free.
Overall, Lively offers an excellent value for those seeking a modern hearing aid with advanced features, and increases access to professional audiology care with its included remote care program.
Products
Lively currently offers one hearing aid- the Lively device. The Lively hearing aid is nearly invisible, measuring less than an inch in size, and is available in seven different colors designed to match and blend in with wearers’ hair or skin for a discreet profile. The device uses FDA-approved technology to reduce unwanted background sounds and recognize and prioritize voices for enhanced sound quality in various environments.
The Lively is available in two different models: one with a rechargeable battery, and one with a size 312 battery that will need to be changed periodically. The rechargeable model has an average battery life of 30 hours per 3-hour charge, and a charging case is included with every purchase.
All Lively hearing aids are custom-programmed by an audiologist based on customers’ hearing test results, so each person’s devices are fully personalized. Moreover, all customers can use the Lively mobile app for remote follow-up care with an audiologist for adjustments and assistance at no additional cost.
| |
The Lively |
| Hearing loss |
Mild – Moderate |
| Style |
BTE |
| Color Options? |
Yes |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
Yes |
| Sound control with app |
Yes |
| Rechargeable? |
Available |
| Price |
$1,450 – $2,000 |
Pricing
A pair of Lively hearing aids cost $1,450 for the non-rechargeable model with a 312 battery and $2,000 for the rechargeable version. The devices are always sold as a pair and a bundle. The bundle includes access to the Lively mobile app, three years of free, remote follow-up care with an audiologist, three years of device loss and damage protection, and either a charging case or a year’s supply of batteries. According to Lively’s website, this is about half the national average price of hearing aids, which Lively can offer by using a direct-to-consumer model.
For more information about Lively, read our in-depth review of the company.
Eargo Hearing Aids Review
Best for Discreet Hearing Aids
For customers in search of a nearly invisible hearing aid, Eargo offers discreet in-the-canal options. All of its products are designed to be sleek, stylish, and comfortable, minimizing the discomfort and embarrassment that so many seniors feel when wearing their hearing aids. The nearly invisible style is accomplished by the soft silicone design that allows them to sit comfortably in place in the ear canal. The company’s Flexi Palms, silicone flanges, keep the hearing aid comfortably in place while still remaining breathable. And all of the hearing aids are shipped ready-to-use, so there are no difficult or time-consuming setup steps.
Each one of the hearing aids has four different sound profiles available. These profiles are preset for various levels of hearing loss, so users can pick the option that sounds best to them. To change the profile, users only need to tap on their ear. And, the Eargo hearing aids will remember the user’s preferred profile, so there’s no need to reselect it after each use.
While customers can purchase their Eargo hearing aids directly from the company online or over the phone, they’ll always have access to licensed hearing professionals who can help with any questions or concerns that might arise.
Products
Eargo currently offers four different hearing aid models: EargoNeo, EargoMax, EargoNeoHiFi, and the new Eargo 5. All of its hearing aids are rechargeable, allowing users to use them all day and recharge their batteries overnight. The included hearing aid case also serves as the charging port for each model. When fully charged, the case can power hearing aids for about a week.
The Eargo Max offers improved amplification as well as feedback reduction, and active noise cancellation for those with slight to moderate hearing loss. The Eargo Neo, designed for users with moderate hearing loss, is able to connect to the Eargo app for a customizable user experience. The fourth-generation NeoHiFi features enhanced noise and feedback reduction for a more natural sound. And the new Eargo 5 comes with the new Sound Match feature, which enables remote sound adjustment from the comfort of users’ homes. All of the hearing aids come as pairs, and can be paired with an app to adjust the sound and connect with one’s Personal Hearing Professional. All of the hearing aids come as pairs, and can be paired with an app to adjust the sound and connect with one’s Personal Hearing Professional.
| |
EargoMax |
EargoNeo |
EargoNeoHiFi |
Eargo 5 |
| Hearing loss |
Mild – Moderate |
Moderate |
Mild – Moderate |
Mild – Moderate |
| Style |
In-canal |
In-canal |
In-canal |
In-canal |
| Color Options? |
No |
No |
No |
No |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
No |
No |
No |
No |
| Sound control with app |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
| Price |
$1,500 |
$2,000 |
$2,500 |
$2,950 |
Pricing
Eargo has worked to make its products affordable, selling directly to customers with no middleman and offering payment plans for each of their hearing aids. These payment plans can be as low as $70 per month. Customers who wish to purchase their hearing aids directly from Eargo can do so on the company website with free shipping. New Eargo customers are eligible for a risk-free 45-day trial.
.
For more information about Eargo, read our in-depth review of the company.
Audicus Hearing Aids Review
Best Monthly Payment Program
Audicus was founded with the goal of increasing access to hearing tools for everyone. It developed its direct-to-consumer, online-based model in order to offer high-quality hearing aids at a much lower price than the industry average. Its online hearing test was developed with a neuroscience engineer and guidance from audiologists to make it easy for anyone with an internet connection to access personalized hearing aids while staying within their budget.
Audicus’ hearing aid purchase prices are lower than the industry average, and its unique monthly subscription program makes hearing aids even more affordable. It is also the only company to offer this first-of-its-kind, all-inclusive hearing aid membership. Rather than purchase a hearing aid from Audicus outright, members pay a monthly fee and receive a pair of Audicus hearing aids of their choice (prices vary for different models), unlimited reprogramming and customer support, new batteries every 3 months, and more. Monthly payments for the membership start at $39 per ear per month with no long-term contract or commitment.
Audicus’ monthly membership can be ideal for those who are unable to or don’t want to put a large sum of money down for a hearing aid purchase, and makes it easier for those at a range of budgets to afford quality hearing devices.
Products
Audicus currently offers five hearing aids: The Dia II, The Clara, The Aura, The Wave, and The Spirit. Its most basic model is The Dia II, which is a great value at less than $1,000 per pair. This BTE device uses digital sound processing to minimize background noise and focus on speech, and is suitable for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. The Clara offers slightly more functionality with Bluetooth compatibility and an optional rechargeable battery.
Those who want a very discreet hearing aid should consider The Aura, a completely-in-canal device that’s essentially invisible. The Wave and The Spirit offer the most advanced features of all Audicus devices, most notably direct Bluetooth streaming from an iPhone or Android and its accompanying mobile app. In addition to offering premium features like a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, The Spirit also includes unlimited remote care with an audiologist for a fully-customizable sound experience.
For all of the above devices, wearers have the option of purchasing the hearing aids or joining the monthly membership. The prices listed below are the purchase prices; monthly costs for the membership range from $39 to $89 per ear.
| |
The Dia II |
The Clara |
The Aura |
The Wave |
The Spirit |
| Hearing loss |
Mild – Moderate |
Mild – Severe |
Mild – Moderate |
Mild – Severe |
Mild – Severe |
| Style |
BTE |
RIC |
CIC |
RIC |
RIC |
| Color Options? |
Variety |
Variety |
Variety |
Variety |
Variety |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
No |
Yes (with accessories) |
No |
Yes (direct streaming) |
Yes (direct streaming) |
| Sound control with app |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
| Price |
$499/$998 |
$699/$1,398 |
$699/$1,398 |
$899/$1,798 |
$1,399/$2,798 |
Audicus also offers several hearing aid accessories, including a remote batteries, earwax guards, and other cleaning tools. Subscription members receive extra domes, earwax guards, and battery replacements every 3 months, included in the monthly cost.
Pricing
Audicus’ hearing aids range from just under $1,000 per pair for The Dia II to almost $2,800 for The Spirit. The Clara and The Aura both cost $699 per ear or $1,398 per pair. There are optional upgrades for some models which raise the cost, such as the rechargeable battery upgrade for The Clara, which costs an extra $400 per pair. Free shipping is included within the U.S., and there is a 45-day trial period during which new wearers can return their hearing aids to Audicus for a full refund.
For more information about Audicus, read our in-depth review of the company.
Widex Hearing Aids Review
Best for Tech-Savvy Users
Founded in 1956, Widex has long been regarded as one of the best hearing aid companies in the world. As a brand with a track record of being on the cutting edge of technology, Widex hearing aids offer features that allow for a totally customizable user experience with unparalleled sound quality.
Equipped with technology that can differentiate between conversations and ambient noise, users hear more of what they want while background sounds like wind and traffic are minimized. Some models, such as the Evoke, are even capable of learning user preferences when users provide feedback in the accompanying app, which personalizes the sound.
The company offers many different models for different levels of hearing loss and the user’s preferred style. These range from behind the ear, in-ear, and in-the-canal. All models are water-resistant and feature rechargeable battery options. This wide array of options means there’s truly a Widex hearing aid to meet everyone’s needs.
Products
Widex currently offers three main models of hearing aids, the EVOKE, UNIQUE, and BEYOND. The Evoke model is considered the world’s first “smart” hearing aid. Users benefit from advanced machine learning technology. For example, it can understand that different genres of music should be processed differently for optimal sound quality. Beyond is made with the smartphone user in mind. It allows them to control every aspect of their experience in the app and stream audio directly from the phone with the touch of a button. And, the Unique is made to process a broad range of sound with minimal background noise. These models are all available in several different sub-models, such as the Fusion2, CIC, and Fashion Power. Each of which offers slightly different features to fit the user’s needs.
The table below highlights three of the company’s most popular submodels of hearing aids.
|
FUSION2 |
CIC |
FASHION POWER |
| Hearing loss |
Mild – Profound |
Mild – Severe |
Mild – Severe |
| Style |
Receiver-in-canal |
Completely-in-canal |
Behind-the-ear |
| Color Options |
Variety |
Variety |
Variety |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Sound control with app |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Rechargeable |
Yes |
No |
No |
In addition to hearing aids, Widex offers several accessories and apps that integrate with its hearing aids to improve the user experience. These accessories allow users to stream audio directly from the radio, a TV, or a smartphone with the built-in microphone off so they can hear media clearly and without any background noise.
Pricing
Users are able to try any model of Widex hearing aids with a no-obligation, free trial. Because Widex only sells its hearing aids through audiologists and not directly to customers, the pricing of each model can differ significantly. Depending on the model, sub-model, and the location where it’s purchased, users can expect to pay anywhere between $750 and $3,000 for their hearing aids.
For more information about Widex, read our in-depth review of the company.
ReSound Hearing Aids Review
Best app connectivity
As a long-time industry leader, ReSound has long been regarded as one of the best hearing aid companies on the market. As the first company to create made-for-iPhone hearing aids, it is constantly at the forefront of new technology and innovations that make hearing aids better for users.
All ReSound hearing aids are equipped with technology to enhance the user experience. Its latest models are equipped with cutting-edge sound processing software. This utilizes 20 percent less energy to stream media and also allows for advanced speech processing to enhance the user’s ability to understand what they’re hearing.
It also features a unique iSolate Nanotech coating on its products. This thin protective coating is on every component of its hearing aids and protects them from sweat, water, and other sources of moisture to minimize the risk of them failing.
ReSound hearing aids are programmed specifically for each user by an audiologist. This means each hearing aid is professionally tuned to give the user the best possible experience. Models are available for every level of hearing loss and in a variety of styles to suit each user’s needs and preferences. Rechargeable battery options and app connectivity also makes it easy for users to integrate the hearing aids into their life.
Products
There are three different models of ReSound hearing aids available: LiNX Quattro, LiNX 3D, and ENZO 3D. The LiNX Quattro is designed for balanced sound, capable of easily picking up a conversation no matter which direction it’s coming from. The LiNX 3D is the company’s most technologically advanced optio. It recreates the natural performance of the ear with its Spatial Sense technology. These hearing aids can also be used as wireless headphones that pair with any Android or iPhone, making it easy to hear phone calls or media. The ENZO 3D is considered the smallest hearing aid available on the market for users with severe to profound hearing loss. It has been shown to provide 60 percent better speech understanding in noise.
|
LiNX Quattro |
LiNX 3D |
ENZO 3D |
| Hearing loss |
Mild – Severe |
Mild – Severe |
Severe – Profound |
| Style |
Variety |
Completely-in-canal |
Behind-the-ear |
| Color Options |
Variety |
Variety |
Variety |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Sound control with app |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Rechargeable |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
In addition to its line of hearing aids, ReSound also offers various accessories to help users hear the world around them. The Unite Phone Clip+ allows users to stream phone calls from their smartphones. Unite TV Streamer 2 enables audio streaming from TVs, stereos, and computers. While the Micro Mic remote microphone streams audio directly to the hearing aid from up to 80 feet away. Remote controls allow users to make quick adjustments, and a comprehensive app has tools to help users manage their tinnitus.
Pricing
Because ReSound hearing aids are only sold through the company’s network of audiologists and licensed distributors, the pricing for each model can vary. ReSound does not list any pricing information on its website and instead encourages customers to get in touch with a seller near them. Based on the information available from second-party websites, pricing can range from $1,200 – $3,000 depending on the model, submodel, and location.
For more information about ReSound, read our in-depth review of the company.
Phonak Hearing Aids Review
Best hearing aid for music lovers
Phonak, a brand of Sonova Holding AG, is an industry leader in hearing aids as well as cochlear implants. The company has developed innovative technology that has improved the lives of users and made industry-leading advances.
Most notably, its AutoSense OS has been named the best hearing aid software for high-quality music listening because of its ability to analyze sound levels every 0.4 seconds and make adjustments based on the environment. This software has more than 200 settings, giving users the ability to focus on a single audio source even in noisy environments. It also minimizes ambient noise, and amplify conversations. Phonak also makes the AutoSense Sky OS specifically for younger users.
Products
With over 20 different hearing aids available, Phonak makes a model for virtually every need and style preference. Its most notable product is the Lyric, which is the world’s only 100% invisible hearing aid. Utilizing the natural anatomy of the ear to provide a clear and rich sound, users can wear their Lyric hearing aid for months at a time without taking it out to shower or exercise. A more traditional offering, the Audéo Marvel, is a rechargeable hearing aid with connectivity to any Bluetooth enabled device. And the Bolero Marvel is a behind-the-ear option also providing advanced Bluetooth device compatibility.
|
Lyric |
Audéo Marvel |
Bolero Marvel |
| Hearing loss |
Mild – Severe |
Mild – Profound |
Mild – Severe |
| Style |
in-canal |
receiver-in-canal |
behind-the-ear |
| Color Options? |
N/A |
Variety |
Variety |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
| Sound control with app |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
| Rechargeable |
No – Subscription Service |
Yes |
Yes |
Phonak uses lithium-ion rechargeable batteries for the majority of its hearing aids which are widely considered to be the fastest charging and longest lasting hearing aid batteries available. It only takes 3 hours to get a full charge, and a mere 30 seconds of charging can power the hearing aids for up to 6 hours.
There are a wide variety of accessories available to enhance the user experience. The myPhonak app serves as a remote control. It allows users to adjust volume and settings while also providing quick answers to frequently asked questions. Roger microphones are available to enhance speech understanding from a distance and stream audio directly to the hearing aid. A range of other accessories like the Roger Pen and the Roger Table Mic are aimed to enhance group conversations.
Pricing
Phonak only sells its products through professional audiologists and audiology centers, so prices vary. The company does not list any pricing information on their website. But the average price is between $1,500 – $3,000 depending on location, model, and features selected.
Embrace also sells several accessories to go with the hearing aids. A TV volume streamer allows users to stream audio from their TV directly to their hearing aids so they can amplify sound without affecting others around them. Customers who want to use this feature will also need to purchase Embrace Hearing’s Premium Remote. It allows users to control their hearing aids and connect to any Bluetooth enabled devices, such as a computer or smartphone.
For more information about Phonak, read our in-depth review of the company.
Oticon Hearing Aids Review
Best natural sound
With its first hearing aid being developed in 1914, Oticon is a historically dependable brand that has adopted modern technology to bring users clear, comfortable hearing aids. Oticon prides itself on being an industry rule-breaker, developing technology that brings users better quality sound and new, innovative features.
After years of research, it developed the Velox technology platform which features BrainHearing technology. This technology features fast processing technology able to follow the ever-changing soundscapes around a user for natural sound in real-time. The Speech Guard and Speech Rescue technologies recognize speech and amplify it over other background noises. This allows users to better follow and understand conversations in any environment.
And with the majority of Oticon hearing aids featuring Bluetooth technology, users have the ability to connect to nearly any smart device for audio streaming. Connecting directly to media sources not only allows users to hear the audio clearly, but it allows them to do so without affecting anyone else who might be in the immediate area.
Products
Oticon offers a number of different hearing aids for various levels of hearing loss and for different style preferences. The Oticon Xceed is labeled the world’s most powerful hearing aid. It features BrainHearing technology for users with severe to profound hearing loss. The Oticon CROS is an innovative option designed specifically for users with single-sided deafness. And the Oticon Opn S utilizes the advanced Velox S platform to enhance speech understanding.
|
Oticon Xceed |
Oticon CROS |
Oticon Opn S |
| Hearing loss |
Severe – Profound |
Mild – Severe |
Mild – Profound |
| Style |
behind-the-ear |
receiver-in-canal |
Variety |
| Color Options? |
Variety |
Variety |
Variety |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Sound control with app |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Rechargeable |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
A range of accessories is available to help users make the most of their hearing aids, especially when it comes to streaming audio. The Connect Clip microphone allows users to stream audio from a distance while also serving as a hands-free headset for phone calls. The StreamerPro and the TV adapter both allow users to stream audio directly to their hearing aids from media sources over Bluetooth. And the On App enables users to control their hearing aids directly from their smartphones and access helpful resources.
Pricing
Because Oticon only offers its hearing aids through authorized audiologists, the pricing on different models will vary by location. The average price for a single Oticon hearing aid ranges from $1,500 – $3,000 depending on model and features. The company does offer a trial period and many retailers have financing plans available to help make them more affordable.
For more information about Oticon, read our in-depth review of the company.
Starkey Hearing Aids Review
Best AI integration
Starkey is an American hearing aid company that has been a leading developer of new technology for more than 40 years. It was the first to develop a custom digital invisible hearing aid and was among the first to include Bluetooth connectivity in its products.
Its products include an array of technology to help users better hear and understand the world around them. A nano-coating protects its products from moisture and naturally occurring oils in the ear, making them last longer and require fewer cleanings. The digital feedback reduction feature means that users hear more of what they want to hear, and less unnatural sound. Directional microphones work to recreate a more natural sound and also allow the user to hear what’s going on around them without turning their head in the direction of the sound.
Starkey has also been on the cutting edge of tinnitus masking technology. This technology helps users mask the ringing sound in their ears with white noise.
Starkey also has several subsidiary brands of hearing aids to its name, including:
- Microtech
- All American Hearing
- NuEar
Products
Starkey’s marquee product is the Livio AI. Called the world’s first multi-purpose Healthable hearing aid, it features integrated sensors and artificial intelligence to bring users clear sound and the ability to track a user’s health. The hearing aid even features sensors that can detect falls and daily activity. The Z-Series is a more traditional hearing aid with a greater focus on comfort, but with all the newest technology to keep users connected. And the Picasso line of hearing aids is custom built to be discreet and nearly invisible in the user’s ear.
The table below provides a quick look at these three popular options.
|
Livio AI |
Z Series |
Picasso |
| Hearing loss |
Mild – Severe |
Mild – Severe |
Mild – Severe |
| Style |
Variety |
Variety |
In-canal, in-ear |
| Color Options? |
Variety |
Variety |
Variety |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Sound control with app |
Yes |
Yes (Receiver-In-Canal option only) |
Yes |
| Rechargeable |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
For those who aren’t quite ready for a full-time hearing aid, but still need some assistance hearing in certain environments, Starkey also offers a personal amplification device. This amplifier is particularly useful for people who need their sound amplified from a particular source, like a TV or a single speaker, rather than in a noisy room or large group conversation.
Pricing
Because Starkey only offers its hearing aids through authorized audiologists and hearing centers, hearing aid prices vary. And the company does not disclose any pricing information on its own website. Depending on factors like location, model, and submodel, prices can range between $1,500 – $3,100. Many retailers offer financing options and various discounts to help make hearing aids more affordable for customers.
Starkey itself donates a pair of hearing aids for every pair purchased to its Starkey Hearing Foundation. In combination with various organizations throughout the world, it works to bring hearing aids to people with limited resources around the globe.
For more information about Starkey, read our in-depth review of the company.
ZipHearing Review
Best savings on big brands
ZipHearing is not a hearing aid manufacturer – it is a provider of discount hearing aids with local providers throughout the country. All of the hearing aids it sells are new and provided by the manufacturer with original documents, warranties, and serial numbers. The hearing aids are never refurbished, used, or damaged in any way.
Customers call the ZipHearing call center and are referred to their local provider where they’ll schedule an appointment and get a full consultation. When the customer decides they want to make a purchase, the local provider submits the order directly to ZipHearing. ZipHearing then contacts the customer for payment before ordering the hearing aids directly from the manufacturer and shipping them to the local provider. The local provider will do custom fittings and adjustments to ensure that the hearing aids are ready for use. Initial fittings and adjustments are included in the price of the hearing aid. And customers are able to come back for multiple sessions until the hearing aids are working as expected.
After the trial period, customers can get 3 additional follow-up appointments at no extra charge. Any extra appointments with the local provider cost between $35 – $65.
Customers are also provided with a 1-year supply of Rayovac batteries at no additional cost.
Products
ZipHearing offers hearing aids from a wide variety of top brands, including several that made our list such as Starkey, Phonak, Widex, ReSound, and Oticon. It understands that users want the latest technology at an affordable price, so it has put an emphasis on offering hearing aids with Bluetooth connectivity and made-for-iPhone features.
Because ZipHearing provides hearing aids directly from the manufacturer, its product offerings are subject to change at any time. The table below provides a quick look at three of the best hearing aids currently offered on its website.
|
Starkey Livio |
Oticon Opn S |
Audéo Marvel |
| Hearing loss |
Mild – Severe |
Mild – Profound |
Mild – Profound |
| Style |
Variety |
Variety |
receiver-in-canal |
| Color Options? |
Variety |
Variety |
Variety |
| Bluetooth / Wireless |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Sound control with app |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Rechargeable |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Pricing
There is a 45-day risk-free trial period. During this time frame, customers can make unlimited appointments with their local provider for additional adjustments. If they decide they aren’t happy with their purchase, they’ll receive a full refund.
In addition to the fittings, all purchases include the original manufacturer warranty, which varies by hearing aid.
The cost of hearing aids from ZipHearing does not include hearing tests, custom earmolds, or any additional accessories.
For more information about ZipHearing, read our in-depth review of the company.
