The Best Hearing Aids of 2022

According to a study from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, approximately 20% or 48 million Americans suffer from some level of hearing loss. This percentage increases with age, with one-third of Americans between the ages of 65 and 74 suffering from hearing loss and one-half of people over the age of 75 being affected.

Hearing loss can make it difficult to have conversations, complete normal interactions, enjoy music and other media. It can even pose a safety hazard if one is unable to hear warnings and alarms. Hearing aids can help remedy this problem by amplifying sounds. But with so many companies and models available, shopping for the right one can be overwhelming.

We’ve curated this guide profiling the best hearing aid companies and their products. You’ll find details about product features, pricing, warranties, accessories, customer service, and how to buy. As you shop for your new hearing aids, this information can help you decide which company is able to provide the features you need in the style you want.

How We Chose the Best Hearing Aids

Sound Quality

When it comes to understanding the world around you, sounds can’t simply be louder. They need to be processed and sent through the speaker for clarity. The best hearing aids on the market feature cutting edge technology that minimizes background noise and allows the user to hone in on what they actually want to hear.

Useful Features

While being able to clearly hear the world around you is the single most important feature of hearing aids, other features available on the market make them even more convenient to use. Features like Bluetooth capability, app control, and on-the-fly adjustments can greatly enhance the user experience.

Value

Hearing aids are expensive. According to a 2018 report, the average price for a single hearing aid is $2,560. And with many insurance plans choosing not to cover the cost, seniors may struggle to find a way to make hearing aids affordable, with many opting not to buy them at all. So, we sought out hearing aids that provide the best value for consumers.

Customer Service

Hearing aids are a big purchase, and for many people, getting used to them can be quite an adjustment. After the initial setup, users will likely have questions about features, adjustments, warranties, and repairs. So it’s important to be able to get in touch with someone who can help. That’s why we took a close look at customer service practices for each company.

The 10 Best Hearing Aids of 2022

For a quick overview of our results on the top 10 hearing aids for 2022, take a look at the table below:

*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

Best for Low-Cost Digital Hearing Aids

MDHearingAid is a popular online hearing aid company that provides low-cost alternatives to what’s ordinarily available through audiology offices. 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. MDHearingAid’s US-based production and customer support are led by the advice of multiple knowledgeable audiologists.

Some of the stand-out qualities of MDHearingAid products include:

• Affordable hearing aids compared to the industry average
• Designed to improve hearing for those with mild to moderate hearing loss
• Products available for sale through company website and Amazon

Products and Pricing

MDHearingAid’s three current hearing aid models are Air, Volt, and Volt Max. Older versions of some models can be found through other online retailers, though not on the MDHearingAid website. Note that all MDHearingAid models come in the same beige color which will blend into fair skin tones.

• MDHearingAid Air – A base-level hearing aid for mild to moderate hearing loss. Features a telecoil, helping to reduce background noise. This model costs $299.98.
• MDHearingAid Volt – A rechargeable hearing aid with two directional microphones for crisp, clear sound quality. This model costs $299.98.
• MDHearingAid Volt Max – A rechargeable hearing aid with Bluetooth connectivity for making adjustments through the MDHearingAid app. This model costs $699.98.

MDHearingAid products are on the lower side of the cost spectrum compared to other hearing aids. Since no MDHearingAid models are custom-programmed by an audiologist, they are most beneficial for those with mild to moderate hearing loss instead of severe and profound loss that may require professionally fine-tuned devices.

In addition to its hearing aids, this brand offers various accessories, including storage cases, cleaning kits, 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.

Interested customers 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 $4-$15 monthly.

MDHearingAid Key Facts

Each MDHearingAid comes with a variety of features that make it easy to find a specific model that suits every user. The three hearing aid models all include a 90-day warranty as well as a 45-day return policy for a full refund.

Pros and Cons of MDHearing Aid

Lively

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.

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. 

Lively’s products include a wide range of features suited to the user, including:

• Bluetooth streaming capability
• Convenient smartphone app for adjustments and on-demand advice
• Bundles include extra batteries or charging case, remote care, and three years of loss/damage protection
• Risk-free, 100-day, money-back guarantee is much longer than most competitors
• Three years of remote follow-up care with an audiologist

Products and Pricing

Lively offers three different hearing aids: Lively 2 Lite, Live 2 Plus, and Lively 2 Pro. All Lively hearing aids are custom-programmed by an audiologist based on customers’ hearing test results, so each person’s device is 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. 

• Lively 2 Lite – The base-level offering from Lively, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, a smartphone app, and a year’s supply of batteries. This model costs $1,195.
• Lively 2 Plus – A powerful hearing aid with Bluetooth, app control, and rechargeable batteries. This model costs $1,595. 
• Lively 2 Pro – The highest-level Lively hearing add, including hands-free phone capabilities, auto volume control, and binaural directionality for audio clarity. This model costs $1,995.

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 devices use FDA-approved technology to reduce unwanted background sounds and recognize and prioritize voices for enhanced sound quality in various environments. 

Lively Key Facts

Each Lively hearing aid sports a range of benefits for the user. All models come with professional tuning by an audiologist.

Pros and Cons of Lively 

Eargo

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 remaining breathable. 

Eargo provides users with many convenient features, including:

• Ready-to-use out of the box
• In-the-canal hearing aids that are nearly invisible
• Preset profiles that change with a tap

Products and Pricing

Eargo currently offers four different hearing aid models: EargoMax, EargoNeo HiFi, Eargo 5, and the new Eargo 6. This level of variety provides customers with a range of choices to match their specific preferences.

• EargoMax – Offers improved amplification, feedback reduction, and active noise cancellation. This model costs $1,450.
• EargoNeo HiFi – Features enhanced noise and feedback reduction for a more natural sound. This model costs $1,950.
• Eargo 5 – Comes with the ‘Sound Match’ feature which enables remote sound adjustment from the comfort of users’ homes. This model costs $2,450.
• Eargo 6 – The most advanced model, offers ‘sound adjust’ which automatically optimizes for your surroundings as you move. This model costs $2,650.

All of Eargo’s 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, with the Eargo 5 and Eargo 6 charging wirelessly. When fully charged, the case can power hearing aids for about a week.

Eargo Key Facts

Eargo offers a variety of hearing aids at a range of price points, ranging from $1,450 to $2,650. The company also sells an array of accessories, including extra petals, flexis, mic caps, and more.

Pros and Cons of Eargo

Audicus

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.

Here are just a few benefits of Audicus hearing aids:

• Online hearing test designed by audiologists
• Competitive hearing aid prices
• Convenience customer service and helpful online resources
• Monthly membership option available instead of purchase

Products and Pricing

Audicus currently offers six hearing aids: The Dia II, The Clara, The Aura, The Wave, The Spirit, and The Omni. Each hearing aid comes in a variety of colors and provides hearing support for a range of hearing loss.

• Dia II – The least expensive model, offering digital sound processing to help with noise focus. This model costs $998 per pair.
• Clara – Bluetooth-capable hearing aid with an optional rechargeable version. This model costs $1,498per pair.
• Aura – An in-the-canal hearing aid that is nearly invisible. This model costs $1,398 per pair.
• Wave – Bluetooth capability and smartphone app for complete control and adjustment. This model costs $1,898 per pair.
• Spirit – A high-end hearing aid, comes with unlimited remote care from an audiologist. This model costs $2,798 per pair.
• Omni – The top-model hearing aid, a BTE hearing aid with bluetooth, streaming, app-based sound control and rechargeability. This model costs $3,398 per pair.

For the Wave, Spirit, and Omni, wearers have the option of purchasing the hearing aids or joining the monthly membership. Subscription members receive extra domes, earwax guards, and battery replacements every 3 months, included in the monthly cost. The prices listed below are the purchase prices; monthly costs for the membership range from $99 to $129 per month.

Audicus Key Facts

Audicus hearing aids come with many different features depending on each specific model. Users can easily find an Audicus hearing aid that suits their budget and their desired conveniences. 

Pros and Cons of Audicus

Widex

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.

Just some of the offerings from Widex include:

• Water-resistant hearing aids 
• Models with rechargeable batteries
• Models available that can learn user’s preferences
• Variety of styles ranging from behind the ear, in-ear, and in-the-canal

Products and Pricing

Widex currently offers three main models of hearing aids, the Evoke, Unique, and Beyond. 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. 

• Evoke – The world’s first ‘smart’ hearing aid, uses advanced learning technology to adjust according to the surrounding noise. Pricing varies by model and sub-model.
• Unique – Processes a broad range of sound with minimal background noise. Pricing varies by model and sub-model.
• Beyond – Designed for smartphone users, featuring an app that controls the hearing aid and allows for music streaming. Pricing varies by model and sub-model.

Widex’s focus on the tech-savvy user can be convenient for some but worrisome for others. Users should consider their comfort level with smartphone apps before making a purchase. Widex does everything they can to make using its hearing aids as easy as possible.

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.

Widex Key Facts

Widex focuses on customization and tech in its hearing aids. The company looks to cutting-edge technology to make its hearing aids some of the highest quality on the market today. Its smartphone app is designed to ensure that users have total control over their hearing experience. 

Pros and Cons of Widex

ReSound

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 overall user experience. 

ReSound equips their hearing aids with a wealth of useful features, including:

• Energy-efficient, cutting-edge sound processing
• Media streaming abilities through Bluetooth
• iSolate Nanotech coating to defend against sweat, water, and moisture
• Programmed by an audiologist for a custom hearing experience
• Rechargeable battery models available 

Products and Pricing

There are three different models of ReSound hearing aids available: LiNX Quattro, LiNX 3D, and ENZO Q. Each hearing aid is specially designed for certain users in mind based on their level of hearing loss and need for special features.

• LiNX Quattro – Designed for balanced sound, picking up audio from any direction. This model’s cost will vary from dealer to dealer. 
• LiNX 3D – Utilizes Spatial Sense technology to recreate the natural performance of the human ear. This model’s cost will vary from dealer to dealer. 
• ENZO Q – For users with profound levels of hearing loss, providing 60% better speech understanding. This model’s cost will vary from dealer to dealer. 

While color options may not be a necessity for all users, ReSound offers each of its three hearing aids in a variety of colors. The company also offers an array of hearing aid styles so users can find one that feels comfortable and looks good.

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.

ReSound Key Facts

Because ReSound hearing aids are only sold through the company’s network of audiologists and licensed distributors, the pricing for each model can vary. Based on the information available from third-party websites, pricing can range from $850 – $4,000 depending on the model, submodel, and location.

Pros and Cons of ReSound

Phonak

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.

Phonak hearing aids are made with many great features to benefit users, including:

• Minimizes ambient noise and amplifies conversational sound
• Designed for those looking for a high-quality music experience
• Powered by AutoSense OS, named the best hearing aid software for high-quality music

Products and Pricing

With over 20 different hearing aids available, Phonak makes a model for virtually every need and style preference. Users can look through all 20+ product offerings on the company’s website, but here, we’ve profiled three of its most popular: The Lyric, the Audéo Marvel, and the Bolero Marvel.

• Lyric – 100% invisible hearing aid, providing a clear and rich sound. This model’s costs vary by dealer.
• Audéo Marvel – Rechargeable hearing aid with Bluetooth capabilities. This model’s costs vary by dealer.
• Bolero Marvel – A behind-the-ear style hearing aid with Bluetooth capabilities and smartphone app integration. This model’s costs vary by dealer.

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 that 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 designed to enhance group conversations. 

Phonak Key Facts

Phonak only sells its products through professional audiologists and audiology centers, so prices vary. The average price is between $1,200 – $4,000 depending on location, model, and features selected. The company offers over 20 hearing aids, so users are sure to find a model that fits their exact needs.

Pros and Cons of Phonak

Oticon

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.

Customers of Oticon can enjoy several benefits, including:

• Over 100 years of serving those with hearing loss
• BrainHearing technology that quickly processes changing soundscapes
• Speech Guard and Speech Rescue recognize and amplify conversations
• Majority of models feature Bluetooth technology for smart-device connection
• Stream music or phone calls through a smartphone

Products and Pricing

Oticon offers a number of different hearing aids for various levels of hearing loss and different style preferences. The company understands that every user has a different level of hearing loss, and its line of hearing aids reflects that. Three of its most popular hearing aids include the Xceed, the CROS, and the Opn S.

• Oticon Xceed – Deemed the world’s most powerful hearing aid, features BrainHearing technology for those with profound hearing loss. This model’s cost is set by a dealer.
• Oticon CROS – A hearing aid designed specifically for those with single-ear hearing loss. This model’s cost is set by a dealer.
• Oticon Opn S – Utilizes the advanced Velox S platform to enhance speech understanding. This model’s cost is set by a dealer.

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. The On App enables users to control their hearing aids directly from their smartphones and access helpful resources. 

Oticon Key Facts

The average price for a single Oticon hearing aid ranges from $1,200 – $3,700 depending on the model and features. Each Oticon is specially tuned by an audiologist to guarantee a unique experience for every user.

Pros and Cons of Oticon

Starkey

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. 

Starkey hearing aids come with many different features, including the following:

• Nano-coated hearing aids that defend against moisture
• Digital feedback reduction feature that clarifies important sound
• Directional microphones assist in catching conversation audio
• Tinnitus-masking technology helps cover the ringing sound with white noise

Products and Pricing

Starkey offers a variety of high-grade hearing aids, including the Evolv AI, the Z-Series, and the Picasso. All hearing aids cover users with mild to severe hearing loss.

• Evolv AI – The company’s most advanced hearing aid, it provides ‘effortless’ hearing through a 40% reduction in noise energy, as well as fall-detection technology. Prices vary by dealer.
• Z-Series – A traditional hearing aid that focuses on user comfort. Prices vary by dealer.
• Picasso – Custom-designed to be discreet and nearly invisible in the user’s ear. Prices vary by dealer.

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.

Starkey Key Facts

Depending on factors like location, model, and submodel, prices of Starkey hearing aids can range between $1,400 – $4,400. Many retailers offer financing options and various discounts to help make hearing aids more affordable for customers. For every pair purchased, Starkey itself donates a pair of hearing aids to its Starkey Hearing Foundation. 

Pros and Cons of Starkey

Hear.com

Best for active lifestyles

Hear.com prides itself on providing users with a sleek, stylish hearing aid that doesn’t slow down their active lifestyle. The company put all of its development energy into creating one hearing aid that has it all for the youthful hearing aid user, the Horizon. Users can expect to easily hear everything around them when working out, hiking, or attending meetings at the office.

The Horizon from Hear.com is equipped with many useful features, including:

• IP68-rated coating for moisture and dirt resistance
• Mobile charging case which can charge the hearing aid 3 times over
• Qi wireless charging for cord-free recharging of the hearing aids
• Own-voice processing to help clarify audio over the user’s voice
• TwinPhone setting allows for transmitting from one hearing aid to another

Products and Pricing

Hear.com worked with industry experts and technical engineers to analyze millions of hearing consultations to perfect the technology behind their Horizon hearing aid. The speech focus technology zones in on speech sound to make conversation easy to understand. The directional microphones and acoustic-motion sensors help the hearing aid to pick up important noise and ignore all others. The Horizon also features tinnitus therapy settings to help users control the ringing in their ears.

The Horizon hearing aid was designed with the tech-savvy user in mind. Hear.com made sure to add Bluetooth connectivity, wireless recharging, and a customizable smartphone app that makes it easy to change settings on the fly. They even included a ‘relax mode’ which provides calming, ambient sounds at the tap of a button.

* Pricing information provided by third-party website

While Hear.com has developed its own hearing aid, they also promote several other brands of hearing aids. Visitors to their website can learn more about Starkey, Oticon, Phonak, and Signia hearing aids, and visitors can try any hearing aid through a no-risk free trial. The website is not clear about the warranty for the Horizon model hearing aid.

Hear.com Key Facts

Pros and Cons of Hear.com

The Cost of Hearing Aids

The hearing aid industry today offers wearers an array of styles and advanced features from which to choose. This allows for more flexibility and customizability, but in many cases does raise the cost.

On one end of the cost and technology spectrum are analog hearing aids. This older-style aid amplifies all sounds the same way, which can be suitable for those with mild-moderate hearing loss but lacks the enhanced sound and noise-canceling capabilities of newer models. Analog hearing aids tend to be significantly less expensive than their digital counterparts. For example, an analog aid from MDHearingAid costs under $400 for a pair. Meanwhile, the company’s most technologically-advanced model costs over $1,000 more, but offers a more clear and customizable hearing experience for the wearer.

Paying for Hearing Aids

While hearing aids are available at a range of price points, in some cases, the type or model of hearing aid you need may cost more than your budget allows. Financial assistance may be available in some circumstances through insurance or local resources. Below, we explain some common forms of payment assistance for hearing aids. 

• Medicaid: Those who are enrolled in Medicaid may be eligible for financial assistance for hearing aids. However, hearing aid coverage is not an entitlement benefit of Medicaid, meaning that the federal government doesn’t require it. Thus, some states’ Medicaid programs offer help paying for hearing aids, but not all. You can learn more by visiting your state’s Medicaid overview.
• Medicare: Original Medicare (Medicare parts A and B) does not cover hearing aids. However, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Plans often do offer some hearing aid benefits. As these types of Medicare are private, each plan’s exact benefits differ, so be sure to check the specifics of your policy.
• Veterans Benefits: If you’re a Veteran who qualifies for VA health care benefits, it’s likely you can receive a hearing aid through VHA Audiology. These audiologists help veterans with a range of hearing needs including conducting hearing tests and determining the best treatment or device for the individual.
• Private Insurance: Hearing care is not a required health insurance benefit in most states, so many private insurance plans offer little to no help paying for hearing aids. However, those who have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) can use one of these tax-friendly accounts to pay for their hearing aid.
• Local Resources: There may be local programs for seniors in your area to help pay for hearing care and devices. Start by contacting your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more about your options.

Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Hearing Aid

With so many different hearing aids available, it can be difficult to know exactly what to look for when you begin shopping. While the perfect hearing aid will look a bit different to every buyer depending on individual needs and preferences, keeping the following steps in mind can help you narrow down your search.

Step 1: Get a Hearing Test

Before you buy a hearing aid, you should visit a licensed audiologist who can conduct a full hearing test. These tests determine if you can hear certain frequencies and the softest sound you’re able to hear in each ear. Based on the results of your test, the audiologist will be able to make a recommendation about what type of hearing aid is best for your level of hearing loss.

The single most important factor when buying a hearing aid is to ensure that it’s a fit for your level of hearing loss. If you have severe hearing loss but buy a hearing aid that’s intended for users with only mild hearing loss, it won’t be serving its intended purpose.

Step 2: Determine Your Price Range

As with any major purchase, it’s important to determine your price range before you begin shopping. This way you can narrow down your options and avoid wasting time on products that are out of budget. The price of hearing aids varies widely and depends on factors like brand, model, extra features, and the provider.

After you’ve determined the type of hearing aid you need and your budget, most of the features you find in hearing aids are based on user preference. Think about the conveniences you want and look for those features when researching hearing aids.

Step 3: Decide on a Style

Hearing aids are available in a variety of styles including behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, in-the-canal, and receiver-in-canal. While many people prefer in-the-canal and in-the-ear options because of their discreet appearance, they can be harder to adjust and are much easier to lose because of their small size. While hearing aids that fit behind the ear may be more noticeable, they’re typically easier to adjust, maintain, and keep track of.

Many manufacturers also make their hearing aids in a variety of colors. This usually includes natural tones to blend in with the wearer’s skin and hair color as well as bright, bold statement colors. While colors don’t impact the sound quality, choosing a color that you’re comfortable with will help you be less self-conscious about your hearing aid.

Step 4: Consider Wireless Connectivity

With technology advancing at such a rapid pace, many hearing aid manufacturers are integrating wireless technology into their products. This allows users to pair their hearing aids with their phones, laptop, or other Bluetooth enabled devices. Many hearing aids with this technology can be adjusted and controlled from an app on an iPhone or Android. It can also allow users to stream audio from a device, making it easier to listen to music, watch TV, and make phone calls.

While this technology is incredibly convenient for anyone that uses a smart device, it does increase the base price of the hearing aid. If you’re not someone who plans to stream audio from your phone to your hearing aid, you might want to pass on this feature to save some money for down the line.

Step 5: Look at Available Accessories

Many hearing aid companies have also developed accessories to improve the user experience and make certain situations easier for those with hearing loss. Some typical accessories include:

• TV streamers: These devices connect to televisions and stream the audio directly to the hearing aid so users can clearly hear the media without turning up the volume on the TV.
• Microphones: Wireless microphones can be placed near an audio source and stream the sound directly to the hearing aid. These are particularly useful for users trying to focus on a single audio source in a noisy room. Some companies also make table microphones to enhance group conversations.
• Remote controls: Remote controls allow users to adjust the volume and setting of their hearing aids without needing to remove them. 
• Bluetooth connectors: Some hearing aid companies have developed small devices that can turn any audio source with a headphone jack into a Bluetooth device that can stream audio directly to a hearing aid.

These, and other accessories, can certainly make listening to certain audio sources easier, but they aren’t a necessity for many customers. If you watch a lot of TV in a space with other people, a streamer might be a great idea. But if you don’t typically watch TV or you watch it alone, it wouldn’t be a necessary addition. While these accessories may seem like a great idea, it’s always wise to think about whether you need them before you make the purchase. You can always add them on later if you think it will enhance your experience with your hearing aids.

Step 6: Ask Questions

Once you’ve narrowed your choices down, ask the company important questions about anything you’re still unsure of. Some important information to have before you make your final decisions should include:

• Warranties and Repairs
  Most hearing aids come with some form of manufacturer’s warranty, but each one is different, and it’s important to know the details before you buy. Find out exactly what the warranty covers and what it does not. For example, most warranties cover faulty parts and workmanship, but many won’t cover incidental damage or loss.
  
  You’ll also want to find out if there are additional costs associated with any repairs and how long it will take to get your hearing aid back if you do need to send it out. Some warranties include the entire cost of repairs and replacements, while others will charge a fee every time you file a claim. Repairs typically shouldn’t take more than a week, and you should find out if this is guaranteed in your warranty. Some companies also offer replacement hearing aids for you to use while yours are being repaired. No matter what kind of warranty is being offered, it’s always a good idea to get a copy of it in writing before you make your purchase.

• Trial Periods
  The majority of hearing aid manufacturers offer risk-free trial periods for customers to test their product out and make a decision about whether or not it’s the right hearing aid for them. These trial periods can last anywhere between 30 and 60 days and are required by law in some states.
  
  While these trial periods promise you a full refund if you’re not satisfied with the product, it’s important to ask about the details when you speak with a customer service representative. Some companies actually charge a restocking fee if you choose to return your hearing aids. And many companies are vague about trial period terms and conditions on their website. If you’re unsure about anything, ask a customer service representative to send you a copy of their policy via mail or email before you buy.

• Fittings
  Some hearing aids need to be fitted to the user’s ear before being used. If you’re buying this style of hearing aid, be sure to find out whether the impression that’s needed for the fitting is included in the price or if you’ll need to pay an additional fee.

• Adjustments
  Many people find that they need their hearing aids tuned multiple times after their initial purchase. Find out if these appointments are included in the cost of the hearing aid or if they’ll be an additional charge for each appointment. Also, find out if these appointments must be done in person or if there is a virtual option.

FAQ