When I sat down to research hearing aids for the first time, it took me hours to figure out what questions to ask. I'm a fast learner, but as the saying goes, I didn't know what I didn't know.
Hearing health is now what I spend most days thinking about. I have more knowledge, but I also know what questions are important.
So think of this guide as a letter to my former self - "Here's what you didn't know, kid."
I've organized this guide as a step-by-step research process. You'll find links to resources I recommend you read or videos to watch.
I've tried to time the entire crash course to about 60 minutes. So grab a pair of headphones, buckle up, and let's go!
First stop, know your hearing loss.
(10 minutes)
Before discussing hearing aids or technology, you'll want to know what you are working with. If you don't have a hearing test, start with our five-minute test here.
I suggest you click download on the results screen to refer to your results later. Leave this tab open and come back when you are finished.
If you have a hearing test in-hand, you can skip this step.
Next, let's review the results.
(10 minutes)
With your hearing test complete, it's time to get familiar with the results. I suggest watching the video below. If you are in a hurry, you can jump to 2:30 where the video discusses typical hearing loss patterns. See if you can spot your hearing loss shape (I have a cookie-bite). You can also read more about types of hearing loss here.
Write down your hearing goals?
(5 minutes)
Now that you understand your hearing loss level and type (ie, moderate sloping or mild notch), it's worth thinking about any other personal aspects that are important for you. Some questions to get you started:
- Do you have hearing aids?
- Are you used to one brand?
- Do you want to reduce Tinnitus?
- Are you struggling with background noise?
- Are you looking for something that blends in?
- Is budget a significant factor for you?
- Would you like to have more control or more professional support?
If I had known to ask these questions when I started my search, I would have answered that I wanted a reasonably budget-friendly option with Bluetooth and lots of DIY controls but the possibility for care when needed. You might respond differently (that's the point).
Jot down a few notes to refer back to later in this exercise.
Consider your care model.
(10 minutes)
At this point, we'll shift focus from your hearing to your care options. Why concentrate on the style of care instead of technology? Your preference in care model will directly impact which types and brands of hearing aids you can access.
You have basically three options:
Option #1 Prescription
You'll visit a local doctor who will conduct a hearing test and use special software to program a hearing aid to match your prescriptive targets. This option is typically the most precise and the most expensive. Most of the top brands are only readily available through this format.
Option #2 Telehealth
A couple of leading brands offer telehealth programming at a distance. You'll take a hearing test online or send in a test you get locally. A professional will program your hearing aids to match that test and ship them to your door. The price for this service is typically 50% lower than local care. Jabra Enhance Select is my favorite telehealth option.
Option #3 OTC
If you want to program your hearing aids using a smartphone, you can purchase over-the-counter. OTC hearing aids were legalized in late 2022 and are popular for first-timers and budget shoppers. OTC is only a good option if you have mild-moderate hearing loss (double-check those hearing test results). Lexie B2 Powered by Bose is my favorite product in this category.
If you want more detail on this decision, take 5 minutes and watch this video.
Time to choose a hearing aid style (10 minutes)
Time to choose a hearing aid style (10 minutes)
Hearing aids come in three main styles.
- About 80% of wearers choose behind-the-ear for comfort and advanced tech
- About 20% choose in-the-ear for invisibility and convenience with glasses, masks etc.
- Wearers with profound hearing loss sometimes choose implanted hearing aids (Cochlear implants or Bone Conduction implants)
Take a few minutes to watch this video to learn more about styles and jot down the style that sounds right for you.
Create a product shortlist.
(15 minutes)
It's finally time to talk about brands and products. We are 45 minutes into this crash course, and you should now be ready to start your personal hearing aid shortlist. The upfront homework will make things way easier at this step.
If you are feeling ambitious you can go deeper on product technology options here.
We've broken the products below into three groups. Each group includes at least one option for in-the-ear and behind-the-ear hearing aids. If you are considering Cochlear implants, you'll want to switch to this guide.
Group #1
Prescription Hearing Aids
These are our top four choices for prescription hearing aids. Oticon, ReSound, and Phonak are consistent leaders among the most popular behind-the-ear styles, and Starkey is a leader in custom in-the-ear products. You'll usually work with a local doctor to access these brands and products.
Group #2
Telehealth Brands
Two Telehealth brands currently lead the pack. If you want remote care's convenience (and lower prices), you'll love Jabra Enhance Select and Audicus. For in-the-ear fans, Audicus offers Telehealth care with Audicus Mini.
Group #3
Over-The-Counter Brands
OTC hearing aid brands are a relatively new breed, but a few leaders have emerged with quality designs and excellent customer service.
Group #1
Prescription Hearing Aids
These are our top four choices for prescription hearing aids. Oticon, ReSound, and Phonak are consistent leaders among the most popular behind-the-ear styles, and Starkey is a leader in custom in-the-ear products. You'll usually work with a local doctor to access these brands and products.
Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio hearing aids are new in 2024 and build on the success of the Audéo Lumity series. The Sphere Infinio is Phonak’s most advanced hearing aid, featuring a first-to-market dual-chip architecture and onboard AI technology for real-time sound processing. This device promises more robust background noise management, Bluetooth connectivity, and durability. Think of this hearing aid as the cutting edge of modern hearing technology, designed by one of the world’s most trusted hearing aid companies.
Overall Notes: Audéo Sphere Infinio stands out for its powerful AI-driven sound management, enhanced Bluetooth range, and improved durability. If you’re looking for a premium clinic-prescribed hearing aid that adapts to complex auditory environments, this device will meet your needs with ease. The real-time AI processing and robust Bluetooth streaming capabilities make it a top contender in the market.
Price: The national average price for Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio is $6,500 per pair. Some providers offer lower prices starting at $4,598/pair. Click here for more on prices.
Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth with hands-free calling via iPhone and Android, behind-the-ear style, dual-chip architecture, real-time AI processing.
Top of the line customization, Bluetooth connection and rechargeable batteries
Enhanced background noise reduction using artificial intelligence
Highly water-resistant option available for active lifestyles
Sphere is a premium product with an average price of $4,598 per pair.
Phonak products are not sold directly to consumers and require a visit to a local audiologist.
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Oticon is the second most popular hearing aid brand (after Phonak). The brand has built a fanbase around its “open” sound philosophy by using advanced methods to support natural sound. Their newest device, the Oticon Intent, goes a step further, offering open sound quality customized to the user’s intent.
The newly designed devices continuously adapt based on four built-in sensors. Together, the brand calls this MoreSound Intelligence 3.0.
- Conversation sensors: Search your soundscape for speech sounds.
- Head sensors: Track your movement to gather information about where you are focused.
- Body sensors: Track your movement through the room and open the field of sound when you walk
- Acoustic sensors: Analyze background noises, echo and room dimensions
None of these sensors are brand new to the world of hearing aids, but Oticon claims to be the first brand to use all four together in one connected system. Add in Oticon's already impressive Deep Neural Network and you get what might be the smartest hearing aid in the industry.
- Overall notes: Oticon Real is an undisputed leader among top-tier hearing aids. If you are attracted to the idea of hearing more of the sounds around you vs. solely focusing on voices, this product is a great choice.
- Price: The national average price for Oticon Intent is $6,330 per pair. In my price research I found some national providers with prices as low as $2,898/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth LE Audio, Behind The Ear Style
- What audiologists say: “Oticon is among the best. If you are looking for all-around, top-of-the-line technology, this is an excellent choice.” - Ramsay Poindexter, AuD
Open sound quality that many users prefer
Bluetooth streaming from Android and Apple devices
Offered with both rechargeable and disposable batteries
Oticon Real hearing aids start at $2,898 and can cost as much as $7,000 with walk in care
Oticon Real hearing aids require a visit to an in person audiologist and are not sold online
ReSound unveiled NEXIA in October 2023. If you’ve read our past reviews, you might know that ReSound is a regular innovator in the hearing category.
The brand was the first to partner with Apple for Bluetooth streaming back in 2013. In 2022, ReSound released an impressive algorithm update with improved beam-forming tech that boasted a 150% improvement in background noise.
ReSound is also the only manufacturer that places a microphone inside the ear to use the natural shape of the pinna to sort out background noise. Those popular features will remain with ReSound NEXIA with some exciting additions.
The first is a visible reduction in size. Impressively, NEXIA maintains a 30-hour battery life while cutting 25% off the overall size—big thumbs up from us.
The second big announcement is that NEXIA has an updated Bluetooth capability that allows Auracast streaming in public places. If you aren’t familiar with Auracast, check out our guide to the topic here.
ReSound is among the best in the industry at separating speech and noise in a background situation. Our lead audiologist recently put NEXIA in a test box and found the hearing aids could consistently provide up to 8-10 dB of background noise reduction.
ReSound NEXIA is on most of our shortlists for the best premium, receiver-in-canal hearing aids on the market.
- Overall notes: ReSound NEXIA is an all around excellent product with an innovative approach to microphones and one of the smallest form factors in the industry. ReSound NEXIA has strong Bluetooth connection that now boasts Auracast compatibility.
- Price: The national average price for ReSound NEXIA is $7,410 per pair. In our price research we've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth with hands-free calling for iPhone and iPad, Small behind the ear style
- What audiologists say: “ReSound offers elegant design and good (if not elite) sound quality. These hearing aids are high quality and reliable.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Great for background noise management
Auracast compatible
Small form factor and an optional 3rd microphone in the ear
More expensive compared to direct to consumer and OTC options
NEXIA's in-ear M&RIE microphone is a bit larger and can be uncomfortable for some
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Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Starkey is a U.S.-based manufacturer with a full line of hearing aids that includes behind the ear and in-the-ear styles. They make the list for their elite status in custom molded (nearly invisible products). If you can afford to pay medical-grade prices and want an invisible style, you won’t be disappointed by Starkey.
Starkey is known for intelligent features like fitness tracking, a virtual assistant, and the smallest Bluetooth hearing aid on the market.
- Overall Notes: Starkey Genesis AI is broadly considered the best for custom mold hearing aids. If you want a custom mold, and lead an active lifestyle, this product is a great choice.
- Price: The national average price for Starkey Genesis Custom hearing aids is $6,443 per pair. Our research indicates that you can get Starkey Custom devices for as low as $3,198 for a pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Full range of styles and features including Bluetooth, rechargeability, and fitness tracking for larger devices.
- What audiologists say: “Starkey has been making the smallest and best custom hearing aids for decades. Genesis AI is currently the smallest custom device on the market with Bluetooth streaming capabilities.” - Ramsay Poindexter, AuD
Smallest models are almost entirely invisible
Starkey is a leader in comfortable custom molded products
Larger sizes come with Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable batteries
This is a premium device which costs $3,000-$7,000 per pair
Custom molds require additional lead time and replacement time
The smallest version of Starkey Genesis AI customs are not Bluetooth enabled or rechargeable
Group #2
Telehealth Brands
Two Telehealth brands currently lead the pack. If you want remote care's convenience (and lower prices), you'll love Jabra Enhance Select and Audicus. For in-the-ear fans, Audicus offers Telehealth care with Audicus Mini.
Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids are made by the world's 4th largest hearing aid manufacturer (ReSound). Jabra Enhance (originally called Lively) made a name for itself by recreating the full-service audiology service online.
Instead of requiring you to come into their office, Jabra reduces the cost by programming remotely and shipping to your home.
All Jabra products come with a 100-day return policy and 3 years of unlimited remote care. You can find the same product for sale at a local clinic for around $4,500.
Get started by filling out Jabra's online survey via the right-hand corner of their website.
- Overall notes: If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, are on a budget, and want a hearing professional to program your hearing aids to match your hearing loss, this is one of the most compelling products on the market.
- Price: $1,395 for a pair of battery-powered - $1,695 for a pair of rechargeable, $1,995 for enhanced sound quality
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth (not hands-free), Behind The Ear Style
- What audiologists say: “Their audiologists can personalize and program Jabra hearing aids in real-time; highlighting the benefits of telehealth and competent professionals.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
One of the most affordable and convenient ways to purchase online while maintaining professional care
Comes with a 100 day free-return period
Offers rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming
Remote care requires users to be somewhat tech savvy
Jabra only offers styles that sit behind the ear
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Audicus was one of the first brands to program hearing aids remotely and ship them to your door. When the brand launched nearly 10 years ago, Audicus was dubbed the Warby Parker of hearing aids. They make their service simple to use and offer a range of simple but effective products.
Unlike other over-the-counter style devices like Eargo and Lexie, you do not need to program your own hearing aids. The Audicus team of hearing specialists walks you through an online test or accepts an existing audiogram.
With the results in hand, they program your hearing aids before shipping. This streamlined process saves you time and cuts the cost by about 50%-70% compared to traditional options.
- Overall notes: Audicus has more than 7,000 reviews with an impressive average of 4.7 stars. Their customer service and lifetime specialist support are unique to the industry. If you are on a budget and want fully customized hearing aids, Audicus is among the best options available.
- Price: Models available, ranging from $699-$1,299 per ear.
- Features: Full range of styles (invisible and behind the ear) and features (Bluetooth and rechargeable)
- What audiologists say: “Audicus is a fair option for anyone looking for remote care. The Telehealth model helps reduce the final price.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Audicus hearing aids are programmed remotely which leads to lower prices and more convenience
Audicus offers a diverse range of styles and pricing including an affordable in-the-canal product
Audicus offers their products with a monthly subscription starting at $99
Audicus offers a 100-day trial
Audicus hearing aids do not come with hands-on support at a local clinic.
Group #3
Over-The-Counter Brands
OTC hearing aid brands are a relatively new breed, but a few leaders have emerged with quality designs and excellent customer service.
In July 2022 Bose formed a strategic partnership with Lexie (a well respected hearing healthcare company) to release Lexie B1 hearing aids. In October they released a second model with rechargeable batteries. Then in 2024 they added Bluetooth streaming capabilities an improved charger. Constant improvement on an already great product - we love to see it.
Lexie B1 and Lexie B2+ hearing aids are self-fit using an innovative app that allows hearing aid wearers to fit, program, and control their hearing aids with clinically proven, audiologist-quality results. Purchase B1 hearing aids for $849 or rechargeable B2+ hearing aids for $999.
- How it works:
✔️ Start by purchasing Bose online or at a local retailer
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ If you need further adjustments, Lexie has a team of licensed professionals who can make remote updates or provide technical advice.
- Overall notes: If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, are comfortable with smartphone tech, and are on a budget, Bose is one of the most compelling products available.
- Price: $749 for a pair of B1 hearing aids or $999 for a pair of B2+ hearing aids
- Features: Rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth Streaming for iPhone users, Programming app, Behind The Ear Style
- What audiologists say: “One of the simplest to use OTC hearing aids, at a very competitive price. A solid option for those who want to self-manage their mild to moderate hearing loss.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Strong underlying technology
Self-fitting using the Lexie app
Affordable and rechargeable
Only comes in one color
Not right for those with severe hearing loss
Eargo is the disruptor in hearing health. Their product is rechargeable, invisible, and designed with a patented tip that allows your ears to breathe.
Eargo 7 was released in 2023 with new features that adapt to your environment as you move through your day. The company released Eargo SE and Eargo LINK in 2024 to expand their price range and features.
Think of this product as the Tesla of hearing health. Eargo is best for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. If you want to try something new, this is a great option.
- How it works:
✔️ You can purchase Eargo products here on Soundly.com or through retailers like Best Buy.
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you’ll receive instructions to download the app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ If you purchase through Soundly.com a member of our team will join you for a complimentary setup call.
- Overall notes: Eargo stands out for its design, innovation, size, rechargeable batteries. The price is a bit higher than other OTC options but still lower than the national average.
- Price: $2,950 for Eargo’s newest product
- Features: Invisible, self-programmed, rechargeable
- What audiologists say: “If you are looking for invisible devices Eargo is one of the best options on the market.” - Ramsay Poindexter
Eargo is a tiny device that sits entirely inside the ear
Eargo is more affordable then custom mold hearing aids
Eargo is self fit using an app
Only appropriate for those with mild to moderate hearing loss
Requires some tinkering to fine tune the product
Eargo is not Bluetooth enabled due to the tiny size
Lucid Hearing is an under-the-radar brand in the OTC market but has some of the strongest technology and experience. The brand is best known as the manufacturer behind all of the Sam's Club hearing center hearing aids.
The brand released two impressive OTC devices in late 2022. Engage is Lucid's rechargeable, Bluetooth enabled and self-fit hearing aid that sits behind the ear. The product comes in several colors and has one of the most stable Bluetooth connections due to a patented antenna.
- How it works:
✔️ Start by purchasing Lucid Engage hearing aids online.
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ If you need further adjustments you can take your hearing aids to a nearby Sam’s Club for free service or call Lucid’s hearing specialists.
- Price: $799 for a pair
- Features: Rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth streaming enabled for Android and iPhone, fully customized to your hearing loss using an app, behind the ear style.
Bluetooth streaming for iPhone and Android
Rechargeable
Self-fit
Packaging and recharge case are less sleek than Bose and Sony
That's a wrap.
If you've stuck with me this long, you should have a hearing test, some notes on preferences, and an idea of your preferred care model and style. You might even have a shortlist of brands to investigate further.
If you still have questions, rest assured that this site is full of answers on topics like tinnitus management hearing aids for music, and ultra-low-cost options like Audien and Nano.
Ask your questions in the search bar on the right-hand corner of the site, or head here to compare more hearing aids side-by-side.
We hope this 60-minute crash-course has been helpful. If you have comments or questions, feel free to email us at [email protected].
