💨 In a hurry? Our top affordable hearing aid picks are:
Jabra Enhance Select (best overall value)
Lexie B2 Powered by Bose (best OTC)
Eargo (best invisible)
The average price of hearing aids in the U.S. is $4,500. That's a big ticket item by anyone's standards and leaves many people looking for alternatives.
The good news is that there has never been a better time to buy hearing aids (at any price).
While prices for traditional prescription devices have not gone down (and likely won’t anytime soon), the number of quality options for consumers has dramatically increased.
Just a few years ago, you had one credible option - prescription hearing aids through a local clinic.
In 2023 you can get quality devices through prescription, telehealth or OTC channels.
If you are considering your first pair (or your 10th) and want a pair of hearing aids that doesn’t break the bank. This guide is for you!
Prefer to watch?
Watch our video breakdown of the best affordable hearing aids.
Our research process.
The Soundly team is made up of hearing aid wearers and audiologists who vet hearing aids and hearing brands with the goal of making you a more informed consumer.
In preparation for this guide we reviewed over 50 affordable products for quality, met directly with more than one dozen brands, did a lot of secret shopping and ultimately narrowed things down to the list below.
We keep this guide up-to-date with new entrants into the market.
What goes into hearing aid prices?
To understand why average prices are so high, you'll need to know a few things about the hearing health space.
- Bundled Care - Most traditional hearing aids come with 1-3 years of unlimited support and adjustments from a hearing professional. You're paying for the technology + the time.
- Distribution - Most hearing aids are sold in local clinics. Clinic owners have lots of overhead from rent to receptionists and internet bills. Each of those costs gets passed on to the consumer.
- Specialized R&D - 5 large holding companies make most hearing aids. Each has thousands of employees and invests heavily in R&D. You guessed it, those costs get passed on to the consumer.
- Insurance Shortfalls - Most insurance (including Medicare) does not cover the cost of hearing aids. We can all agree that this is absurd…but it’s where we are today. You can read more about hearing aids and insurance here.
Before you throw your coffee at the screen, hang with us. Affordable options DO exist.
8 Best Affordable Hearing Aids In 2023
Review Process For This Guide
Soundly conducts in-depth research to guide prospective hearing aid wearers. Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
To get to this list we underwent the following research:
- 50+ Hours Research Conducted Each Month
- 3 Licensed Audiologists Consulted
- 50 Total Brands Reviewed
- 1,000+ Customer Reviews Considered
What are the options for affordable hearing aids?
First, let’s get something out of the way.
There are many brands that sell hearing aids for under $100 or $400 for a pair. Most of those products lack customization or break down easily. We’ve tested many of these devices and while some are OK, they just don’t get the job done consistently.
As a rule of thumb, our reviews show that there is a big quality leap around the $700 price point.
Our research led us to three main options to get cheaper (but still quality) hearing aids.
Option 1: Telehealth ($1,200 - $2,000 per pair)
Jabra Enhance Select and Audicus are two leading Telehealth brands that jumped into the hearing health mainstream during the pandemic.
Both brands have a team of in-house hearing professionals that walk you through a test, program your hearing aids and provide follow up services all through your phone or computer.
The process is significantly more efficient than local care and those savings get passed to consumers.
Option 2: Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids ($700 - $2,900)
OTC hearing aids are the brand new disruptors on the market as of October 2022. Unlike the previous three options, OTC hearing aids put programming in the hands of the user and cut out the need for hearing professionals. OTC hearing aids aren’t right for everyone but they can be a good place to start.
Option 3: Discount Local Care($2,900 - $4,500 per pair)
Let’s say you want to get the top-of-the line hearing aid from a big prescription leader like Oticon.
Typically you would call a local clinic, set up a test and pay around $6,500 for a pair with three years of service.
That's not your only option though. There are a few large groups of clinics that offer pre-negotiated pricing to customers based on their size and scale. There’s a good chance that the clinics in their program are the same ones you might find in a phone book (just with better prices.)
Click here to find a brand and get paired with discount local care.
Ok, enough preamble, let’s get to our list of the best affordable hearing aids on the market in 2023.
Option #1 - Telehealth
Based on our testing, the hearing aids with the best overall value sit in the Telehealth category. This group of products is only right for simpler cases of hearing loss and requires some comfortability with technology.
Two brands lead the category.
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.
- 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 $499-$899 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
The lowest priced hearing aids from Audicus (DIA, Clara, Aura) are not remotely programmable which means you'll need to ship your hearing aid back for adjustments
Group #2 - OTC Hearing Aids
The next group of hearing aids is the cheapest. OTC devices are self-fit and sold over the counter (no doctor involved). You'll need some tech-savvy to take advantage of this group of up-and-comers.
We've included five leading brands in this second group.
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 May 2023 they added Bluetooth streaming capabilities for iPhone users.
Both versions of the Bose 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 (compare models here).
- 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: $849 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
Bluetooth for iPhone only
Only comes in one color
Costs $150 more than disposable battery version
Sony teamed up with WS Audiology (the second-largest hearing company in the world) to co-create its products. Sony's CRE-C10 devices are nearly invisible and offer prescription-grade sound quality controlled through your smartphone. CRE-C10 does not offer Bluetooth streaming or rechargeable batteries.
CRE-C10 uses a size 10 disposable battery that offers over 70 hours of continuous wear. Size 10 batteries are widely available and commonly used in small devices. Sony's hearing aids were released in mid-October, so there are few reviews of the product, but it's safe to say this will be a leading consideration for those who want an in-the-ear style device.
- How it works:
✔️ Start by purchasing Sony hearing aids online (likely coming to brick-and-mortar stores soon)
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the Sony Hearing Control app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ Use the app to make real-time volume and sound quality adjustments.
✔️ If you need customer support, you can contact Sony's customer service team. - Price: $999 on Crutchfield
- Features: Self-fit using an app, nearly invisible in most ear canals
Nearly invisible
High quality sound for a lower price
Self-fit at home
Not as small as OTC competitors like Eargo
Not rechargeable
Does not allow Bluetooth streaming
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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. Eargo has raised hundreds of millions to design their product from scratch and what they've pulled off is impressive.
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:
✔️ Start by purchasing Eargo online or over the phone (or get a free sample product here).
✔️ 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 need further adjustments, Eargo has a team of licensed professionals who can make remote updates or provide advice.
- Overall notes: Eargo stands out for its design, innovation, size, and telecare team. 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 (currently on sale)
- 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
MDHearingAid is a Chicago-based brand that has sold over 500,000 pairs of affordable hearing aids since 2009. The brand’s latest product (Volt Max) is programmed using a hearing test administered by a smartphone app. MDHearing sells exclusively online and does not require a trip to a local audiologist. The brand has recently invested in a remote care team that includes audiologists and hearing aid dispensers. Customers who need further tune-ups or care can set up a telecare appointment with a professional for free.
- How it works:
✔️ Start by purchasing from MDHearing online.
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the MDHearing app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ MDHearing has a team of hearing professionals who can coach you through the self-fit process.
- Price: $599 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.
Affordable
Self-tuned
Rechargeable
No Bluetooth streaming
Slightly larger size
Only one color available
Group #3 - Discount Local Care
Finally, our favorite traditional prescription products with local care (25%-40% less) are below. These hearing aids are made by the largest manufacturers and come with local care from a hearing professional.
We've included three leaders below but you can explore here to see all options and get paired to a local discount care provider. If you like the idea of local care you might also consider Costco.
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Phonak Lumity hearing aids are new in August 2022 and replace the world's most popular hearing aid (Audéo Paradise).
Lumity get’s top marks from audiologists for stable Bluetooth connection, precise customization and impressive accessories like the Phonak Roger Pen.
Think of this hearing aid as the Mercedes level. High-end, built by the world's largest hearing company and packed with all the tech you could want.
- Overall Notes: Audéo Lumity is the #1 hearing aid on the market by sales volume. It offers best-in-class Bluetooth streaming, powerful sound algorithms, remote care, and an innovative ear vent. If you can swing the cost for this premium device, chances are that you'll be very happy.
- Price: The national average price for Phonak Lumity is $6,213 per pair. In my price research I found two larger providers who offer lower prices starting at $2,995/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth and hands-free calling, behind the ear style, motion sensors
- What audiologists say: “Our patients say that the sound is clear and crisp, while maintaining natural sound quality. Patients also love the unique ability to pair with almost any cell phone and take calls hands-free.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Top of the line customization, Bluetooth connection and rechargeable batteries
Enhanced background noise reduction
Highly water-resistant option available for active lifestyles
Audeo Lumity is a premium product with an average price of $3,198 - $7,000 per pair
Phonak manages sound quality in a way that can lead to a "closed off" feeling compared to Oticon or ReSound's more open sound quality
Oticon Real was released in February 2023 and is positioned to become one of the most popular hearing aids in the world.
This hearing aid is rechargeable offers hands-free calling via iPhone and audio streaming via Android.
What makes the Oticon special is the way the hearing aids handle sound. While most hearing aids suppress background noises and prioritize only voice, Oticon Real gives the brain a more natural, full sound landscape.
Oticon used a 360 spherical microphone to capture sounds from 12 million real-life situations to achieve this new approach. Their new Oticon Real model also has some built-in features to increase listening comfort in the presence of intrusive sounds like dog barking or doorbells ringing.
- 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 Real is $6,330 per pair. In my price research I found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth (not hands-free), 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 $3,198 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
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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 Evolv Custom hearing aids is $6,443 per pair. My research indicates that you can get Starkey Custom devices for as low as $2,998 for a pair, and the national average is around $5,500 per 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 versions of Starkey Genesis AI customs are not Bluetooth enabled or rechargeable
That's it for now.
We hope you enjoyed this guide to the best affordable hearing aids in 2023. We update this page regularly and will be back with new models as they come.
We created this site to make finding hearing products and care more accessible.
Use the compare page to compare all the leading products on the market (with prices), or check your hearing with our 5-minute hearing test.
If you have questions, you can email our team at any time hello@soundly.com.
Frequently asked questions
Some insurance policies cover hearing tests, but the majority of policies do not cover hearing aid devices. It's a good idea to call your insurance company to double-check on this. Read our full guide on the topic here.
Original Medicare does not cover hearing aid costs. It does cover hearing tests in many cases. One option is to get a covered hearing test locally and use it to find a good option online for less. Some Medicare Advantage plans do cover hearing aids. Read our full guide on Medicare and hearing aids.
If you have served in the U.S. military, there is a good chance the VA could cover your hearing aids and hearing care.
Process Overview:
- Apply for VA benefits.
- Schedule an appointment.
- Meet with a VA audiologist.
- Schedule an appointment to be fit with hearing aids.
Here's a full breakdown of the VA hearing aid application process.
Absolutely. Hearing aids are transformational in many social settings, and research indicates they improve connection, overall health, and earning potential. Around 80% of hearing aid wearers across budget levels are happy they made the purchase.
The short answer is, yes, hearing aids qualify for a tax deduction. However, the answer in your specific situation will depend on a few factors:
- Did your out-of-pocket medical care expense exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income?
- Did you pay for your hearing aids through a health savings account (HSA)?
- Do you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the disability tax credit?
Read our full guide to taxes and hearing aids.
We've tested dozens of hearing aids, and typically find that the break-point for quality is around $700 / pair. Most products under that price are not meaningfully helpful or have major issues with background noise. If you have a common hearing loss in the mild-moderate range, an OTC product from Bose or Sony could be a great option (many people swear by these brands). If you want a more affordable device with prescription programming, we suggest Jabra Enhance Select.
These hearing aids aren't perfect, but they give you maybe 80% of the benefit for 25%-50% of the cost.
The best place to buy most OTC products is directly through the brand's website, and you can compare products and find links to OTC brands throughout this site. Some OTC devices are available at Walgreens, Walmart, CVS, and Best Buy. Here's our LIVE tracker of OTC brands.
The most affordable way to purchase prescription devices is through a buying group like ZipHearing or Yes Hearing. Use our shopping tool here to find pricing on top devices.
If you are open to Telehealth care, the most affordable place to purchase is Jabra Enhance Select. They sell a prescription-grade product for less than half the price of local clinics.
Your hearing is a vital part of your overall well-being, and they are effectively augmenting one of your five senses. If you can afford, top-end hearing aids, it's probably a good investment.
That said, decent, affordable hearing aids typically start at around $700/pair. Anything below that typically has issues in customization, quality, or service.
The national average for a pair of hearing aids is $4,500. If you go to a local clinic with bundled care, the cost is typically $6,500-$8,000 for a pair.
The stated goal of new OTC hearing aid legislation was to bring down hearing aid prices. In reality, it appears that OTC devices will create a new robust (and quality) budget option, but traditional prescription models will stay at roughly the same prices due to their hands-on service.
Conventional wisdom is that prices for both OTC and prescription devices will remain roughly the same for the next few years.
Getting hearing aids on a fixed income can be challenging. While there aren't any government programs that make hearing aids free for seniors (hopefully someday!) There are many local organizations around the United States that can provide financial support for hearing aids.
These range from hearing providers to local Lions Clubs and nonprofits. The Hearing Aid Project has an excellent resource for finding these programs here. The Hearing Aid Project also accepts hearing aid donations.
The Hearing Loss Association of America has a list of published resources along with a PDF guide here.
Don't give up too fast. You've got options. If OTC hearing aids aren't within your budget or don't meet your needs, you might be a candidate for non-profit financial assistance.
The Hearing Aid Project has an excellent resource for finding these programs here. The Hearing Aid Project also accepts hearing aid donations.
The Hearing Loss Association of America has a list of published resources along with a PDF guide here.
This is an important (and slightly complex) topic. Most prescription hearing aids come in a few different technology levels. The "economy option" typically has fewer bells and whistles, and the premium option has more. In general, "economy options" are still very credible and achieve significant benefits. Read our full guide to technology levels here.
Rechargeable hearing aids usually cost anywhere from $200-$400 more per pair. Disposable batteries typically cost $5-$7 per month. Over a three-year lifespan, rechargeable batteries pretty much pay for themselves. Read our full guide on the topic here.
This depends a bit on your budget.
Jabra Enhance Select is our favorite at the $1k-$2K price range.
Lucid Engage is our top choice for under $1K.
You might also want to try AirPods pro (a guide to turning your AirPods into hearing aids here)
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