Approximately 80% of hearing aid wearers have a receiver-in-canal (RIC) device that sits behind the ear. This style of hearing aid is popular for several reasons, including advanced sound quality, comfort, connectivity, and more.
Because of RIC’s popularity, dozens of options exist. Every leading brand has its take on the style, and that can make choosing the right one a challenge.
Our team has trialed nearly every leading receiver-in-canal hearing aid for comfort, quality, and features. We even dunk test them to check their waterproof claims.
This guide will dig into the best receiver-in-canal hearing aids on the market.
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6 Best Behind-The-Ear Style (RIC) Hearing Aids REVIEWED
Our team of audiologists and hearing aid wearers tested more than 50 products in preparation for this guide. Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
Here are some of the factors we consider.
- Features and usability
- Customer reviews (both on our team and outside our team)
- Comfort and form factor
- Management in background noise
- Customization and fine-tuning
- Overall value and price
- Model of care
Receiver-in-canal hearing aids all share the same design.
The body of the hearing aid sits behind the ear, with a small wire that reaches over the top of the ear and down into the ear canal.
Inside the canal, a tiny speaker (called a receiver) plays amplified sounds from the world around you.
Most receiver-in-canal hearing aids have two microphones on the body of the hearing aid. These microphones gather sounds from the world around you, then process and amplify that sound and send it to the speaker in your ear through the receiver wire. The whole process takes less than half a millisecond.
Reciever-in-canal and another style, called BTE hearing aids, are sometimes confused. Instead of a speaker inside the ear, BTE hearing aids house the speaker on the body of the device (behind the ear) and broadcast sound down through a rubber tube into the ear. BTE hearing aids are most commonly prescribed for severe to profound hearing loss where more power is necessary. Read our full breakdown of the two styles here.
Why are receiver-in-canal hearing aids so popular?
More space for technology.
The first reason is practical. The space behind the ear is a convenient and comfortable place for your hearing aid to rest. Most receiver-in-canal hearing aids are still relatively small, but they are larger than most in-the-ear styles.
That extra space is used for features like Bluetooth, telecoil, and rechargeable batteries. Alternate styles of hearing aids have less space to work with and typically cut out these extra features.
RIC hearing aids are comfortable.
Receiver-in-canal hearing aids also tend to be the most comfortable style of hearing aids due to the lightweight wire and speaker that sit in the ear.
Receiver-in-canal hearing aids are also popular because the style typically takes priority when new technologies are released.
Most manufacturers launch their latest algorithm updates and sound enhancements to receiver-in-canal hearing aids before rolling them out to other styles (usually 6-12 months later).
So how did we choose the list of products below?
In general, we weighted sound quality, ease of use, and company credibility heavily in selecting the products we recommend.
Ultimately the designs that made this list are a mix of top-of-the-line premium devices and some more affordable options for those looking to purchase on a budget.
One important note is that not all receiver-in-canal hearing aids are programmed the same way.
On the list below, we’ve included hearing aids with three different care models:
- Hearing aids that are prescribed by a doctor locally (most hands-on support)
- Hearing aids that are prescribed through Telehealth (convenient and less expensive)
- Hearing aids that are sold over the counter with no professional involvement (least expensive)
We’ve included our top two choices in the prescription, Telehealth, and OTC categories.
With all that out of the way, here are the best receiver-in-canal hearing aids on the market as of 2023. 👇
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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
ReSound unveiled the OMNIA in August 2022 with a clear focus on improving listening in the most challenging background situations. OMNIA replaces the popular ReSound ONE launched in 2020.
The OMNIA looks identical to the previous generation of products but comes with a few notable improvements.
The first is a more powerful Ultra Focus mode. Users can switch their hearing aids into Ultra Focus to listen directly to the person in front of them at a restaurant or meeting. Previous ReSound products had this feature, but OMNIA supercharges its capabilities with a 150% improvement in speech clarity in the loudest environments.
- Overall notes: ReSound OMNIA is an all around excellent product with an innovative approach to microphones and a sleek design. ReSound One has strong Bluetooth connection and long lasting rechargeable batteries.
- Price: The national average price for ReSound OMNIA is $6,595 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 with hands-free calling for iPhone and iPad, Small behind the ear style
- What audiologists say: “ReSound One offers elegant design and good (if not elite) sound quality. These hearing aids are high quality and reliable.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Innovative M&RIE microphone
Bluetooth streaming from Android and Apple devices
Offered with both rechargeable and disposable batteries
Ultra Focus requires a change using your app
ReSound OMNIA hearing aids start at $3,198 and can cost as much as $7,000 with walk in care
Not available online. ReSound hearing aids require a visit to an in person audiologist
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
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
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
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