No Doctor's Visit and 100 Day Returns
- Bluetooth enabled and rechargeable
- 100-day risk-free trial
- Nearly invisible with a sleek design
.png)
Premium-Grade Sound Quality
- Starting at $999 per pair
- Built by the top hearing aid manufacturer in collaboration with Sennheiser
- Self-fit using a smartphone app
- Best for background noise management
Audiology-Grade Sound
- Sony CRE-C10 is nearly invisible in most ears
- The devices are made by WS Audiology, the makers of Signia, Rexton and Widex hearing aids
- At just $999 a pair, Sony hearing aids are just a quarter the price of comparable products in clinic
- Sony's devices are customized using a smartphone app
- This product is our choice for the best value in-ear OTC product on the market
Are you thinking about over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid and feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options out there?
I completely understand—there are so many new products hitting the market, and it can be quite challenging to figure out which one is right for your specific needs.
As an audiologist with experience at Mayo Clinic, Michigan Ear and here at Soundly.com, I have extensive experience and knowledge about hearing aids, including the latest OTC options like Sony, Jabra and Bose. Our team recently tested 15 of the leading OTC devices in an audiology-test-box compared to prescription leaders with fascinating results. Several OTC brands perform as well as prescription leaders on key measures like background noise management and sudden sounds.
Whether you're looking for advanced features, comfort, or just a reliable basic model, this guide will put you on the right path.
History Note: OTC hearing aids became an official category in 2022 when the FDA published guidelines for this new class of medical devices. For those interested, a full history of OTC hearing aids is available at the bottom of this guide.
Prefer to watch?
Here's our take on the state of the OTC hearing aid market right now. 👇
Let's Start With The Basics.
- OTC hearing aids do not require a doctor's visit
- OTC hearing aid makers must comply with various FDA to legally use a "self-fit" and "OTC" labels
- Many OTC hearing aids offer a smartphone app which programs your hearing aids
- Several leading OTC brands offer excellent customer service, but most of the process is self-service
- OTC devices typically cost $300 - $2,000 for a pair - much lower than the national average.
Why Did The FDA Create a New Class of Hearing Aids?
Research consistently shows that hearing aids are one of the best investments someone can make in their overall health. Hearing aids increase the quality of life and relationships while decreasing risks of dementia, falls, and more. New research from Johns Hopkins showed that hearing aids decrease the long-term effects dementia by as much as 48%. Like glasses or other basic assistive technology, better access to hearing aids is good for everyone.
Hearing aids are notoriously expensive, and most people don't get help from insurance (more about that here).
One reason that hearing aids cost several thousand dollars is that, until October 2022, they required a highly trained professional to program them during an in-person doctor's visit. That same professional typically bundles in 4-5 additional visits for ongoing adjustments and support. Overhead costs add up.
The FDA and lawmakers like Chuck Grassley and Elizabeth Warren created the new OTC hearing aid category to give a budget-friendly option to those with mild-moderate hearing loss.
Who Qualifies for an Over-The-Counter Hearing Aid?
OTC hearing aids aren’t for everyone. They are specifically designed for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss.
If you find yourself frequently asking people to repeat themselves, struggling to hear in noisy environments, or feeling like others are mumbling, you might benefit from an OTC hearing aid.
To help you determine whether you might benefit from an OTC hearing aid, let's delve into what mild and moderate hearing loss actually mean:
- Mild Hearing Loss: Individuals with mild hearing loss may have difficulty hearing soft sounds, such as whispers or distant conversations. Everyday speech at normal volume might still be audible, but softer consonants like 'f', 's', and 'th' can be hard to distinguish. In a quiet room, you might not notice much of a problem, but in a setting with background noise, like a crowded restaurant or a family gathering, you may struggle to follow conversations.
- Moderate Hearing Loss: With moderate hearing loss, you might find it increasingly difficult to hear sounds at normal conversational levels. This means you may frequently ask others to repeat themselves or rely on lipreading, even in quieter environments. Telephone conversations can be particularly tricky without some amplification. Everyday sounds such as doorbells, alarm clocks, and conversations from a few yards away might fade into the background. It’s common to miss parts of words or sentences, making it feel like people are mumbling or not speaking clearly.
If you aren't sure what level of hearing loss you have, I suggest that you take our free, 5-minute hearing test to find out more about your hearing.
How Programming OTC Hearing Aids Works.
Many of these devices are paired with dedicated mobile applications that facilitate the initial setup process, allowing you to customize settings like volume, sound profiles, and noise reduction to suit your unique hearing environment.
These apps often include intuitive interfaces and step-by-step tutorials to guide you through the process, making it easier for you to get the most out of your hearing aid. Plus, the convenience of adjusting your hearing aid settings directly from your Smartphone means you can make changes on the go, ensuring optimal performance in different environments.
How to Choose A Pair of OTC Hearing Aids.
If you have mild-to-moderate hearing loss and want to get OTC hearing aids you might wonder how to pick between the dozens of options. These are a few considerations:
- Opt for Name brand - With many options out there, choosing a name brand is one way to ensure you're getting a quality device, warranty and service.
- Self-fitting vs. pre-set - Some OTC hearing aids allow you to adjust your devices to your specific hearing loss and preference, while others come with pre-set programs to fit a high-frequency hearing loss. More fine-tuning typically leads to better outcomes.
- Easy to use - Ideally you'll want a device that is user-friendly and intuitive to setup and adjust. We've considered ease of use throughout the list below.
- Comfortable - hearing aids need to be comfortable, so you can wear them throughout the day without distraction.
- Good service - Reputable OTC hearing aid companies provide customer service, warranty, and some support. At Soundly, we also support customers with the OTC devices purchased directly through our website.
Our Overall OTC Hearing Aid Choice for 2024...
There are several impressive OTC hearing aids on the market, but our favorite for overall value, features, and support is Jabra Enhance Select. Jabra earns this spot for its integrated approach to telehealth and support. Like other OTC hearing aids, Jabra sells its products directly to consumers (no doctor's office visits), but unlike other OTC brands, Jabra offers remote programming with its hearing aids. That means that a trained hearing health professional can remotely log into your devices and make program updates without much tinkering from your side.
Jabra's hearing aids are more expensive than other OTC devices but offer a great overall value and use the same underlying technology as ReSound OMNIA.
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
Our Other Favorites Organized by Price.
Jabra Enhance hearing aids are not for everyone. Eargo offers a unique, invisible form factor, Sennheiser provides high-quality sound for under $1,000, and Lexie is known for its excellent service.
Below is our full list of the best OTC devices on the market, organized by price (high-to-low).
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
Sony teamed up with WS Audiology (the second-largest hearing company in the world) to co-create its products. Sony's CRE-E10 is slightly larger than CRE-C10 but comes with a slick headphone-like design, rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming (currently only available for iOS).
This hearing aid offers prescription-grade sound quality controlled through your smartphone at home (no doctor involved). Sony's hearing aids were released in mid-October and reviews have been glowing. We expect CRE-E10 to be a leading consideration among people looking for a headphone/hearing aid hybrid.
- 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: $1,399 on Amazon
- Features: Self-fit using an app, Bluetooth streaming enabled for iPhone, stylish earbud design.
Rechargeable
Modern design
Self-fit at home
Not compatible with Android
More visible than smaller options
Likely less comfortable for all-day wear
In August 2023, Sennheiser unveiled a new OTC hearing aid expected to compete with industry leaders like Bose, Sony, and Jabra. Sennheiser All-Day Clear is a full-featured hearing aid with Bluetooth streaming, hands-free calls (both Android and iPhone, an onboard hearing test, and easy to use app.
Our team tested All-Day Clear and compared it with Sonova's flagship brands - Phonak and Unitron. Our verdict? All-Day Clear has a few missing bells and whistles, but the differences are not dealbreakers. The perfect candidate for All-Day Clear has mild-to-moderate hearing loss, is comfortable using a smartphone, and wants Sonova-made technology for a budget price.
How it works:
✔️ Start by purchasing Sennheiser here at Soundly
✔️ 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, Sennheiser's technical team and give you some technical advice, but is not highly trained in hearing health matters.
- Overall notes: Based on our reviews, this hearing aid is the most complete offering in the over-the-counter market so far.
- Price: $999 for All-Day Clear with complimentary setup care through Soundly
- Features: Rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth Streaming for iPhone and Android users, Excellent Programming app, Behind-The-Ear Style
Underlying technology and sound-processing from Sonova (top global manufacturer)
Self-fitting using the Sennheiser app
Bluetooth streaming for iPhone and Android
Customer support is limited to tech troubleshooting Vs. remote programming
Only comes in one color scheme
More expensive than some other OTC competitors
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. In January 2024 Lexie released a new and 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 (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, $849 for a pair of B2 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.
✔️ Soundly customers get a complimentary guided set up session with an expert - Price: $999
- Features: Self-fit using an app, nearly invisible in most ear canals, audiology-grade sound
Nearly invisible
High quality sound for a lower price
Self-fit at home
Not quite as small as OTC competitors like Eargo
Not rechargeable
Does not allow Bluetooth streaming
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
hearX's Go Ultra hearing aids sit behind-the-ear and come with four pre-set programs, Bluetooth streaming capabilities, and rechargeable batteries. Significantly, Go Ultra will sell for half the price of hearX's other product line (Lexie's B2 Powered By Bose). There's a clear dropoff in sound quality between Lexie B2 and Go Ultra, but the tradeoff may be forgiven by some users looking for a simple device at a lower cost.
- Overall notes: These devices do not manage background noise as well as premium options on the market. Still, Go Ultra gets some serious points for bringing the price point down to just $499 and packing in premium-style features like streaming and rechargeable batteries.
- Price: $499 / pair
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth (not hands-free), Behind The Ear Style
One of the most affordable options on the market
Rechargeable batteries
Bluetooth streaming for Android and iPhone
Limited fine-tuning options
Less comfortable than premium RIC hearing aids
Larger than premium alternatives
.jpg)
MDHearing is a Chicago-based brand that has sold over 500,000 pairs of affordable hearing aids since 2009. The brand's most advanced product (Volt Max) has directional microphones and respectable noise reduction. MDHearing's latest in-the-ear product is impressively small and nearly invisible in many ears. Importantly, MDHearing devices are significantly less expensive than traditional products. Prices range from $297 - $699, depending on the model and promotion period.
MDHearing offers four models of hearing aids ranging from their in-canal, NEO XS to their budget-friendly, Air model. MDHearing offers four pre-set listening configurations based on expected hearing losses. This approach makes MDHearing less advanced than traditional competitors, but many customers feel the price is worth the tradeoff. 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.
All four MDHearing products are rechargeable with 12-20 hours of battery life (depending on the model).
MDHearing comes with a one-year warranty and a 45-day trial period for each purchase of the MDHearing Volt. These hearing aids have manual controls, allowing for volume adjustment and program changes.
- How it works:
- ✔️ Start by purchasing from MDHearing online.
- ✔️ Unbox your product and choose an environment setting
- ✔️ MDHearing has a team of hearing professionals who can coach you through the self-fit process.
- Price: Starting at $297 for a pair
- Features: Rechargeable batteries are available for all models, four pre-set listening modes are available for most models, and no Bluetooth streaming is available
- Our take: MDHearing devices offer less customization, background noise management, and features than prescription devices, but at 10% of the price, they are a compelling option for some folks with more straightforward listening needs.
Less than $500 for a pair
Rechargeable
Multiple styles available
No Bluetooth streaming
Slightly larger size
Only one color available
Less advanced than prescription devices
MDHearing is a Chicago-based brand that has sold over 500,000 pairs of affordable hearing aids since 2009. The brand's most advanced product (Volt Max) has directional microphones and respectable noise reduction. MDHearing's latest in-the-ear product is impressively small and nearly invisible in many ears. Importantly, MDHearing devices are significantly less expensive than traditional products. Prices range from $297 - $699, depending on the model and promotion period.
MDHearing offers four models of hearing aids ranging from their in-canal, NEO XS to their budget-friendly, Air model. MDHearing offers four pre-set listening configurations based on expected hearing losses. This approach makes MDHearing less advanced than traditional competitors, but many customers feel the price is worth the tradeoff. 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.
All four MDHearing products are rechargeable with 12-20 hours of battery life (depending on the model).
MDHearing comes with a one-year warranty and a 45-day trial period for each purchase of the MDHearing Volt. These hearing aids have manual controls, allowing for volume adjustment and program changes.
- How it works:
- ✔️ Start by purchasing from MDHearing online.
- ✔️ Unbox your product and choose an environment setting
- ✔️ MDHearing has a team of hearing professionals who can coach you through the self-fit process.
- Price: Starting at $297 for a pair
- Features: Rechargeable batteries are available for all models, four pre-set listening modes are available for most models, and no Bluetooth streaming is available
- Our take: MDHearing devices offer less customization, background noise management, and features than prescription devices, but at 10% of the price, they are a compelling option for some folks with more straightforward listening needs.
Less than $500 for a pair
Rechargeable
Multiple styles available
No Bluetooth streaming
Slightly larger size
Only one color available
Less advanced than prescription devices
What Styles Are Available?
OTC hearing aids come in various styles, each catering to different preferences and needs. The most common styles include:
- Behind-the-ear devices
- Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) or invisible devices
- Earbud-style devices
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
These hearing aids sit behind the ear and are connected to an earpiece inside the ear canal.
Leading examples: Sennheiser, Bose, Jabra
Pros:
- Versatility: BTE hearing aids are suitable for a wide range of hearing loss, with open domes that allow more natural sound quality for those with normal low frequency hearing.
- Battery Life: Typically, these style devices are widely available with rechargeable batteries that last a full day.
- Bluetooth: BTE-style devices are typically available with Bluetooth streaming.
Cons:
- Visibility: BTE hearing aids can be more visible than some styles, which might be a concern for those looking for a discreet option.
Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC)
These smaller devices fit in the ear canal, without a piece behind the ear.
Leading examples: Eargo, Sony CRE-C10
Pros:
- Discretion: CIC hearing aids can fit discretely in the ear canal.
- Sound Quality: Their placement within the ear canal can offer a natural experience by utilizing the ear's anatomy for microphone placement to collect sound.
Cons:
- Battery Life: These devices often come with rechargeable batteries now, but some use disposable batteries.
- Handling: These devices can be challenging to handle and adjust, particularly for those with dexterity issues.
- Bluetooth: Due to their small size, Bluetooth functionality is typically not available.
Earbud Style Devices
These hearing aids resemble regular wireless earbuds that many people use for listening to music or making calls. Earbud style devices offer a modern alternative to traditional hearing aid designs.
Leading examples: CRE-E10, Jabra Enhance Plus, AirPods Pro 2
Pros:
- Modern Design: Earbud style hearing aids resemble popular wireless earbuds, allowing users to feel more at ease wearing them in public.
- Multipurpose Use: Many models offer features like Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music and making calls.
- Comfort: Designed to fit snugly in the ear, they can be more comfortable for extended wear.
Cons:
- Visibility: While the earbud style can look like standard headphones, these will be visible in your ear, more so than other styles.
Each style has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to choose one that fits your lifestyle and comfort preferences.
Can OTC Hearing Aids Treat Your Hearing Loss?
A common question people often have is whether OTC hearing aids can effectively address hearing loss. The answer is yes for those with mild to moderate hearing loss who are comfortable with the do-it-yourself approach.
How many people fit that profile? The NIH estimated from their NHANES database that nearly 70% of individuals with hearing loss fall into the "mild" hearing loss category. This means that many individuals with hearing loss could potentially benefit from an OTC device.
Are OTC hearing aids good?
Some OTC hearing aids today are made by the same manufacturers who make prescription products. For example, Sonova manufactures Phonak hearing aids and also Sennheiser All-Day Clear. ReSound is made by the GN Group who also make Jabra brand hearing devices. That's great news for consumers, who can be confident that these high-quality manufacturers offer high-quality, cost-effective options in an OTC product.
Other OTC devices from less experienced manufacturers can be less advanced or less stable. In general, we recommend that consumers stick with brand-name products like Sony, Eargo, Sennheiser and Lexie/Bose.
Ultimately, OTC hearing aids can be a viable option for many, offering an affordable and accessible way to improve hearing.
However, assessing your individual hearing requirements and possibly taking an online hearing test can provide a clearer indication of whether OTC hearing aids will meet your needs.
Key Features of a Good OTC Hearing Aid
When making any large purchase, it’s incredibly helpful to break down your decision into “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” This approach ensures you prioritize features that are essential while still keeping an eye on added bonuses that could enhance your experience.
When it comes to OTC hearing aids, you might consider "must-haves" such as hearing loss appropriate, comfort and user-friendly controls. These are the fundamental aspects that directly impact functionality and usability in your day-to-day life.
On the other hand, "nice-to-haves" could include Bluetooth connectivity and apps. These features can improve your overall satisfaction and convenience but aren’t strictly necessary for the hearing aid's primary function. By clearly distinguishing between these two categories, you'll be better equipped to choose a hearing aid that meets your core needs while still offering some enjoyable extras.
Must-Have Features
When shopping for an OTC hearing aid, certain features are non-negotiable. These include:
- Easy Setup: A good OTC hearing aid should be user-friendly, with straightforward instructions for setup and use.
- Comfortable Fit: Since you’ll be wearing these devices for extended periods, comfort is crucial. Look for hearing aids with adjustable fittings to ensure a snug yet comfortable fit.
- Adjustable to Your Hearing Loss: The device should allow for adjustments to match your specific level of hearing loss, providing the best possible sound quality.
Nice-to-Have Features
While not essential, some features can enhance your experience:
- Bluetooth Streaming: This allows you to connect your hearing aid to your smartphone, TV, or other devices for direct audio streaming.
- Rechargeability: Instead of dealing with disposable batteries, rechargeable hearing aids offer convenience and environmental benefits.
- Smartphone App Features: Many hearing aids come with useful app features that allow you to control settings, adjust directionality, and more - right from your phone. Some apps are more simplistic, with fewer options for adjustment.
Understanding the Price Range
OTC hearing aids can vary in price, typically ranging from $100 to $2,500 per pair. The cost often depends on the features and technology offered. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, sometimes spending slightly more can significantly improve your hearing experience and overall satisfaction. The table below is organized by price-per-pair (highest to lowest).
Does Insurance Cover OTC Hearing Aids?
One of the big questions consumers have is whether their insurance will cover the cost of OTC hearing aids. Unfortunately, many insurance plans, including Original Medicare, do not cover prescription or OTC hearing aids. However, some private insurance plans may offer partial coverage or discounts. It’s always wise to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.
Example: Aetna's Medicare Advantage Plans through Nations Hearing offer some coverage, ranging from $750 to $1,500. Coverage within individual plans varies, so you'll want to check your coverage with your plan.
Aetna hearing aid health insurance guide
BCBS hearing aid health insurance guide
Cigna hearing aid health insurance guide
UnitedHealthcare hearing aid health insurance guide
Final Thoughts
We hope this information helps you navigate the world of OTC hearing aids. Just to recap, OTC hearing aids can be a fantastic, affordable solution for many experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss. Be sure to think about what features are most important to you. Our top picks like the Sennheiser All-Day Clear and the Sony devices make the decision a bit easier by combining quality and innovation.
Feel free to reach out to the Soundly team if you need help finding the right OTC device!
Frequently asked questions
October 2015 - PCAST Letter Sent to President Barack Obama
OTC hearing aids got a significant boost from the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) in 2015. PCAST recognized that hearing loss was a recurring issue prominently brought up by older adults. They noted that the traditional medical requirement to obtain hearing aids was a barrier for many individuals who needed them. In response, PCAST advocated for the removal of this medical prerequisite. Their efforts began the process to the creation of a new category of OTC devices, designed to be easily accessible and affordable for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
December 2016 - FDA Takes The First Step
Thirty-nine years after the FDA’s first ruling on hearing aids, the agency came back with a blockbuster announcement in December 2016 that it would no longer enforce the requirement that individuals 18 and up receive a medical evaluation or sign a waiver before purchasing most hearing aids.
In that same announcement, the FDA shared their “commitment to consider creating a category of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids that could deliver new, innovative and lower-cost products to millions of consumers.”
March 2017 - Elizabeth Warren and Chuck Grassley Introduce a Bill
In May 2017, Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren and Republican Senator Chuck Grassley signaled a bipartisan commitment when they introduced the Over-The-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017. In May, the two lawmakers co-authored a piece that was published on the Jama Network. They urged the FDA to “ go further than simply doing away with the medical evaluation requirement and create a new category of over-the-counter hearing aids for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss.”
July and August 2017 - Congress Says Yes
On July 12th, 2017, the bill earned bipartisan support in the U.S. House. Three weeks later, on August 3rd, the Senate passed the bill to the president’s desk.
August 18th - President Donald Trump Signs The Bill
On August 18th, 2017, President Trump signed the bill into law. The law mandated that the FDA create and regulate a new category of OTC hearing aids. The bill directed the FDA to focus on high standards for safety, consumer labeling, and manufacturing.
2017 through 2021 - The Waiting Game
After a lot of initial debate and speculation, everything went quiet. The FDA went to work on its regulations, and hearing aid wearers had no choice but to wait.
The three-year deadline loomed at the beginning of 2020, and it looked like we would finally get answers. Then came the pandemic. The FDA had bigger things to worry about, and OTC hearing aids got stuck on the back burner.
July 2021 - President Joe Biden Signs An Executive order
After nearly four years of crickets, President Biden lit a fire under the issue On July 9th with an executive order that directed the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services “to consider issuing proposed rules within 120 days for allowing hearing aids to be sold over the counter.”
October 2021 - At Long Last, A Proposal
On October 19th, the FDA released the long-awaited proposal for a new class of over-the-counter hearing aids. The 114-page document was long and technical (as it should be). As a part of the brand new guidelines, the FDA established a 90-day comment period where consumers, companies, and doctors could submit their feedback on the bill.
January 2022 - Comment Period Closes
In late January, the comment period closed, with more than 1,000 comments submitted from audiologists, manufacturers, and even hearing aid wearers. As you might expect, the disruptive regulation has been contentious, with many advocates and detractors on both sides.
August 16, 2022 - Final Guidelines Are Published
After reviewing more than 1,000 comments from manufacturers and consumers, new guidelines finally published. The final FDA ruling is over 130 pages long and includes in-depth responses to comments on topics like labeling, applicable technology, the OTC application process, and more. The final ruling made several changes in response to industry comments but largely remained intact.
October 17, 2022 - OTC Officially Go OTC
Starting on October 17th consumers began to see officially labeled OTC hearing aids on shelves at retailers like Walgreens, Best Buy and online. OTC hearing aids can now be purchased without a doctors appointment and will allow fitting at home.
Someone buy Elizabeth Warren and Chuck Grassley a drink. 🍺
October 2015 - PCAST Letter Sent to President Barack Obama
OTC hearing aids got a significant boost from the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) in 2015. PCAST recognized that hearing loss was a recurring issue prominently brought up by older adults. They noted that the traditional medical requirement to obtain hearing aids was a barrier for many individuals who needed them. In response, PCAST advocated for the removal of this medical prerequisite. Their efforts began the process to the creation of a new category of OTC devices, designed to be easily accessible and affordable for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
For the first time in almost 40 years consumers can now purchase hearing aids directly through online and offline retailers. Soundly sells Bose, Sony, and Eargo with complimentary audiologist support.
Leading OTC hearing aids are high-quality and deliver significant benefit to their wearers. Brands like Bose and Eargo go toe-to-toe with prescription products while products like Jabra Enhance Plus fill a niche in the market.
The biggest difference between OTC and prescription devices is in the level of service they include. If you need a lot of hands on support, OTC might not be the best fit for you.
Over-the-counter hearing aids are for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. If you aren’t sure what level of hearing loss you have, you can take a free online hearing test to establish your level of hearing loss.
Over-the-counter hearing aids are not for people with severe hearing loss. The FDA outlined some specific dB output limits meant to keep more severe hearing loss cases under the oversight of a hearing professional.
If you regularly miss loud noises or you struggle to hear conversations at full volume without background noise, it is recommended that you see an audiologist.
Yes. Eargo and Sony are the leading invisible OTC hearing aid makers.
This is where things get tricky. If you search “hearing aids” on Amazon you’ll find a wide array of products that have not registered with the FDA. Most of these devices are personal sound amplifiers (PSAPS).
In general, PSAPs offer less customization to match your hearing loss and have not gone through the FDA clearance process. Many PSAP products are cheaply made in China and may not even be safe for use.
Our suggestion is to use lists like this one to discover legitimate brands. You can then use that information to search in a more targeted way and avoid PSAPs.
There are several good options for iPhone users - Sennheiser All Day Clear and Sony CRE-E10 are among our favorites.
