for those with hearing problems, for a long time there was only one option to deal with them: an expensive and bulky hearing aid prescribed by a doctor. That changed in 2022, when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved over-the-counter hearing aids, giving consumers access to a wide and growing range of alternatives. Today, there are more hearing aids than ever and they come in different shapes, sizes and, most importantly, prices. How does a $100 hearing aid compare to a $5,000 prescription device for treating mild to moderate hearing loss? We’ve been testing products for the past two years to answer that question.
To help us with this analysis, we hired an expert. Licensed Audiologist Ruth Reisman tested all of these hearing aids in a scientific laboratory and approved only models that amplified noises to safe levels. At the same time, I conducted hands-on (in-ear?) testing of these headphones at home, outdoors, and in noisy environments.
Today we find many things on the market that we like and many aids that we would avoid. He Jabra improve select 300 has the current crown as best hearing aid, with the ear link and Sony CRE-C10 very close behind. Here’s our full roundup of the best prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids we’ve tested and approved.
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What to consider before buying
Each person is unique and so are their hearing loss needs. To find a device that suits your needs and lifestyle, consider these factors. For more tips, check out our guide on How to buy a hearing aid.
Hearing aids shouldn’t bankrupt you. With such a high price tag and minimal insurance coverage, it’s no wonder so many people put off hearing loss treatment. Between visits to the audiologist, hearing aid orders, custom fittings, and maintenance, it’s justifiable to put off treatment rather than spend your credit card. It is vital that you know your budget before you start looking for hearing aids. Many brands offer trial periods where you can try the device for a set number of days and, if it doesn’t fit, return it free of charge.
It doesn’t have to be obvious that you wear a hearing aid. Despite cartoonish media depictions of hunched over elderly people shouting “WHAT?!” To every person who tries to talk to them, hearing loss does not discriminate by age. With almost 10 million Americans Those affected under 60 years of age are more likely to take advantage of the elegantly designed hearing aids on the market. Similar to the stigmas that prevent people from seeking mental health treatment, the hearing loss community is plagued by self-consciousness when it comes to using these devices. Modern in-ear hearing aids (ITE) have come a long way in subtlety.
Opt for a professional hearing test about one online. While online and app-based tests are a good way to dip your toes in and see if you have hearing loss, a detailed audiogram that only an office visit can provide is a much better option. A hearing professional can use this audiogram to calibrate hearing aids for your specific needs.