Choosing the Best Hearing Aid for You
Let me just cut to the chase, the short answer is there is no “best” hearing aid. There are several factors that go into selecting a hearing aid; what is best for you is not what is best for the next patient. Here are some of the factors that go into the decision-making process of choosing the best hearing aid for you:
Style of the Hearing Aid
Styles are available with all hearing aid manufacturers, with some variation:
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) CUSTOM
Pros:
- Cosmetically favorable since it is barely visible
- Uses your ear’s natural cues for better sound localization
Cons:
- Small ear canals may not fit all components
- Battery powered only with small batteries needing frequent replacement
- No Bluetooth connectivity or volume control
- Susceptible to moisture and debris damage
Who is a Candidate:
- Mild to moderate hearing loss
- Average ear canal size
In-the-canal (ITC) CUSTOM
Pros:
- Fits more ear canals than CIC
- Uses your ear’s natural cues for better sound localization
- Bluetooth connectivity in most models
Cons:
- Battery powered only
- Susceptible to moisture and debris damage
Who is a Candidate:
- Mild to moderate hearing loss
- Small profile with connectivity features
In-the-ear (ITE) CUSTOM
Pros:
- Fits all ear types
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Rechargeable option available
Cons:
- Can be bulky
- Susceptible to moisture and debris damage
Who is a Candidate:
- Mild to severe hearing loss
- Dexterity or vision limitations
Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)
Pros:
- Fits all ear types
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Rechargeable
- Discreet fit
Cons:
- Smaller parts may be challenging for dexterity issues
- Susceptible to moisture and debris damage
Who is a Candidate:
- Mild to severe hearing loss
- Patients with ear drainage issues
Behind-the-ear (BTE)
Pros:
- Fits all ear types
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Rechargeable
Cons:
- Not discreet
- Ear molds need periodic replacement
Who is a Candidate:
- Moderate to profound hearing loss
- Patients with ear drainage issues
Sound Quality
This factor is very subjective. For this reason, we usually let patients trial 2-3 brands of hearing aids in the office during their hearing aid evaluation. Here is some of the feedback we’ve received over the years:
- Widex: Crisp sound, natural for mild hearing losses.
- Oticon: Rounder, gentler sound favored by older patients.
- Phonak: Rounded clarity, compatible with more Android devices.
- ReSound: Sharp, high-frequency sound with AuraCast technology.
- Starkey: Sharp, natural sound with additional features like fall detection.
- Signia: Crisp sound with own-voice processing.
Not sure what option to pick? Let your doctor recommend the right hearing aid for you. Give us a call or schedule online for a hearing aid evaluation!
