for those who have hearing challenges, there has long been only one option to address them: a bulky, expensive hearing aid prescribed by a doctor. That changed in 2022 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved over the counter hearing aids devices, providing consumers with access to a wide and growing array of alternatives. Today, there are many hearing aid More hearing aids are available than ever before, and they come in all 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 over the past two years to answer that question.
To help us perform this analysis, we brought in an expert. Licensed Audiologist Ruth Reisman I analyzed all of these hearing aids in a scientific laboratory setting, approving only models that amplified noise at safe levels. At the same time, I performed real-world (on-ear?) testing of these hearing aids around the house, outside, and in noisy environments.
We found a lot to like on the market today—and a lot of tools we’d rather avoid. Jabra Enhance Select 300 has the current crown as the best hearing aid, with Eargo Link And Sony CRE-C10 right behind. Here’s a complete list of the best prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids we’ve tested and approved.
Updated June 2024: We added the Jabra Enhance Select 500 and Linner Mars.
Compare the best hearing aids
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Things to Consider Before Buying
Everyone is unique, and so are their hearing loss needs. To find a device that fits your needs and lifestyle, consider the following factors. For more tips, check out our guide to How to buy a hearing aid.
Hearing aids shouldn’t break the bank. With such a high price and minimal coverageIt’s no surprise that many people put off getting treatment for their hearing loss. Between audiologist visits, hearing aid orders, custom fittings, and maintenance, you may be putting off treatment instead of spending money on your credit card. It’s important to know your budget before you start looking for hearing aids. Many brands offer trial periods, where you can try the devices for a certain number of days and return them for free if they don’t fit.
It doesn’t have to be obvious. that you’re wearing a hearing aid. Despite the media’s cartoonish depictions of hunched-over seniors screaming “WHAT?!” at people trying to talk to them, hearing loss does not discriminate by age. With nearly 10 million Americans under 60 affected, more people should take advantage Beautifully designed hearing aids in the marketplace. Similar to the stigmas that prevent people from seeking mental health treatmentThe deaf community often feels embarrassed about wearing these devices. Modern in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids have come with many subtle improvements.
Choosing a professional hearing test through an online test. While online and app-based tests are a good way to test and see if you have hearing loss, a detailed audiogram that only an in-office visit can provide is a much better option. An audiologist can use this audiogram to calibrate hearing aids to your specific needs.
