Ready to improve your hearing but not sure what type of hearing aid is best for you? You’ve come to the right place. On this page you will get an overview of:
Additionally, you are always welcome to visit one of our hearing centers, where we will be happy to show you some of the most popular hearing aid models available.
There are five types of in-the-ear hearing aids, ranging from the invisible-in-the-canal to the full shell in-the-ear hearing aid:
Find a hearing center with in-house hearing care professionals or specialists who provide counseling based on your specific needs. A specialized hearing center will have several hearing aid types and brands, allowing you to find the most optimal solution for you.
These types are the most popular hearing aids for people with hearing loss.
Modern hearing aids are more discreet than ever before. In fact, many hearing aids are practically invisible. Designed to be especially discreet, the smallest variants of in-the-ear hearing aids are placed inside the ear canal. Examples of these include:
These types are considered to be the most nearly invisible hearing aids available. Since they sit completely inside your ear canal, people are unlikely to notice them.
Several types of behind-the-ear hearing aids are also very discreet and will not be particularly noticeable when worn. Behind-the-ear hearing aids allow for more features and advantages, making them the preferred type of hearing aids for many wearers.
More about invisible hearing aids
Some hearing aids offer the convenience of rechargeable batteries. An easy overnight charge allows for hassle-free maintenance by eliminating the need to regularly replace batteries. Having rechargeable hearing aids removes the inconvenience of having to change batteries, which is a benefit to all, especially for those with dexterity challenges.
Learn more about rechargeable hearing aids
If you choose a hearing aid with Bluetooth® technology, you can connect it to your TV so that you can hear the audio directly in your hearing aid, making it easier to hear your favorite TV show.
It is also possible to connect a hearing aid to other Bluetooth® devices, such as mobile phones, computers, and tablets. If you have an iPhone®, then your Bluetooth® hearing aids can double as a wireless headset, allowing you to listen to music or make hands-free phone calls.
Find out more about Bluetooth® hearing aids
CROS and BICROS hearing aids are specially designed hearing devices for people with single-sided hearing loss or deafness. They are unique because one of the devices in the set transmits sound from that side of the user’s head to their “good” ear, rather than into the ear the device is worn on.
Learn more about CROS and BICROS hearing aids
OTC Hearing Aids
Over-the-counter hearing aids are now available in the U.S. for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. While HearingLife supports this effort to make hearing aids more available, we strongly believe that people who think they may need hearing aids start their journey with a professional hearing assessment.* We offer complimentary hearing assessments at HearingLife locations nationwide – find one near you here.
Learn more about OTC hearing aids here.
There are several factors that can determine which hearing aid is the right model for you. This 3-step guide will help you understand how to find the best hearing aid for you.
Au.D., Doctor of Audiology
Lic. #364, Chief Audiologist, HearingLife
Dr. Leslie Soiles founded HearingLife's Shrewsbury office (formerly New England Hearing Instruments) in 1996. As a Doctor of Audiology, she has worked with Ear, Nose and Throat Physicians for the first 20 years of her career.
Dr. Soiles serves as Chief Audiologist for HearingLife. Click here to read her complete bio and learn more about her education and background.
