Reliable research is the best starting point for finding a hearing aid that suits your needs. This guide highlights key factors to consider so you can make an informed choice with your hearing care professional.
Choosing the right hearing aid can feel overwhelming with so many brands, styles, and new technologies on the market. From discreet invisible models to advanced Bluetooth and AI-powered devices, today’s hearing aids do far more than just amplify sound—they can connect to your smartphone, reduce background noise, and even adapt automatically to your environment. The “best” hearing aid depends on your lifestyle, level of hearing loss, budget, and personal preferences. In this guide, we’ll compare the leading hearing aids available in 2025, explore their features, pros and cons, and share expert advice to help you find the device that fits your needs.
Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio | Starkey Edge | Jabra Enhance | Oticon Intent | Signia Active | ReSound Vivia | Eargo 8 | Sony CRE-C20 | Nuance Audio | Elehear Beyond | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type |
Prescription |
Prescription |
OTC |
Prescription |
Prescription |
OTC |
OTC |
OTC |
OTC |
OTC |
Price |
$3,998 |
$3,500–$5,750 |
$1,995 |
$4,000 |
$3,298 |
$1,200 |
$2,699 |
$999 |
$1,200 |
$399 |
Battery life |
16 hrs |
51 hrs |
30 hrs |
24 hrs |
34 hrs |
20 hrs |
20 hrs |
28 hrs |
8-10 hrs |
20 hr |
Bluetooth |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
AI technology |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Limited |
No |
No |
No |
Style |
RIC |
RIC |
BTE |
BTE |
ITE |
RIC |
IIC |
BTE |
Glasses |
RIC |
Notable features |
Best overall, noise reduction, water-resistant |
AI-driven, fall detection, health tracking |
100-day trial, audiology support |
Speech-in-noise processing, cognitive support |
Earbud-style, natural sound processing |
Speech focus mode, app-controlled |
Open-ear, app-controlled, stylish eyewear, mild–moderate hearing loss |
In-ear design, app-controlled |
Budget-friendly, basic features |
Noise reduction, customizable settings |
Miracle-Ear
RIC and BTE styles
Bluetooth streaming
Noise reduction
Mobile app support
Pros:
Nationwide availability
Good customer service
Variety of models for different needs
Cons:
Fewer advanced AI features
Less premium sound processing compared to top-tier brands
Unitron
RIC and BTE styles
MyUnitron app for adjustments
Automatic sound adaptation
Rechargeable options
Pros:
Customizable to user needs
Strong app interface
Excellent professional support
Cons:
Less brand recognition in some areas
Premium pricing
Widex
RIC, BTE, and CIC styles
AI-driven sound optimization
Tinnitus support
Bluetooth connectivity
Pros:
Natural sound reproduction
Innovative technology
High comfort for long-term use
Cons:
Higher price point
Less widely available in smaller clinics
Bernafon
RIC and BTE styles
AI-assisted sound processing
Bluetooth connectivity
Rechargeable options
Pros:
High-quality sound performance
Comfortable and ergonomic design
Easy-to-use smartphone app
Cons:
Premium price
Limited availability in some regions
Specsavers
RIC and BTE styles
Basic noise reduction
Bluetooth streaming on select models
Mobile app support
Pros:
Accessible locations in the U.S.
Competitive pricing
Easy-to-use devices
Cons:
Limited advanced features
Less customization options
Beltone
RIC, BTE, and ITE styles
Bluetooth streaming
Noise reduction and feedback suppression
Smartphone app integration
Pros:
Trusted brand with U.S. audiologist network
Good sound clarity
Multiple style options
Cons:
Fewer cutting-edge AI features compared to top-tier brands
Price slightly higher than OTC options
Vivtone
BTE and RIC styles
Basic noise reduction
Minimal connectivity options
Pros:
Affordable
Simple to use
Good for mild hearing loss
Cons:
Limited advanced features
Smaller U.S. presence
Sonic
RIC, BTE, ITE styles
Noise reduction and feedback suppression
Bluetooth streaming on select models
Smartphone app support
Pros:
Solid U.S. audiologist network
Reliable sound quality
Wide model selection
Cons:
Premium pricing for advanced features
Fewer ultra-discreet options
Don't let hearing loss keep you from enjoying life's moments. Schedule a hearing test today and discover how improved hearing can transform your daily interactions, boost your confidence, and enhance your overall quality of life.
| Best OTC hearing aids |
Eargo 8, Jabra Enhance Select 500 |
Easy to buy online, discreet, and suitable for mild hearing loss |
| Best prescription hearing aids |
Phonak Audéo Paradise, Oticon More |
Clinically optimized for personalized hearing needs |
| Best hearing aids for tinnitus |
Includes tinnitus maskers and sound therapy feature |
|
| Best hearing aids for seniors |
Phonak Audéo Paradise, Oticon More |
Simple controls, reliable, and clear speech in noise |
| Best hearing aids for severe hearing loss |
Phonak Naída Paradise, Oticon Xceed |
Powerful amplification and excellent noise reduction |
| Best rechargeable hearing aids |
Starkey Edge, Bernafon Zerena |
Long-lasting battery, convenient for daily use |
| Best bluetooth hearing aids |
Oticon More, Signia Active Pro IX |
Seamless smartphone streaming and connectivity |
| Best invisible hearing aids |
Eargo 8, Unitron Moxi Jump R |
Virtually invisible, lightweight, and comfortable for daily wear |
If you’re looking for hearing aids for seniors, you have everything you need to begin looking for your next set of hearing devices. But did you know that 60% of people waited at least two years after detecting a decline in their hearing to purchase a set of hearing aids? Most people cited cost as the main obstacle.
If you’re worried about the cost of the best hearing aids, follow these tips to get a great deal.
You may have heard of PSA devices as a cheap alternative to hearing aids. While some customers with mild to moderate hearing loss note improvements when using these devices, they are not hearing aids.
PSA devices are unregulated and don’t come with the personalized care you receive when investing in actual hearing aids. For this reason, we don’t recommend opting for PSA devices. In some cases, their unregulated nature could mean inadvertently causing further damage to your hearing because they aren’t tailored to the wearer.
The majority of private health insurance policies will not cover hearing aids. Certain plans may provide limited coverage for hearing aids, particularly if you work in the public sector or have an exceptionally low income.
Even if your insurance policy does cover hearing aids, you may find there’s a high deductible attached. Factor this into your budget before you start shopping around for hearing aids. If you have an FSA fund, you may be able to use this to help you cover the cost of hearing aids.
Whenever you buy hearing aids, you’ll have a contract detailing your rights and what the manufacturer will cover. Make sure the written contract contains the following:
Remember, cheaper hearing aids may not include free returns or regular maintenance. This all has to be factored in when finding the best hearing aids for you.
It’s easy to get carried away with all the additional features and accessories that come with state-of-the-art hearing aids. Simple add-ons like Bluetooth capabilities can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of a single hearing aid.
Consider your lifestyle and your needs. It doesn’t make sense to have Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids if you don’t use Bluetooth devices regularly. Likewise, why would you need automatic fall detection if you’re otherwise in perfect health? Some hearing aids even offer foreign language translation, but why pay extra for this feature if you won’t use it?
Economy hearing aids often offer many of the same basic features and comparable hearing performance. When shopping, test out both premium hearing aids and their economic equivalents. You could potentially save thousands in the long term by purchasing a more economic hearing aid.
Most hearing aid wearers are unaware of the fact that it’s possible to negotiate a price break. The prices of hearing aids are not always fixed, especially when purchasing through independent vendors. If you’re determined to bargain, you may be able to get either a lower sales price or some extra features thrown in for free.
The easiest way to increase your chances of getting a price break is to approach audiologists that carry multiple brands. These vendors offer greater scope for negotiation and may also sell more economical options.
There are bargains to be found when shopping for hearing aids. Costco, for example, is notorious for offering extremely competitive pricing on hearing aids. At select locations, Costco is also known to offer free screenings.
You can also get a free hearing test through EarPros if there are no free hearing test providers in your local area. We can schedule your free test with a licensed hearing care specialist to help you begin your journey to better hearing.
It’s possible to purchase your hearing aids online from select brands. However, you must be prepared to perform all the necessary tests at home, which could necessitate returning your hearing aids if they’re not quite right for you.
We highly recommend scheduling an in-person appointment to test different hearing aid models with a local hearing specialist.
What if you don’t have a lump sum to pay for your hearing aids out-of-pocket? Or what if your insurance policy doesn’t cover the cost of hearing aids?
There are organizations dedicated to assisting ordinary people in securing the hearing loss treatments they deserve. From Lion’s Clubs to Federal, state, and local assistance, you may be eligible for financial help. There may also be specialist help if you work for the Federal government or you’re a veteran, so take the time to explore all avenues.
Financial assistance is designed to make sure you don’t need to suffer in silence.
When it comes to buying hearing aids, the best place depends on your needs and budget. Licensed audiologists and hearing centers offer personalized fittings, professional guidance, and follow-up care, making them ideal for first-time buyers or those with complex hearing loss. Independent retailers and online vendors can offer competitive prices and a wider range of brands, including over-the-counter options for mild hearing loss. Many buyers find a combination approach works best: getting a professional consultation first, then exploring competitive pricing from trusted vendors. Always ensure the seller is reputable and provides proper warranties and support.
It's time to finally treat your hearing loss. Sign up for a free consultation with a licensed hearing care professional today to determine if you have hearing loss. It’s the start of your journey towards better hearing.
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