Best over-the-counter devices for Hearing
The best over-the-counter hearing devices and other hearing aids
Over-the-counter hearing aids may be a more economical and accessible option than a prescription pair for persons with mild to moderate hearing loss. To give you direct access to a hearing-augmentation device that's tailored to your needs, often with lower costs and less hassle than professionally fitted hearing aids, this new and expanding category of hearing devices relies on telehealth visits, online- and app-based hearing tests, and advanced earbud tech. Finding the correct pair, however, might be difficult due to the myriad of fashion trends, perplexing brand names, and legal restrictions.
What you must understand
Adults with mild to moderate hearing loss should use over-the-counter hearing aids. Children and anyone who has severe hearing loss should see a doctor.
varying needs
We provide several recommendations for various priorities because no one over-the-counter hearing aid is ideal for everyone.
Modularity is essential.
Better clarity is possible thanks to situational sound modes, which let you control which sounds are increased in certain settings.
Time it out
Hearing aids require your brain to adjust. You have more time to adjust if the return policy is accommodating.
We investigated and independently tested hearing-augmentation equipment that you may purchase and set up at home for more than two years for this reason. These items range from straightforward, low-cost personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) to highly customizable hearing aids offered directly through medical websites (at four-figure rates). We concentrated on locating solutions for various objectives, tastes, and spending ranges because we are aware that hearing aids are never a one-size-fits-all proposition. Regardless of the gadget you pick, we hope this information will help you feel more educated and in control.
What is a hearing aid available over the counter?
Answering this question is more difficult than it needs to be. As the name implies, over-the-counter hearing aids are those that can be set up, calibrated, and changed by the user and are sold directly by manufacturers and on medical websites (that is, no in-person doctor or audiologist visits are required). Adults with mild to severe hearing loss can use them.
Technically speaking, however, "over-the-counter hearing aids" don't exist yet because the FDA regulations that formally define and regulate the sale of these devices have just been published, and they won't go into effect until October of this year. In this article, you may learn more about the convoluted legislative process around over-the-counter hearing aids. As we explain there, many of the current products being marketed and sold as hearing aids aren't actually allowed to use the term.
Some of the gadgets we evaluated (like the Jabra Enhance Plus, for instance) are only presently sold via audiologists, but once the FDA guidelines are in place, we intend to make them available to consumers directly (provided they meet said guidelines). Other devices are currently only available in certain states.
When the FDA rules go into force this autumn, we anticipate some terminology changes, and we'll update this guidance as things develop.
By conducting an extensive poll of Hearing Loss Association of America members, we were able to get direct feedback from people who have hearing loss. The survey generated approximately 500 replies. We all read them.
I spoke with the following people to better understand the state of hearing technology today:
The former chair of the World Health Organization's Make Listening Safe Taskforce is Brian Fligor, PhD, PASC, president and clinic director of Tobias & Battite Hearing Wellness in Boston, co-founder and clinical strategic adviser at Lantos Technologies.
Kevin Franck, Ph.D., is senior vice president of strategic marketing and new product planning at Frequency Therapeutics and a therapeutics engineer and audiologist.
I sought advice from the following people to better understand the medical viewpoint and the environment of prescription hearing aids:
Professor and executive director of the Callier Center for Communication Disorders at the University of Texas at Dallas, Angela Shoup, Ph.D., has served as president of the American Academy of Audiology.
Catherine Palmer, Ph.D. Professor of otolaryngology and communication science and disorders at the University of Pittsburgh, director of audiology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and former president of the American Academy of Audiology
Lisa Vaughan, AuD Former president of the American Academy of Audiology and manager of the audiology program at Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas, Lisa Vaughan
I also spoke with the Hearing Loss Association of America, a nonprofit advocacy group, to gain an understanding of the challenges that people with hearing loss face when deciding whether or not to use hearing aids:
Barbara Kelley is the Hearing Loss Association of America's executive director.
Lise Hamlin, the Hearing Loss Association of America's director of public policy
We also developed a testing plan, and I sought guidance from:
The Industry Consumer Alliance for Accessible Technology, a development initiative of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing Technology Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center at Gallaudet University, is co-led by Linda Kozma-Spytek, a research audiologist and technology consultant for the Hearing Loss Association of America.
By conducting an extensive poll of HLAA members and receiving close to 500 responses, we also got direct feedback from those who have hearing loss. We all read them. The helpful insights of the participants helped us understand which hearing aid features are essential or unneeded, the most difficult parts of using hearing aids, and what the community wants to see in upcoming hearing-augmentation technology.
Finally, we put together a testing panel with four individuals of diverse ages, degrees of hearing loss, levels of dexterity, and hearing-aid experience. For more details about our panel, see How we tested.
What you must understand before purchasing hearing aids
Hearing aids have advanced significantly. That expression was frequently used by members of the hearing loss community, audiologists, hearing technology specialists, and our test panelists. Entry-level devices are now as excellent as or better than the most costly hearing aids from five or six years ago thanks to a mix of technological development, rising demand, and law.
Don't automatically judge the hearing aids on the market now by the one gathering dust in your drawer if you've used them in the past and had less-than-satisfactory results.
Make sure you're a good candidate for hearing aids if you've never thought about or used one before. Visit a doctor to get examined in order to rule out potential causes such as earwax buildup or other illnesses.
Before looking into hearing aids if you suddenly experience hearing loss, it's critical to get a thorough medical evaluation because this could be an indication of another condition. The best way to test your hearing is at an audiology facility, but you can also ask your doctor to do so when you go in for your yearly physical.
Additionally, there are numerous online or app-based screening exams that can help you get a general notion of your hearing capabilities. If you decide to visit an audiologist,
Regular hearing checks are crucial since, regrettably, many people who require hearing aids may not immediately recognize their need for one. According to Angela Shoup, former president of the American Academy of Audiology, the human brain is extraordinarily good at adapting to increasing hearing loss.
The circuits in the brain change as hearing ability and sound input deteriorate over time. This implies that people struggle to accurately assess their own hearing abilities. This is important to take into account because the type of hearing-augmentation equipment that will perform best for you will depend on the severity of your hearing loss.
Hearing aids have advanced significantly. Don't automatically judge the hearing aids on the market now by the one gathering dust in your drawer if you've used them in the past and had less-than-satisfactory results.
For instance, one of our panelists realized that his hearing loss had increased from moderate to severe during the course of our testing. The bulk of the gadgets he evaluated for us couldn't satisfy his needs as a result. But after learning about his new needs, he was paired with a prescription hearing aid, which has made him extremely happy.
This experience proved that "mild to moderate" hearing loss-specific devices are not actually designed to handle severe to profound hearing loss. Numerous respondents to our study stated that they had ceased using the hearing aids they had previously purchased, in part due to inappropriate wearer-device pairing.
The fitting process is another reason why many people give up on wearing hearing aids. The term "fitting" in the context of hearing aids refers to more than just ear size and shape. To match your unique hearing profile, you must ensure that the device is amplifying the appropriate frequencies to the appropriate degree.
The experience of abruptly boosting the missing frequency ranges can be particularly disorienting because the brain is so adept at adjusting to hearing loss over time. After spending a considerable amount of time in the dark, Shoup compared the procedure to "walking into the sunshine." Except in the case of hearing, the adjustment can take weeks or months rather than just a few seconds, she added.
For this reason, it's critical that hearing aid manufacturers provide a longer return period. Your brain will eventually become accustomed to hearing louder sounds, but it takes time.
This kind of adaptability is evident if you've ever moved into a new house and had to endure the first few days of waking up to the sound of every garbage truck or slammed door. Your mind eventually develops the ability to distinguish between what is significant and what is unimportant so that you may sleep through garbage pickup. Even when you aren't consciously aware of it, you can still hear the sounds. In contrast, if a child or a dog whimpers, you immediately wake up. Everything is a result of how your brain responds to aural input.
Be kind to yourself when you initially obtain hearing aids. Wearing hearing aids is the best way to get used to them, however, the audiologists I spoke with stated it's alright to take brief breaks.
Talk to the professional about maybe easing you into your prescribed level if, after a week of regular use, you still find the stimulus to be very upsetting and you have a pair that a professional can adjust. This can make it such that you don't immediately obtain as much clarity, but it might also make the procedure less difficult altogether.
It could be time to make use of the return policy if you put in the effort and discover that you still struggle to hear clearly or distinguish spoken words in crowded settings, such as restaurants.
Make a note on your calendar so you can decide quickly. When you initiate a return within the specified return window and mail the item within a few weeks of that, the majority of the companies whose gadgets we considered accept returns. To avoid being forced to pay for a hearing aid you don't like, make sure you are aware of the exact policy for your device.
There are some fantastic nonprofit organizations that keep you updated and provide support if you are new to hearing loss. The National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing, the Hearing Loss Association of America, and the Center for Hearing and Communication are all excellent sources for staying up to date on the most recent laws and technological advancements, getting medical advice, taking part in advocacy, and finding community. A helpful OTC hearing-aid purchasing checklist is also available from the Hearing Loss Association of America to get you started.
Who is this for
Adults with mild to moderate hearing loss who can convey feedback clearly and who are in good cognitive health are the target audience for over-the-counter hearing devices. (A person with minor hearing loss can hear some conversation at normal loudness but is unable to understand what is being said.
The voice at a conversational volume is scarcely audible or impossible for someone with mild hearing loss. Children, individuals with severe hearing loss, and those unable to communicate or make medical decisions on their own should consult a doctor since the types of devices described in this book will not be able to meet their needs.
Working with an audiologist in person has advantages, but our poll of HLAA members confirmed that many people are looking for alternatives that they can buy and set up at home.
This preference frequently develops as a result of transportation, time commitment, and locational concerns. Going the over-the-counter approach is an excellent alternative if you don't have many providers nearby or if you can't easily transport yourself to and from a doctor's or audiology office.
Another major issue among our HLAA survey respondents was financial restrictions. More than half (53%) of respondents said their health insurance did not cover hearing aids.
Only 11% of respondents who reported having insurance policies with comprehensive coverage stated their hearing aids were totally covered, while 32% said their coverage was only partially complete.
(Other 4% reported not knowing what their plans covered.) The most costly pair of over-the-counter hearing aids we examined cost $6,000, but the average cost was closer to $850. The cost of prescription hearing aids ranges from $1,000 to $14,000 per pair.
Finally, a lot of the audiologists and people with hearing loss we met with voiced concern about a system where the person advocating a certain hearing aid receives money from the sale and may potentially take part in exclusive relationships with manufacturers.
You are ideally suited to the over-the-counter route if you would want to keep the doctor's office out of the purchasing process and if you are willing to maybe engage in some trial and error to locate the best hearing aids for your needs.
how we chose
For this guide, we concentrated on over-the-counter hearing augmentation equipment that may be purchased from manufacturers directly online or through distant medical websites. With prices ranging from $95 to $6,000, we examined PSAPs, wearables, and consumer-direct hearing aids with different levels of sound augmentation or enhancement.
Years of testing headphones have taught me that not every listener will benefit from the same earbud. For hearing aids, the same holds true.
Lifestyle significantly determines whether someone prefers features like replaceable versus rechargeable batteries, water resistance, and over-ear versus in-ear design. But our HLAA survey participants generally concurred that the following traits are crucial:
A generous trial period: The significance of a trial period that is long enough to let you get used to the new equipment and make any necessary modifications were emphasized by 84% of our respondents.
Customizable sound: 78% of respondents thought it was crucial to have access to an audiologist who could modify the tuning of the hearing aid depending on the wearer's feedback. At 64%, the preference for adjustment via an app or the vendor was a little lower.
Multiple sound-environment settings: A crowded restaurant may have different auditory requirements than a quiet lecture hall, and 73% of respondents said they needed presets in their hearing aids to accommodate these differences.
Bluetooth compatibility: According to our poll, 69% of hearing aid users said they preferred Bluetooth connectivity for their devices.
Unfortunately, there isn't currently a single hearing aid that's both inexpensive, reliable, and equipped with all the necessary features. Availability contributes to some restrictions. For instance, we were unable to locate a device that could be purchased remotely and had telecoil capabilities.
(Telecoil, T-coil, or induction loop devices basically provide a way for hearing aids to pick up a signal from a local broadcasting source, like the audio in a theater, the public transportation PA system, or a specially configured phone.) There are certain technological restrictions on hearing aids as well, such as how difficult it is to maintain Bluetooth communication for smaller devices. As a result, we discovered we needed to look for a number of gadgets that suited our various requirements.
The price of hearing aids varies drastically. We were interested in learning whether spending more money has any advantages. We looked for the top-rated agents in a few price ranges because we knew we couldn't test every affordable PSAP on the market. Then, using the information we learned from our research and the aforementioned criteria, we invited 16 pairs of PSAPs, wearables, and hearing aids for testing.
Best if you've never worn hearing aids before Lively 2 Plus and Pro
Lively 2 Plus
Best if you've never worn hearing aids before
Multiple sound options, Bluetooth streaming, and an easy-to-use app are all features of these hearing aids.
Lively 2 Pro
Best if you've never worn hearing aids before
Multiple sound options, Bluetooth streaming, and an easy-to-use app are all features of these hearing aids. When you take phone calls, you can transmit your voice when using the Pro version.
Who it's for: People who are interested in earbud-like capabilities and first-time hearing aid users.
Why it's wonderful: The Lively 2 Plus and Lively 2 Pro are both great options if you've never worn a hearing aid before and want a device that's reasonably priced and filled with useful features. Our judges praised these hearing aids for being simple to set up, personalize, and use.
In fact, the situational sound modes—such as those for restaurants and outdoor settings—were useful for lowering background noise and boosting communication (which was not the case with the cheaper devices we tested). With an IP68 rating, the conventional behind-the-ear design is particularly water and dust resistant while remaining comfortable in place.
Only the Pro has the capability to broadcast your voice for full headset-style functionality, while both the Plus and the Pro can play back sound from gadgets like smartphones and tablets through Bluetooth. (You must use your phone's microphone to place calls with the Plus.) With Lively's generous 100-day return policy, you have plenty of time to get used to your hearing aids and decide if they're a good fit.
Additionally, these hearing aids can be adjusted to match your needs for a sizable amount of time thanks to a three-year warranty and three years of free follow-up treatment. A Lively 2 Plus or Lively 2 Pro pair is the perfect option because of the lower prices, superior extended customer service, and lengthy trial time if you've never worn hearing aids before, to begin.
The body, which holds the electronics and is located behind the ear, the dome, which acts as the hearing element, and the cable that connects the two make up each Lively hearing aid. Our panelists were able to wear their glasses without any discomfort even if the body sits behind the ears.
However, you might want to think about the fully in-ear Eargo 6 if you typically find the magnified sounds of your hair or glasses rubbing against a hearing aid to be distracting or bothersome. During your initial session, Lively's audiologist will help you choose from a variety of receiver dome sizes and wire lengths for each ship in the Plus and Pro.
Based on an online hearing test you take at the time of purchase, the Lively hearing aids are pre-programmed to your hearing profile. After you receive your pair, Lively's hearing specialists can adjust the sound during your virtual visits, or you can do it yourself while you're out and about using the user-friendly Lively app.
Any modifications to the sound profile are wirelessly uploaded to the hearing aids. Since the procedure typically only involved one or two taps in the app, our panelists stated it was simple to adjust the volume level, the balance of treble, midrange, and bass, or the sound mode themselves.
The customer service was particularly impressive; during the initial call, Lively representatives guided them through the controls, the app, and even their mobile device's individual settings.
Both the Plus and Pro have good voice amplification. Fiona expressed her admiration for the Plus pair's ability to improve her hearing in some of her previously challenging situations, such as when speaking with her spouse across a room. "I found the noise reduction to be especially useful because when I wear hearing aids, background noise overwhelms and distracts me.
Even if it was still a bit overpowering in noisy areas, the restaurant mode definitely helped me focus on the individuals in front of me. Lively claims that the Pro set has increased amplification and noise reduction, but our panel saw little to no difference in day-to-day performance between the Plus and Pro. Of course, depending on your unique hearing ability, your outcomes may differ.
Fiona expressed her satisfaction with the fit of the receiver in her ear, adding, "I normally feel really acute discomfort with receiver-in-the-ear types, but something about the material and form aspect of this specific receiver didn't irritate my ear canals quite as much. I had a choice for my ear canals that were almost pediatric in size because the receiver dome size options were far more extensive than I'm used to.
Although Tom acknowledged that the thin wire used to connect the receiver to the hearing aid's body "may be a touch difficult to operate than the more robust material of a sound tube, particularly for people with dexterity concerns," he was satisfied with the final fit of his hearing aid. He managed to master the Lively design, but he liked the sound tube with a more robust grip.
Both the Plus and Pro use rechargeable batteries rather than disposable ones to power them. How many calls you make, how long you stream music, and other factors will affect how long your Lively hearing aids' batteries last. All of our panelists were able to use their devices for an entire day on a single charge, and the in-case charging made it simple for them to recharge their devices while they were on the go.
With 12- to 36-month payment options available, the Lively 2 Plus is $1,595 and the Lively 2 Pro is $1,995; both prices include three years of access to follow-up treatment. Our judges consistently praised the Lively care staff. We appreciate it because having access to audiologists and tech support can help with long-term use.
Additionally, having competent tech support can be helpful for those who are setting up the devices for family members who may not be as tech-savvy. Lively's guarantee also lasts for three years, and even though there is a $195 deductible for loss or catastrophic damage, having to buy a new pair at full price is still preferable to that.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The major drawback of high-tech hearing aids is that they need a mobile device to update the firmware, alter sound profiles, or switch situational modes. This necessity can be a deal-breaker for anyone on a tight budget or who are anti-smartphone. If that applies to you, we advise trying the less app-reliant Tweak Enhance.
You must connect each hearing aid to your smartphone separately because the Lively hearing aids allow Bluetooth streaming, which might be a hassle to set up at first. Furthermore, if you leave both hearing aids in the charging case for too long, they might not pair as a pair, in which case you'll need to put them back in and out of the case to re-pair them.
Many true wireless earphones have a similar issue, which is a Bluetooth issue. In the end, our panelists discovered that taking both hearing aids out of the case and placing them in their ears first helped them avoid connection problems the most.
The absence of bass reproduction in music is another drawback. The bass notes lacked the punch that would come from a good pair of headphones or earbuds, according to all of our panelists, even though both the Plus and Pro can stream music from your phone. If this is a deal-breaker for you, think about switching to the Jabra Enhance Plus.
Since the charging case is larger than a deck of cards, you can't just throw it in your pocket and forget about it. The Plus and Pro could be used by our panelists for a full day without needing to be recharged, so we weren't too concerned about the size of the charging case. If so, take into account the more expensive (and smaller) Eargo 6 or the Hear.com Horizon AX.
Unfortunately, Lively hearing aids can only be changed through Lively's technology; the user cannot utilize their own audiologist. (This held true for all of the hearing aids we examined that used remote and telehealth technology.) Additionally, none of the products we tested that were available over the counter had telecoil functionality. We anticipate that upcoming tech will provide both.
Whoever dislikes behind-the-ear hearing aids should use: Eargo 6
Eargo 6
a suitable solution for busy people who wear glasses
These tiny hearing aids fit completely inside the ears, are almost undetectable, and don't get in the way of glasses. They don't stream music or calls, though.
Who it's for: People with active lifestyles or those who loathe hearing aids that hang behind the ear.
Why it's fantastic A small set of hearing aids called the Eargo 6 fits in each ear canal without impeding it. People who dislike the feel or appearance of conventional hearing aids, which include a sound tube or wire that drapes over the ear, may find this novel form particularly appealing. By pressing the earpiece or switching settings in the app, you can activate the Eargo 6's situational sound profiles.
The Eargo 6 can withstand perspiration and physically demanding lives, even if you submerge your head in water, thanks to its IPX7 waterproof classification. Although the Eargo 6's 45-day return policy is not the most accommodating of the products we evaluated, it should be plenty of time for you to let your ears get used to it and decide if this set is appropriate for you.
Any technical issues are covered by a two-year warranty, during which time you also receive one-time loss protection. The Bluetooth connectivity of the Eargo 6 is only useful for setting things up; if you want to stream music or make calls, you'll need to use headphones or your device's built-in speakers.
When ordering your pair of Eargo 6, you can upload your audiogram if you've already seen an audiologist and have it handy as a baseline. Alternatively, you can wait until the Eargo 6 set is delivered and utilize the hearing aids in conjunction with the app to conduct a hearing test.
Eargo's audiologists will assist you with setup, fit, and modifications regardless of the method you select. Additionally, they will walk you through cleaning the gadget and your ears. Tom was impressed with the breadth of information and assistance the Eargo staff offered to prospective owners: "I didn't have a lot of questions because the program was straightforward and simple to use. But whenever I did, the website typically had a video tutorial.
The Eargo 6 set is something to think about if you've tried behind-the-ear hearing aids in the past and didn't like how they amplified every movement of your glasses or hair. Each hearing aid has soft silicone domes that resemble two rows of translucent, perforated flower petals and is roughly the size of a multivitamin.
These petals hold each earpiece in the middle of the ear canal so that they appear to be floating. The shape of the microphones is more recessed into the ear, which makes them less susceptible to gratingly amplified bumps or brushing.
The Eargo 6 boosts the appropriate frequency ranges in accordance with your hearing profile while letting in the natural sound of your surroundings, in contrast to other in-ear hearing aids that fully obstruct the ear canal.
Additionally, this pair allows for more airflow, which was important to testers like Tom who have previously worn hearing aids. Tom frequently participates in Pilates exercises and was impressed by the Eargo 6 set's stability and breathability.
He said, "They don't itch and scratch like the hearing aids that use tubes or the ones that go further in your ear canal. When using alternative hearing aids, you may experience annoyance after exercising or when moisture seeps inside. The Eargo 6 prevented that from happening. At first, I
The hearing aids are less likely to feedback thanks to the Eargo 6 design. No squeaking or whistling was audible when our panelists held their mobile phones (or landline handsets) up to their ears. Additionally, which is quite unique, they were able to use over-ear headphones and hearing aids at the same time.
The Eargo 6 is barely noticeable in the ear and doesn't interfere with the arms of glasses. Michael Hession in a photo
The limiters on the Eargo 6 did a good job of reducing wind noise in Chicago, according to Kathy. Many of the less expensive PSAPs that Kathy tested were overpowered by even a gentle breeze, bombarding her with agitated noise the instant she went outside.
The Eargo 6 pair, according to Kathy, "reduced wind noise rapidly." Additionally, she discovered that the situational sound profiles allowed her to hear the conversation clearly and unobtrusively while she was at family gatherings or when her grandchildren played music.
Rechargeable batteries, not disposable ones, are used in the Eargo 6 hearing aids. The set's battery life, according to Eargo, should last for about 16 hours, though there may be some variation depending on the volume, Bluetooth connectivity, and other factors. The Eargo 6 pair was comfortable to wear for the duration of the day for all of our panelists.
The charging case is thin, round, and about the size of a 15-ounce can; it should easily fit in most pockets of jeans. According to Eargo, the case gives the hearing aids an additional two days of power when used consistently without a plug.
The Eargo app may deliver helpful maintenance reminders, pinging wearers when it's time to clean, change parts, and other similar tasks, in addition to enabling user-friendly sound-profile modifications.
People who don't want to rely on marking their calendars may find this function beneficial, but it also means that you'll receive a few follow-up messages that may come off as promotional. If you find these reminders annoying, you can disable them in the settings.
The 45-day return period for the Eargo 6 set is not the longest one we've seen. However, the majority of the audiologists we spoke with asserted that period of time should be plenty to determine whether a hearing aid will be useful for you.
Eargo provides a two-year limited warranty against loss and user damage in addition to a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects: In essence, Eargo will replace the hearing aids once during the two-year guarantee period for a deductible of $295 per ear and $295 for the charger if the damage was caused by overuse or you entirely lose your hearing aids.
Although it's not precisely cheap, it's still far preferable to paying full price. Typically, the Eargo 6 costs just about $3,000. Though Half of our panelists stated they would purchase the Eargo 6 hearing aid, putting it in the higher price bracket of the hearing aids we examined.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The major drawback of high-tech hearing aids is that they need a mobile device to set up and adjust, as we highlighted in our review of the Lively hearing aids. This necessity could be a deal-breaker for folks on a tight budget or who are anti-smartphone; as an alternative, we suggest the less app-dependent Tweak Enhance.
The Eargo app doesn't show the hearing aids' current volume level, which is another problem we found. You are therefore unable to determine if the volume is set to the minimum, maximum, or somewhere in between. Before inserting the hearing aids, it would be helpful to know what the current volume setting is.
Additionally, a visual signal would make it simpler to monitor how the volume setting varies over time; for instance, if you began at a volume level of 6, but a year later you are consistently at 9, that may be a sign that it's time for a checkup.
The Eargo 6 can use an audiogram as a starting point for fitting, but it can't be changed afterwards by the wearer's own audiologist; you have to use Eargo's system. (This held true for all of the hearing aids we examined that used remote and teleheath technology.) Furthermore, none of the over-the-counter products we examined had telecoil functionality. We anticipate that upcoming tech will provide both.
Tweak Enhance is the best PSAP for sporadic hearing augmentation.
Tweak Enhance
A basic, inexpensive PSAP
This personal sound amplification device enhances sound in a meaningful way and only needs the smartphone app during initial setup. It isn't as portable or feature-rich as our hearing aid options.
$350 from Amazon
(single)
$350 from Tweak Hearing
(single)
Who it's for: People on a tight budget, those with little access to smartphones, and those who only infrequently require hearing aids.
Why it's fantastic Although the Tweak Enhance is now legally classified as a personal sound amplification device (PSAP), its technology and design are comparable to that of conventional behind-the-ear hearing aids. Only a few PSAPs were mentioned by our panel as being ones they would buy.
The majority of comparably priced and less expensive PSAPs we tried had an overly general or generic approach to hearing augmentation, but the Tweak Enhance's amplification and situational sound settings gave it a considerable boost, and the app enables helpful hearing personalization.
All day-to-day modifications may be made on the Enhance itself, which is a useful feature for people who want hearing amplification that's customized to their ears but don't want to rely on a smartphone.
However, you must link the Enhance to a smartphone app for initial setup. This PSAP can't stream music or make calls because the Tweak Enhance just amplifies noises around you, but for some people, that's okay or even desirable.
The Enhance is available for purchase separately ($350) or as a pair ($700), offering good flexibility for those who only require a slight boost in one ear.
Although the six-month warranty is far from the greatest coverage we've seen, you can buy an extended warranty that covers you for two years with no deductible, giving you some time to adjust before making a decision.
The behind-the-ear Enhance features a sound tube that hangs over the ear, a dome that rests in the ear canal, and electronics placed in a thin, light chassis. Two sets of 2B sound tubes and two different-sized domes are included with the Enhance. The included parts should fit most people comfortably, but Tweak claims that if you need a different size, you may order it by calling the customer support line at 888-382-9327.
One of the members of our panel has a medical condition that causes muscle tremors, and they were able to operate the switches without any problems. The switches on each earpiece are large enough to use even if dexterity is difficult. Tom, a glas-wearing man, claimed he was able to easily wear his spectacles and PSAP.
Our panelists noted that the included instruction booklet was clear and easy to follow—something that wasn't always the case with other, less expensive PSAPs. However, this device lacks an integrated hearing test and you don't receive the assistance of a hearing specialist during setup (as you do with our hearing-aid picks).
The frequency-specific amplification levels of the Enhance can be changed in the app in one of two ways: You can enter your audiogram or use virtual faders to boost certain frequency ranges as needed. According to our judges, adopting an audiogram was the better strategy because it reduced the amount of guesswork.
This is so much better than I remember hearing aids being, my goodness. These are preferable to my older ones, hands down. That was the opening statement made by panelist Tom, who has a large collection of pricey prescription hearing aids in his desk drawer. Tom and the other panelists agreed that the Enhance is a good alternative for persons who only occasionally need hearing assistance or prefer a less technologically advanced device, even though Tom would ultimately opt for a more advanced set of hearing aids for himself.
Our judges were taken aback by how well a relatively cheap device sounded. Tom claimed that, in his opinion, the Eargo 6 results were fairly accurate in terms of speech clarity and musical instrument portrayal.
When it came to the utility of the situational presets and the directionality of the sounds, the Enhance stood out among the more cheap options. Some less expensive devices, however, had presets that overcompensated, resulting in a muffled or distractingly loud experience. The Enhance was consistently effective in both a crowded café and a quiet household, according to our panel.
Tweak claims that the rechargeable battery life of the Enhance is 20 hours. However, like with other battery-powered music devices, the volume, Bluetooth connectivity frequency, and other factors could affect how much time passes before a charge is required. Without any issues, our panelists were able to use their devices for an entire day on a single charge.
The Enhance charges in a compact port that may fit conveniently on a nightstand. For portability, a pocket-sized carrying case that is about the size of an Altoids tin is provided, but it is powerless to recharge the PSAP.
Tweak only allows returns after 30 days, so use your Enhance frequently right away to give yourself as much time as you can to become used to the sound. The standard warranty for the Enhance is only good for six months, but you can extend it to 18 months by paying an additional $75 for one ear or $150 for both when you buy the device.
Additionally, for a period of two years from the date of purchase, this extended warranty covers one replacement of a lost or broken device at a reduced cost of $200 per ear.
We are unhappy that the Tweak Enhance is not water proof, but these flaws are not deal breakers. We were hoping to recommend a budget-friendly hearing aid that is splash- or IP-rated, but none of the water-resistant versions we examined that were priced under $1,000 had a decent enough sound that our panel would want to use them every day. In the end, we were looking for the gadget that was most likely to be useful for the least amount of money, therefore in this case, sound quality took precedence over water resistance.
We also wish the Enhance had a profile configuration based on a hearing test. Even while it's convenient that the software allows users to upload an audiogram, not everyone has access to hearing specialists. We hope that anyone reading this guide will think about seeking medical or hearing-professional assistance so they can input an audiogram if they are unable to find suitable settings on their own.
While the lack of guidance may make it slightly more likely that a wearer won't receive an appropriate therapeutic level of amplification, we still hope that they will do so. According to our poll, a lot of people with hearing loss have had their hearing checked at their doctor's office but are hesitant to get a device from an audiologist. We chose to recommend the Tweak Enhance because of this, despite its lack of
The meager warranty and barely acceptable 30-day return policy also leave us less than thrilled. Despite the Enhance's lower price compared to some more expensive, cutting-edge gadgets, we have seen stronger warranties on headphones that cost only half as much. On the other hand, we were pleased with Tweak's customer support.
Consequently, we have greater faith in this company's ability to support customers and repair equipment than we do in the manufacturers of less-priced alternatives.
Best hearing aids for iOS users in the earbud-style: Enhance Plus Jabra
Jabra Enhance Plus
Best hearing aids in the earbud-style
These headphones work well as earbuds and passably as hearing aids. However, the set's battery life is only 10 hours, and it only works with iOS smartphones.
Who it's for: The Jabra Enhance Plus fills the requirement for iOS users who have ever wanted that their true wireless earbuds could be adjusted to compensate for hearing loss and occasionally enhance their hearing.
Why it's fantastic One of the first hearing aids released with the intention of complying with FDA over-the-counter regulations is the Jabra Enhance Plus set. As a result, the Enhance Plus is now only sold through audiologists (as opposed to directly from Jabra online). However, as Jabra informed us, this will change as soon as the FDA permits it.
For the time being, all you need to demonstrate your eligibility for purchase is a hearing test from an audiologist who participates. The remaining steps are carried out in your house.
The Enhance Plus's earbud-like form can be intriguing to folks who dislike hearing aids that look like hearing aids. The high-quality built-in microphones make you sound amazing to your callers, much like with a nice pair of earbuds, and because the set is IP52 rated for dust and water protection, it can withstand some light rain or perspiration.
For earbuds, the 10-hour battery life per charge is excellent, but it might not be enough for hearing aids.
Jabra provides a 45-day money-back guarantee so you have time to decide if this set is right for you, along with a one-year warranty that covers production flaws. The Enhance Plus costs $800, which is less than most hearing aids, so it can be a decent starting point for someone who is hesitant to make a significant investment in hearing improvement.
The Enhance Plus set, which resembles many true wireless earbuds in appearance, was unquestionably the most well-liked hearing aid for streaming music among our panelists. This is mainly due to the fact that the earpieces entirely block off your ear canal, which improves bass reproduction.
The Enhance Plus does not, however, allow in any natural noises because of its closed-ear construction. Instead of transmitting a live show of your surroundings through earphones, the earpieces employ their built-in microphones to replicate exterior sound through the drivers.
The Enhance Plus set proved less effective at hearing augmentation than our other options, especially when representing directional nuance or when used in noisy surroundings, despite the fact that it is an actual hearing aid.
The Enhance Plus pair fits like earbuds, thus finding the right size ear tips is all that is required for the fitting process. The setup process, which includes a self-administered hearing test, is then guided by the app. Unfortunately, since an audiogram cannot yet be entered, you must utilize the app's hearing test. Additionally, the Enhance Plus app is currently only compatible with iPhone and iPad devices.
That's because the Enhance Plus doesn't stream music and make calls using regular Bluetooth connections in order to increase connection stability. Instead, it makes use of Apple's Made for iPhone internal hearing-aid settings, which, according to reports, serve to minimize communication gaps (the app is available for iOS 14 or later; hands-free calling requires an iPhone 11 or later and iOS 15.3 or later).
Therefore, if you purchase the Enhance Plus, be aware that you can only connect it to iOS devices at this time; an Android version of the app will be made available in the future.
Our panelists didn't find the Enhance Plus to be as enjoyable to listen to as they did with our other recommendations. According to Fiona, who placed the Enhance Plus's augmentation capabilities in the center of the group, "This one kind of fell into the category of "headphone with amplification." There are other sound settings available, and Fiona's lucidity in group chats was improved by the voice setting.
No matter what setting she chose, the Enhance Plus started to lose focus as the background noise grew louder. Fiona also observed that the Enhance Plus has trouble responding adequately to loud, unexpected noises. They weirdly overemphasized any form of brief, sharp sound to a quite absurd degree.
I once had false nails, and as I was messaging, they heard my fingernails tapping on the screen of my phone. My companion responded that she didn't hear anything unusual when I inquired about the volume of my fingernails," Fiona continued.
The Enhance Plus is best suited for short-term use because to this performance and this set's relatively low battery life of 10 hours. Consider situations like those in the office, gym, or college where you occasionally need to hear conversations but mostly want earbud functionality. Additionally, wearing them all day might not be feasible due to their earbud-style construction.
After a particularly long day, Dan discovered that his ears were scratchy; this is a regular problem with truly wireless earphones, so the outcome wasn't unexpected. Many people who are just starting out with hearing aids might not want or need all-day wear, but if you need, we recommend one of our other selections.
As earphones, this Jabra pair really shines. The majority of our panelists concurred that listening to music while using the Enhance Plus was the most pleasurable. Not only were bass notes accurately rendered, but music also appeared to have been tuned to individual hearing preferences.
Our panelists noted that the tiny earpieces are more stable than other true wireless earbuds and that using the single-tap controls to answer calls, change music, and perform other operations was a breeze. Of all the device apps they examined, everyone agreed that the Jabra app was the best designed and most user-friendly.
The charging case for the Enhance Plus is portable and charges the hearing aids while you're wearing them. The hearing aids may be used for 10 hours on a single charge, and the case comes with two extra full charges. Real-world battery life varies based on how many calls you make, how much music you stream, and how loud you listen, just like with any audio device.
Jabra allows you to return the Enhance Plus set for a full 45 days without incurring any fees. You are covered for manufacturing flaws by the one-year guarantee, however Jabra doesn't provide a program for lost or damaged equipment, so use yours wisely.
Some of the shortcomings, such as the set's less effective amplification in noisy situations, its shorter battery life, and the app's iOS-only compatibility, have already been discussed. However, these are not dealbreakers.
You must add the cost of an appointment with an audiologist to the overall cost until the FDA standards are in place and Jabra is able to offer the Enhance Plus pair directly. The sum quickly increases given that the Enhance Plus is $800 in price. We like the way the earbuds are tuned using a hearing test, but we also wish the Enhance Plus had the ability to input an audiogram for even more accurate results.
As Jabra is capable of making some really robust earbuds, we were expected to see the same with the company's hearing aids. We also want stronger water resistance.
Other excellent hearing-improving technology
The Horizon AX range from Hear.com is a wonderful option if you're willing to spend more money on genuine hearing aids. The thorough remote fitting and tuning procedure, the educational resources, and the customer support really won over our panel. The only provider that included a home exam kit in the fitting procedure was Hear.com.
Along with the package, patients can schedule a video visit with a hearing healthcare specialist who will conduct hearing tests, talk with you about their needs, and pair them with one of many Hear.com hearing aids. Each member of our panel received a Horizon Style 7AX behind-the-ear hearing aid.
The Horizon Style 7AX does a great job of enhancing sounds. These hearing aids, according to our panelists, are comparable to the Eargo 6 and the Lively 2 Plus and Pro in terms of comfort, clarity, and situational usefulness. The Horizon Style 7AX broadcasts music and calls, unlike the Eargo 6.
It lacked bass in music playback, but so did every other hearing aid we evaluated with a similar design. Accordingly, the 7AX mostly performed in line with Bluetooth earbuds in our panel's discussion of Bluetooth connectivity reliability.
The Horizon Style 7AX has a smaller and lighter behind-the-ear part than the Lively 2 Plus or Pro, which is advantageous. The 7AX has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, so you can completely submerge the hearing aids in a meter of water without worrying about damage (though the company explicitly says on its site that you should not do this purposefully).
The 7AX's customization features were well-liked by our panelists, although opinions on the software varied. For example, one panelist complained that the app was slow to react when she tried to change the microphone array's directionality. The slim, pocket-friendly charging case is another noteworthy feature.
The cost of the 7AX includes five follow-up sessions with a hearing specialist covering sound modifications after a 45-day trial period (and cleaning, if you go through an in-person provider). You must contact Hear.com to request a telehealth tablet in order to use this benefit remotely and complete your session.
If you make a purchase from a local vendor, you must return to that vendor for any additional services. According to Hear.com, the Horizon Style 7AX has a three-year guarantee and a $295 deductible for loss and damage coverage.
We thought the Horizon Style 7AX was good enough to recommend it to people who were ready to pay more for a smaller gadget, more extensive remote care, and a few extra features. We were not pleased with Hear.com's lack of price clarity, though. Hear.com only offers a range of potential monthly charges on their website, stating that the total cost will depend on the items you select, the amount of the cost you finance, and the length of time you finance it.
The financing terms, which are similar to what you may anticipate seeing when buying a car, are covered in further detail on the website. But unlike those purchasing a car, those purchasing hearing aids from Hear.com don't know what their hearing aid will do Costs for options up until their appointment.
This could make someone feel untrustworthy, especially if they are on a tight budget. We were uncomfortable because we found it impossible to determine the exact pricing of the particular items that our panelists tested.
The type our panelists tried eventually cost $3,250 for each ear, or $6,500 per pair, and is classified as "luxury" on the Hear.com pricing structure. Our panelists answered they would prefer to choose the Lively or Eargo devices when we gave them that price.
The privacy policy of Hear.com is another problem. To help you compare it, we've put it in the Security and Privacy section below. But Hear.com is the only manufacturer whose products we found to work properly to share customer data with outside marketing. Even though credit card firms frequently engage in this technique, privacy-conscious individuals may find it to be a decisive factor.
Aside from privacy and financial concerns, Hear.com offers a great user experience. So, if money and promotion aren't an issue, you'll probably get excellent service and a highly functional item.
If you're willing to forgo features in favor of price: If you want a gadget that utilizes disposable batteries or are seeking for a less expensive option to the Tweak Enhance, you should think about the Zvox VoiceBud VB20. In our experiments, the amplification was fairly good:
Tom claimed that even with the noise of clanging weights, voices were audible in calm settings, allowing him to have discussions at the gym. The VB20 comes with an outstanding 60-day trial period and a one-year warranty. However, the VB20 was not chosen for a number of reasons.
The app's lack of a visual representation of loudness level, which could be useful for monitoring hearing health, is the first drawback. Second, while having frequency-range faders to alter the VB20's amplification profile, there is no hearing test or possibility to insert an audiogram.
Therefore, more testing is necessary to establish a therapeutic threshold of amplification (and patience). Even though the dual microphone array helps contribute to a reduction in background noise, there are still certain distractions as a result of the effect. Compared to some of the more expensive versions, this pair may be more difficult for people who find it difficult to block out background noise. Still, Tom said if he were on a strict budget, this is the pair he would buy.
The app's lack of a visual representation of loudness level, which could be useful for monitoring hearing health, is the first drawback. Second, while having frequency-range faders to alter the VB20's amplification profile, there is no hearing test or possibility to insert an audiogram.
Therefore, more testing is necessary to establish a therapeutic threshold of amplification (and patience). Even though the dual microphone array helps contribute to a reduction in background noise, there are still certain distractions as a result of the effect. Compared to some of the more expensive versions, this pair may be more difficult for people who find it difficult to block out background noise. However, Tom claimed that if he had a limited budget, he would purchase this pair.