What are the Best Hearing Aids?

The best hearing aids are those that can satisfy each individual’s needs for their hearing loss. There is no specific type at the top of the list, as each person will prefer and need different styles or features. However, there are certain styles of hearing aids that provide the best efficacy for helping with hearing loss and making the issue more manageable for day-to-day living. 

The hearing aid market is grown a lot since the traditional behind-the-ear (BTE) style. Now, modern hearing aids are sleek and discreet, and there are a growing number of digital hearing aids with Bluetooth that can be paired to your phone or smart device. Additionally, you can also choose different types of digital hearing aid, including BTE, in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC) or completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids. No matter your needs and preferences, there will be a style and feature to suit the severity of your hearing loss. 

BTE devices

The BTE hearing aid style is the most versatile and easy to adjust. These are the first style ever to be created to help with mild to severe hearing loss. They are great for all hearing loss levels, ages, and lifestyle needs. These sit outside of the easy, so they are less discreet. Yet, for those who like to have something easy to take in and out, the BTE style is ideal for that purpose. They include enough technology to support the requirements of even the most active and dynamic lifestyles.

ITE hearing aids

ITE hearing aids are also for all levels of hearing loss, from mild to severe. These sit snugly inside the ear bowl and are available in different styles, which is ideal for those who want ultimate comfort. You can find the ITE hearing aids in a full-shell shape, which will fill the entire bowl of the ear. Then, there are half-shell shapes, which can sit either at the bottom or the top of the ear bowl. These can pick up wind noise, as they are not sat within the ear canal yet are easier to adjust.

ITC devices

If you are looking for something totally discreet, an ITC hearing aid may be the best option for you. Audiologists suggest these are ideal for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. Plus, these often come with digital features such as Bluetooth, which is ideal for the younger generation who want something easy to use for daily living. Because these sit snuggly in the ear canal, they can cause a build-up of wax, which users need to be careful of.

CIC technology

CIC hearing aids are the most discreet. They are the smallest available and are almost invisible. These again are for milder hearing loss levels and are not usually powerful enough for people with severe hearing loss. The make-or-break factor is the style’s high price tag and an absence of audiology consultants.

Depending on your hearing loss level and preference, there are many styles to choose from. For ultimate discretion, a hearing aid that sits within the ear canal will be best for you. Or, for easy use and adjustability, one that sits outside of the canal, like a BTE, will be the best option.