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Best Hearing Aids Brands

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Only 20% of people that can benefit from hearing aids actually use them, and those that do often wait years too long before getting them, according to the Hearing Loss Association of America. However, this doesn’t need to be the case.

Hearing aids are now more accessible and affordable than ever, thanks to a 2022 ruling from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that made it possible to buy hearing aids over the counter without a prescription.

To make our top picks for hearing aid brands, we first eliminated any relevant company on our site with an overall satisfaction rating below 3.5 stars. The remaining companies also had to have at least a 2:1 ratio of 5-star to 1-star reviews, based on verified review data collected between April 26, 2020, and April 26, 2021.

Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
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Miracle-Ear Hearing Aids logoMiracle-Ear Hearing AidsEargo logoEargoEmbrace Hearing logoEmbrace HearingMDHearing logoMDHearingBeltone Hearing Aids logoBeltone Hearing Aids
Rating4.84.44.73.94.0
# of reviews3,040548398175668
Our pick for Best overall Comfort Value Rechargeables Hearing care and support
Featured model Miracle-EarEASY RIC 312 Eargo Neo HiFi X-Series VOLT MAX Imagine
Featured model starting cost* Varies $1,950 per pair $899 per ear $799.99 per ear Varies
Featured model vailability Prescription needed Available OTC Prescription needed Available OTC Prescription needed
Trial period 30 days 45 days 45 days 45 days 30 days
Warranty 3 years 1 - 2 years 3 years 1 year 1 year
Read Reviews Read Reviews Read Reviews Read Reviews Read Reviews
*All prices are correct as of the time of publishing.

Compare our top 5 hearing aid companies

Our top pick overall Miracle-Ear Hearing Aids
  • Featured model: Miracle-EarEASY RIC 312
  • Featured model starting cost: Varies
  • Trial period: 30 days
  • Warranty: 3 years
Learn More
miracle-eareasy ric

We like that the Miracle-EarEASY RIC 312 is relatively affordable and discreet. The company also offers models with Bluetooth capabilities and water resistance. In-the-ear, receiver-in-canal and behind-the-ear models are available. To get started, you can book an appointment online, take a free hearing test or visit a local center near you.

With 4.7 stars out of 5, Miracle-Ear is the second-highest-rated hearing aid company on our site as of publishing. Over 84% of reviewers in 2022 said they would recommend Miracle-Ear to a friend. Positive reviews frequently include comments like:
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Great customer service
  • Worth the price
  • Good for tinnitus
Our pick for comfort Eargo
  • Featured model: Eargo Neo HiFi
  • Featured model starting cost: $1,650 per pair
  • Trial period: 45 days
  • Warranty: 3 years
Learn More
eargo neo hifi

The Eargo Neo HiFi is another good choice for those who want a discreet, rechargeable device. It comes with noise reduction and feedback cancellation features to deliver clear, natural sound, and Eargo’s Sound Profiles are designed for those who want more clarity instead of more volume.

Other models are also available, and Eargo’s hearing aid costs start as low as $77 and go up to $84 per month with financing, depending on the model you choose. You can get a hearing check through the company’s website to find out if you’re a suitable candidate.

Eargo has a 4.5-star overall satisfaction rating as of publishing. In 2022, about 67% of reviewers said they would recommend the company to a friend. Some highlights from happy reviewers include:
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Great technology
  • Good price
  • Good battery
Our pick for value Embrace Hearing
  • Featured model: X-Series
  • Featured model starting cost: $899 per ear
  • Trial period: 45 days
  • Warranty: 3 years
Learn More
embrace hearing x-series

Hearing aids in Embrace Hearing’s X-Series line are rechargeable and come with Bluetooth connectivity to make hands-free phone calls and TV streaming easier. The company programs the device according to your hearing test, and remote reprogramming and adjustments are also available.

C-Series hearing aids (Embrace’s other product line) are made to fit in the ear canal. They're discreet, and you can control them through a smartphone app. Devices in this series are designed to be comfortable for users wearing masks and large glasses.

Embrace Hearing has a 4.7-star overall satisfaction rating as of publishing. Throughout 2022, about 78% of reviewers said they would recommend the company to a friend. Highlights from happy customers include praise for Embrace’s:
  • Great prices
  • Ease of use
  • Advanced technology
  • Customer service
Our pick rechargeables MDHearing
  • Featured model: VOLT MAX
  • Featured model starting cost: $799.99 per ear
  • Trial period: 45 days
  • Warranty: 1 year
Learn More
mdhearing volt max

MDHearing’s FDA-registered hearing aids are for mild to moderately severe hearing loss. We like the VOLT MAX because it features easy-to-recharge batteries that last an average of 15 hours on a single charge, and the magnetic charging case can supply up to three full charges.

Other models start between $399.99 and $599.99 per ear. Discounted bundle packages are available for most devices. Financing costs start at $25 per month for those who qualify.

About 77% of MDHearing reviewers in 2022 said they would recommend the company to a friend. The company has a 4-star satisfaction rating at the time of publishing. Some comments from reviewers that recommend MDHearing include:
  • Easy to recharge
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Good customer service
  • Very affordable cost
Our pick for hearing care and support Beltone Hearing Aids
  • Featured model: Imagine
  • Featured model starting cost: Varies
  • Trial period: 30 days
  • Warranty: 1 year
Learn More
beltone hearing aid imagine

Beltone’s Imagine uses M&RIE (microphone and receiver-in-ear) technology to offer a highly customizable experience. The design works with your ear shape to deliver natural sound, and it even works with noisy backgrounds and windy environments.

Another feature that makes Beltone stand out as a company is its customer care. Beltone offers online hearing tests, and you can get a consultation at one of its over 1,500 physical locations or in your own home with Beltone Remote Care Live. These remote consultations use video chat technology to let you communicate with a hearing care professional and adjust your hearing aids.

Beltone has a 4-star overall satisfaction rating as of publishing. Some highlights from happy customers include phrases like:
  • Very comfortable
  • Good quality
  • Great customer service
  • Tried others and came back

Compare Top Hearing Aid Reviews

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Find a Hearing Aid partner near you.

    How to get a hearing aid

    If you have hearing loss, it’s time to think about buying a hearing aid, whether that means getting a prescription device or an over-the-counter (OTC) model. Read the steps below to see what’s involved.

    1. Learn about your hearing loss

    Your first task should be figuring out the reason for your hearing loss and the degree of its impact. There are different ways to go about this, but what’s important is that you establish whether you really need a hearing aid and do what you can to keep your hearing loss from getting worse.

    Because hearing loss can sometimes be caused by treatable conditions, like an infection or built-up earwax, you might want to start by visiting your doctor or an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist to see if you can improve your hearing without a hearing aid.

    Your first task should be figuring out the reason for your hearing loss and the degree of its impact.”

    If the doctor finds that your hearing loss is irreversible, they can refer you to an audiologist for a hearing test (called an audiogram) to assess how extensive your hearing loss is and what frequency ranges are affected.

    Hearing tests are usually performed in a closed environment (such as a soundproof booth) and are available at audiologists’ offices and certain stores, including Costco and Sam’s Club. These tests are often free or covered by insurance, depending on the provider and the area you live in.

    Alternatively, you can try to self-diagnose your range of hearing loss by using an online application that tests your hearing and helps determine whether you are a better candidate for an OTC hearing aid, a prescription hearing aid or a cochlear implant.

    One such application is the Hearing Number provided by Johns Hopkins University. It is similar to an audiogram in that it can assess how well you can hear speech sounds and your brain’s ability to make sense of sounds you hear regularly.

    2. Decide what type and style of hearing aid you want

    There are many different hearing aids available, so it’s a good idea to narrow down your options early by identifying your needs and preferences.

    If you have difficulty hearing loud sounds (like engines, power tools or major home appliances), your hearing loss is probably more severe than what OTCs can handle.

    One consideration that will impact the rest of your hearing aid shopping experience is whether you’re looking for a prescription or over-the-counter hearing aid. OTCs are legitimate hearing aids with several advantages over traditional options, but they’re not right for everyone.

    While OTC hearing aids are easier to buy and can be significantly cheaper than prescription hearing aids, they’re only recommended for people 18 or older with mild to moderate hearing loss. (For more info on which type is right for you, see our section on OTC vs. prescription hearing aids below.)

    Hearing aids come in a variety of styles, too. The most common style is behind-the-ear (BTE) — these hearing aids fit over and behind your ear. There are also hearing aids that fit inside your ear canal, which hides them almost completely. (For more information on different hearing aid configurations, see our explanation of hearing aid styles below.)

    3. Set a budget

    Hearing aids can be a significant expense, so it’s important to define your budget and figure out how you want to pay.

    Prescription hearing aids cost $1,000 to $4,000 per ear, on average, but OTC hearing aids often cost just $600 to $1,000 per pair. (Beware — cheaper hearing devices may actually be personal sound amplification products, often called PSAPs, not real hearing aids. A ConsumerAffairs investigation found that these devices are often mislabeled as hearing aids online, despite not being suitable for people with hearing loss.

    Typically, health insurance doesn’t cover hearing aids. However, coverage is sometimes available for children, veterans and employees of the federal government. Currently, 23 states mandate that health insurance companies provide full or partial hearing aid coverage for children, and five states (Arkansas, Connecticut, Illinois, New Hampshire and Rhode Island) also extend those mandates to adults, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

    Certain organizations, such as Easterseals and Lions Clubs International, might also be able to help you afford a hearing aid. ASHA maintains a helpful list of other funding resources, and the Hearing Industries Association has a full guide to financial assistance for hearing aids

    4. Shop around, compare and purchase

    As you look for a hearing aid, it's a good idea to check out different providers and compare prices, financing options, price-matching commitments and discounts. Hearing aid prices vary significantly, so don’t be discouraged if the first prices you see are outside of your budget.

    Make sure to note if the prices you see are per pair or per ear.

    Besides cost, another major consideration is what degree of customer service you expect. 

    • Prescription hearing aids usually come with an extended trial period, a multiyear warranty period, and regular services from the audiologists who prescribed them – such as cleaning and adjustments – included in the price.

      Many audiologists and manufacturers also offer free replacements if a hearing aid no longer functions properly or is lost (usually limited to one loss replacement per ear).

    • OTC hearing aids tend to come with less customer service. You have to fit the device to your ear yourself, and setup and support are usually limited to email, online chats or phone calls. OTC trial periods can be short (often 30 to 45 days), warranties aren’t as long, and if an OTC hearing aid is lost, there’s often no replacement guarantee.

    Both prescription and OTC hearing aids can also offer useful features that you might want to have in your device. These features may increase your cost, but they’re often worth it if they improve your quality of life. (For more information on what technologies are available, see our section on hearing aid features below.)

    Finally, before you buy, check reviews from previous customers to make sure they're happy with their purchases. 

    7. Try out your new hearing aids

    Hearing aids might not improve your hearing instantly, but don’t worry. It’s common for people to have several adjustments over the course of a few weeks before their hearing aids are tuned to their personal situation, their brain adjusts to processing different sounds and they’re comfortable with the fit and operation of their hearing aids.

    It’s also a good idea to try out hearing aids in different environments and situations to see how they adapt. However, your adjustment process will depend on the type of hearing aid you purchased:

    • Prescription: With a prescription hearing aid, if you don’t hear as well as you think you should, you might ask your audiologist to make the necessary adjustments or show you how to make the adjustments yourself.
    • OTC: If you go the over-the-counter route and your hearing aids don’t meet your expectations within the first few weeks, you should consider returning them and trying a different model.

    If you experience significant problems with your OTC hearing aids past the return period, you may even consider filing a complaint with the FDA.

    Over-the-counter vs. prescription hearing aids

    Over-the-counter hearing aids became available in 2022 after a long-awaited FDA rule designed to increase access to hearing aids and potentially lower prices. These devices are available without a prescription, hearing exam or fitting from an audiologist (unlike traditional hearing aids), and many hearing aid brands have introduced OTC models since the FDA’s ruling.

    The biggest advantages of OTC devices are that they are usually:

    • More affordable than prescription hearing aids
    • Easier to purchase than prescription hearing aids
    • More user-friendly than prescription hearing aids

    The disadvantages of OTC hearing aids are that they often:

    • Have fewer features than prescription hearing aids
    • Aren’t as adaptable to different hearing environments
    • Come with limited follow-up care and support (such as cleanings, tunings and warranty coverage)

    OTC hearing aids are also limited to adults (age 18 or older) with mild to moderate hearing loss, so they aren’t suitable for everyone.

    Which type of hearing aid is best for you will largely depend on your situation, level of hearing loss and personal preferences, so it’s worth considering both options as you shop around and research hearing solutions.

    Over-the-counter hearing aidsPrescription hearing aids
    Available atOnline and physical retailers (such as Amazon and Best Buy)Audiologists, hearing aid stores and physical retailers with hearing centers (such as Costco and Sam’s Club)
    Levels of hearing loss coveredMild to moderateAll levels
    Ages served18+All ages
    Average price (per pair)$600 to $1,000$2,000 to $8,000
    Services includedLimitedExtensive

    Hearing aid features to consider

    Hearing aids are available with a wide variety of features and technologies that can improve your hearing and make your life easier. While you might not need or want all of these features, it’s helpful to know what’s available so that you don’t miss out on what your new hearing aid might be capable of.

    Advanced hearing aid technologies include:
    • Directional microphones: Directional microphones increase the clarity of the sounds in specific areas around you, whether that’s toward the TV or someone you’re talking to. Directional microphones also have wide dynamic compression, which amplifies quiet sounds more than loud sounds to help you hear more clearly.
    • Multiple channels: A hearing aid with three channels might separate incoming audio into low-frequency, mid-frequency and high-frequency categories. It treats each of these frequency levels differently, minimizing low-frequency sounds and amplifying high-frequency sounds. A hearing aid with more channels provides a more customizable listening experience.
    • Preprogrammed settings: Some hearing aids come with preprogrammed settings. These might be used for different environments or safety (like preventing a child’s hearing aid from being turned up too loud).
    Noise cancellation features include:
    • Digital noise reduction: Digital hearing aids can be programmed to recognize distracting ambient noise and reduce it, making it easier to hear speech and improving overall voice clarity.
    • Binaural processing: Binaural processing lets your hearing aids communicate with each other. This cross-ear coordination helps eliminate distracting noises and provides a better listening experience.
    • Wind noise management: Wind is a common problem for hearing aids — it blows on the microphone and creates an unpleasant, distracting sound. Hearing aids with wind noise management identify wind noise and reduce or eliminate it rather than amplifying it.
    • Feedback suppression technologies: Hearing aid feedback suppression or reduction is a standard feature in most hearing aids. You’ve probably heard a microphone let off a high-pitched whine when it encounters interference. Feedback suppression technology helps prevent this from happening within your hearing aid.
    Hearing aids can be compatible with a number of different devices. Keep an eye out for:
    • Phone compatibility: Electronic interference from telephone conversations can cause problems for hearing aids. (Many hearing aid users avoid talking on the phone for this reason.) However, adding a telecoil reduces feedback and increases audio clarity. A telecoil works by transmitting sound from the telephone by a magnetic signal rather than an acoustic signal. This helps avoid interference and makes taking phone calls a more pleasant experience.
    • Bluetooth compatibility: Hearing aids with Bluetooth can wirelessly connect to other Bluetooth-compatible devices and stream directly from the audio source. You can also stream music or receive mobile notifications directly to your hearing aid. For more information, check out our article on the best Bluetooth hearing aids.
    • FM hearing aid systems: FM radio systems are sometimes used in conjunction with hearing aids. These systems work similarly to walkie-talkies, and while adults can benefit from them, they are most commonly used to help children. For example, a teacher in a large classroom can wear a microphone and an FM transmitter that broadcasts their speech, which is picked up by the FM receiver in the student’s hearing aid, allowing them to hear better across larger distances.
    • IFTTT compatibility: Some hearing aids connect to a web-based service called IFTTT (If This Then That). This service uses applets to program hearing aids and other smart devices in the home to respond to one another in certain circumstances. For example, you can program an IFTTT applet to turn off all the lights in your home and activate the security system when you take out your hearing aids at night.
    Traditional hearing aids have disposable batteries that last just a few days. However, some people find that hearing aids with rechargeable batteries are more convenient and easier to use. Wearers charge the batteries when they’re not using them — typically right before bed so the batteries charge overnight.

    Hearing aid costs and types

    When you’re choosing a hearing aid, one of your most important considerations is the type of device you want, also referred to as its style. The right type of device for you depends on how the hearing aid fits in your ear, how it works, your level of hearing loss and the device’s appearance. There’s also a correlation between the different types of hearing aids and prices.

    Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids 

    behind-the-ear-hearing aids
    SUITABLE FOR
    • Mild to profound hearing loss
    AVERAGE COST
    • $400 to $1,700 per ear

    Behind-the-ear hearing aids are generally plastic, with the earpiece resting behind the ear. The earpiece holds the circuitry that makes the hearing aid work. A small plastic tube transmits audio from the plastic earpiece to an earmold that sits inside the ear canal.

    BTE hearing aids are larger than other types and often offer a higher level of amplification. They’re frequently a better option for children because they are easy to clean and can fit over almost any ear, no matter the wearer’s age.

    Pros

    • Easy to handle and clean
    • Fewer feedback issues
    • Very durable
    • Compatible with most features and technologies

    Cons

    • More visible
    • More prone to wind noise
    • Phone use can be awkward

    Open-fit hearing aids

    open fit hearing aids
    SUITABLE FOR
    • Mild to moderate hearing loss
    AVERAGE COST
    • $300 to $1,400 per ear

    Open-fit hearing aids are behind-the-ear hearing aids that are smaller than standard BTE models. They are called open-fit because the tubing is thin and leaves the ear canal open. Because the canal is open, it can naturally pick up low-frequency audio, but high-frequency sounds that are harder to hear go through the hearing aid to be amplified.

    The typical design uses a small tube or wire to transfer sound from the outer earpiece to the ear canal. These hearing aids can also cancel noise feedback.

    Pros

    • Similar benefits to BTEs
    • Doesn’t plug the ear canal

    Cons

    • May be hard to find
    • Less powerful than BTEs
    • imilar cons to BTEs

    Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids

    receiver-in-canal hearing aids
    SUITABLE FOR
    • Mild to severe hearing loss
    AVERAGE COST
    • $600 to $2,000 per ear

    You might hear receiver-in-canal hearing aids referred to as mini-behind-the-ear hearing aids. (Because the receiver is in the canal instead of in the earpiece, the plastic casing behind the ear is smaller.) RICs rest behind the ear like BTEs, but they have a smaller casing and are connected with wires instead of tubing. The design may get clogged more easily than other types, but it offers wearers the advantage of creating less distortion.

    Pros

    • More discreet than BTEs
    • Similar benefits to BTEs

    Cons

    • Less durable than BTEs
    • Similar cons to BTEs

    In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids

    in-the-ear hearing aids
    SUITABLE FOR
    • Mild to severe hearing loss
    AVERAGE COST
    • $500 to $1,500 per ear

    This type of hearing aid (often called half-shell or full-shell hearing aids) sits in the outer portion of the ear, making it easy to insert and remove. In-the-ear models are potentially more discreet than behind-the-ear models but sometimes have fewer technological features because of their smaller size.

    Pros

    • Easy to handle
    • Directional mics and volume control generally available

    Cons

    • Earwax may clog speaker
    • More visible than other in-ear styles
    • More prone to feedback issues

    In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids

    in-the-canal hearing aids
    SUITABLE FOR
    • Mild to severe hearing loss
    AVERAGE COST
    • $900 to $1,500 per ear

    In-the-canal hearing aids are a type of in-the-ear hearing aid that rest in the ear and show only a small portion of the hearing aid outside the ear canal. They stay in place well but may not offer as many features as larger styles.

    Pros

    • More discreet than ITEs
    • Longer battery life than CICs
    • Resistant to wind noise
    • Directional microphones may be available

    Cons

    • Can lack features of larger styles
    • More prone to wax and moisture problems
    • More prone to feedback
    • Can be difficult to handle and clean

    Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids

    completely-in-the-canal hearing aids
    SUITABLE FOR
    • Mild to moderate hearing loss
    AVERAGE COST
    • $900 to $3,000 per ear

    Completely-in-canal or completely-in-the-canal hearing aids are designed to mold to the inside of the ear canal. These devices have one of the most unobtrusive designs available. They’re discreet but typically don’t offer the volume control available on other types of hearing aids.

    Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aids, a type of CIC hearing aid, are custom-fitted and placed farther down in the ear canal, making them almost invisible. They provide natural sound but may lack the directionality of more visible styles.

    Pros

    • The most discreet style widely available
    • Resistant to wind noise
    • Outer ear acts as a sound funnel

    Cons

    • Relatively short battery lives
    • Too small for directional microphones or volume control
    • Can cause a plugged-up feeling
    • Similar cons to ITCs

    Hearing aids FAQ

    What is a hearing aid, and what are the alternatives?

    Hearing aids are small electronic devices that make it easier for wearers to hear the sounds around them. Hearing aids help people talk with their loved ones, listen to their favorite music or movies, and be more aware of their environments. Hearing aids are different from cochlear implants, which are surgically implanted and designed to help people with profound hearing loss.

    Hearing aids should also not be confused with personal sound amplification products (PSAPs), which lack the technological sophistication of hearing aids and are primarily used to amplify specific sounds in quiet environments. Though they might seem similar, sound amplification devices are not substitutes for hearing aids and are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat hearing loss.

    Who qualifies for a hearing aid?

    The short answer is that hearing aids help people with hearing loss, so you may benefit from a hearing aid if you:

    • Have difficulty hearing in everyday situations
    • Feel like you’re missing out on the sounds around you
    • Find yourself turning up the volume on your TV or headphones to a point that’s irritating to others

    Although hearing aids are now available over the counter, visiting a doctor for a hearing exam may be helpful if you’re unsure about the cause of your hearing loss or whether a hearing aid is right for you.

    Do I need a hearing aid for mild hearing loss?

    A hearing aid isn’t necessarily required if you have mild hearing loss, but hearing aids that treat mild hearing loss do exist. With these hearing aids, it’s easier to hear more subtle sounds like birds chirping, whispers and leaves rustling.

    How much is a good hearing aid?

    In the past, the average cost of a good hearing aid ranged from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on its type, features, warranty and other factors. However, the introduction of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids has meant that people can now get legitimate hearing aids for as little as a few hundred dollars.

    Cheap hearing aids vs. expensive hearing aids: What’s the difference?

    The exact differences between cheap and expensive hearing aids vary from model to model, but the introduction of over-the-counter hearing aids has made it easier to make comparisons.

    OTC hearing aids are generally more affordable than prescription hearing aids, and they’re plenty effective for many people. However, OTC hearing aids generally don’t come with the extra services and professional help that prescription hearing aids do.

    While they can cost considerably more than OTCs, prescription hearing aids can help a wider range of people, and they often come with a suite of services that help make sure your hearing aid is working properly and optimized to your hearing loss profile.

    Are hearing aids covered by insurance?

    Health insurance generally doesn’t cover hearing aids, but some insurance providers offer specialty coverage for hearing devices. (Also, some states require insurers to provide coverage for children’s hearing aids. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has a helpful breakdown of different states’ laws.)

    Your exact coverage will depend on your insurance plan, so it’s worth checking with your insurance company before you spend your own money on a hearing aid.

    Are hearing aids covered by Medicare?

    Original Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids, but some Medicare Advantage plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t. Check your plan details to see if you’re eligible for hearing aid coverage.

    If you need help paying for a hearing aid, you might also be able to get assistance from:

    • The Department of Veterans Affairs: If you’re a veteran, you may be able to obtain hearing aids for free or at a discounted price through the VA.
    • Nonprofits or charities: Find out if you’re eligible for assistance from a nonprofit organization that helps individuals pay for hearing aids.
    What is the difference between analog and digital hearing aids?

    Hearing aids have generally been made with either analog or digital technology. However, analog hearing aids are significantly less popular in today’s market, and few major brands still offer them.

    The main difference between analog and digital hearing aids comes down to how they process audio:

    • Digital hearing aids analyze incoming sound waves before deciding how to amplify them.
    • Analog hearing aids amplify all sounds in the environment — both voices and unwanted noise — without being analyzed or filtered.

    That means digital hearing aids can separate voices from unwanted noise and make smart decisions on what to amplify and what to minimize. This process reduces distracting background noise, like restaurant chatter, and high-frequency white noise, like the hiss of an air conditioning unit. 

    For more information, check out our article on how hearing aids work.

    Is it OK to buy hearing aids online?

    While it’s generally OK to buy your hearing aids online (especially since the introduction of over-the-counter hearing aids), it can still be a good idea to visit your doctor or check out a brick-and-mortar hearing aid store before you do.

    Also, it’s worth keeping your eyes open while shopping for hearing aids online — we’ve seen retailers passing off personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) as OTC hearing aids, even though PSAPS aren’t suitable for people with hearing loss.

    Do hearing aids help tinnitus?

    Many hearing aids have comfort settings with white noise or calming sounds that help relieve the symptoms of tinnitus, but they can’t stop it. (Read our guide to the best hearing aids for tinnitus to learn more.)

    The American Tinnitus Association recommends that people consult with an audiologist or a doctor to determine the best course of action for managing tinnitus.

    Can I get my hearing aid reprogrammed?

    In many cases, you can work with an audiologist to reprogram your hearing aid to best fit your hearing profile in a variety of listening environments. However, it’s worth pointing out that OTC hearing aids generally aren’t programmable in the same way that prescription hearing aids are.

    How long does a hearing aid last?

    Quality hearing aids typically last anywhere from three to eight years.

    What are the best hearing aid companies near me?

    Compare Top Hearing Aid Reviews

    ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. To learn more about the content on our site, visit our FAQ page. Specific sources for this article include:
    1. Hearing Loss Association of America, “Hearing Loss Facts and Statistics.” Accessed Jan. 11, 2023.
    2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “FDA Finalizes Historic Rule Enabling Access to Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids for Millions of Americans.” Accessed Jan. 11, 2023.
    3. National Institute on Aging, “Hearing Loss: A Common Problem for Older Adults.” Accessed April 26, 2021.
    4. American Academy of Audiology. “Hearing Aids.” Accessed April 26, 2021.
    5. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), “What the Numbers Mean: An Epidemiological Perspective on Hearing.” Accessed April 26, 2021.
    6. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “How to get Hearing Aids.” Accessed April 26, 2021.
    7. Weill Cornell Medicine, “Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids: What Your Audiologist Wants You to Know.” Accessed Jan. 12, 2023.
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