As an audiologist, I've dedicated my career to helping patients conquer their hearing challenges and embrace their lives through better hearing. One particular hurdle that patients frequently encounter is the struggle with background noise.
Background noise is often reported as the foremost listening challenge by many of my patients. The cacophony of sounds in a crowded room or the hum of a busy street can transform simple conversations into frustrating puzzles.
Thankfully, advancements in hearing aid technology offer solutions to this problem, specifically designed to enhance speech understanding in noisy environments. In this article, we'll delve deeper into the best hearing aid options and tips for tackling background noise in 2024.
How we tested hearing aids for background noise management.
Our team, made up of audiologists and hearing aid wearers, conducted field trials in various noisy environments to gauge the hearing aids' real-world performance. In addition, we performed rigorous test box measurements to quantify each device's noise reduction capabilities, amplification of speech sounds, and overall sound quality.
Last, we considered user reviews for insights into the comfort, ease of use, and overall satisfaction with each hearing aid. By combining these methods, we aim to provide a comprehensive, balanced view of the top hearing aids for noise in 2024, helping you to make an informed choice and find a solution that fits your individual needs and lifestyle.
Let's talk about the best hearing aids for noise in 2024 👇
Why Trust Soundly
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- 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
- 200+ hours each month spent researching brands and care options
- 100% independently owned and operated
We launched Soundly.com in 2022 to create a better starting point for the hearing health experience.
Instead of selling hearing aids directly, we spend our time reviewing products, publishing clearly organized information, and building modern tools to make the process of accessing hearing health easier. Learn more.
Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Read more about our research process here.
Key Takeaways
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Why Trust Soundly
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- 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
- 200+ hours each month spent researching brands and care options
- 100% independently owned and operated
We launched Soundly.com in 2022 to create a better starting point for the hearing health experience.
Instead of selling hearing aids directly, we spend our time reviewing products, publishing clearly organized information, and building modern tools to make the process of accessing hearing health easier. Learn more.
Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Read more about our research process here.
Featured in this article
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#1. Prescription Favorites
Hearing aid wearers can choose between telehealth, prescription and over-the-counter options. This first group of products is only available through prescriptions channes. That means an audiologist will test your hearing and program the devices below to match your loss. This strategy leads to precise frequency targeting which is particularly helpful in complex background noise.
- The ReSound Nexia is a recently launched micro receiver-in-the-ear (RIE) hearing aid that stands as a testament to the adage, "Good things come in small packages." Despite its compact design, the Nexia delivers a remarkable performance in tackling background noise, thanks to ReSound's innovative sound algorithms. ReSound’s app allows users to gain additional control over their hearing aid settings and personalize their hearing experience. Specifically, it offers a dedicated program designed for noise reduction, enabling users to modify the intensity of noise filters based on their immediate environment. ReSound also makes a fantastic accessory, the Multi Mic+, to provide additional support in noisy environments. Your conversation partner can clip on this remote microphone technology, and their voice will be streamed right into your ears through your hearing aids.
- Signia Pure Charge&Go IX is the newest addition to Signia's product line, boasting several advanced features that significantly enhance the user's listening experience in background noise. Pure Charge&Go IX introduces an impressive feature in the form of its multiple beam-forming technology. This innovative technology enhances the wearer's ability to capture and focus on multiple conversations simultaneously. It forms distinct 'beams' of sound, pinpointing different speakers in the user's environment. As a result, users can engage in conversations more effectively, with each voice coming through clearly.
- Oticon Intent is another new release with built-in 4D sensors that track head and body movements, spatial positioning in the room and multiple talkers. Oticon's new product has only been out for afew months but has already picked up a lot of momentum among users.
With Auracast
ReSound NEXIA
ReSound NEXIA
As Low As $3,198
Why We Picked It
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ReSound Nexia stands out for its legacy of innovation and modern design. Here’s what makes it a top pick:
- Proven Expertise: ReSound has led the hearing aid industry with tech-first developments, from the earliest made-for-iPhone hearing aids to today’s Auracast-enabled models. With millions of users worldwide, ReSound brings trusted experience and reliability.
- Discreet Design: NEXIA is the smallest receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid we’ve reviewed, offering a low-profile option that’s especially helpful if you wear glasses or prefer subtlety.
- Powerful Battery: With 30 hours of life on a single charge and a portable charger, Nexia provides extended wear and convenience, ideal for users who are on the go.
- Superior Background Noise Handling: Nexia’s advanced beam-forming tech and innovative in-ear microphone deliver exceptional clarity in noisy environments, making it one of the best in the market for handling complex soundscapes.
ReSound NEXIA combines sleek design with high-performing technology, ideal for those who want both discretion and power.
What Users Say
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ReSound NEXIA receives strong reviews for its crisp sound quality. Some users note issues with Bluetooth connectivity on Android devices and slight discomfort from the in-ear M&RIE receiver. Read more reviews via our partners at ZipHearing.
- "I had gotten so used to diminished hearing, I had no idea what I was missing. I no longer say “can you repeat that” or “what?” And my phone rings in my ear and all I have to do is tap the unit behind my ear. No more fumbling to get me phone out of my pocket in time to answer." - Richard
- "I love my new Resound Nexia 9. They seem to pick up sounds my previous 5-year old hearing aids picked up and they seem to process background noise much better. I am very happy with my purchase." - Mitch
- "My new Nexia “ears “ are very comfortable behind the ears. They seemed very loud at first but I have adjusted and are obviously better than my old “ears” . The sound is clear and less tinny . I can hear a phone conversation very clearly using the Bluetooth ability, although I still need my phone very close for the caller to hear me. After a day of wearing my “ears” the left one hurts, I think from the wire, however I have not had a follow up appointment so that may be fixable. The right side is no problem." - Fiona
- "The rechargeable battery is a HUGE plus—no more keeping batteries on me at all times. The moisture resistance is another plus—no more bulky desiccant case. The charging case is small enough to be easily portable, but might be a bit uncomfortable in a pocket—maybe in a jacket pocket. It took me a few days to figure out a good workflow for getting the hearing aids to connect and stay connected to my Pixel 5 (listed on the manufacturer's website as compatible). The connectivity is good when it works but sometimes one of the hearing aids drops out and has to reconnect. I was not able to get them to connect to my work computer (a MacBook) using MFi." - Matt
Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
- Great for background noise management
- Auracast compatible
- Small form factor and an optional 3rd microphone in the ear
- 30-hours of battery life
Cons 👎
- More expensive compared to direct to consumer and OTC options
- NEXIA's in-ear M&RIE microphone is a bit larger and can be uncomfortable for some
Soundly Scorecard
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Hearing Loss Level 🔊
- ReSound NEXIA is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss, your care provider may fit you with a custom earmold to reduce feedback
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for ReSound NEXIA BTE
Care Type 🏥
- ReSound NEXIA is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- After an initial fitting, you can connect with your care provider remotely through the ReSound app
Sound Quality 🔊
- ReSound NEXIA is an excellent choice for background noise management. The optional M&RIE microphone that sits inside the ear adds additional intelligence and reduces handling noise from your hair or glasses.
- NEXIA hearing aids come with four onboard microphones that anayze and manage background noise in the most complex situations.
Comfort 🦻
- ReSound NEXIA is a discreet and comfortable product, but some users with smaller ear canals find the M&RIE receiver uncomfortable in their ears. M&RIE can be removed by your care provider and replaced with a standard receiver.
Style 💫
- ReSound NEXIA hearing aids sit behind the ear
- NEXIA is 25% smaller than past ReSound products and is one of the smallest behind-the-ear style devices on the market.
- NEXIA comes in 8 colors, including, sparkling silver, champagne, gold, bronze, warm grey, graphite, espresso, deep black
Battery 🔋
- NEXIA comes with three battery options, including micro RIE rechargeable (30 hours), a larger disposable battery version (size 13), and a second disposable battery option (size 312).
- A rechargeable version of NEXIA is also available with a CROS (for single-sided deafness)
Connection 📡
- NEXIA is one of the first hearing aids on the market to release Auracast-compatible hearing aids. Auracast will take a few years to roll out in public spaces. Still, once it is available, it will allow users to stream public announcements, movies, and other shared audio experiences directly to their hearing aids.
- Of course, NEXIA also allows standard Bluetooth streaming from iPhone and Android devices. iPhone users can take calls hands-free, while Android users must keep their phones close to pick up outbound audio.
- NEXIA uses Apple's MFI connection and Android's ASHA connection to stream content through Bluetooth
Dexterity Level 🤏
- NEXIA is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- NEXIA recharging cases use conduction charging, which is easier to handle
- NEXIA has an app feature that uses your phone camera to check that the hearing aids are in the ear properly
Waterproof Level 💦
- ReSound NEXIA is water resistant with an IP rating of 68
- This hearing aid can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
App features 📱
- Remote care: After an in-office activation, the remote care option is available on the app
- Customization: Volume control, treble/bass, streaming treble/bass, programs
- Tinnitus masking: Customizable programs with a hearing care professional or use the Resound Relief app to experiment with masking noise
- Find my hearing aid: Yes, feature is included in the app
- Check my fit: An app feature from Resound to check the hearing aids are in the ear properly
Read our full review of the ReSound App here.
Learn More
Best Battery Life
Signia Charge&Go
Signia Charge&Go
$3,198 - $4,798
Why We Picked It
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Signia Charge&Go is a standout for those seeking a well-rounded prescription hearing aid that combines advanced features, sleek design, and extended battery life. Here’s why we love it:
- Long Battery Life: With up to 39 hours of power (34 hours with streaming), it’s perfect for reliable, all-day use without constant recharging.
- Speech Clarity: Multi-beamforming technology sharpens speech even in noisy environments, helping users focus on conversations with ease.
- Advanced Features: Includes Own Voice Processing (OVP) and Bluetooth LE Audio for smooth streaming from both iOS and Android devices, enhancing audio quality.
- Comprehensive App Support: The Signia smartphone app offers fitness tracking, remote care (after the first appointment), and Signia Assistant, adding customization and convenience.
What Users Say
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Customer reviews for Signia Pure Charge&Go are generally positive with nearly all customers celebrating crisp and clear sound. Some customers even report improvements in tinnitus using Signia's in-app tinnitus features. Like all hearing aids, some users find that adjustment to hearing more sound is a process. See more reviews from our partners at ZipHearing.
- "I can hear again!! No more asking people to repeat what they said, turn up the TV, or be staring blankly because I wasn't sure someone was addressing me. I can hear the water that I accidentally left running outside (old pipes in an old house). It's wonderful!!" - Mary
- "I LOVE my new Signia Pure Chareg&Go 5 IX hearing aids. I'm 81 and these are my first so I wondered if I'd have trouble adjusting to the sound or the aids. The answer is neither! The sound is very natural - I'm now hearing highs I haven't heard for decades. From the first day I've been wearing them for 16 hours per day and don't even know they're there." - Jeff
- "The sound quality is very good .Ive had chronic tinnitus for over a year and three months. I use ocean sounds for my therapy , it sounds like you are there. They are discrete and easy to wear . I have reduced my tinnitus by 65 to 70 percent In just about 3 months. Take the step , put in the time and results will follow." - Harly
- "Sound quality is very tinny but from what I've read, that is to be expected. I know my family and friends are happy to not be repeating themselves over and over again. It's very hard to review a product when you have nothing to compare it to." - Colleen
Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
- Among the smallest body size on the market
- Second longest battery with 39 hours per charge
- Excellent in background noise
- Fully customizable with premium sound processing
Cons 👎
- Only sold through local clinics at $3,198 - $7,000 a pair
- Does not include a Find My Hearing Aids feature
Soundly Scorecard
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Hearing Loss Level 🔊
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss, your care provider may fit you with a custom earmold to reduce feedback
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for a high-powered BTE style hearing aid
Care Type 🏥
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- After an initial fitting, you can connect with your care provider remotely through the Signia app
Sound Quality 🔊
- Signia uses a unique Split Processing technique helps isolate background noise and boost speech clarity
- Signia's Own Voice Processing (OVP) helps take the edge off of that uncomfortable sound quality of the user's own voice that many patients experience when adjusting to hearing aids
Comfort 🦻
- Signia Pure Charge&Go comes in in a small and comfortable receiver-in-canal style that is easy to wear all day
Style 💫
- Sits behind the ear with a receiver (speaker) that reaches into the ear canal
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is one of the smallest receiver-in-canal hearing aids on the market
- Choose between ten color schemes including: Black, Graphite, Dark Champagne, Silver, Pearl White, Fine Gold, Deep Brown, Sandy Brown, Rose Gold and Beige
Battery 🔋
- Choose between disposable and rechargeable batteries
- 36+ hours on a full charge
- Popular charger options: Portable charger with induction charging, or plugin Dry & Clean charger
Connection 📡
- Signia Pure Charge&Go allows Bluetooth streaming, music listening, and phone calls. iPhone users can take calls hands-free, while Android users must keep their phones close to pick up outbound audio
- Signia Pure Charge&Go uses Apple's MFI connection and Android's ASHA connection to stream content through Bluetooth
- Signia Pure Charge&Go hearing aids can connect to multiple devices (ie. TV and phone) simultaneously
Dexterity Level 🤏
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- Signia Pure Charge&Go uses a conduction charger that is easier to handle than contact based methods
Waterproof Level 💦
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is water resistant with an IP rating of 68
- This hearing aid can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
App features 📱
- Remote care: Included in the Signia app (not a separate app)
- Customization: Treble/bass, volume, microphone directionality, Signia Assistant
- Tinnitus masking: Customizable options through your hearing care professional
- Find my hearing aid: Not available
- Health tracking: Step tracking, activity (e.g., high intensity versus low), and wear time
Learn More
Most Advanced Sensors
Oticon Intent
Oticon Intent
As low as $4,898
Why We Picked It
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Oticon Intent is one of the most popular hearing aids in the U.S., second only to Phonak, and offers a few standout features.
- First, its wide range of advanced sensors intelligently adapts to different environments, making it excellent at handling background noise. This advanced noise management puts Oticon in a race with just a few brands for the best sound management.
- Second, Oticon Intent’s devices are professionally programmed, providing highly customizable settings tailored to the user's unique hearing profile.
- Oticon Intent offers Bluetooth streaming from iPhone and Android and the ability to use Auracast when it is more widely available.
This combination of popularity, intelligent sound processing, and precise, in-clinic programming makes Oticon Intent one of the best on the market at this time.
What Users Say
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Oticon Intent reviews are nearly all positive with most users reporting clear sound and strong underlying performance. Lower than 5-star ratings typically come down to ongoing challenges hearing in tough environments. A few sample reviews from our partners at ZipHearing:
- "I've had these Oticon Intent hearing aids for a couple of weeks now, replacing Phonak Audio Lumity hearing aids. My impression is that I am hearing sibilant sounds slightly better and hearing conversations in restaurants slightly better. Even slight gains mean a lot to me. I have moderate hearing loss in the upper registers (normal in the lower). Anything that improves comprehension is welcome. In addition, the design of these hearing aids makes them more comfortable for me than the Phonaks and I wear them all the time without noticing that they are in except very occasionally feeling a little itching in the left ear, which goes away if I take out the hearing aid for a moment and rub the area. I would recommend these hearing aids to others." - John
- "Certainly like the change of hearing clarity. Very simple to use without making adjustments due to background noises or audiences. Very comfortable and no feedback. Glad I moved forward with Oticon Intent." - David
- "These hearing aids are great for me. I am able to hear with no problem at all. they are just as good or better than another brand that I tried that cost over 3 thousand dollars more. they are doing fine and I use them everywhere. I am outside most of the time and they do fine by staying in and not having to worry about them falling out or getting knocked out of my ear." - Stephen
- "I have been wearing HA for over 10 years. Experience with COSCO and others. Although these took some getting used to, my conversational hearing has greatly improved. My husband and friends have noticed without my asking. Still have to get used to the sound of my own voice - which is strange to me - but patience prevails. The music setting works pretty well such that I have resumed playing piano - which I had abandoned. This was an unexpected element in my hearing impaired world! While no hearing aids can provide total hearing correction, I no longer feel isolated in conversational situations. Thank you to the engineers at Oticon!" - Arlene
Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
- Well balanced and intuitive sound processing
- Bluetooth streaming from Android and Apple devices
- Offered with both rechargeable and disposable batteries
Cons 👎
- Oticon Intent hearing aids start at $2,898 and can cost as much as $7,000 with walk in care
- Oticon Intent hearing aids require a visit to an in person audiologist and are not sold online
Soundly Scorecard
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Hearing Loss Level 🔊
- Oticon Intent is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss, your care provider can fit you with a custom earmold to reduce feedback
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for Oticon Xceed
Care Type 🏥
- Oticon Intent is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- After an initial fitting, you can connect with your care provider remotely through the Oticon app
Sound Quality 🔊
- Oticon Intent comes with a new, smarter operating system. Intent uses Oticon's Deep Neural Network to sort background noise from speech. Many users describe Oticon's sound quality as "relaxed", "natural" and "comfortable."
- The new 4D sensors give a customized listening experience for the user, and potentially enhanced clarity and balance.
Comfort 🦻
- Oticon Intent is a very comfortable product with a wide-variety of possible earmolds, domes, and fits. Oticon Intent sits behind your ear with a receiver (speaker) inside the ear.
Style 💫
- Oticon Intent hearing aids sit behind the ear
- Oticon's smallest RIC hearing aid to date
- Intent comes in 9 colors including chroma beige, silver grey, silver, terracotta, chestnut brown, steel grey, diamond black, olive green, and sky blue
Battery 🔋
- Intent is only availabe in a rechargeable battery option at the moment.
- The rechargeable version of Oticon Intent gets 20 hours of power on a single 2-hour charge, even with streaming.
Connection 📡
- Oticon Intent allows Bluetooth streaming, music listening, and phone calls across all models. iPhone users can take calls hands-free, and compatible Android users will also enjoy hands free calls.
- Oticon Intent uses Bluetooth LE and is Auracast-capable
Dexterity Level 🤏
- Oticon Intent is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- Single push button
Waterproof Level 💦
- Oticon Intent is water resistant with an IP rating of 68
- This hearing aid can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
App features 📱
- Remote care: included in the new Oticon Companion app
- Customization: volume, program change, streaming sound quality (treble/bass), SpeechBooster
- Tinnitus masking: your hearing care provider can create a tinnitus masking program
- Find my hearing aid: available in the app
- Health tracking: not available
Learn More
#2. Telecare Favorites
If you are seeking a more affordable telecare option, we recommend the Jabra Enhance Select. Jabra's devices are priced between $1,200 and $2,000 for a pair, compared to $4,500 for in-clinic alternatives. These devices utilize the same underlying algorithms found in ReSound NEXIA (Jabra's sister brand) and feature excellent technology for managing background noise.
Best Telehealth
Jabra Enhance Select
Jabra Enhance Select
$1,195 - $1,995
- Bluetooth enabled and rechargeable
- 100-day risk-free trial
- Nearly invisible with a sleek design
- Professionally programmed before shipping to your home
Why We Picked It
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The Jabra Enhance Select 500 offers an impressive blend of clinic-grade technology, affordability, and user convenience. Here’s why it stands out:
- Professional-Grade Technology at a Lower Price: Jabra’s Enhance Select 500 provides the advanced sound quality of clinic-only brands like ReSound but at less than half the price.
- Professional Programmed Hearing Aids From Home: Jabra’s pre-programmed approach ensures a personalized fit without needing in-clinic visits—customers simply take or upload a hearing test, and Jabra's audiologists program the hearing aids before shipment.
- Seamless Bluetooth Streaming: Equipped with LE Audio, the Enhance Select 500 delivers high-quality, direct streaming for calls and media, with excellent sound quality and range.
- Purchase Perks: Jabra offers 100-day returns, unlimited remote adjustments, and seven-day-a-week customer support.
What Users Say
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Overall
Users commend the Jabra Enhance Select 500 for its natural sound quality, discreet design, and effective customer support. Many report significant improvements in hearing clarity and comfort.
Positives
- Natural Sound Quality: "The sound quality is excellent, and the ability to adjust settings via the app is a great feature." — Timothy T.
- Discreet Design: "These hearing aids are virtually invisible and very comfortable to wear throughout the day." — Angel M.
- Customer Support: "The customer service team was incredibly helpful and guided me through the setup process with ease." — Damian.
Complaints
While the majority of feedback is positive, some customers have reported issues with device durability and the need for adjustments. However, these concerns are relatively infrequent compared to the overall satisfaction expressed by users.
For a comprehensive view of customer experiences, you can visit Jabra Enhance's review page.
Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
- One of the most affordable and convenient ways to purchase online while maintaining professional care
- Comes with a 100 day free-return period
- Offers rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming
Cons 👎
- Remote care requires users to be somewhat tech savvy
- Jabra only offers styles that sit behind the ear
Soundly Scorecard
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Hearing Loss Level 🔊
- Jabra Enhance Select is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss and struggle with feedback (squealing) you may need a custom earmold (not available through Jabra Telehealth)
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for a high-powered BTE style hearing aid (note available through Jabra Telehealth)
Care Type 🏥
- Jabra is a remote care brand that programs and delivers your hearing aids through Telehealth
- Take or submit a hearing test and a Jabra professional will program your hearing aids and ship them to your door
- Three years of unlimited support is included with every purchase
- Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids come with the capability for remote adjustments. This feature means you don't need to ship your hearing aids back to get program updates
Sound Quality 🔊
- Jabra Enhance Select is manufactured by GN Hearing (the makers of ReSound hearing aids)
- Jabra devices come with a strong set of background noise handling features and app controls
Comfort 🦻
- Jabra Enhance Select comes in a small and comfortable receiver-in-canal style that is easy to wear all day
Style 💫
- Sits behind the ear with a receiver (speaker) that reaches into the ear canal
- The form factor of Jabra Enhance Select is comparable to ReSound hearing aids
- Choose between five colors including: Sparkling Silver, Champaign, Gold, Bronze and Warm Grey
Battery 🔋
- Jabra Enhance Select offers three levels of technology. Select 500 and Select 300 come with rechargeable batteries and as of May 2024, Select 50 also comes with rechargeable batteries
- 30 hours on a full charge
- Comes with a portable charger (does not need to be plugged in)
Connection 📡
- All Jabra Enhance Select technology levels allow Bluetooth streaming, music listening, and phone calls.
- Jabra Enhance Select 500 uses Bluetooth LE Audio (Auracast ready) and is handsfree for iPhone (11 and newer) and compatible Android models
- Jabra Enhance Select 300 allows iPhone users to take calls hands-free, while Android users must keep their phones close to pick up outbound audio
- Jabra Enhance Select 300 uses Apple's MFI connection and Android's ASHA connection to stream content through Bluetooth
Dexterity Level 🤏
- Jabra Enhance Select is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- If dexterity is a concern we recommend Select 300, which is larger and easier to grasp than the microRIE (Select 500)
- The Jabra Enhance Select charge case uses induction charging and is fairly easy to handle
Waterproof Level 💦
- All levels of Jabra Enhance Select have an IP rating of 68
- These hearing aids can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
App features 📱
- Customization: Treble/bass, volume, microphone directionality
- Jabra Enhance Select includes Telehealth capabilities through the Jabra app
Read Our Full Review
#3. Over-The-Counter Options
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are an affordable alternative to prescription and telehealth options for those who are comfortable programming their own devices using a smartphone. Many OTC devices are manufactured by the same parent companies as prescription models, which means the primary difference lies in the programming approach rather than the technology itself.
Our top choices for performance in background noise include:
- Sennheiser All Day Clear: This is our overall choice for the best performance in background noise. Sennheiser uses multiple microphones to analyze your environment and adjust in real-time. It is produced by Sonova, the world's leading hearing aid manufacturer.
- Eargo 7: This is our top choice for in-ear performance in background noise. In our lab testing, Eargo 7 achieved the highest background noise suppression scores among all products across styles. It is invisible in most ears and rechargeable, making it an excellent overall choice.
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose: This is our top OTC choice for its smartphone app and customer service. Lexie B2 Plus boasts excellent underlying technology and provides a more open soundscape in certain environments, which can feel more natural.
Best OTC Hearing Aid Under $1,000
Sennheiser All Day Clear
Sennheiser All Day Clear
$999 / pair
- Our favorite OTC hearing aids for under $1,000
- Manufactured by the largest hearing aid maker in the world
- Compatible with iPhone and Android devices
Why We Picked It
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Here’s why we picked the Sennheiser All-Day Clear:
- Trusted Manufacturer: Developed by Sennheiser, a leader in audio, and backed by Sonova, the world's #1 hearing aid maker, ensuring high-quality sound and technology.
- Comfortable Design: Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear, available in both Slim and standard models to suit different preferences.
- Affordable Price: Offers premium sound quality and features typically found in prescription hearing aids, all for under $1,000.
- Easy App Control: The intuitive smartphone app allows for quick, user-friendly setup and self-programming, ideal for even mildly tech-savvy users.
What Users Say
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Sennheiser All Day Clear reviews are about as glowing as you'll find among self-fit devices. Users comment on Sennheiser's lightweight comfort, clear sound and easy to use app. Some users wished that the battery life was longer for 16+ hours of wear. Here are some sample reviews:
- "One of the best over-the-counter hearing aids you'll find.They're extremely lightweight which I really appreciate because usually whenever I use any sort of earbuds I like it to wear I don't even feel like they're on my ear.The clarity of the audio that comes out of these small little hearing aids is very impressive." - Jay
- "The instructions are not complicated and the all day clear app for the phone is easy to use and works well for personal customization. You can use the hearing aids itself to control the volume and connect to other devices. The all day clear hearing aids are comfortable to wear all day. I feel more confident because I feel like I am apart of conversations and not alienated in life. The battery life is good but you will need to recharge if you are wearing them all day." - Kamille
- "I got my 72-year-old dad the Sennheiser hearing aid, and oh boy, it's a total game-changer! Dad's been dealing with some hearing trouble for a while, but this device has turned things around big time.Being far away from him, I sent the aid his way, and he managed to set it up all by himself using YouTube. Easy peasy! Now, he's raving about how it's like night and day. In group chats, he used to miss out on voices, but not anymore. He's hearing everyone loud and clear, even when Mom calls him from another room." - Britto
Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
- Premium Sonova-built technology for less than prescription channels
- Bluetooth streaming and hands-free calls (Android and iPhone)
- Comfortable all-day form factor
Cons 👎
- Charger must be plugged in while charging
- Requires a smartphone for programming
Soundly Scorecard
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Hearing Loss Level 🔊
- All-Day Clear is an OTC product appropriate for mild-moderate hearing loss levels
- If you have more significant hearing loss you might consider local or Telehealth care. Read more about prescription Vs. OTC hearing aids here
Care Type 🏥
- Available for purchase online via Soundly
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- Customize your hearing aids with the Sennheiser All-Day Clear app
- Soundly customers get a complimentary guided setup session
Sound Quality 🔊
- Sennheiser offers impressive underlying background noise management technology
- We found this product performed at a similar level to top prescription brands
Comfort 🦻
- Comfortable receiver-in-canal style is great for all day wear
Style 💫
- Sits behind the ear with a receiver (speaker) that reaches into the ear canal
- The form factor of Sennheiser All-Day Clear is comparable to leading prescription hearing aids like Phonak Lumity
- Available in a dual-tone black and silver
- Choose between slim and non-slim versions (we recommend the non-slim option for most people)
Battery 🔋
- Sennheiser All-Day Clear comes with rechargeable batteries
- 16 hours of wear on a single charge
- Recharge case must be plugged into the wall while in use
Connection 📡
- All-Day Clear streams to all devices including iPhone and Android
- All Day Clear allows hands free phone calls on both iPhone and Android
- Streaming quality is similar to the top prescription products on the market
Dexterity Level 🤏
- All-Day Clear is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- The All-Day Clear recharge case has ports that must be in contact for charging. This type of charger is more difficult than premium conduction chargers which do not require ports to be touching
Waterproof Level 💦
- Sennheiser All-Day Clear hearing aids have an IP68 rating
- These devices can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes without damage
App features 📱
- The Sennheiser All-Day Clear app enables setup and customization of your hearing aids
- The smartphone app allows on-the-go volume and sound quality adjustments
- The All-Day Clear app has a music and automatic program but does not offer Tinnitus masking, program creation or other advanced features
Read Our Full Review
Best Product Design
Eargo
Eargo
$1,650 - $2,950
Why We Picked It
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Eargo has long set the standard for design in the hearing aid industry. Their compact devices, along with an intuitive app and thoughtful packaging, make Eargo a standout choice for early adopters. Here’s why we picked it:
- Invisible Design: The Eargo 7 is the smallest rechargeable hearing aid on the market, rivaled only by the Sony CRE-C20.
- Reduced Occlusion: Eargo’s patented “floating” ear tip design sits comfortably in the ear without causing occlusion, a common issue for in-ear hearing aid users.
- User-Friendly App: The Eargo app is easy to navigate, and it allows audiologists to remotely adjust your devices as needed, though most adjustments can be managed directly in the app.
What Users Say
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Eargo has received numerous customer reviews, reflecting a generally positive reception.
Overall
Customers frequently commend Eargo for its discreet design, sound quality, and responsive customer service. Many users highlight the significant improvement in their hearing experience and the comfort of the devices.
Positives
- Discreet Design: "The Eargo hearing aids are virtually invisible, and no one can tell I'm wearing them." — James D.
- Sound Quality: "The clarity of sound is remarkable; I can hear conversations clearly even in noisy environments." — Charlie B.
- Customer Service: "Eargo's support team was incredibly helpful and guided me through the setup process with ease." — Rowdy G.
Complaints
While the majority of feedback is positive, some customers have reported issues with device durability and the need for adjustments. However, these concerns are relatively infrequent compared to the overall satisfaction expressed by users.
For a comprehensive view of customer experiences, you can visit Eargo's review page.
Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
- Eargo is a tiny, rechargeable device that sits entirely inside the ear
- Eargo uses a unique design that prevents occlusion
- Eargo is self-fit using an app but offers remote support
Cons 👎
- Only appropriate for those with mild to moderate hearing loss
- Requires some tinkering to fine tune the product
- Eargo is not Bluetooth enabled due to the tiny size
Soundly Scorecard
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Hearing Loss Level 🔊
Care Type 🏥
Sound Quality 🔊
Comfort 🦻
Style 💫
Battery 🔋
Connection 📡
Dexterity Level 🤏
Waterproof Level 💦
App features 📱
Get Started
Affordable and Flexible
Lexie B2+ Powered By Bose
Lexie B2+ Powered By Bose
$999
Why We Picked It
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Lexie leads the OTC hearing market in volume, with wide availability in pharmacies and strategic partnerships that make it highly accessible. Here’s why it stands out:
- User-Friendly App with Extensive Adjustments: Lexie’s app offers near-limitless adjustment options, ideal for users who want full control over their sound quality.
- Top-Notch Customer Service: Lexie excels in customer support, allowing users to connect quickly through the app for any assistance needed.
- Soundly Extras: Purchasing Lexie hearing aids through Soundly includes a complimentary audiology setup call, ensuring you start with a perfectly tailored fit.
What Users Say
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Ease of Use and Setup
- Cindy B. – "After a lot of research on OTC hearing aids for my moderate hearing loss, I chose Lexie B2 Plus. I wanted rechargeable hearing aids that would link to my iPhone, and the price was affordable...One of the most exciting experiences I’ve had was hearing the birds in my backyard! It was almost completely quiet without them on."
- William – "These Lexie B-2's were easy to adjust per the app and proved to be superior to the more expensive ones, plus no trips to the doctor every week or so."
Sound Quality and Listening Experience
- Faith Li – "The Lexie B2 hearing aid doesn't get time to charge as I just love wearing them. I am grateful for the gift of hearing and that I no longer miss out on the moments."
- Listener T. – "The sound quality through the aids was fine, once I had them set appropriately. The noisy room filter allowed me to focus on the person in front of me in a restaurant."
Affordability and Value
- Carolyn – "I kept putting off getting hearing aids because they are so expensive and my insurance doesn’t cover them. Once the audiologist mentioned the high quality, I looked into them...What a difference they have made!"
- Kyle, MD – "The Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids are very good introductory hearing aids...The sound quality is excellent and extremely natural."
Challenges
- DJR-NJ – "Customer service and support were excellent! Unfortunately, I was unable to wear the devices because the wires were too short. They did respond quickly to my calls and sent the longest wires they make, but I still couldn't wear them long enough to judge their performance."
- James - "Android App on my phone kept dropping connection with the Lexie hearing aids. The app was more consistent on my iPad"
- Shopper A - "Android phone tries to play audio through hearing aids with No Way To Turn it off unless it's a phone call. Otherwise, you must turn your media volume off. Phone call through hearing aids mutes your microphone so caller can't hear you."
Pros & Cons
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Pros 👍
- Strong underlying technology
- Self-fitting using the Lexie app
- Affordable and rechargeable
Cons 👎
- Only comes in one color
- Not for those with severe hearing loss
Soundly Scorecard
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Hearing Loss Level 🔊
- Lexie B2 Plus - Powered by Bose is an OTC product appropriate for mild-moderate hearing loss levels
- If you have more significant hearing loss you might consider local or Telehealth care. Read more about prescription Vs. OTC hearing aids here
Care Type 🏥
- Available for purchase online or at retail stores like Walgreens and Best Buy
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- Customize your hearing aids with an onboard hearing test and app-controls
Sound Quality 🔊
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose is among our top-rated OTC hearing aids for overall value
- Technology from Bose does a great job managing background noise
Comfort 🦻
- Comfortable receiver-in-canal style is great for all day wear
Style 💫
- Sits behind the ear with a receiver (speaker) that reaches into the ear canal
- The form factor of Lexie B2 Plus Powered By Bose is comparable to leading prescription hearing aids
- Only available in grey
Battery 🔋
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose comes with rechargeable batteries and a portable recharge case
- 18 hours of wear on a single charge
- New recharge case carries an additional 18 hours of portable charge (without being plugged in)
Connection 📡
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose added Bluetooth streaming for iPhones in 2023 and now with compatible Android™ devices
- Refer to the FAQs at LexieHearing.com to check if your Android™ device is compatible.
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose uses Apple's MFi protocol for connection
- Streaming functionality is designed for phone calls. While music and media streaming is possible, it is not optimal.
Dexterity Level 🤏
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
Waterproof Level 💦
- Lexie B2 Plus Less waterproof than industry leaders but still sweat and moisture resistant
App features 📱
- Take an onboard hearing test to customize your hearing aids
- Adjust directionality between “Everywhere” and “Front” modes so you can choose between hearing sounds around you or the sound that’s in front of you
- Manually customize treble/bass, volume and programs
Learn More
Why is background noise tough?
Background noise presents a significant challenge because it tends to bury the peaks and valleys of speech sounds in a sea of ambient noise. In environments with lots of background noise, such as a bustling cafe or a windy park, the important auditory cues that help us distinguish speech from noise can become obscured.
This makes it harder for the listener to parse out individual words and sentences, turning what should be a straightforward dialogue into a strenuous listening exercise. The crux of the issue lies in the brain's processing capacity; it has to work harder to separate the speech sounds from the background noise, which can lead to listener fatigue and frustration.
Tips for dealing with background noise.
Before we talk about the best hearing aids for loud settings, here are a few practical tips that can help you deal with background noise:
- Positioning: Position yourself closer to the person you are trying to listen to. This will directly amplify their speech volume relative to the background noise.
- Visual Cues: Paying attention to visual cues such as lip movements and facial expressions can greatly assist in understanding speech.
- Choose Quieter Settings: When possible, choose quieter settings for conversations. Check out apps like SoundPrint to discover quieter restaurants around you.
- Ask for Accommodations: Don't be shy about asking people to speak more slowly and clearly.
- Preventative Measures: Regularly use earplugs in excessively noisy environments to prevent further damage to your hearing.
Remember, dealing with background noise can be challenging, but with the right strategies and technology, it is possible to have clear, comfortable conversations, even in noisy conditions.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of hearing aids can be a complex process, given the myriad of options available. From the cutting-edge ReSound NEXIA to the advanced noise management capabilities of the Signia Pure Charge&Go IX and the impressive performance and form factor offered by Eargo 7, each of these hearing aids presents a unique set of features to enhance your listening experience.
Frequently asked questions
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