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.
Does this sound familiar?
Imagine you're having dinner with your friends at a popular uptown restaurant. The atmosphere is vibrant, and there's a lively buzz in the air with people chattering, the clinking of dishes, and the music playing in the background. You're in the middle of sharing an exciting story, an anecdote that had your friends in splits the last time you narrated it.
However, this time around, you can barely hear your own voice over the din. You struggle to catch your friends' reactions; their laughter gets lost in the sea of noise surrounding you. The essence of the story and the joy of sharing it is drowned in the overpowering background noise. This is a common scenario for individuals with hearing challenges, and it underscores why innovative hearing aids designed to cope with background noise are so crucial.
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.
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 👇
#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.
ReSound unveiled NEXIA in October 2023. If you’ve read our past reviews, you might know that ReSound is a regular innovator in the hearing category.
The brand was the first to partner with Apple for Bluetooth streaming back in 2013. In 2022, ReSound released an impressive algorithm update with improved beam-forming tech that boasted a 150% improvement in background noise.
ReSound is also the only manufacturer that places a microphone inside the ear to use the natural shape of the pinna to sort out background noise. Those popular features will remain with ReSound NEXIA with some exciting additions.
The first is a visible reduction in size. Impressively, NEXIA maintains a 30-hour battery life while cutting 25% off the overall size—big thumbs up from us.
The second big announcement is that NEXIA has an updated Bluetooth capability that allows Auracast streaming in public places. If you aren’t familiar with Auracast, check out our guide to the topic here.
ReSound is among the best in the industry at separating speech and noise in a background situation. Our lead audiologist recently put NEXIA in a test box and found the hearing aids could consistently provide up to 8-10 dB of background noise reduction.
ReSound NEXIA is on most of our shortlists for the best premium, receiver-in-canal hearing aids on the market.
- Overall notes: ReSound NEXIA is an all around excellent product with an innovative approach to microphones and one of the smallest form factors in the industry. ReSound NEXIA has strong Bluetooth connection that now boasts Auracast compatibility.
- Price: The national average price for ReSound NEXIA is $7,410 per pair. In our price research we've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth with hands-free calling for iPhone and iPad, Small behind the ear style
- What audiologists say: “ReSound offers elegant design and good (if not elite) sound quality. These hearing aids are high quality and reliable.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Great for background noise management
Auracast compatible
Small form factor and an optional 3rd microphone in the ear
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
Signia Pure Charge&Go hearing aids were released in October 2023. They are among the smallest behind-the-ear devices on the market in 2023 and amazingly hold nearly 40 hours per charge (second only to Starkey Genesis AI). Signia is known for limiting background noise by using motion detection to gather information about your surroundings as you move from one space to the next. Their new IX line of devices uses updated beam-forming to track multiple conversations at once. The hearing aids automatically sense when you start walking or sit down and make intelligent decisions about where to focus.
- Overall notes: Signia Charge&Go IX is a hearing aid for someone on the go. It's the smallest, has the most extended battery life, and offers best-in-class motion-based adjustments.
- Price: The national average price for Signia 7IX hearing aids is around $7,400 per pair. We've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth, Behind The Ear Style
- What audiologists say: “Signia offers hands-free streaming (for iOS) and connectivity with their app. It is a solid device with impressive specs and design." - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Among the smallest body size on the market
Second longest battery with 40 hours per charge
Fully customizable with premium sound processing
Only sold through local clinics at $3,198 - $7,000 a pair
Does not include a Find My Hearing Aids feature
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Oticon is the second most popular hearing aid brand (after Phonak). The brand has built a fanbase around its “open” sound philosophy by using advanced methods to support natural sound. Their newest device, the Oticon Intent, goes a step further, offering open sound quality customized to the user’s intent.
The newly designed devices continuously adapt based on four built-in sensors. Together, the brand calls this MoreSound Intelligence 3.0.
- Conversation sensors: Search your soundscape for speech sounds.
- Head sensors: Track your movement to gather information about where you are focused.
- Body sensors: Track your movement through the room and open the field of sound when you walk
- Acoustic sensors: Analyze background noises, echo and room dimensions
None of these sensors are brand new to the world of hearing aids, but Oticon claims to be the first brand to use all four together in one connected system. Add in Oticon's already impressive Deep Neural Network and you get what might be the smartest hearing aid in the industry.
- Overall notes: Oticon Real is an undisputed leader among top-tier hearing aids. If you are attracted to the idea of hearing more of the sounds around you vs. solely focusing on voices, this product is a great choice.
- Price: The national average price for Oticon Intent is $6,330 per pair. In my price research I found some national providers with prices as low as $2,898/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth LE Audio, Behind The Ear Style
- What audiologists say: “Oticon is among the best. If you are looking for all-around, top-of-the-line technology, this is an excellent choice.” - Ramsay Poindexter, AuD
Open sound quality that many users prefer
Bluetooth streaming from Android and Apple devices
Offered with both rechargeable and disposable batteries
Oticon Real hearing aids start at $2,898 and can cost as much as $7,000 with walk in care
Oticon Real hearing aids require a visit to an in person audiologist and are not sold online
#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.
Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids are made by the world's 4th largest hearing aid manufacturer (ReSound). Jabra Enhance (originally called Lively) made a name for itself by recreating the full-service audiology service online.
Instead of requiring you to come into their office, Jabra reduces the cost by programming remotely and shipping to your home.
All Jabra products come with a 100-day return policy and 3 years of unlimited remote care. You can find the same product for sale at a local clinic for around $4,500.
Get started by filling out Jabra's online survey via the right-hand corner of their website.
- Overall notes: If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, are on a budget, and want a hearing professional to program your hearing aids to match your hearing loss, this is one of the most compelling products on the market.
- Price: $1,395 for a pair of battery-powered - $1,695 for a pair of rechargeable, $1,995 for enhanced sound quality
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth (not hands-free), Behind The Ear Style
- What audiologists say: “Their audiologists can personalize and program Jabra hearing aids in real-time; highlighting the benefits of telehealth and competent professionals.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
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
Remote care requires users to be somewhat tech savvy
Jabra only offers styles that sit behind the ear
#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.
In August 2023, Sennheiser unveiled a new OTC hearing aid expected to compete with industry leaders like Bose, Sony, and Jabra. Sennheiser All-Day Clear is a full-featured hearing aid with Bluetooth streaming, hands-free calls (both Android and iPhone, an onboard hearing test, and easy to use app.
Our team tested All-Day Clear and compared it with Sonova's flagship brands - Phonak and Unitron. Our verdict? All-Day Clear has a few missing bells and whistles, but the differences are not dealbreakers. The perfect candidate for All-Day Clear has mild-to-moderate hearing loss, is comfortable using a smartphone, and wants Sonova-made technology for a budget price.
How it works:
✔️ Start by purchasing Sennheiser here at Soundly
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ If you need further adjustments, Sennheiser's technical team and give you some technical advice, but is not highly trained in hearing health matters.
- Overall notes: Based on our reviews, this hearing aid is the most complete offering in the over-the-counter market so far.
- Price: $999 for All-Day Clear with complimentary setup care through Soundly
- Features: Rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth Streaming for iPhone and Android users, Excellent Programming app, Behind-The-Ear Style
Underlying technology and sound-processing from Sonova (top global manufacturer)
Self-fitting using the Sennheiser app
Bluetooth streaming for iPhone and Android
Customer support is limited to tech troubleshooting Vs. remote programming
Only comes in one color scheme
More expensive than some other OTC competitors
Eargo is the disruptor in hearing health. Their product is rechargeable, invisible, and designed with a patented tip that allows your ears to breathe.
Eargo 7 was released in 2023 with new features that adapt to your environment as you move through your day. The company released Eargo SE and Eargo LINK in 2024 to expand their price range and features.
Think of this product as the Tesla of hearing health. Eargo is best for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. If you want to try something new, this is a great option.
- How it works:
✔️ You can purchase Eargo products here on Soundly.com or through retailers like Best Buy.
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you’ll receive instructions to download the app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ If you purchase through Soundly.com a member of our team will join you for a complimentary setup call.
- Overall notes: Eargo stands out for its design, innovation, size, rechargeable batteries. The price is a bit higher than other OTC options but still lower than the national average.
- Price: $2,950 for Eargo’s newest product
- Features: Invisible, self-programmed, rechargeable
- What audiologists say: “If you are looking for invisible devices Eargo is one of the best options on the market.” - Ramsay Poindexter
Eargo is a tiny device that sits entirely inside the ear
Eargo is more affordable then custom mold hearing aids
Eargo is self fit using an app
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
In July 2022 Bose formed a strategic partnership with Lexie (a well respected hearing healthcare company) to release Lexie B1 hearing aids. In October they released a second model with rechargeable batteries. Then in 2024 they added Bluetooth streaming capabilities an improved charger. Constant improvement on an already great product - we love to see it.
Lexie B1 and Lexie B2+ hearing aids are self-fit using an innovative app that allows hearing aid wearers to fit, program, and control their hearing aids with clinically proven, audiologist-quality results. Purchase B1 hearing aids for $849 or rechargeable B2+ hearing aids for $999.
- How it works:
✔️ Start by purchasing Bose online or at a local retailer
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ If you need further adjustments, Lexie has a team of licensed professionals who can make remote updates or provide technical advice.
- Overall notes: If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, are comfortable with smartphone tech, and are on a budget, Bose is one of the most compelling products available.
- Price: $749 for a pair of B1 hearing aids or $999 for a pair of B2+ hearing aids
- Features: Rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth Streaming for iPhone users, Programming app, Behind The Ear Style
- What audiologists say: “One of the simplest to use OTC hearing aids, at a very competitive price. A solid option for those who want to self-manage their mild to moderate hearing loss.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Strong underlying technology
Self-fitting using the Lexie app
Affordable and rechargeable
Only comes in one color
Not right for those with severe hearing loss
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.
