Audiology-Grade Sound
- Sony CRE-C10 is nearly invisible in most ears
- The devices are made by WS Audiology, the makers of Signia, Rexton and Widex hearing aids
- At just $999 a pair, Sony hearing aids are just a quarter the price of comparable products in clinic
- Sony's devices are customized using a smartphone app
- This product is our choice for the best value in-ear OTC product on the market
Invisible and Rechargeable
- Smallest rechargeable device on the market
- Virtually - invisible in most ear canals
- Professional remote adjustments available as needed
- Splash resistant
Looking for invisible hearing aids?
As an audiologist with experience at Mayo Clinic and Michigan Ear, I’ve consulted with hundreds of patients who start with a similar question.
"What are the smallest hearing aids I can reasonably get, and what are the tradeoffs that come with invisible-style devices?"
Just like many of the patients I've worked with, I’ll assume you're here in search of a discrete, invisible solution to treat your hearing loss. The great news is that today’s technology has some truly amazing options when it comes to barely visible hearing aids.
In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about invisible hearing aids. From comparing them to other styles to highlighting key features to look out for, you'll be equipped with all the information you need to find your perfect (hearing aid) match. So, let’s dive in and make your journey toward better hearing as smooth and enjoyable as possible!
In a hurry? Use the page navigation to jump straight to our top-ranked invisible hearing aids in 2024.
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Quick Links
Best OTC Value: Sony CRE-C10
Smallest Rechargeable: Eargo 7
Smallest Overall: Phonak Lyric
Best Custom Mold: Starkey Genesis AI
Hearing Aid Styles Explained
Hearing aids can come in different styles. The two primary styles are:
- Receiver-in-Canal (RIC): These are very discrete for most wearers, with a small portion behind the ear connected to a tiny speaker inside the ear canal.
- In-Ear Hearing Aids: These devices are worn in your ear canal, with sizes ranging from totally invisible to a bit more visible.
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There are four common types of in-the-ear hearing aids that you will find online or at an audiologist.
Invisible In The Canal (IIC) - This tiny style sits inside your ear canal with only a pull tab visible to remove the device.
Completely In Canal (CIC) - The top of the hearing aid is visible to those looking from the side, but the device is very discreet.
In The Canal (ITC) - Comfortable but visible. More easily accessed to change the volume or mode.
ITE - This style is even more accessible and allows for more power and, in some cases, rechargeability and Bluetooth.
Most people who prefer invisible hearing aids will gravitate towards IIC or CIC styles.
Is An Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aid Right for You?
While there are some great invisible-style devices on the market, choosing a hearing aid that sits fully in the ear comes with some considerations. Here are a few questions to ask.
1) What's your low frequency hearing like?
If your hearing is normal or you have a mild low-frequency hearing loss, you might find the occluded sound from an Invisible-in-the-Canal (IIC) hearing aid a bit annoying. It can make everything sound more "plugged" and less natural, which isn't ideal for everyone. Sometimes patients decide to go ahead, knowing that this will take some adjustment.
2) How important is Bluetooth connectivity for you (i.e., streaming audio and phone calls)?
Another key consideration is the feature set you're looking for. If having Bluetooth functionality and app control is high on your priority list, then the smallest hearing aids might not be the best fit for you. These advanced features typically aren't available in the tiniest models due to their compact size. Of course, you can still take phone calls by holding your phone up to your ear or using a speakerphone. Again, some patients decide that ultimate discreteness is higher on their priority list than these features.
3) Do you need rechargeability?
Rechargeable devices are the most popular option for RICs, and it's easy to understand why. Devices charge up each night and are ready to go in the morning, no battery-changing worries. That's ideal for those with dexterity challenges, as it's easier to charge than to open a battery door and change batteries. However, the tiniest devices today generally still rely on size 10 batteries, which are the smallest hearing aid batteries. (Note: one exception here is the Phonak Lyric which doesn't require changing batteries and instead will be replaced on a regular 6-8 week visit with your clinician.)
4) Do you have a wax problem?
This won't affect most people, as the ear is generally self-cleaning and doesn't pose a problem for most. However, if you are someone who gets wax impaction from regular wax build-up, it's worth a thought here. No matter what style hearing aid you select, you'll likely want to either see an ENT or audiologist on a regular basis for cleaning or use another strategy to manage it. Additionally, you'll want to be extra vigilant with replacing wax guards and cleaning, as wax is the most common patient complaint when a hearing aid isn't working properly.
A Compelling Alternative to IIC Hearing Aids.
If you prioritize any of the points listed above, don’t worry, there is another discreet option that can work. In fact, most hearing aid wearers choose behind-the-ear hearing aids for their comfort, functionality and, yes, relative invisibility.
I know - you're probably thinking "won't that be more noticeable?" Often these devices blend in with hair or blend with the rim of glasses for those who wear them. Let's take a look:
While in-canal hearing aids are known for their discreet fit and minimal visibility, RIC hearing aids offer a unique blend of subtlety and functionality. With RIC devices, the receiver, or speaker, sits directly in the ear canal while the microphone and processor rest behind the ear, connected by a thin wire.
This design not only enhances sound quality and unlocks modern features like Bluetooth streaming, but also makes the hearing aid nearly invisible, especially with the ultra-thin wire blending that blends right in.
They provide a comfortable, high-performance option that combines advanced technology with a barely-there aesthetic—perfect for those who want both invisibility and exceptional hearing support.
Ready To Pursue an Invisible Hearing Aid? Next Up, Choose a Care Model.
Now that you've decided on an in-ear device, let's talk care model differences between prescription devices and over-the-counter (OTC) options. Your decision on which care model suits your needs will help you narrow down your shortlist of brands and products.
Option 1: Over-The-Counter (OTC)
OTC (over-the-counter) hearing aids tend to be more affordable than custom devices, and you can purchase them without needing a prescription from a clinician. They are typically programmed using a smartphone app. This makes them a convenient and cost-effective choice. One upside to OTC devices, you won't need to wait for custom manufacturing or multiple clinic visits.
If you're using hearing aids for the first time, it's essential to remember that there's an adjustment period. Your ears and brain need time to get used to the new sounds, so don’t get discouraged if things feel a bit off at first. Most OTC hearing aids come with a 45-day trial period with a return policy, which is fantastic. It means you can take the time to see if they're beneficial for you. If they don't work out, you can simply return them and try something else (i.e., in-clinic care).
Over-The-Counter Pros
- Generally more affordable than custom devices
- Convenient purchasing process without needing a prescription
- Immediate availability, no waiting for custom manufacturing
- Flexible self-fitting options available
- Good for those with mild to moderate hearing loss
- Trial period and return policy
- Less dependence on professional availability for fittings and adjustments
Over-The-Counter Cons
- Less personalized support compared to prescription devices
- Potentially less comfortable fit due to non-custom design
- Sound quality may not be as refined as that offered by prescription options
- Some devices might still be visible in the ear
- Requires self-guidance for fitting, setup, and troubleshooting
Option 2: Prescription
If you're leaning towards prescription devices, you'll be pleased to know they come with a comprehensive suite of professional services. Your clinician plays an invaluable role here; they're with you every step of the way as you adjust to your new devices.
From the moment you get your prescription hearing aids, your clinician will guide you through the entire process. They'll teach you how to insert and remove your devices correctly, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit each time. Plus, you'll get detailed instructions on how to care for your hearing aids, including cleaning and maintenance routines that will help prolong their life and performance.
One of the standout benefits of prescription devices is the support and follow-up. Should your hearing aids malfunction, your clinician will troubleshoot and resolve your issue. As you're adjusting to your custom device, they can also modify the shape with professional tools to ensure the best, most comfortable fit. Your office can professionally clean and inspect your devices at regular intervals to ensure they are working properly.
Additionally, custom programming services mean your hearing aids will be fine-tuned to match your specific hearing loss profile, offering excellent sound quality and the best listening experience.
Pros
- Comprehensive professional guidance and support through the fitting process
- Custom programming tailored to your specific hearing loss profile
- Secure and comfortable fit, with adjustments made by your clinician (if needed)
- Ongoing support for troubleshooting and resolving issues
- Regular professional cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance
- Enhanced sound quality and listening experience due to personalized settings
Cons
- Typically more expensive than OTC options
- Requires multiple appointments and time for adjustments
- Dependence on professional availability for follow-up services
- May involve wait times for custom manufacturing and fitting
- Limited immediate availability compared to ready-to-wear devices
Alright, now that we've talked about styles, the next big decision is whether to get a custom-made device or go with a ready-to-wear option. Think of this one like a tailor-made suit versus one purchased off the rack.
Custom Molded Versus ‘Ready to Wear’ Hearing Aids.
Alright, now that we've talked about styles and care models, the next big decision is whether to get a custom-made device or go with a ready-to-wear option. Note that custom-molded devices are only available at local clinics (not through OTC).
Custom Molded Hearing Aids
The custom-made option is designed to fit the exact contours of your unique ear canal. The advantage of custom is that it fits your ear perfectly, providing a secure fit. However, this option requires more time because your clinician will need to do an ear impression of your ear.
You can read more about the ear impression process in this piece on custom earplugs (the ear impression process is the same). After taking the impression, it’ll take a few weeks for the lab to receive it, create the custom device, and then send it back to your clinic for your fitting.
Here are the pros and cons of custom hearing aids:
Custom-Mold Pros
- fits perfectly to your ear canal geometry
- options for vents (reduces occlusion effect)
- professional programming to your hearing loss
- amplification for mild to severe hearing loss
- IIC is extremely discrete in most ears
Custom-Mold Cons
- usually pricier than ready-to-wear
- depending on your ear canal, the smallest IIC may not be possible (see anatomy notes below)
- takes several weeks to arrive
- repairs will require sending your device in (meaning no hearing aid while you wait)
- normal hearing to mild hearing loss in the low frequencies can cause 'plugged up' sound
- not right for flat severe or profound hearing loss
Note on Ear Anatomy
One note here about the tiniest IIC hearing aids: even the smallest device requires a certain amount of space to house the internal electronics. For small ear canals, this might mean that it's not feasible to create an IIC, and you may instead need a slightly larger CIC. Your clinician can speak more specifically to your unique ear size and shape and let you know what is possible.
Ready-To-Wear Hearing Aids
On the other hand, ready-to-wear options are like purchasing a suit off the rack—they’re designed to fit most people reasonably well straight out of the box. These devices will have a dome tip that is placed over the receiver in the ear, and there are different sizes for smaller or larger ear canals. While these may not offer the exact fit of a custom device, they’re a great choice if you need a solution quickly or prefer the convenience of not waiting for a custom device. Let's look at some of the pros and cons for ready-to-wear:
Ready-To-Wear Pros
- fits most ears (dome tips fit smaller or larger ear canals)
- soft dome tips feel comfortable in the ear
- more budget-friendly options than custom
- fits mild to moderate hearing loss
- self-fitting options
- replacement devices available during repair
Ready-To-Wear Cons
- sound feels 'plugged up' for normal hearing to mild hearing loss in low frequencies
- usually less programming customization to fit your hearing loss (with some exceptions)
- not right for more severe hearing loss
- some ready-to-wear devices are more visible in the ear than custom IICs
- fits most ears but not best for unique ear canal anatomy
- less effective in background noise than larger customs or RICs
Some Exceptions
There are several good ready-to-wear options in the OTC self-fitting category. However, some ready-to-wear devices are professionally fit. For example, Phonak's Lyric product is a ready-to-wear device that is professionally placed deeply in your ear canal (and completely invisible). A note here: Lyric comes with a higher price tag than most ready-to-wear options.
The Signia Silk is also a professionally programmed ready-to-wear CIC device. These options provide the convenience of not waiting for custom manufacturing while still offering a high level of professional fitting and programming. These professionally fit devices can be an excellent choice for those who seek both discretion and the assurance of a professional fitting.
Alright, let's get to the list. These are the best invisible hearing aids for 2024.
Our Favorite Over-The-Counter (OTC) Invisible Hearing Aids
If you prefer to skip the doctor's office and save some money, you may be considering invisible-style OTC hearing aids. Our favorite option for most folks is Sony CRE-C10. Eargo is more expensive but offers incredible design and excellent sound-quality. MDHearing is our top choice for less than $500.
Sony teamed up with WS Audiology (the second-largest hearing company in the world) to co-create its products. Sony's CRE-C10 devices are nearly invisible and offer prescription-grade sound quality controlled through your smartphone. CRE-C10 does not offer Bluetooth streaming or rechargeable batteries.
CRE-C10 uses a size 10 disposable battery that offers over 70 hours of continuous wear. Size 10 batteries are widely available and commonly used in small devices. Sony's hearing aids were released in mid-October, so there are few reviews of the product, but it's safe to say this will be a leading consideration for those who want an in-the-ear style device.
- How it works:
✔️ Start by purchasing Sony hearing aids online (likely coming to brick-and-mortar stores soon)
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the Sony Hearing Control app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ Use the app to make real-time volume and sound quality adjustments.
✔️ Soundly customers get a complimentary guided set up session with an expert - Price: $999
- Features: Self-fit using an app, nearly invisible in most ear canals, audiology-grade sound
Nearly invisible
High quality sound for a lower price
Self-fit at home
Not quite as small as OTC competitors like Eargo
Not rechargeable
Does not allow Bluetooth streaming
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
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MDHearing is a Chicago-based brand that has sold over 500,000 pairs of affordable hearing aids since 2009. The brand's most advanced product (Volt Max) has directional microphones and respectable noise reduction. MDHearing's latest in-the-ear product is impressively small and nearly invisible in many ears. Importantly, MDHearing devices are significantly less expensive than traditional products. Prices range from $297 - $699, depending on the model and promotion period.
MDHearing offers four models of hearing aids ranging from their in-canal, NEO XS to their budget-friendly, Air model. MDHearing offers four pre-set listening configurations based on expected hearing losses. This approach makes MDHearing less advanced than traditional competitors, but many customers feel the price is worth the tradeoff. MDHearing sells exclusively online and does not require a trip to a local audiologist. The brand has recently invested in a remote care team that includes audiologists and hearing aid dispensers. Customers who need further tune-ups or care can set up a telecare appointment with a professional for free.
All four MDHearing products are rechargeable with 12-20 hours of battery life (depending on the model).
MDHearing comes with a one-year warranty and a 45-day trial period for each purchase of the MDHearing Volt. These hearing aids have manual controls, allowing for volume adjustment and program changes.
- How it works:
- ✔️ Start by purchasing from MDHearing online.
- ✔️ Unbox your product and choose an environment setting
- ✔️ MDHearing has a team of hearing professionals who can coach you through the self-fit process.
- Price: Starting at $297 for a pair
- Features: Rechargeable batteries are available for all models, four pre-set listening modes are available for most models, and no Bluetooth streaming is available
- Our take: MDHearing devices offer less customization, background noise management, and features than prescription devices, but at 10% of the price, they are a compelling option for some folks with more straightforward listening needs.
Less than $500 for a pair
Rechargeable
Multiple styles available
No Bluetooth streaming
Slightly larger size
Only one color available
Less advanced than prescription devices
Our Favorite Prescription Invisible Hearing Aids
These are our current favorites among prescription devices (found only in clinic):
Starkey Genesis AI - Starkey Genesis AI is broadly considered the leader among custom-molded products. Starkey's slightly larger CIC hearing aid comes with Bluetooth streaming (the smallest Bluetooth device in the category).
Oticon Own - Oticon Own comes with intelligent sound processing and an impressively compact IIC. If you've worn Oticon in the past, you'll recognize the open good quality that is the signature of this brand.
Signia Silk - Signia Silk is a prescription device with rechargeable batteries and ready-wear design. Customers will not need a custom-mold for this device but will still have access to a doctor's fine-tuning within the sound-settings. Signia Silk and Sony CRE-C10 are built by the same manufacturer.
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Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Starkey is a U.S.-based manufacturer with a full line of hearing aids that includes behind the ear and in-the-ear styles. They make the list for their elite status in custom molded (nearly invisible products). If you can afford to pay medical-grade prices and want an invisible style, you won’t be disappointed by Starkey.
Starkey is known for intelligent features like fitness tracking, a virtual assistant, and the smallest Bluetooth hearing aid on the market.
- Overall Notes: Starkey Genesis AI is broadly considered the best for custom mold hearing aids. If you want a custom mold, and lead an active lifestyle, this product is a great choice.
- Price: The national average price for Starkey Genesis Custom hearing aids is $6,443 per pair. Our research indicates that you can get Starkey Custom devices for as low as $3,198 for a pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Full range of styles and features including Bluetooth, rechargeability, and fitness tracking for larger devices.
- What audiologists say: “Starkey has been making the smallest and best custom hearing aids for decades. Genesis AI is currently the smallest custom device on the market with Bluetooth streaming capabilities.” - Ramsay Poindexter, AuD
Smallest models are almost entirely invisible
Starkey is a leader in comfortable custom molded products
Larger sizes come with Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable batteries
This is a premium device which costs $3,000-$7,000 per pair
Custom molds require additional lead time and replacement time
The smallest version of Starkey Genesis AI customs are not Bluetooth enabled or rechargeable
August 2022, Oticon released the latest operating system across a new line of custom styles called Oticon Own.
The most significant innovation in the new Own hearing aids is the use of deep learning to choose which sounds to amplify.
Oticon built its new operating system by capturing over 12M sounds from everyday environments and using deep learning technology to create a sophisticated sound algorithm that sorts out background noise. Deep learning is the same technology that Google and other tech giants use to process millions of data points and get smarter over time.
The result of all this technology is that new Oticon Own hearing aids require 30% less listening effort than previous generations.
- Overall Notes: Oticon Own is an excellent option if you don't mind changing batteries and want the latest sound processing technology. People love the "open" sound quality, and the smallest sizes are truly invisible in most ears.
- Price: The national average price for Oticon Own custom hearing aids is $7,500 per pair. Our research indicates that you can get Oticon Custom devices for as low as $3,198 for a pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Full range of styles and features including Bluetooth and rechargeability (depending on selected size)
- Oticon Own hearing aids are designed for mild to severe hearing loss, making them a versatile option for many users.
- They are available in IIC and CIC sizes, which are discreet and comfortable to wear.
- They include an optional push button or volume wheel, as well as binaural connection between hearing aids to improve directionality, giving users more control over their hearing aids.
- ITC and Full-Shell sizes allow for Bluetooth connection and telehealth programming after an initial appointment.
- Oticon Own hearing aids are only available through prescription channels, so you'll need to purchase them locally instead of over-the-counter or through telehealth.
- They are a premium-priced product, which may not be affordable for all users.
- Oticon Own does not offer a rechargeable option.
Signia Silk was the hearing aid choice of the late Queen Elizabeth and has been one of the top invisible hearing aids on the market for years. In October 2023, Signia Silk became the market's smallest rechargeable, prescription-programmed hearing aid.
Signia Silk is a tiny, fully customizable hearing aid with a robust set of technologies, including wireless controls via the Signia App, remote programming after your first office visit, and intelligent sound algorithms that sort out background noise.
Signia Silk originally made a name for itself by using what they call Click Sleeves to match the size of your ear canal and make their hearing aids ready to wear. The majority of invisible-style hearing aids require a custom ear imprint. Signia's approach cuts down on prices and wait times.
Now, Signia is back with a complete renovation of their popular Signia Silk. The new Silk Charge&Go IX features a brand-new operating system and, most notably, a rechargeable battery.
- Overall Notes: Signia technology is well regarded by audiologists and hearing aid wearers. Silk isn't the most feature-rich option on the market, but it offers real customization, quality sound, and connection to smartphone volume and program adjustments. Importantly, it is nearly invisible but doesn't require a custom mold and offers rechargeable batteries.
- Price: The national average price for Signia hearing aids is around $4,744 per pair. We've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Signia Silk has a few extra features. One is CROS, which is specifically for people with one ear that needs aid and one that does not. This feature allows you to wear a hearing aid in both ears to create a full sound picture. Silk also offers Twin Phone, which is a setting that allows the sound of your phone in one ear to come through in both hearing aids. The Silk IX hearing aids come in simple red and blue colors to make it easy to know which goes in the left and right ear.
- Our Take: If you are on the market for in-the-ear hearing aids and want rechargeable batteries, Signia Silk is in rare company. Eargo (OTC disruptor) is the only other invisible option with rechargeable batteries. Some customers note that custom-molded devices like Starkey Genesis or Oticon Own are a bit more comfortable for all-day wear. Still, those devices require disposable batteries at comparable sizes.
Nearly invisible
Professionally programmed
No custom-mold required
Rechargeable batteries
Premium price point $2,998 - $5,000 for a pair
Requires an in person office visit
No Bluetooth features due to the size
The Smallest Option On The Market
Phonak Lyric is a unique product that sits entirely inside your ear canal 24 hours a day. It is the only truly invisible option on this list and gets rave reviews from users.
The Phonak Lyric is a non-traditional option that is sold as an annual subscription. The devices are placed deep in your inner ear by a hearing professional every 8 weeks and stay in your ears all day instead of coming out at night.
You can shower, work out, and even swim (without fully submerging) with the hearing aid in your ears. Lyric wearers receive a magnetic “magic wand” tool that turns the hearing aid up or down and remove the device if needed.
Many people find this option more comfortable than traditional invisible hearing aids and enjoy hearing at night if they have kids.
- Overall Notes: Lyric can be thought of as contact lenses for the ears. Patients who are successfully fit with Lyric often never go back and share that they forget they are wearing hearing aids.
- Price: Lyric hearing aids are sold on a membership that averages around $4,000 per year
- Features: Lyric hearing aids use analog technology and boast an impressively small size
Totally invisible
Wear 24 hours a day including workouts and water
Clear sound that uses the shape of the ear
Expensive at $4,000 per year
Includes in-person changes every 8 weeks
Lack of background noise suppression technology
Final Thoughts
After diving into the details and weighing the pros and cons of both prescription and OTC options, it’s clear that there's a lot to consider.
If you prefer professional guidance and a highly personalized fit, prescription hearing aids from a clinic might be the best route. They ensure a snug and comfortable fit with custom molds, and the hearing aids are specifically programmed to match your hearing loss profile. Plus, you'll get ongoing support and professional cleaning to keep them in top shape. However, they do come with a higher price tag and require multiple appointments.
On the other hand, OTC hearing aids are fantastic for their affordability and convenience. You can get them without a prescription, and many come with flexible self-fitting options. While they may lack the fine-tuning of custom devices and might not handle background noise as well, they offer a great starting point for those new to hearing aids or those with mild to moderate hearing loss. The trial period and return policy are also huge bonuses.
Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and lifestyle. If you’re often in noisy environments, investing in premium prescription aids might be worth it. But if you’re looking for a cost-effective and convenient solution, OTC aids could be a great fit.
Ready to explore the best invisible hearing aids on the market? Visit our website or contact us today for a personalized consultation and take the first step toward improved hearing health with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
Invisible hearing aids work much like traditional hearing aids. Most devices have a pair of microphones that pick up sounds, and the onboard processor then customizes the sound to match your hearing loss, and a speaker plays an amplified sound.
Invisible hearing aids are typically custom-molded to match your ear canal. To create a custom earmold, an audiologist will fill your ear with a silicone paste and let it set. They will then remove the dried mold and ship that mold to the manufacturer.
The manufacturer then builds a one-of-one hearing aid to match your ears and fits the components into that mold.
The result is a comfortable device that sits deep inside your ear.
Prices for invisible hearing aids vary fairly widely, and Prescription-level devices are typically 5K-7K per pair. You can find lower-cost care on this site by following the “find care” button on any page.
Invisible OTC devices start at $999 (Sony CRE-C10) and go up to around $2,600 (Eargo 7).
Most hearing aids last around 3-5 years. Warranties typically last for three years.
Most do not. Starkey’s completely-in-canal hearing aid (one size bigger than their smallest) does come with Bluetooth, and Starkey currently makes the smallest Bluetooth hearing aid on the market.
Most invisible hearing aids require a custom earmold, but there are some newer designs that push back on this trend. Eargo, Signia Silk, and Sony all use read-to-wear styles with various tips or domes to match your ear canal.
Some users report that ready-to-wear invisible hearing aids are less comfortable or don’t sit as far inside the ear canal.
Generally yes. Custom-molded devices should sit comfortably in your ear and will stay out of the way of glasses and masks.
Starkey is the leader in custom-molded products and Eargo is a clear favorite for ready-to-wear products. Full invisible hearing aid guide here.
Yes. Eargo and Sony are the leading invisible OTC hearing aid makers.
Invisible hearing aids can be challenging if you struggle to handle small pieces and batteries. Phonak Lyric can be a good option for seniors who want to set it and forget it until their regular appointments.
If you have small ear canals and want invisible hearing aids, you’ll likely want to get a custom-molded device like Starkey. We’ve found that Eargo can also work well in some small ear canals.
Yes. A quality pair of invisible hearing aids can be fitted to most hearing loss types. Some people with great hearing in low frequencies prefer open-fit hearing aids (these sit behind the ear) because that style allows natural low-frequency sound into the ear instead of blocking it.
Good question. A lot of hearing aids call themselves invisible, but the reality is that every ear canal is different. Phonak Lyric is truly invisible. Most of the others on this list are so discreet that they would rarely be noticed in most ears.
Click the “compare” section of this site. Each invisible-style hearing aid we’ve reviewed has numerous verified customer reviews.
