Times are changin'
Hearing aids are finally going online. After decades of high prices and long drives to local audiology offices, it's a welcome change for those who live in rural areas or don't like spending time in a clinic waiting room.
Here at Soundly, our team reviews the top hearing technology on the market, from locally prescribed devices sold for $5,000 - $7,000 per pair to low options that cost just a few hundred dollars.
In this article, we're focused on one big question. Can you reasonably purchase hearing aids online in 2024? And if so, how?
We'll cover the quickly changing world of over-the-counter hearing aids, the growing hearing aid telecare market, and some pitfalls to watch out for.
Let's dig in!
- 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.
- 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
We'll start with the products that come with Telehealth care.
How it works:
- You will take an online hearing test or submit one to purchase a hearing aid from one of the brands below.
- The company will program your hearing aids and ship them to your door.
- You will be assigned a hearing professional who can make further updates remotely via video conferencing, texting, or phone calls
Jabra Enhance Select
Jabra Enhance Select
- Bluetooth enabled and rechargeable
- 100-day risk-free trial
- Nearly invisible with a sleek design
- Professionally programmed before shipping to your home
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.
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.
- 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
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- Jabra Enhance Select comes in a small and comfortable receiver-in-canal style that is easy to wear all day
- 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
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Customization: Treble/bass, volume, microphone directionality
- Jabra Enhance Select includes Telehealth capabilities through the Jabra app
Audicus
Audicus
- The original hearing health telehealth provider with over 10 years of experience.
- Offers both in-ear and behind-the-ear hearing aid options.
- Partners with leading manufacturers, Sonova and WSA.
- More affordable than in-clinic options, with professional care included.
Audicus is a trusted name in hearing health, serving tens of thousands of customers. We chose Audicus for several key reasons:
- Affordable Access to Premium Technology: Audicus offers top-tier hearing technology from WSA and Sonova at nearly half the price of traditional options.
- Customized, Pre-Programmed Devices: Unlike self-fit OTC hearing aids, Audicus collects a hearing test from each customer and pre-programs the hearing aids before they ship, ensuring a tailored experience.
- Flexible Options and Unique Features: Audicus provides both in-ear and behind-the-ear models, setting them apart from other telehealth providers like Jabra (their main competitor). Additionally, they’re one of the only online hearing aid companies to offer single hearing aids instead of requiring a pair purchase.
Audicus has garnered a substantial number of customer reviews, reflecting a generally positive reception.
Overall
Customers frequently commend Audicus for its high-quality hearing aids and exceptional customer service. Many users highlight the significant cost savings compared to traditional providers.
Positives
- Affordability: "Audicus saved me $5,000 because the hearing aid place I've been going to for years wanted $7,200 for similar hearing aids." — Deanna J.
- Product Quality: "Over three years with only a single adjustment, good service and battery life, and very satisfactory performance, I'm a happy listener." — Stanley M.
- Customer Service: "Professional and friendly, Buzz showed he understood the legal obligations and listened to my needs." — William P.
Complaints
While the majority of feedback is positive, some customers have reported issues with product 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 Audicus's review page here.
- Audicus hearing aids are programmed remotely which leads to lower prices and more convenience
- Audicus offers a diverse range of styles and pricing including an affordable in-the-canal product
- Audicus offers their products with a monthly subscription starting at $99
- Audicus offers a 100-day trial
- Audicus hearing aids do not come with hands-on support at a local clinic.
- Audicus hearing aids are more expensive than self-fit OTC alternatives like Sennheiser
Let's move on to our favorite over-the-counter products.
How it works:
- Each brand can be purchased online or at retail without a hearing test or any hearing health-specific steps
- The product will arrive at your home with instructions on adjusting the volume and frequencies to match your hearing loss.
- Some products include an onboard hearing test, and others simply volume and frequency dials.
Sennheiser All Day Clear
Sennheiser All Day Clear
- 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
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.
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
- Premium Sonova-built technology for less than prescription channels
- Bluetooth streaming and hands-free calls (Android and iPhone)
- Comfortable all-day form factor
- Charger must be plugged in while charging
- Requires a smartphone for programming
- 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
- 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
- Sennheiser offers impressive underlying background noise management technology
- We found this product performed at a similar level to top prescription brands
- Comfortable receiver-in-canal style is great for all day wear
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
Lexie B2+ Powered By Bose
Lexie B2+ Powered By Bose
- Self-fit with the Lexie app, adjusting treble, bass, and directionality.
- Rechargeable with 18-hour wear time and an on-the-go charging case.
- Bluetooth streaming for calls on both iOS and Android.
- On-demand support from Lexie hearing experts for setup and care.
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.
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."
- Strong underlying technology
- Self-fitting using the Lexie app
- Affordable and rechargeable
- Only comes in one color
- Not for those with severe hearing loss
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Comfortable receiver-in-canal style is great for all day wear
- 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
- 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)
- 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.
- 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)
- Lexie B2 Plus Less waterproof than industry leaders but still sweat and moisture resistant
- 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
Sony CRE-C20
Sony CRE-C20
- Soundly's top-selling in-ear OTC hearing aid
- Nearly invisible in most ears
- 28-hour battery life per charge
- Self-fits through Sony's smartphone app
Sony’s CRE-C20 is a big step up for in-ear OTC hearing aids, packing new features that make it our top pick. Here’s why we chose it:
- Sound Quality Boost: Sony borrowed tech from in-clinic product Signia Silk for sound processing, and the difference is clear. The CRE-C20 delivers noticeably better sound than past models.
- Long-Lasting Battery: With 28 hours on a single charge, you can count on the CRE-C20 to get you through a full day.
- Invisible, Comfortable Fit: Designed to be invisible in most ears, the CRE-C20 fits comfortably and stays discreet—even more so than many other IIC models we’ve reviewed. We especially like the slightly curved design that improves in-ear comfort.
If you’re looking for an in-ear OTC hearing aid, the CRE-C20 wins on sound, battery, and comfort.
Sony CRE-C20 is Soundly's top-performing in-ear OTC hearing aid. Our customers love the discretion and sound quality and often comment on how comfortable CRE-C20 is compared to other in-ear options. Some customers do report that the app setup is more involved than simpler products like Lexie or Sennheiser. Some sample review:
- "Over the past few years, I have tried a half-dozen or more OTC hearing aids and none of them were better than the Sony CRE-C20 aids that I have had the opportunity to evaluate. I have tried less costly and more expensive OTC's - doesn't matter - these were the answer to my inability to hear in many situations." - Ern
- "In terms of function, I was very impressed with the overall sound quality once it was dialed in. Initially they sounded a bit tinny, but that was easily adjusted with the Sound Balance control. It took a couple of days of use and adjusting before I really felt they were dialed in. At that point I wore them all day in different environments to put them through their paces. One of my main concerns is the ability to hear clearly and understand what the person I’m speaking with is saying in a louder environment. The CRE-20Es did a fantastic job with toning out the background noise and producing a clear and easy to understand conversation experience. I tend to have to listen and read lips at the same time but quickly realized I could hear the conversation very well, even in a loud restaurant environment." - Stanley
- "These are IP68 Sweat and water resistant - I was able to wear these biking multiple times without any fear of them falling out or being damaged." - James
- "I shut down and restarted the app, turned off my phone, uninstalled and reinstalled the app, and nothing seemed to work. I tried the next day, and then it worked." - Trobadaur
- C20 is Nearly invisible in most ear canals
- High quality sound for a lower price
- Self-fit at home
- Rechargeable with 28 hours of battery life
- Does not allow Bluetooth streaming
- Requires some tech-savvy for setup
- Only for mild-moderate hearing loss
- Sony CRE-C20 hearing aids are sold over the counter and are appropriate for those with mild-moderate hearing loss
- If you have more significant hearing loss it is recommended that you access professional care through Telehealth or local care
- Available for purchase here Soundly.com with a complimentary guide setup service
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- Customize your hearing aids with an onboard hearing test and app-controls
- Sony CRE-C20 is made in collaboration with hearing leader WSA audiology
- Sony CRE-C20 offers good background noise management algorithms and newly re-designed processing chip
- Sony CRE-C20 sits discreetly in the ear and comes with various ear tip sizes
- Sony CRE-C20 is not custom-molded to your ear shape
- Our team finds all in-the-ear models slightly less comfortable for all-day wear than RIC hearing aids
- Sits inside the ear
- Only available in one completely-in-canal size (invisible in many ears)
- Only available in black
- Sony CRE-C20 has rechargeable batteries
- Sony CRE-C20 batteries last 28 hours on a single charge
- The included CRE-C20 carry-case comes with three additional on-the go charges
- Sony CRE-C20 does not come with Bluetooth streaming
- Sony CRE-C20 is a small device which can pose dexterity challenges
- Sony CRE-C20 uses rechargeable batteries and has a convenient charge case with strong magnets that pull the devices into place
- CRE-C20 is water resistant but we recommend you avoid water activities while wearing (i.e. swimming)
- Sony CRE-C20 uses a smartphone app which includes an onboard hearing test and manual controls for bass, treble and volume
- The app is required to make changes (no buttons onboard)
Eargo
Eargo
- Disruptive leader in hearing health, known for sleek, invisible design.
- Rechargeable with a patented tip that allows ears to breathe.
- Eargo 7 adapts to your environment throughout the day.
- Newer models (Eargo SE and Eargo LINK) offer a range of prices and features.
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.
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.
- 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
- 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
Hearing aid shopping starts with a test.
Before you compare care methods or products, it's a good idea to get a sense for your hearing loss. The good news is that you can do this in just a few minutes online. There are a number of quality online hearing tests, including ours here. We also like Jabra's test here: "click am I a candidate" at the top of the page to get started.
Regardless of your test, you will need 10-15 minutes, a decent pair of headphones, and a quiet room. Your results will chart the "shape" of your hearing loss for each ear and tell you whether you have mild, moderate, severe, or profound hearing loss.
Note: We recommend seeing a clinician in person if you have severe or profound hearing loss. Products purchased online may not have the right features or power to give you the benefits you need.
Next up, let's talk about care models.
The care model you choose has a big impact on the way you buy, the price you pay, and the overall experience you can expect. There are generally three models of care within the hearing health space: Local Clinic, Telehealth, and Over-The-Counter. Let's dig into each path.
Local clinic care
The alternative to buying hearing aids online is to find a local audiologist, schedule a hearing test, and purchase devices through that clinic. This model is best for people with severe or profound hearing loss or someone who appreciates hands-on care.
Local Care Pros:
- Hands-on care
- Top-end devices customized to your loss
- Rule out ear disease and earwax
Local Care Cons:
- Prices range from $3,500 / pair - $7,500 / pair
- Requires visits to a local clinic
- Sometimes, includes longer wait times for appointments
Telehealth
Over the last five years, a few credible brands have emerged with direct-to-consumer strategies that pair online sales with remote programming and follow service. These brands offer a hybrid between visiting a local clinic and buying an OTC device. In general, there's a lot of value in this care model.
Most telehealth offerings sell their own white-labeled versions of in-clinic products, but some sellers like Earlux and DirectHearing sell clinic brands like Signia, ReSound, and Phonak via telecare. Read our review of the Earlux process here.
Telehealth Pros:
- Prices range from $1,195 - $2,995 per pair
- Less driving and waiting room time
- Easier access to follow-up appointments
Telehealth Cons:
- Requires some tech-savvy
- Not a good fit for those with severe or profound hearing loss
- Sometimes, limited brand options
Over-the-counter
The third model of care is self-service. Instead of purchasing hearing aids through a clinic or telecare provider, consumers can buy their hearing aids directly online via Amazon or a brand's website. Users then program their hearing aids using an onboard app. Brands like Bose, Sony, and Sennheiser have entered the market with their versions of this technology. Most brands include customer service (similar to other consumer technology) but no professional care.
Over-The-Counter Pros:
- Prices range from $300 - $2,500 per pair
- Typically easy to purchase and set up
- No waiting for professional involvement (app controls are on-demand)
Over-The-Counter Cons:
- Less precise programming
- Very little hands-on support
- Not a good fit for those with severe or profound hearing loss
- Some products are less advanced
Which care model is best?
There are merits for each available model of care. The key is understanding the differences and knowing what you prefer. A local clinic will be your best fit if cost is less of a factor and hands-on support is essential. If convenience and price are more important, consider telehealth or OTC.
If you were to walk up to us on the street and ask for our best recommendation, we'd probably suggest starting with Telehealth options. The moderate price and professional care are a nice modern blend.
Prefer to watch?
The video below explains the key differences between care models and how it impacts price.
Common mistakes when purchasing hearing aids online.
Here are three mistakes that many people make when they purchase hearing aids online.
Mistake #1 - Amplifiers vs. hearing aids
The biggest thing to know is that all online hearing aids are not created equal. Most low-cost devices in places like Amazon are amplifiers instead of hearing aids. Let’s break down the difference.
The image below shows a fairly common audiogram. This person’s hearing loss is progressively worse for higher pitched sounds.
If the person with the sloping hearing loss (above) purchases “one-size-fits-all” amplifiers the highest points in their audiogram will become too loud and uncomfortable.
The image below shows what properly treated hearing loss should look like with a custom-programmed product.
In short, avoid products that aren’t customized to your hearing loss if you can. I’ve read hundreds of customer reviews and rarely found someone satisfied with an amplifier in the long run.
Mistake #2 - Single hearing aid price vs. a pair price
This one’s pretty simple. Make sure you get prices for two hearing aids vs. one. Some online hearing sites advertise the price of one hearing aid instead of a pair. Double check that the price you see is what you’ll actually pay.
Mistake #3 - Return policies
Every hearing aid brand should offer at least a 45-day money-back guarantee. It’s a good idea to thoroughly read the return policy before you purchase. Some policies specify certain conditions that can be difficult to meet.
Take, for example, this return policy for a widely advertised amplifier. Not impossible to get your money back, but not a walk in the park either. Compare that with Eargo’s easy-to-understand return policy, and you’ll quickly see the differences.
Final Thoughts
The world of online and over-the-counter hearing aids is changing quickly. I hope this guide has helped make your search a bit clearer. Purchasing hearing aids online is very doable if you have the proper knowledge and know a few common pitfalls.
If you are looking for somewhere to start your hearing treatment journey you might like this 5 minute online hearing test.
