If you've recently undergone a hearing test and noticed some frequencies dipping into the moderate hearing loss range, it's likely you're missing out on a significant array of sounds in your daily life. The American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) defines moderate hearing loss as the inability to hear sounds between 41 to 55 dB. This level of hearing loss may make it challenging to hear the TV at normal volumes, comprehend phone conversations, or detect softer sounds like coffee brewing or rain falling. Moderate hearing loss will almost certainly make communicating with family members in another room incredibly challenging.
The World Health Organization offers a basic framework to understand where moderate loss sits on the spectrum.
Not all moderate hearing loss is the same.
Understanding that not all moderate hearing losses are alike is crucial. Audiograms plot hearing ability from low to high frequencies, and a dip on the right side of the chart often means missing consonants, which are critical for clear speech. High-frequency hearing loss is especially common in age-related sensorineural hearing impairment. The chart below shows a common hearing loss shape with some frequencies in the mild range and others in the moderate range.
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For those diagnosed with moderate hearing loss, hearing aids are not just a luxury but a necessity for navigating daily conversations, appointments, and noisy environments. Beyond immediate auditory benefits, hearing aids support brain health, potentially averting risks like falls or cognitive decline. Studies like this one from Johns Hopkins University highlight these long-term advantages.
What hearing aid style is best for moderate hearing loss?
Selecting the appropriate hearing aid style is pivotal for those with moderate hearing loss. Initially, I sought an in-ear device, aiming for a less conspicuous option despite my mild to moderate hearing loss. However, the "occlusion" effect—a sensation of ear blockage—complicated my adjustment to hearing aids.
This effect is pronounced if you have better low-frequency hearing, so if your hearing loss is primarily in the higher frequencies, an open-fit hearing aid might be more suitable. These devices allow a more natural flow of sound into and out of the ear, offering a comfortable and realistic listening experience.
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To my surprise, RIC hearing aids are also more invisible in my ear than most in-ear devices because of the small receiver wire.
So, does that mean an in-ear device is wrong for someone with moderate loss? No. Many mild-loss wearers are happy with their in-ear styles after they adjust.
Do you need to see a doctor?
For individuals with moderate hearing loss, visiting a doctor is not a prerequisite for acquiring hearing aids. Following the FDA's 2022 guidelines, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids have become available from major brands like Bose and Sony.
These devices often feature adjustable controls for frequency and volume, providing a level of customization without professional assistance. However, consulting with a local clinic can offer benefits like a comprehensive hearing test and tailored device programming. Both OTC and prescription pathways are viable, catering to those with mild or moderate hearing loss. Those with severe or profound hearing loss, however, should seek professional consultation to find adequately powerful devices.
Just because you don't need to go to a clinic doesn't mean you shouldn't consider it. Working with a local clinician will give you a high-end hearing test, consultation, and advice. Typically, clinics will recommend a prescription product they will program for your hearing loss instead of you handling that piece alone.
Both are legitimate paths, and we've included both groups of products below.
With all that out of the way, let’s jump into the best hearing aids for those with moderate hearing loss in 2024. 👇
Our Top Choice: Jabra Enhance Select 500
Our top recommendation for individuals with moderate hearing loss is the Jabra Enhance Select 500. Its balance of advanced technology and affordability sets the Jabra Enhance Select 500 apart. While it offers the same level of performance as prescription-grade hearing aids, its price point is more manageable than the industry average for prescription devices.
This makes it an accessible option for those seeking high-quality sound enhancement without breaking the bank. Jabra is unique among direct-to-consumer hearing aids in that one of their staffed hearing professionals will program your hearing aids for you instead of you self-fitting your devices.
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
In-Clinic Leaders
If you prefer a local clinician's support, two products are especially well suited to those with moderate hearing loss. Widex makes this list for its natural sound (often preferred by those with some good hearing). ReSound makes the list for its intelligent features and easy-to-use app.
Widex hearing aids are popular among musicians, those with tinnitus, and anyone who appreciate natural sound quality. The Widex SmartRIC integrates the performance of the Widex Moment chip, known for its ability to produce incredibly natural sound, with a discreet and stylish design that appeals to today's fashion-conscious users. While other brands offer a similar slim design, such as Phonak and Signia, Widex has a slight advantage in design. The stylish, L-design is the shortest of its kind on the market, according to Widex.
The Widex SmartRIC distinguishes itself with a unique microphone placement that differs from traditional Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) devices, offering wearers more effective support in background noise. This thoughtful design means that the directional microphones are more in the horizontal plane, and better able to pick up on your conversation partner thanks to the L-shaped 20 degree curve at the top of the hearing aid.
Widex Moment Sheer is also often considered the leader among receiver-in-canal hearing aids for tinnitus. The brand's SoundRelax program streams fractal sounds into your hearing aids to reduce buzzing and ringing.
- Overall notes: Widex SmartRIC goes toe-to-toe with prescription leaders in the category. The perfect candidate for Widex wants care through a local hearing professional, natural external music quality, tinnitus masking and natural sound.
- Price: The national average price for Widex hearing aids is around $7,200 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
Focused on sound quality, delivering clear sound with the lowest delay in the industry.
Includes industry leading tinnitus features.
Widex Moment Sheer hearing aids come with rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming capabilities.
Only sold through local clinics.
Remote adjustments require an additional accessory.
Widex offers a premium product at a premium price that may be out of budget for some.
Other Over-The-Counter Contenders
Those with moderate hearing loss in some frequencies can benefit from the newest group of hearing aids on the market - sold over-the-counter. Over-the-counter devices are typically less expensive than prescription counterparts and have plenty of sound output for most cases of of moderate hearing loss. These are a few products to consider.
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
Final Thoughts
Moderate hearing loss should not be underestimated, as it significantly impacts one's quality of life. With the advancements in hearing aid technology and the availability of OTC options, there's never been a better time to address your hearing needs.
Whether you opt for a discreet in-ear device or a more sophisticated behind-the-ear model, the goal is to enhance your hearing in a way that feels natural and supports your lifestyle. Remember, taking action now can not only improve your daily interactions but also protect your cognitive health in the long run.
