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Receiver-in-the-Canal hearing aids (often called RIC) are hearing aids worn behind the ear with a speaker (the "receiver") that sits inside the ear canal.
RIC hearing aids are one of the most popular styles due to their wide fitting range and other popular features like Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable batteries.
In this post, we will discuss who can benefit from RIC hearing aids, the different parts of a RIC hearing aid, how to care for them, and the pros and cons of this hearing aid.
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Here's our receiver-in-canal hearing aid breakdown + pros and cons. 👇
Who Can Wear a RIC Hearing Aid?
There is a lot of flexibility with this style of hearing aid, with options for mild to severe hearing loss. For those with high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss, using a RIC with a vent or more open earpiece can help maintain normal low-frequency hearing while providing enough volume for other frequencies with more hearing loss. A RIC with an earmold will be the best option for moderate to severe hearing loss. Read more about earmolds here.
A RIC hearing aid is also an option for those with unilateral or asymmetric hearing loss. A CROS hearing aid system typically works with a RIC hearing aid on one ear and a microphone (CROS) worn on the other ear.
People that want a truly invisible device might try a custom-molded, in-the-ear product, and those who need more sound amplification for severe hearing loss might try a BTE.
For most people, though, RIC hearing aids strike the right balance between comfort, aesthetics, and features.
How Receiver-In-Canal Hearing Aids Work
There are several main parts to a RIC hearing aid:
- The body that houses the computer processor and the microphones
- The receiver (or speaker)
- The dome or earmold,
- The battery
Each part has its role in delivering the right volume to your ear. Let's take a closer look!
The RIC hearing aid body.
The body of the hearing aid houses the "brain" of the hearing aid - the computer chip and processing. Think of it like the control room.
The microphones on the hearing aid are located at the top of the body of the hearing aid. While wearing the hearing aid, these microphones are situated at the top ear. Why are the microphones important?
This part of the hearing aid picks up sounds, such as speech, in the environment. Captured sounds get converted to an electrical signal, and through an amplifier, the proper level of sound is delivered finally delivered to the ear. The whole process takes a few milliseconds.
The hearing aid receiver (or speaker).
The "receiver" (another word for speaker) is the part of the hearing aid that sends the amplified sound to the ear. A receiver wire links the body of the hearing aid to the speaker attached to the dome, which sits at the opening of the ear canal.
A dome or earmold is attached to the speaker at the end of the hearing aid wire to keep it comfortably well-placed in the ear.
When it comes to domes and earmolds, there are a range of styles that can work depending on the ear canal geometry and severity of the hearing loss.
RIC hearing aid batteries.
The battery in a RIC hearing aid will be either a disposable or a rechargeable.
Disposable batteries for RIC hearing aids are size 13 or 312, with 312 being the most common.
A 312 battery will usually last between 5 to 7 days, but it can depend on the degree of hearing loss, hours of wear time, and amount of Bluetooth streaming per day. Rechargeable batteries have become very popular in RIC hearing aids in recent years.
Rather than changing batteries, you'll place them in the charger each night.
Add a retention wire or canal lock to prevent movement.
Your earmold or dome tip should fit properly in the ear so that it is not moving around or sliding out.
However, chewing or moving your jaw can cause your receiver wire to move out of the ear canal.
Fortunately, there are some great solutions for this!
- Consider a retention wire with a dome tip. This little piece, sometimes called a sport lock, works like a kickstand on a bicycle. It provides extra tension to hold the dome tip in the ear.
- If you have a custom earmold you can request that your audiologist remake the piece with a canal lock. A canal lock works like a retention wire to provide additional support and prevent movement.
Caring for Your RIC Hearing Aid
It is important to clean your RIC hearing aid regularly to prevent a build-up of wax and debris.
Here are some simple tips to properly clean your hearing aid:
- Replace the wax guard regularly. On average, once per month is recommended. Timing can also depend on your ear and how much wax you produce. If the sound seems muffled, go ahead and replace the wax guard.
- When removing the hearing aid at night, wipe the earpiece off with a tissue or non-alcohol-based wipe. (Alcohol can be abrasive for the pieces and parts of the hearing aid.)
- Use a brush to remove any debris from the microphone ports.
- Consider using a dehumidifier, especially for humid climates or those who tend to sweat. Moving from indoors to outdoors throughout the day can also cause moisture build-up. Unfortunately, moisture and electronics don't mix well and can lead to corrosion in the battery compartment of the hearing aid or intermittent sound from the hearing aid. A hearing aid dryer, such as a Zephyr, will help keep moisture build-up in check.
Another option: take those desiccant bead packets (from buying a new purse or shoes, for example) and place them in your hearing aid charger.
Pros and Cons of RIC Hearing Aids
RIC hearing aids have many advantages. They are comfortable and discreet and offer options for a wide range of hearing loss. They also provide good sound quality and are easy to use.
However, there are some factors that are important to consider with RIC hearing aids as well.
RIC Hearing Aid Pros:
Latest technology is almost always first introduced as a RIC
The majority of hearing aid users wear a RIC. For this reason, the newest technology tends to come out as a RIC first. If you're interested in hearing aids, consider a RIC, especially if you're interested in the latest technology.
Both rechargeable and disposable battery options
These hearing aids offer something for everyone. While rechargeable options are the most popular, there are also disposable battery options available.
Excellent sound quality
This style of hearing aid has the receiver directly in the ear, funneling sound right to the ear. Modern feedback control has also advanced in recent years with this technology. What does that mean? Far fewer concerns with whistling or squealing sounds in the ear.
RIC Hearing Aid Cons:
Not the most dexterity-friendly option.
Dexterity concerns can pose a problem grasping both the piece that sits behind the ear and guiding the earpiece into the ear canal. Other options, such as an ITE, may be easier to pick up and manipulate.
Not suitable for those with more severe hearing losses.
Individuals with severe or profound hearing loss will do best with a BTE to provide more amplification.
Receiver directly in the ear.
Proper care and maintenance are necessary to keep the receiver from being plugged up and not functioning correctly. Do you produce a lot of earwax or have drainage from the ear? There may be better options than a RIC due to the possibility of blockage or damage to the speaker in the ear.
6 of our favorite receiver-in-canal hearing aids available right now. 👇
- 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.
- RIC hearing aids are the most popular hearing aid option on the market.
- Many people like how comfortable and discrete RIC hearing aids can be, in addition to their Bluetooth functionality.
- Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of this hearing aid style.
- 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
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
ReSound NEXIA
ReSound NEXIA
- ReSound Nexia is one of the smallest RIC hearing aids available
- Auracast-enabled for seamless Bluetooth streaming, developed in collaboration with Bluetooth SIG
- Impressive 30-hour battery life on a single charge, ideal for all-day wear
- Strong performance in background noise, enhancing clarity in busy environments
- Custom prescription programming provided by a local audiologist
ReSound Nexia stands out for its legacy of innovation and modern design. Here’s what makes it a top pick:
- Proven Expertise: ReSound has led the hearing aid industry with tech-first developments, from the earliest made-for-iPhone hearing aids to today’s Auracast-enabled models. With millions of users worldwide, ReSound brings trusted experience and reliability.
- Discreet Design: NEXIA is the smallest receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid we’ve reviewed, offering a low-profile option that’s especially helpful if you wear glasses or prefer subtlety.
- Powerful Battery: With 30 hours of life on a single charge and a portable charger, Nexia provides extended wear and convenience, ideal for users who are on the go.
- Superior Background Noise Handling: Nexia’s advanced beam-forming tech and innovative in-ear microphone deliver exceptional clarity in noisy environments, making it one of the best in the market for handling complex soundscapes.
ReSound NEXIA combines sleek design with high-performing technology, ideal for those who want both discretion and power.
ReSound NEXIA receives strong reviews for its crisp sound quality. Some users note issues with Bluetooth connectivity on Android devices and slight discomfort from the in-ear M&RIE receiver. Read more reviews via our partners at ZipHearing.
- "I had gotten so used to diminished hearing, I had no idea what I was missing. I no longer say “can you repeat that” or “what?” And my phone rings in my ear and all I have to do is tap the unit behind my ear. No more fumbling to get me phone out of my pocket in time to answer." - Richard
- "I love my new Resound Nexia 9. They seem to pick up sounds my previous 5-year old hearing aids picked up and they seem to process background noise much better. I am very happy with my purchase." - Mitch
- "My new Nexia “ears “ are very comfortable behind the ears. They seemed very loud at first but I have adjusted and are obviously better than my old “ears” . The sound is clear and less tinny . I can hear a phone conversation very clearly using the Bluetooth ability, although I still need my phone very close for the caller to hear me. After a day of wearing my “ears” the left one hurts, I think from the wire, however I have not had a follow up appointment so that may be fixable. The right side is no problem." - Fiona
- "The rechargeable battery is a HUGE plus—no more keeping batteries on me at all times. The moisture resistance is another plus—no more bulky desiccant case. The charging case is small enough to be easily portable, but might be a bit uncomfortable in a pocket—maybe in a jacket pocket. It took me a few days to figure out a good workflow for getting the hearing aids to connect and stay connected to my Pixel 5 (listed on the manufacturer's website as compatible). The connectivity is good when it works but sometimes one of the hearing aids drops out and has to reconnect. I was not able to get them to connect to my work computer (a MacBook) using MFi." - Matt
- Great for background noise management
- Auracast compatible
- Small form factor and an optional 3rd microphone in the ear
- 30-hours of battery life
- 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
- ReSound NEXIA is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss, your care provider may fit you with a custom earmold to reduce feedback
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for ReSound NEXIA BTE
- ReSound NEXIA is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- After an initial fitting, you can connect with your care provider remotely through the ReSound app
- ReSound NEXIA is an excellent choice for background noise management. The optional M&RIE microphone that sits inside the ear adds additional intelligence and reduces handling noise from your hair or glasses.
- NEXIA hearing aids come with four onboard microphones that anayze and manage background noise in the most complex situations.
- ReSound NEXIA is a discreet and comfortable product, but some users with smaller ear canals find the M&RIE receiver uncomfortable in their ears. M&RIE can be removed by your care provider and replaced with a standard receiver.
- ReSound NEXIA hearing aids sit behind the ear
- NEXIA is 25% smaller than past ReSound products and is one of the smallest behind-the-ear style devices on the market.
- NEXIA comes in 8 colors, including, sparkling silver, champagne, gold, bronze, warm grey, graphite, espresso, deep black
- NEXIA comes with three battery options, including micro RIE rechargeable (30 hours), a larger disposable battery version (size 13), and a second disposable battery option (size 312).
- A rechargeable version of NEXIA is also available with a CROS (for single-sided deafness)
- NEXIA is one of the first hearing aids on the market to release Auracast-compatible hearing aids. Auracast will take a few years to roll out in public spaces. Still, once it is available, it will allow users to stream public announcements, movies, and other shared audio experiences directly to their hearing aids.
- Of course, NEXIA also allows standard Bluetooth streaming from iPhone and Android devices. iPhone users can take calls hands-free, while Android users must keep their phones close to pick up outbound audio.
- NEXIA uses Apple's MFI connection and Android's ASHA connection to stream content through Bluetooth
- NEXIA is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- NEXIA recharging cases use conduction charging, which is easier to handle
- NEXIA has an app feature that uses your phone camera to check that the hearing aids are in the ear properly
- ReSound NEXIA is water resistant with an IP rating of 68
- This hearing aid can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- Remote care: After an in-office activation, the remote care option is available on the app
- Customization: Volume control, treble/bass, streaming treble/bass, programs
- Tinnitus masking: Customizable programs with a hearing care professional or use the Resound Relief app to experiment with masking noise
- Find my hearing aid: Yes, feature is included in the app
- Check my fit: An app feature from Resound to check the hearing aids are in the ear properly
Read our full review of the ReSound App here.
Signia Charge&Go
Signia Charge&Go
- Excellent all-around sound processing—one of our top picks
- 39-hour battery life on a single charge
- Compact design: one of the smallest receiver-in-canal (RIC) devices available
- Custom-programmed by an audiologist at your local clinic
Signia Charge&Go is a standout for those seeking a well-rounded prescription hearing aid that combines advanced features, sleek design, and extended battery life. Here’s why we love it:
- Long Battery Life: With up to 39 hours of power (34 hours with streaming), it’s perfect for reliable, all-day use without constant recharging.
- Speech Clarity: Multi-beamforming technology sharpens speech even in noisy environments, helping users focus on conversations with ease.
- Advanced Features: Includes Own Voice Processing (OVP) and Bluetooth LE Audio for smooth streaming from both iOS and Android devices, enhancing audio quality.
- Comprehensive App Support: The Signia smartphone app offers fitness tracking, remote care (after the first appointment), and Signia Assistant, adding customization and convenience.
Customer reviews for Signia Pure Charge&Go are generally positive with nearly all customers celebrating crisp and clear sound. Some customers even report improvements in tinnitus using Signia's in-app tinnitus features. Like all hearing aids, some users find that adjustment to hearing more sound is a process. See more reviews from our partners at ZipHearing.
- "I can hear again!! No more asking people to repeat what they said, turn up the TV, or be staring blankly because I wasn't sure someone was addressing me. I can hear the water that I accidentally left running outside (old pipes in an old house). It's wonderful!!" - Mary
- "I LOVE my new Signia Pure Chareg&Go 5 IX hearing aids. I'm 81 and these are my first so I wondered if I'd have trouble adjusting to the sound or the aids. The answer is neither! The sound is very natural - I'm now hearing highs I haven't heard for decades. From the first day I've been wearing them for 16 hours per day and don't even know they're there." - Jeff
- "The sound quality is very good .Ive had chronic tinnitus for over a year and three months. I use ocean sounds for my therapy , it sounds like you are there. They are discrete and easy to wear . I have reduced my tinnitus by 65 to 70 percent In just about 3 months. Take the step , put in the time and results will follow." - Harly
- "Sound quality is very tinny but from what I've read, that is to be expected. I know my family and friends are happy to not be repeating themselves over and over again. It's very hard to review a product when you have nothing to compare it to." - Colleen
- Among the smallest body size on the market
- Second longest battery with 39 hours per charge
- Excellent in background noise
- Fully customizable with premium sound processing
- Only sold through local clinics at $3,198 - $7,000 a pair
- Does not include a Find My Hearing Aids feature
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss, your care provider may fit you with a custom earmold to reduce feedback
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for a high-powered BTE style hearing aid
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- After an initial fitting, you can connect with your care provider remotely through the Signia app
- Signia uses a unique Split Processing technique helps isolate background noise and boost speech clarity
- Signia's Own Voice Processing (OVP) helps take the edge off of that uncomfortable sound quality of the user's own voice that many patients experience when adjusting to hearing aids
- Signia Pure Charge&Go comes in 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
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is one of the smallest receiver-in-canal hearing aids on the market
- Choose between ten color schemes including: Black, Graphite, Dark Champagne, Silver, Pearl White, Fine Gold, Deep Brown, Sandy Brown, Rose Gold and Beige
- Choose between disposable and rechargeable batteries
- 36+ hours on a full charge
- Popular charger options: Portable charger with induction charging, or plugin Dry & Clean charger
- Signia Pure Charge&Go allows Bluetooth streaming, music listening, and phone calls. iPhone users can take calls hands-free, while Android users must keep their phones close to pick up outbound audio
- Signia Pure Charge&Go uses Apple's MFI connection and Android's ASHA connection to stream content through Bluetooth
- Signia Pure Charge&Go hearing aids can connect to multiple devices (ie. TV and phone) simultaneously
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- Signia Pure Charge&Go uses a conduction charger that is easier to handle than contact based methods
- Signia Pure Charge&Go is water resistant with an IP rating of 68
- This hearing aid can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- Remote care: Included in the Signia app (not a separate app)
- Customization: Treble/bass, volume, microphone directionality, Signia Assistant
- Tinnitus masking: Customizable options through your hearing care professional
- Find my hearing aid: Not available
- Health tracking: Step tracking, activity (e.g., high intensity versus low), and wear time
Phonak Sphere Infinio
Phonak Sphere Infinio
- Flagship device from the world’s top hearing aid manufacturer
- Industry-leading onboard AI processing with advanced Spheric mode for enhanced clarity
- Best-in-class Bluetooth streaming, compatible with both Android and iPhone
Phonak’s Infinio and Infinio Sphere models, released in mid-2024, quickly caught industry attention with groundbreaking features:
- Real-Time AI Processing: Phonak leads in AI innovation with its dual-chip architecture, powering real-time adjustments that make listening easier in complex, dynamic environments. This level of AI-driven sound processing sets Infinio Sphere apart as a top choice for clarity and adaptability.
- Extended Bluetooth Range: Enjoy hands-free streaming and calls with 2x the Bluetooth range, making Phonak an ideal pick for both iOS and Android users who value reliable connectivity.
- Waterproof and Durable Design: Built with an IP68 rating, Infinio Sphere withstands water exposure and daily wear, appealing to users with active lifestyles who want durability alongside performance.
Phonak’s Infinio line combines onboard AI with practical, user-focused features, making it an excellent choice for those seeking top-of-the-line performance and versatility in hearing aids.
Phonak Infinio Sphere receives highly positive reviews, with many users noting significant improvements over previous Phonak models and competing brands. Wearers praise its sound quality and robust Bluetooth streaming. The main complaints we found relate to the larger size and occasional automatic mode switching. Some highlights from our partners at ZipHearing.
- "Wearing these new Phonak Sphere Hearing Aids has been very comfortable and an easy adjustment for me. These are my first hearing aids and the sound with them on sounds very natural. I've been able to understand my friends in a crowded restaurant and have been able to turn off the closed captioning on my TV. The Bluetooth feature has worked well for both streaming music and phone calls. I haven't found any drawbacks yet!" - Eileen
- "I have been wearing hearing aids for 6 years. I started my journey with ReSound which lasted nearly 5 years. I then went to Costco and discovered Costco aids are fine for people with modest hearing loss, but I needed more. I then went with Phonak Sphere and have been very happy. I am active and discovered early on the aids I had purchased were being negatively impacted by sweat. Phonak replaced them with water resistant aids for a very small charge. I am very pleased with my new aids." - David
- "Sound quality is excellent. Definitely an improvement over previous HA. Still trying it out in noisy environments but I definitely see an improvement when in noisy situations in understanding speech." - Ken
- "I am currently wearing the Phonak Audio Sphere 90 hearing aids. Had them about two weeks now and the sound quality is very good. I am a bit frustrated with the Automatic program selection as it does not really seem to pick the correct program for the situation. I have not noted the sphere function working as of yet, even though I have been in a few very noisy situations. They are comfortable and only took a few days to adapt to the thicker design of the body. The battery life is exceptional. After wearing them for 15 to 16 hours they still have 45 percent batter life. The only other complaint is the charger case. It is not easy to get they in and almost kink the wires to the domes. I wish they were bigger like my previous Marvels." - Brian
- Top of the line sound processing (thanks in part to onboard AI)
- Best-in-class Bluetooth connection
- Highly water-resistant option available for active lifestyles
- Sphere is a premium product with an average price of $4,598 per pair.
- Shorter than average battery life of 16 hours per charge
- Phonak Sphere is larger than most hearing aids on the market (due to a larger battery and two onboard chips)
- Phonak Infinio is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss, your care provider may fit you with a custom earmold to reduce feedback
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for Phonak's high-powered Naída Paradise
- Phonak Infinio is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- After an initial fitting, you can connect with your care provider remotely through the myPhonak app
- Phonak is one of our top reviewed products for background noise management
- Phonak Sphere Infinio uses a first-to-market onboard AI processing chip which makes up to 7 million adjustments per second
- Phonak Infinio comes in in a 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
- Phonak Infinio offers a rounded, modern form factor and a comparable size to other leading devices
- Choose from a variety of colors including: Chestnut, sandalwood, sand beige, silver gray, graphite gray, velvet black, beige, champagne
- Phonak Infinio comes with rechargeable batteries only
- 24 hours on a 3-hour charge (including 80 min of streaming); 30 minute quick charge provides 6 hours battery life
- Standard charger uses inductive charging
- Phonak Infinio is among our top choices for Bluetooth capabilities
- Allows simultaneous connection to up to four devices
- Allows hands-free calling for both iPhone and Android devices
- Users can tap their hearing aid to answer calls
- Telecoil is available
- Infinio uses universal connectivity for all Bluetooth devices (other leaders use MFI and ASHA)
- Infinio offers 2X the Bluetooth range (distance from your device) compared to older models
- Phonak Infinio 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)
- Infinio devices come with an onboard toggle switch for volume and program changes
- Phonak Infinio is water resistant with an IP rating of 68
- Infinio has even stronger waterproofing than previous models from the brand
- This hearing aid can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- Remote care: Available through the Phonak app in coordination with your provider
- Customization: Volume, treble/bass, adjustable custom programs in the app
- Tinnitus masking: Available through your healthcare provider
- Find my hearing aid: N/A
- Health tracking: Tracks length of wear time and step count
Oticon Intent
Oticon Intent
- Advanced four-sensor system tailors sound to your environment for a natural listening experience
- Professionally programmed in-clinic for personalized fit and optimal performance
- Bluetooth LE-ready for future-proofed streaming, including upcoming Auracast functionality
- Sleek, behind-the-ear design in Oticon's smallest form factor for a discreet, comfortable fit
Oticon Intent is one of the most popular hearing aids in the U.S., second only to Phonak, and offers a few standout features.
- First, its wide range of advanced sensors intelligently adapts to different environments, making it excellent at handling background noise. This advanced noise management puts Oticon in a race with just a few brands for the best sound management.
- Second, Oticon Intent’s devices are professionally programmed, providing highly customizable settings tailored to the user's unique hearing profile.
- Oticon Intent offers Bluetooth streaming from iPhone and Android and the ability to use Auracast when it is more widely available.
This combination of popularity, intelligent sound processing, and precise, in-clinic programming makes Oticon Intent one of the best on the market at this time.
Oticon Intent reviews are nearly all positive with most users reporting clear sound and strong underlying performance. Lower than 5-star ratings typically come down to ongoing challenges hearing in tough environments. A few sample reviews from our partners at ZipHearing:
- "I've had these Oticon Intent hearing aids for a couple of weeks now, replacing Phonak Audio Lumity hearing aids. My impression is that I am hearing sibilant sounds slightly better and hearing conversations in restaurants slightly better. Even slight gains mean a lot to me. I have moderate hearing loss in the upper registers (normal in the lower). Anything that improves comprehension is welcome. In addition, the design of these hearing aids makes them more comfortable for me than the Phonaks and I wear them all the time without noticing that they are in except very occasionally feeling a little itching in the left ear, which goes away if I take out the hearing aid for a moment and rub the area. I would recommend these hearing aids to others." - John
- "Certainly like the change of hearing clarity. Very simple to use without making adjustments due to background noises or audiences. Very comfortable and no feedback. Glad I moved forward with Oticon Intent." - David
- "These hearing aids are great for me. I am able to hear with no problem at all. they are just as good or better than another brand that I tried that cost over 3 thousand dollars more. they are doing fine and I use them everywhere. I am outside most of the time and they do fine by staying in and not having to worry about them falling out or getting knocked out of my ear." - Stephen
- "I have been wearing HA for over 10 years. Experience with COSCO and others. Although these took some getting used to, my conversational hearing has greatly improved. My husband and friends have noticed without my asking. Still have to get used to the sound of my own voice - which is strange to me - but patience prevails. The music setting works pretty well such that I have resumed playing piano - which I had abandoned. This was an unexpected element in my hearing impaired world! While no hearing aids can provide total hearing correction, I no longer feel isolated in conversational situations. Thank you to the engineers at Oticon!" - Arlene
- Well balanced and intuitive sound processing
- Bluetooth streaming from Android and Apple devices
- Offered with both rechargeable and disposable batteries
- Oticon Intent hearing aids start at $2,898 and can cost as much as $7,000 with walk in care
- Oticon Intent hearing aids require a visit to an in person audiologist and are not sold online
- Oticon Intent is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss, your care provider can fit you with a custom earmold to reduce feedback
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for Oticon Xceed
- Oticon Intent is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- After an initial fitting, you can connect with your care provider remotely through the Oticon app
- Oticon Intent comes with a new, smarter operating system. Intent uses Oticon's Deep Neural Network to sort background noise from speech. Many users describe Oticon's sound quality as "relaxed", "natural" and "comfortable."
- The new 4D sensors give a customized listening experience for the user, and potentially enhanced clarity and balance.
- Oticon Intent is a very comfortable product with a wide-variety of possible earmolds, domes, and fits. Oticon Intent sits behind your ear with a receiver (speaker) inside the ear.
- Oticon Intent hearing aids sit behind the ear
- Oticon's smallest RIC hearing aid to date
- Intent comes in 9 colors including chroma beige, silver grey, silver, terracotta, chestnut brown, steel grey, diamond black, olive green, and sky blue
- Intent is only availabe in a rechargeable battery option at the moment.
- The rechargeable version of Oticon Intent gets 20 hours of power on a single 2-hour charge, even with streaming.
- Oticon Intent allows Bluetooth streaming, music listening, and phone calls across all models. iPhone users can take calls hands-free, and compatible Android users will also enjoy hands free calls.
- Oticon Intent uses Bluetooth LE and is Auracast-capable
- Oticon Intent is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- Single push button
- Oticon Intent is water resistant with an IP rating of 68
- This hearing aid can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- Remote care: included in the new Oticon Companion app
- Customization: volume, program change, streaming sound quality (treble/bass), SpeechBooster
- Tinnitus masking: your hearing care provider can create a tinnitus masking program
- Find my hearing aid: available in the app
- Health tracking: not available
Final Thoughts
RIC hearing aids are popular for many people with mild to severe hearing loss. They come in a range of styles from a wide selection of brands.
If you are looking for the latest technology and all available features, you'll want to consider RIC hearing aids first.
If you are set on invisible hearing aids or need more power through a BTE, you might enjoy our guides on those options.
