Best OTC Hearing Aid Companies 2024

Our Experience Testing OTC Hearing Aids

The Retirement Living review team conducts long-term testing of hearing aids to create the most comprehensive buying resources possible. As part of the process, a member of our reviews team, who has been diagnosed with mild hearing loss and is a long-time wearer of hearing aids, tests hearing instruments for two weeks, evaluating fit, technology, features, and ease of use. 

During our tests, Audien hearing aids stood out for being the most discrete. While many companies use this buzzword in their marketing, Audien’s claim is true—the Atom Pro is the size of a dime and barely noticeable. (See picture no. 1 below.)

If battery life is important to you, ELEHEAR had the best battery of all the products we tested. After 14 hours of full use, the hearing aids still showed 60% remaining battery. And the charging case? Its charge lasted the whole two weeks of our test, despite using it to charge our hearing aids daily. (The charging case is pictured above.)

Here are a few key takeaways from our time testing OTC hearing aids:

• The features and technology available with OTC hearing aids vary widely by brand. Audien hearing aids simply magnify sounds, but they’re the most affordable option on our list. Eargo’s 7 model automatically adjusts the hearing aids’ sound profile to your surroundings for clearer hearing in any setting.
• Decide whether programming and aftercare support are important to you. You don’t have to visit an audiologist or hearing center to buy OTC hearing aids, which certainly adds to their convenience. But if you think you might benefit from professional product recommendations or personalized setup and programming help, MDHearing, Jabra Enhance, or Lexie all offer one-on-one and remote programming support with the purchase of your OTC device.
• Taking an online hearing test could help you diagnose whether hearing loss is present, choose an OTC hearing device, and program it according to your needs. When comparing online hearing tests, look for a comprehensive assessment that tests speech clarity, speech-in-noise testing, and frequency testing. We rate MDHearing and HearUSA as the best online hearing tests, based on our experience.

OTC Hearing Aids Comparison

Retirement Living personally tests hearing aid brands and devices to ensure the most accurate reviews. Here’s how we scored the top OTC hearing aid brands:

Metric	ELEHEAR Alpha Pro	Audien Atom Pro 2	Eargo 7	Lexie Lumen
Price	10	10	6	9
Product Quality	9	8	9	10
Ease of Use	8	9	9	9
Sound Quality	7	7	8	8
Sound Profiles	6	6	8	7
Battery	10	8	10	10
Size and Discreteness	10	10	10	9
Connectivity	8	0	9	5
Adjustments	10	4	7	6
Tinnitus Management	7	0	6	8
Overall Score	8.5	6.2	8.2	8.1

The Best OTC Hearing Aid Companies: Reviewed

Eargo Hearing Aids Review

Innovative Products | 

Eargo sells affordable and attractive in-canal hearing aids without a prescription. Customers receive lifetime phone support from licensed hearing professionals. You can also try before you buy—order a free, non-working sample to test the fit delivered to your home.

All Eargo hearing aids come with a manufacturer’s warranty and a 45-day return period. After you purchase an Eargo device, you’ll work with a personal hearing professional to help you program the device, and you’ll have lifetime customer support.

• Cost per pair: $1,650 – $2,950
• Type: CIC
• Battery type/life: Rechargeable; Up to 16 hours
• Technology: Bluetooth, noise reduction, feedback cancellation, smart adjustments 
• Adjustment: Via the app, tapping on the ear, remote programming support
• Warranty and trial period: 1 year (Eargo 5 and Eargo 6); 2 years (Eargo 7); 45-day trial
• Financing: As low as $47 per month

Eargo devices are small and comfortable, yet pack enough advanced technology to allow for a natural hearing experience with noise reduction, feedback cancellation, and smart adjustments. The newest Eargo 7 model allows you to automatically adjust the hearing aids’ sound profile to your surroundings.

To learn more, read our comprehensive Eargo hearing aids review and watch our YouTube video to learn about our experience wearing the devices for two weeks.

Audicus Hearing Aids Review

Great Subscription Plan | 

Audicus sells four over-the-counter hearing aids online, or you can visit one of its clinics in New York City, Chicago, Illinois, and Denver, Colorado. The RIC and CIC devices treat mild to severe hearing loss. Audicus has a unique rental program called the Audicus Plus Plan that lets members upgrade to newer models after renewing their contracts.

Take a hearing test online, and an audiologist will customize your hearing aids depending on your needs. (Audicus hearing aids don’t require fitting.) Remote setup, programming, and adjustments are available. Or you can adjust settings in the mobile app or via the buttons on the device.

• Cost per pair: $1,398 – $2,798
• Type: CIC, RIC
• Battery type: Rechargeable, battery
• Technology: Bluetooth, digital noise reduction, partner mic
• Adjustment: Via the app, tapping on the ear, remote programming support
• Warranty and trial period: 2- or 3-year warranty; 45-day risk-free trial
• Financing: $100 per month

Audicus provides a 45-day trial period. Costs start at $1,398, which is a more affordable option than some competitors, but additional features like rechargeable batteries, care kits, remote controls for adjustments, and three-year warranty plans cost extra (between $36 and $198 each). 

Read our full Audicus hearing aids review to learn more.

Jabra Enhance Hearing Aids Review

Great Virtual Support | 

Jabra Enhance offers low-cost behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids backed by GN, a global leader in the industry with 150 years of hearing expertise. Each device comes in several colors to match your complexion or hair color, and they are suitable for those with mild to severe hearing loss. 

• Cost per pair: $1,195 – $1,995
• Type: RIC, ITE
• Battery type/life: Rechargeable up to 24 hours or battery
• Technology: Bluetooth, noise reduction, on-going support
• Adjustment: Via the app, tapping on the ear, remote programming support
• Warranty and trial period: 1- or 3-year warranty, including loss and damage protection; 100-day trial
• Financing: As low as $39 per month

Choose a battery-powered (Enhance Select 50) or rechargeable hearing aid (the Enhance Select 300 debuted in December 2023). The rechargeable charging case will power 30 hours of sound per three-hour charge. Jabra Enhance offers a 100-day risk-free trial, the longest in the OTC industry, and a warranty between one and three years, depending on the support package you choose. We consider this to be Jabra’s stand-out feature. 

Premium members get full access to Jabra Enhance’s trained audiology care team, who are there to offer comprehensive remote support—not every hearing aid company has an audiology care team on staff for consultations. The aids come with several processing channels and advanced noise-reducing technology. Adjust manually or through the app (the audiology care team will help you).

Learn about our experience taking Jabra Enhance’s online hearing test in our comprehensive Jabra Enhance review.

Lexie Hearing Aids Review

Great Technology | 

Lexie’s self-fitting OTC hearing aids provide cutting-edge technology at low prices. But customers can also choose a unique monthly subscription payment plan that makes accessing hearing aids, parts, and maintenance more affordable. You can buy Lexie devices online and in stores where healthcare devices are sold.

All Lexie hearing aids come with noise and feedback reduction to decrease background sounds and cut down on whistling. The Lexie B2 lets you stream phone calls on iPhones, but not Androids.

• Cost per pair: $799 – $999
• Type: RIC, BTE
• Battery type: Rechargeable, battery
• Technology: Bluetooth, telecoil, noise reduction
• Adjustment: Via the app, remote programming support
• Warranty and trial period: 1-year warranty; 45-day free trial
• Financing: As low as $39 per month

Within Lexie Hearing’s mobile app, you can adjust your hearing aids, monitor battery power, and store your preferred settings for easier adjustments. This is a great feature for those comfortable with technology, but if you prefer to adjust your aids manually, we recommend considering Audien. The Lexie Luman is also a good choice for those who prefer a simpler option.

Read our comprehensive Lexie Hearing review and watch our YouTube video to learn more about our experience wearing the devices for two weeks.

MDHearing Review

Great Value | 

MDHearing’s high-quality, medical-grade hearing aid models come with 24/7 customer service and licensed audiologists on staff who can answer any questions. 

Its most affordable model, the AIR, has advanced noise reduction, rechargeable batteries, feedback cancellation, and telecoil technology. You can get dual directional microphones (which help filter out unwanted noise), intelligent noise reduction (for greater speech clarity), and Bluetooth capability at a slightly higher price point. Like all OTC options, these devices won’t work for severe hearing loss, but the products are FDA-registered and designed by doctors and audiologists.

• Cost per pair: $297 – $699
• Type: RIC, BTE
• Battery type/life:  Rechargeable; Up to 20 hours
• Technology: Environmental settings, directional microphones, noise reduction, water resistance
• Adjustment: Tapping a button, turning a dial, 1:1 programming support (VIP care only)
• Warranty and trial period: 1-year warranty; 45-day free trial
• Financing: As low as $24.75 per month

MDHearing offers four devices ranging from about $800 to $1,900 for two hearing aids when not on sale. The company runs frequent sales, and single-device pricing is also available. It also offers 12-month 0% financing, a 45-day trial period, and a money-back guarantee. MDHearing manufactures the devices in the U.S. and sells directly to consumers to keep costs down.

For details, read our full MDHearing review.

ELEHEAR

Great battery life |

ELEHEAR is a newcomer to the OTC hearing aid market. In 2023, the company launched two behind-the-ear devices available for purchase on its website. The Alpha and the Alpha Pro are rechargeable and compatible with Bluetooth. They’re also discreet and comfortable enough to wear all day. 

The Retirement Living review team wore the ELEHEAR Alpha Pro for two weeks. Its standout features include an extra-long battery life and the ability to make quick and easy adjustments in seconds via the free app.

• Cost per pair: $399 – $499
• Type: BTE
• Battery type: Rechargable
• Technology: Wireless charging, Bluetooth, noise/feedback cancellation, 4 environmental settings
• Adjustment: In the app; tapping on the ear
• Warranty and trial period: 45-day trial period; 1-year warranty
• Financing: Yes, via Klarna

The Alpha model offers feedback control and noise reduction that magnifies sounds by 37 decibels. The Alpha Pro comes with several additional features, such as the ability to adjust your hearing aids via the app, Bluetooth streaming, and AI noise reduction. 

ELEHEAR says that the Pro rechargeable battery lasts 20 hours, but our reviews team found that it lasted much longer—an estimated 30+ hours.

Learn more about our experience using ELEHEAR OTC hearing aids in our full ELEHEAR review or watch our YouTube review.

Audien Hearing Review

Great Affordable Option |

Audien Hearing offers affordable over-the-counter hearing aids and hearing amplifiers. The Audien Atom series (in-the-canal) and the Audien BTE (behind-the-ear) are medical-grade hearing aids registered with the FDA. The EV1 and EV3 are not medical-grade hearing aids but rather PSAPs (personal sound amplification products), otherwise known as hearing amplifiers. 

Aside from its affordable pricing structure, Audien devices stand out to us during our test because of how easy they are to set up and program. To program your Audien hearing device, simply charge it, find the correct-sized earbud, and set the device volume to the appropriate level. The rechargeable devices last up to 24 hours.

• Cost per pair: $99 – $489
• Type: ITC
• Battery type/life: Rechargeable; Up to 24 hours
• Technology: Wireless charging, noise/feedback cancellation, directional sound technology
• Adjustment: Tapping on the ear, twisting the dial with a screwdriver (included)
• Warranty and trial period: 45-day trial period; No warranty
• Financing: None

While Audien’s devices are inexpensive, the company does not offer a warranty for its products. Instead, you have a 45-day trial period to decide if their hearing devices are right for you. Once you buy a hearing aid or amplifier, it is shipped directly to your door within three to five business days.

Learn more about our experience testing an Audien hearing device in our full Audien Hearing review.

Yes Hearing Review

Great Alternative to Retail |

Yes Hearing sells hearing aids from the biggest brands, including Oticon, Phonak, ReSound, Signia, Unitron, and Starkey, for 40% less than retail (no Widex). While these brands are considered prescription hearing aids, we added Yes Hearing to our list of best OTC hearing aids because it operates a virtual business model, in which its hearing specialists—many of whom are licensed audiologists—will deliver your new devices to your home and help you test, fit, and program them.

The latest hearing aids like the BTE Starkey Evolv AI or the RIC Resound ONE 9 usually cost between $5,500 and $7,000 if you buy them from traditional retailers. Yes Hearing sells these models for around $4,500.

All devices come with a 45-day money-back guarantee and a warranty. More importantly, each customer gets access to in-home audiology care. If ongoing care is needed, you can purchase a care plan that offers remote or in-person adjustments and more. 

To learn more, read our comprehensive Yes Hearing review.

Embrace Hearing Review

Great Service and Value | 

Embrace Hearing offers fully customized hearing aids in three models. Each model offers a range of features so that you can choose the one that best fits both your needs and budget. They also offer 24/7 online help with great customer service.

• Cost per pair: $899 – $1,399
• Type: CIC, RIC
• Battery type: Size 10 battery
• Technology: Live speech focus, Bluetooth
• Adjustment: Smartphone app or handheld remote
• Warranty and trial period: 3-year warranty; 45-day trial
• Financing: As low as $63 a month

With an in-depth customization experience, Embrace Hearing provides a range of enhanced features at value prices. They also offer financing in 24 and 36 months, or through Care Credit with 12 or 24 months.

To learn more or start your 45-day trial, call 855-278-3108 or read our full Embrace Hearing review.

Sony Review

Great for Easy Customization |

Sony offers two OTC hearing aids, both in discreet designs that offer precise sound clarity. Additionally, their app allows you to customize your hearing experience. Once installed, you’ll take its 10-minute hearing test, and then it will program the hearing aids based on the results.

• Cost per pair: $999 – $1299.99
• Type: ITE, ITC
• Battery type/life: Rechargable up to 26 hours or size 10 battery
• Technology: Bluetooth, noise reduction, focused microphones
• Adjustment: In-app
• Warranty and trial period: 1 year warranty
• Financing: As low as $84.99 a month

With only two options, you can focus on which key features are important to you and your budget. Two of the biggest distinctions in the Sony hearing aids are whether you prefer a replaceable or rechargeable battery and if you want Bluetooth-enabled audio streaming.

Lucid Review

Great for All Budgets |

Lucid Hearing aids are available at major retailers like Walgreens, Target, and Best Buy, to name a few. Sam’s Club has Lucid Hearing Centers that offer free in-clinic hearing tests. Its latest model, the Tala, comes with Precision Directional Listening System and fully controlled in-app adjustments—perfect for on-the-go wearers.

• Cost per pair: $199 – $1,299
• Type: BTE and ITE
• Battery type: Rechargable, battery
• Technology: Precision Directional Listening Technology, Bluetooth, in-app customization
• Adjustment: Smartphone app, pre-programmed settings
• Warranty and trial period: 1-year warranty and 60-day trial period
• Financing: Yes, if purchased at some retailers

Lucid Hearing’s free hearing test and range of prices can be a good solution for those who may have more restricted budgets. However, their lower-range models offer less customization and adjustability. For their higher-range models, they offer advanced features and smartphone compatibility which makes them a more convenient and comprehensive device.

Lucid Hearing’s customer service department confirmed with our editorial team that they do not offer financing directly through their website. However, it is offered if you buy their aids through Sam’s Club by Allegro Credit. In-store specialists can go over your options with you.

HearingAssist Review

Great Warranty |

HearingAssist offers a comprehensive line of OTC hearing aids for those who have mild to moderate hearing loss. Though HearingAssist devices may lack the precise customization of prescription hearing aids, the models are affordably priced and offer a range of features to meet many types of users’ needs.

• Cost per pair: $199 – $699
• Type: CIC, RIC, ITE
• Battery type: Rechargable, battery
• Technology: Bluetooth, in-app customization features
• Adjustment: In-app 
• Warranty and trial period: 1-year warranty; 60-day risk-free trial; additional Peace of Mind warranty
• Financing: As low as $36.10 a month

Its best-selling aid is an RIC rechargeable device called the EAZE 2.0, which offers feedback suppression and directional microphones. HearingAssist also offers a unique warranty. Their Peace of Mind Plan allows you to add additional time to your warranty, beyond that of the manufacturer’s warranty. This makes them a great option for those who may have more rugged or adventurous lifestyles, and who want to ensure that their hearing aids will be replaced if damaged.

HP Review

Great Trial Period |

HP’s HearingPro aid offers best-in-class sound fidelity allowing for an in-depth and immersive hearing experience. Additionally, their EAR ID adjusts automatically for your personal hearing configurations allowing for a smooth and precise adjustment experience. Currently, HP only offers one model of hearing aid, but its comprehensive features for a relatively low cost make it a standout.

• Cost per pair: $499
• Type: ITE
• Battery type: Rechargeable
• Technology: Ear ID, Active Noise Cancellation, Bluetooth, 
• Adjustment: In-app
• Warranty and trial period: 2-year warranty, 60-day risk-free trial
• Financing: None

HP’s HearingPro offers high-tech features at an affordable price, with a focus on ensuring that conversation is heard clearly. According to their customer service line, while HP does not offer financing for the HearingPro, the product is sold through Best Buy which may offer a financing program.

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Additional Hearing Aid Companies

Costco offers five brands of hearing aids in many of its wholesale stores. Hearing aids from Costco are well-priced, thanks to the company’s bulk buying power. Read our comprehensive Costco hearing aids review.

Hearing amplifiers from BeHear offer customers with mild hearing loss an affordable prescription-free solution. Read our comprehensive BeHear review to learn more.

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Our Research Methodology

Our review team personally tested hearing aids to create the most well-rounded review of hearing aid brands. A Retirement Living review team member, who has been diagnosed with mild hearing loss and is a long-time wearer of hearing aids, wore hearing aids from several brands for two weeks each. With 105 hours (and counting) of research logged, we considered the effectiveness of each device in combating hearing loss.

We also consulted with four audiologists to determine the most important factors for consumers to consider when buying OTC hearing aids. Based on their professional feedback, we evaluated each brand for fit, price, return policies, technology, and support available.

Lastly, we scored the following 13 data points to give you a well-rounded review of each provider:

• Status with the FDA, company experience, and other credentials 
• Ease of use
• Features and technology, such as Bluetooth connectivity and rechargeable batteries
• Costs, both upfront and ongoing
• Range of hearing loss the devices support
• Return policies, trial periods, and warranty options
• Customer service and device support availability
• Types of hearing aids available
• Online buying experience for OTC devices
• Quality of the online hearing tests available 
• Look and design of the device

Because buying OTC hearing aids is often an online endeavor with less professional support, Retirement Living also evaluated the quality of the online hearing tests available from top OTC hearing aid brands. The results of our analysis can be found in the Our Experience Taking Online Hearing Tests section. 

Basically, we followed our own buying tips to uncover the best OTC hearing aid providers, a friend, or a family member to consider. Companies that obscured their prices, lacked customer support, and/or had limited options to buy or try hearing aids were eliminated. 

Retirement Living writers and editors evaluate hearing aid reviews annually, and we frequently contact brands and retailers to update changes to their devices, costs, features, and supportive services.

What to Consider Before Buying OTC Hearing Aids

When looking for a hearing aid, it’s important to choose a product that treats your type/level of hearing loss, budget, and lifestyle. 

1. Battery Type

Hearing aids offer either replaceable or rechargeable batteries. While maneuvering small batteries to change them can be a hassle, you may prefer this option if you don’t want to remember to charge your hearing aids.

2. Type of Hearing Loss

OTC hearing aids are best for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. If you have more severe hearing loss, we recommend browsing our list of prescription hearing aids, which include brands like Signia, Starkey, and Widex.

If your hearing loss is mild to moderate, there will be a wider array of OTC options available to you. In this case, it can be helpful to focus on specific features for the type of hearing loss you have. For example, if you struggle to hear certain tones in background noise, then you may consider an aid that offers noise reduction or cancellation features.

For more profound hearing loss, audiologist Ruth Reisman suggests looking for devices that specifically state they are for those with moderate to severe hearing loss—usually prescription devices. Implantable bone conduction devices or cochlear implants may also work, depending on the type of loss.

3. Technology and Features

As you research hearing aid technology, you’ll notice the devices are much smaller now compared to decades past. The OTC Atom Pro 2.0 we tested was the size of a dime and barely noticeable in our ears. Even some behind-the-ear models are small enough to be discreet, such as ELEHEAR.

In addition, rechargeable hearing aids are common and do away with changing batteries, which make them a good choice if you don’t see well or have trouble handling small parts.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) trains hearing aids to differentiate between sounds to amplify or de-emphasize. The technology cuts through the cluttered noise in most environments. AI utilizes machine learning and Deep Neural Networks to simulate the brain’s neural connections, used in the Oticon Own hearing aid.
• Feedback suppression, telecoils, and preprogrammed settings are ideal for hearing well in a crowded or large space and adjusting as needed.
• Bluetooth wireless technology connects hearing aids to smartphones, tablets and other devices for streaming sound and other benefits.
• Directional microphones filter out background noise and automatically change settings based on your surroundings.

4. Warranty Length and Coverage

If a hearing aid company doesn’t offer a warranty, it may be a red flag. Look for warranties of at least one year. If you lead a more active or adventurous lifestyle, it is often worth checking to see if an extended warranty can be purchased as well. 

In addition to warranty length, check what the warranty covers. Typically, OTC hearing aid warranties cover manufacturer defects, but some also include loss, damage, or wear and tear in their standard warranties. Jabra Enhance is a good example, with a three-year manufacturer’s warranty and three years of coverage for loss and damage.

Other brands, like MDHearing, HearingAssist, and Lexie provide a shorter warranty with the option to purchase additional warranty coverage.

5. Trial Periods and Return Policies

Because OTC hearing aids are often bought without professional guidance, it’s important to prioritize brands that offer some kind of risk-free period so you don’t get stuck with a device that is uncomfortable or does not help your hearing. 

All the brands featured on our list allow you to return your devices, but the timeframe in which you can return them ranges from one to two months in length. Lucid and HearingAssist allow you to try the device for 60 days, while MD Hearing, Lexie, and several others offer a 45-day trial window. Jabra offers a 100-day trial period, the longest of all brands featured on this list. 

Read any fine print, such as if the aid needs to be returned in original packaging, and be mindful that many companies will still charge you for shipping on your return.

Pros and Cons of OTC Hearing Aids

Pros	Cons
– Most are regulated by the FDA – More affordable than prescription hearing aids – No hearing exam or prescription required to buy – Can be purchased directly by the consumer at nationwide retailers – Most are easy to program and use	– Not suitable for severe or profound hearing loss – Limited customization and technology features – Limited in-person care and support – Doesn’t identify loss requiring medical or surgical attention

How Much Do OTC Hearing Aids Cost?

Based on our conversations with manufacturers and providers, prices for a pair of OTC hearing aids in 2024 range from about $100 to $3,000. The average cost of OTC hearing aids is about $1,700. Experts expect the FDA’s August 2022 ruling to lower the cost of OTC hearing aids even further as companies compete to increase access to affordable devices. 

OTC hearing aid prices are lower because they lack fewer advanced features than prescription models. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting a less effective aid, but rather less one-on-one support and custom programming for your specific type of hearing loss.

Many of the OTC brands we feature on this list offer remote support for adjusting, programming, and repairing hearing aids.

How to Buy Hearing Aids Online

The ability to buy online hearing aids eliminates some of the barriers that can prevent people from seeking care for their hearing loss. The process for buying most OTC hearing aids is similar to online shopping with any other retailer. 

First, you’ll browse various models and devices. After exploring device options, you’ll “checkout” and enter your billing and shipping information.  

Before purchasing, some companies may require you to upload the results of a hearing test from a third party if they don’t offer one themselves. We recommend getting a hearing aid test online or in person before buying a device to ensure you pick one that meets your needs. (More on our experience taking various online hearing tests offered by OTC companies below.) 

Our Experience Taking Online Hearing Tests

To find the best online hearing tests offered by OTC hearing aid brands, the Retirement Living editorial team took 11 online hearing tests and compared the experiences. Many tests are available, but each company offers a slightly different testing model with varying results. 

MDHearing provided the most detailed results using an audiogram-style graph, as evidenced by our pictures below. 

Nearly all brands recommend the use of headphones or earbuds to help ensure more accurate results. However, GoHearing and Eargo had options for taking the test using computer speakers.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an online hearing test:

1. Online hearing tests are fast and easy to use. The longest test on this list (MDHearing) took just 10 minutes.
2. There is a noticeable difference in test accuracy when using earbuds versus computer speakers. For the most accurate results, take your test in a quiet place. Our experience was easily affected by air conditioner noise, dogs barking, and traffic.
3. While all the online hearing tests we took were free, they required an email address and our name (at least) to view the results.

Where to Buy OTC Hearing Aids

You can buy OTC hearing aids online directly from the companies who sell them. Manufacturers with FDA-registered devices can also partner with nationwide retailers to sell over-the-counter hearing aids, like Best Buy, Walmart, Costco, CVS, and Walgreens.

• Best Buy sells OTC hearing aids and amplifiers from several top brands such as Lucid Hearing, Sony, Hearing Assist, Lexie Hearing, Jabra, Eargo, and Go Hearing. Prices range from $14.99 (for amplifiers) to $2,599 for more advanced types of hearing aids.
• Walmart has several retail locations that sell hearing aids. Its website offers many hearing aids from brands like Lexie and Audien. Lexie’s top-rated B2 self-fitting BTE hearing aid is priced at $999.99. 
• Costco operates in-store hearing aid centers nationwide. Schedule a hearing test and shop for hearing aids from Rexton, Phillips, and Jabra. Prices range from $1,499 to $1,599, and remote aftercare is available.
• CVS carries hearing aids and accessories from several brands in-store. For example, its Lucid hearing aids cost between $199 and $999.
• Walgreens provides hearing aids and accessories, many of which are FSA-eligible.

The prices listed are as of December 2023 and are likely to change.

OTC Hearing Aids vs. Prescription Hearing Aids

The Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017 was the first piece of legislation allowing consumers to buy hearing aids over-the-counter (OTC)—just like you would cold medicine. In August 2022, the FDA authorized the purchase of certain hearing aids directly from pharmacies, stores, and online retailers, with no doctor visit or prescription required. According to the rule, OTC hearing aids are “intended to address perceived mild to moderate hearing loss in adults age 18 or older.”

The FDA regulates both OTC and prescription hearing aids as medical devices (more on this below). You can purchase OTC hearing aids directly from the companies that make them, but you must buy prescription hearing aids from a clinic after taking a hearing test. 

Prescription hearing aids are usually more expensive because they include fittings and ongoing adjustments as part of the package. OTC aids are more affordable (prices are expected to drop even further in 2024), but they often lack the sweeping customer support you might want as you begin to explore hearing aids. Companies like Eargo and Jabra Enhance offer remote customer support, while Yes Hearing offers in-person aftercare with every purchase. 

FDA Regulation of OTC Hearing Aids

The FDA outlines several OTC hearing aid regulations to ensure their safety for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. These regulations include:

• Labeling guidelines on the packaging, such as warnings against the use of hearing aids for those younger than 18, when to seek help from a hearing health professional, manufacturer information, whether you bought a new or used device, and what you’ll need to use the aids (e.g. a phone app or remote control)
• How much they magnify sounds
• How far they can be safely inserted in the ear
• FDA registration status

While OTC hearing aids are required to be registered with the FDA, registration does not mean the FDA has tested a product or deemed it safe. FDA registration only applies to the manufacturer facility that makes the devices.

Actual OTC devices that have been tested and approved by the FDA will typically have a 510(k) FDA approval or clearance label.

Frequently Asked Questions About OTC Hearing Aids

Does Medicare or Medicaid cover OTC hearing aids?

Medicare does not cover hearing aids, but Medicaid may be able to help seniors in certain states. Currently, 28 states offer some type of coverage for those over age 21: Alaska, California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. 

Contact your state agency to find out if you’re eligible. Also, most states’ Department of Health and Human Services offices offer financial assistance programs to help cover the cost of hearing aids.

How do I know if I need hearing aids?

Most run-of-the-mill hearing loss is about clarity, not volume. That means most people with hearing loss can hear the voices, they just aren’t sure what they are saying. If you think you are experiencing hearing loss, consult an audiologist or an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat doctor) for a full and proper diagnosis.

How long do OTC hearing aids last?

Hearing aids can last anywhere from three to seven years or longer, depending on how the device was built, how much you wear it, and how well you maintain it.

Are OTC hearing aids returnable?

Most OTC hearing aids come with at least a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, it can take several weeks to complete the process of returning your hearing aids once you factor in approval and shipping. 

It’s a smart choice to buy from a brand that provides a 45-day or longer trial period. Several brands on this list offer a 60-day window, which gives you ample time to test and return your devices, if needed.

What types of hearing aids can you buy over the counter?

Most types of hearing aids are available in OTC versions. This means that whether you prefer a more discreet model, such as one in-the-canal (ITC) or prefer the comfortability of one behind-the-ear (BTE), you should be able to find a type that suits you. To learn more about each type of aid, check out our more in-depth article on hearing aid types.

Summary: The Best OTC Hearing Aid Companies 2023

Audicus	Great Subscription Plan
Jabra Enhance	Great Virtual Support
Lexie Hearing	Great Technology
MDHearing	Great Value
Elehear	Great Battery Life
Audien Hearing	Great Affordable Option
Embrace Hearing	Great Service and Value
Yes Hearing	Great In-Home Care
Eargo	Great Innovation
Sony	Great Customizations
Lucid	Great for All Budgets
HearingAssist	Great Warranty
HP	Great Trial Period

Local Hearing Aid Companies Near Me

• Atlanta, GA
• Austin, TX
• Boston, MA
• Charlotte, NC
• Chicago, IL
• Cleveland, OH
• Dallas, TX
• Denver, CO
• Detroit, MI
• Fayetteville, AR
• Fort Worth, TX
• Houston, TX
• Las Vegas, NV
• Los Angeles, CA
• Memphis, TN
• Miami, FL
• Minneapolis, MN
• New York, NY
• Orlando, FL
• Philadelphia, PA
• Phoenix, AZ
• Portland, OR
• Raleigh, NC
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• San Jose, CA
• Seattle, WA
• St. Louis, MO
• Tampa, FL
• Tulsa, OK
• Washington DC

Learn More

• 8 Key Hearing Aid Features You Need
• Hearing Aid Technology: The Latest Innovations
• Hearing Aid Types Explained
• How to Pay for Hearing Aids
• Hearing Aids vs. Hearing Amplifiers
• Best Hearing Amplifiers