Hearing issues can be extremely frustrating and exhausting. Buying hearing aids can greatly improve your quality of life almost immediately, especially when customized to your specific needs. Unfortunately, buying the wrong type and strength of hearing aid can actually cause hearing to get significantly worse over time.
From how the hearing tests are done and what kind of professional support is included in the cost to the number and types of features included, hearing aids can greatly vary from company to company. Comparing multiple models from multiple brands will help you ensure that you get all the support and services you need to hear as clearly as possible.
Hearing aids vary in size, features and usability. Usually, hearing aids are named after how they’re meant to be worn, like Behind the Ear (BTE) or Completely in the Canal (CIC). Usually, the bigger the hearing aid and the more visible it is, the better suited it is for moderate to severe hearing loss. Because of this, BTE styles are often better for severe hearing loss than most CIC models.
In addition to style, there are an abundance of features available on the market today that need to be considered, ranging from simple audio input capabilities to variable programming and customization. Some features are considered nice-to-haves while others may be requirements, depending on your hearing loss and your needs.
Here are a few of the most common to consider:
If you’re unsure which is right for you, look for a company that offers in-person evaluations and fittings from professional audiologists.
Eargo | Miracle Ear | |
Costs | ||
Up-front costs | $1,450 to $2,650 | $1,000 to $4,000 |
Financing Options | Starting at $67 per month | Not available |
Best for | ||
What type of hearing loss are these best for? | Mild to Moderate | Mild to Severe |
Features | ||
Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
Custom Sound Profiles | Yes | Yes |
Noise Cancelation | Yes | Yes |
Rechargeable | Yes | Yes |
Battery Life | 48 hours | 24 hours |
Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
Pros:
Cons:
Pros:
Cons:
If you’re looking for a high-quality hearing aid packed with multiple technological features, Eargo is the best option. But if you need professional support and prefer working directly with an expert to find a solution for you, Miracle Ear is a better choice.
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