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Quickly becoming a leader in hearing aid innovation, Eargo’s team of ENT surgeons and hearing professionals has developed comfortable and highly functional hearing aids. Eargo has a solid customer reputation, and after testing the devices ourselves for two weeks, we understand why. Eargo offers safe remote hearing checks, phone consultations, and online ordering — all done remotely and from the comfort of your home.
Eargo is a technological leader in the hearing aid industry. Its devices are packed with tech advancements, and its slightly higher costs reflect that. Still, the OTC provider cuts out the middleman to keep costs low.
You can buy Eargo hearing aids without a prescription, but the company does not produce models for profound hearing loss. After testing Eargo devices for two weeks, we deemed Eargo hearing aids some of the best hearing aids and OTC hearing aids on the market because they are affordable for the number of features they come with. Its durable hearing aids are best suited for tech-savvy users with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Pros
Includes support from licensed hearing professionals
Payment plans as low as $70 per month
Pricing can be 50% less than traditional hearing aids
Completely rechargeable
Cons
No models for profound hearing loss
Batteries are rechargeable, but not replaceable
Our Experience Using Eargo Hearing Aids
To generate the most accurate hearing aid product reviews, the Retirement Living editorial team tests hearing aid devices for two weeks. Our tester, who has mild hearing loss, set up, programmed, and wore Eargo hearing aids continuously to score their effectiveness at combating hearing loss.
Hearing aids are evaluated based on prices, sound recordings, and models. We also scored it across 10 different metrics, which you can see below.
Metric
Eargo 7
Eargo SE
Eargo LINK
Price
6
7
9
Product Quality
9
9
8
Ease of Use
9
8
9
Sound Quality
8
7
6
Sound Profiles
8
6
6
Battery
10
10
5
Size and Discreteness
10
10
8
Connectivity
9
6
7
Adjustments
7
6
4
Tinnitus Management
6
N/A
N/A
Overall Score
8.2
7.6
6.8
OTC Eargo Hearing Aids Scorecard
Eargo 7
The Eargo 7 is one of the smallest over-the-counter hearing aids on the market. Our tester deemed it well-made and durable. Its battery life is a standout feature, with more than 60 hours of wearable time.
To learn more about our experience using the Eargo 7, watch in-depth our YouTube review.
Eargo SE
The main selling point of the Eargo SE is its battery life and size. While its 16-hour battery life is shorter than the Eargo 7, the Eargo SE’s charging case lasts five full charges — a big benefit for on-the-go wearers.
Our tester also appreciated its small and lightweight design. The device easily fits in a coin pocket when not in its case.
The Eargo SE is small enough to be virtually invisible.
Setting up and programming Eargo devices is done within the app. While this does require a bit of tech know-how, Eargo provides clear step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow.
Quick setup aside, the Eargo SE sound profiles fall a bit short by comparison. Adjustments are limited to the four presets and the volume. There are no adjustments for frequency, microphone direction, speech, noise, wind, or tinnitus. To access these sound customizations, you’d need to buy the Eargo 7.
Eargo LINK
Debuted in early 2024, the Eargo LINK is one of the only OTC invisible hearing aids that integrates Bluetooth streaming capabilities. It’s also Eargo’s most budget-friendly option. Like the Eargo SE, the Eargo LINK has four preset sound profiles that our tester deemed average by comparison. In hearing mode, the device struggles to combat background noise. The sound quality in Bluetooth mode is excellent, thanks to its active noise cancellation option.
Eargo SE has an earbud-like design most comparable to Airpods or Sony Earbuds. We think this affordable product is ideal for activities such as watching TV and making phone calls. However, the Eargo SE and Eargo 7 offer a more customized sound experience (at a higher price point).
This model has a battery life of nine hours, and it takes about 1.5 hours to fully charge. If you plan to wear them continuously throughout the day, you’ll need to keep the charging case handy. The charging case holds four full recharges.
Eargo Hearing Aids Features
Eargo hearing aids are designed to promote an active, comfortable, and social lifestyle with the latest in hearing aid technology. People are often embarrassed by the prospect of using hearing aids, but Eargo’s discreet design means they are barely visible. Price can also be a barrier to buying hearing aids, but Eargo hearing aids are often more affordable than prescription devices.
Eargo’s barely-there design fits comfortably into your ear canal and is nearly invisible, so no one knows you are wearing a hearing aid.
Eargo hearing aids offer four sound profiles to cover a range of mild to severe high-frequency hearing loss. We found that it takes a little bit of fine-tuning to get your hearing aid profile just right, but once you do, Eargo will remember your settings.
Using Eargo’s “Sound Match” feature unlocks two additional default presets for different situations: Normal, TV, restaurant, meeting, music, and phone. See in-app screenshots taken by our tester below.
Unlike behind-the-ear devices that amplify sounds coming from behind you, Eargo hearing aids amplify sounds in front of you.
You can adjust Eargo SE default presets across 4 different environments.Eargo “Sound Match” option is available in the app to help fine tune hearing needs.
How Eargo Hearing Aids Are Designed
Eargo manufactures in-the-ear hearing aids with soft silicone instead of rigid plastic, which provides a much more comfortable fit while being nearly invisible to others. The open-fit design blends the higher frequencies amplified by the hearing aid with ambient lower sound frequencies to provide a richer hearing experience.
The latest Eargo 7 (including Eargo 5 and 6) hearing aids use open and/or closed petals to help them stay in place while remaining breathable. The new Eargo SE uses trumpet tips (available in three sizes) to ensure you find a fit that is comfortable for your ear canal.
Eargo hearing aids have four sound profiles. To switch profiles, tap on the hearing aid twice. One model even allows you to fine-tune the hearing profile.
To charge Eargo hearing aids, place them in the included case, which also functions as the device’s charger. A fully-charged case can power your hearing aids for a week.
Cost of Eargo Hearing Aids
Depending on the model, Eargo hearing aids cost from $799 to $2,950. You could easily pay that price for just one hearing aid from other manufacturers. Eargo offers a 20% discount to veterans and active military members.
Eargo accepts payments split between two credit or debit cards or from an HSA debit card. While Eargo does not submit claims to insurance, you can order over the phone if you have Care Credit. If you are having difficulty affording the cost of hearing aids, you can apply for financing on Eargo’s website without affecting your credit score. Financing terms are for 12 to 36 months.
Eargo offers four hearing aid models. Depending on your level of hearing loss and budget, you can select from the LINK, the Eargo SE, the Eargo 6, or the new Eargo 7. All hearing aid models come with both left and right hearing aids, a charger case, a charging cord, replaceable mic caps (for the Eargo 7), and a cleaning brush. The hearing aids are labeled to quickly determine which device is for the left or right ear, but they are technically interchangeable.
Eargo hearing aids come with a one- or two-year warranty. Deep cleaning kits are also available for all current models and are compatible with the Eargo SE, LINK by Eargo, Eargo 7, Eargo 6, and Eargo 5.
Model
Best For
Custom Sound Profiles
Price
Monthly Cost
LINK by Eargo
– Bluetooth – Sweat and splash-resistant – Up to 9 hours of listening time – Low profile, in-the-ear
Yes
$799
$26/mo
Eargo SE
– Self-fitting virtually invisible CIC model – Sweat and splash-resistant – 4 preset listening programs – Charging case: 5 full charges of 16 hours of sound
Yes
$1,650
$47/mo
Eargo 6
– Self-fitting, nearly invisible CIC model – App personalization – Water-resistant (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) – Up to 16 hours of listening time – Up to 2 days of on-the-go charging
Yes
$2,250
$65/mo
Eargo 7
– Self-fitting, nearly invisible CIC model – App personalization – Noise reduction technology – Water-resistant (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) – Up to 16 hours of listening time – Up to 2 days of on-the-go charging
Adaptive
$2,950
$84/mo
Eargo Hearing Aid Products
How to Buy Eargo Hearing Aids
You can buy hearing aids directly from the website and they ship free. Eargo can also send you a pair of hearing aids to test before you make a buying decision. While the trial hearing aids can’t correct hearing, they let customers know how Eargo models look and feel in the ear. If you have any problems ordering online or prefer to order over the phone, call the number on the website to speak to a representative.
Eargo Hearing Aids Complaints
The Better Business Bureau gives Eargo hearing aids an “A+” rating. ConsumersAdvocate rates the company 10 out of 10 stars and places Eargo at the number one position in their hearing aid review category. Eargo earned 4 out of 5 stars from HearingTracker, and PCMag notes the comfort and sound quality in their review.
While many people are delighted with Eargo hearing aids, some customers experience product failure soon after purchase or poor customer service when seeking support. Some consumers expressed frustration with irreplaceable batteries rendering the hearing aids useless when the cells would no longer charge.
Eargo Hearing Aids Q&A
Do I need a prescription to buy Eargo hearing aids?
The Food & Drug Administration recommends you get your hearing screened by a physician before purchasing hearing aids, but you can buy from Eargo without a prescription or hearing exam. Eargo professionals will work with you or your doctor to ensure you receive suitable hearing aids. You can check your hearing online with Eargo’s clinically validated hearing check, on their website.
Can I buy replacement Eargo accessories?
Yes, the Eargo website sells replacement chargers, Flexi Fibers, Flexi Palms, and wax guards.
How do I get help from Eargo?
You can get assistance with Eargo hearing aids over the phone or via chat on the website. Licensed hearing professionals assist prospective or current customers and are qualified to address any concerns or answer questions. Eargo also has an online help center with more than 80 articles explaining how to order, use, care for, troubleshoot, or get repairs for your Eargo hearing aids.
Can I sleep wearing Eargo hearing aids?
Do not sleep with your hearing aids inserted. Eargo recommends taking the hearing aids out and charging them while you’re asleep.
What if I get Eargo hearing aids wet?
Eargo hearing aids shouldn’t get wet, so don’t forget to take them out when you shower or swim to avoid damage. Otherwise, you might void the warranty.
Conclusion
Not being able to hear clearly can be frustrating, and it can feel lonely when you can’t participate in conversations. Don’t suffer from hearing loss without seeking help. Eargo hearing aids are a discreet, convenient, and affordable solution for hearing enhancement.
I love my new Eargo 7 hearing aids after upgrading from my Eargo 5, which I've been using for 3 years. The sound quality is fabulous and they are so comfortable that I forget I'm wearing hearing aids. Nobody has ever noticed that I'm wearing hearing aids and they are surprised if I tell them that I am. Customer service is first-rate, and I'm so thankful that I have discreet hearing aids that work so well.
Ken M.
Yonkers, NY
Eargo
Thank you so much for the fabulous Eargo hearing aid review! We appreciate you staying with Eargo over the years and allowing us the opportunity to help address your hearing needs.
August 28 2024 1:25PM
I have been a years-long Eargo user and am so happy with these hearing aids. I started with their first product and now use the Eargo 7's, which have features that allow me to adjust for verbal clarity and/or loud environments. The technology is pretty amazing in terms of sound quality. The fact that you can have a hearing test and customize your sound by using the phone app is pretty amazing too! They are the most comfortable hearing aids I've ever worn (I've used 2 other types before Eargo). Cleaning and care is easy too. I love not having to buy and change batteries anymore. Their customer service is top-notch, as well as their audiologists. I am an all around happy customer and would highly recommend this product.
Cindy S.
San Diego, CA
August 16 2024 8:12PM
I have had my Eargo 7's for about a year now. Over that period of time I was very happy with the hearing aids with one exception. I had trouble with one of them slipping out on a regular basis. I tried everything. I was getting a bit frustrated because I continually had to reinsert it in my ear. It finally got to a point I was going to not wear them. I decided to call a hearing professional at Eargo. He was great. The suggestion he made to me to keep that from happening was great. I have had no problem keeping them in after making the change he suggested. It's really great to find a company that goes the extra mile to help. I would highly recommend Eargo and their team to anyone. Keep up the great work.
Tom K.
Noblesville, IN
July 31 2024 7:40PM
I did not want to admit that I needing hearing devices, but my husband suggested we look at the Eargo products. That was 5 years ago and I have been very happy with the Eargo devices as well as with their customer service. I've had several different Eargo products and recently got the latest Eargo 7 to try for free for 45 days. I noticed right away that they seemed more intuitive and adjusted themselves to different situations. I definitely will be keeping these new Eargo 7's. Eargo has been great to work with!
Julie T.
RACINE, WI
July 26 2024 5:54PM
The customer service folks were outstanding working with my audiologist and insurance company. Explaining how the Eargo 7 works with the different petals, charger and cleaning. They also provide if requested monthly emails with updated information with how to usage on your hearing aid. I am very pleased with the Eargo 7 hearing aid and the hearing upgrade it has given me. I would recommend this to anyone looking for an hearing aid.
Jim M.
Jacksonville, FL
July 15 2024 9:12PM
In the two months I've had my Eargo SEs I've found that I can hear and understand my wife, join in conversations with friends with confidence and hear more clearly in restaurants, church and other public locations. I've had questions as I got used to them and found Eargo's technical support staff highly knowledgeable and patient.
Nick S.
Georgetown, ME
July 09 2024 2:05PM
I've had the Eargo 5 devices in the past and had great results. I've now purchased the Eargo 7s and am having great success with those also. Their support staff are great with advising me on adjusting my Eargos to fit my needs.
Rick P.
Mankato, MN
June 21 2024 12:16AM
The best hearing aid I have ever worn! Best quality, and customer service! Highly recommended! The last hearing aid I had was just an amplifier, and wasn't very good quality.. The Eargo SE is a game changer! Sounds are natural and very clear!
Gary S.
Prairie Grove, AR
June 11 2024 6:11PM
I purchased the Eargo 7’s about 30 days ago. Life changing acquisition. Almost invisible to wear. Very easy to set up and customize. Mode options that allow you to fine tune for different environments is very useful. Outstanding customer service. Good price for state of the industry technology. Highly recommend.
Kelly A.
Bentonville, AR
Eargo
We're so happy that you chose Eargo hearing aids and it has been a life changing acquisition for you. Thank you for the recommendation!
May 28 2024 4:55PM
After having the Eargo 6 for a couple of years and liking them, I decided to order the Eargo 7 model. They are definitely a cut above the Eargo 6 model. They are easier to get adjusted to your personal settings. They have better sound with less "chirping" feedback noise. I have moderate hearing loss that makes it hard to hear soft voices when talking to others and movies that have the actors talking low. It's a game changer for me. They are affordable and I would recommend them highly.
