Miracle-Ear is one of the oldest and best-known direct-to-consumer hearing aid brands currently on the market. The company develops its hearing aid technology with evolving features that set Miracle-Ear products apart from many of its peers. Their hearing aid technology includes GENIUS noise reduction and speech recognition. Miracle-Ear hearing aids are priced anywhere from around $1,000 to $5,000.
Editorial Breakdown
Ease of Purchase
Warranty
Price
Customer Service
Overall Rating
Bottom Line
As one of the oldest hearing aid manufacturers in the business, Miracle-Ear has patented some of the most technologically advanced hearing aids on the market. If you’re in the market for a hearing aid, check out our picks for the best hearing aid companies.
Miracle-Ear began in 1948 with a single hearing aid created by Dahlberg Electronics. In the early 1950s, the company incorporated then-new transistor technology into its hearing aid product, and by the early 2000s, all of the brand’s products were digitally based. The company has continued to innovate new technologies to improve hearing aid function, developing proprietary Speech Isolation, new digital noise reduction capabilities and integrated smartphone app functionality.
Currently owned by the Amplifon family of companies based in Plymouth, Minnesota, Miracle-Ear is now a worldwide company. Its extensive network of local stores throughout the country offer hearing tests, hearing aid fitting and service help to set them apart from other direct-to-consumer companies with no local presence or way to shop for hearing assistance devices in store.
Instead of selling purely by mail-order or over the internet, Miracle-Ear has brick and mortar store locations in all 50 states to provide in-person service from certified representatives. The company also runs the Miracle-Ear Foundation, supplying free hearing aids to adults and children without the financial means, insurance or government support to otherwise acquire a hearing aid device.
Pros
One of the oldest makers of portable hearing aids
Wide range of hearing aid products, customizable options
Lifetime customer service
In-person fitting and customization
Foundation to help those in financial need
Cons
Cost
Store locations may not be close to all consumers
Miracle-Ear Hearing Aid Technology
All hearing aids consist of three basic parts: a microphone, an amplifier and a speaker, which is sometimes called the receiver. The microphone takes in sound, the amplifier makes the sound louder and the speaker plays the sound into the ear. Beyond the basics, Miracle-Ear’s proprietary technologies help make its hearing aids and hearing assistive devices appealing to modern wearers. For example, its GENIUS™ noise reduction and directional programming and speech recognition technology, which recognizes and gives preference to speech sounds and filters the rest for a better understanding of conversations. Miracle-Ear also offers smartphone apps to manage your hearing aid without having to carry a separate remote control device.
Miracle-Ear hearing aids come in several styles, including receiver-in-the-ear canal (RIC) and behind-the-ear (BTE) options. These aids have a similar look, with a small battery pack worn behind the ear and a wire attached to the small receiver inside the ear canal. However, there are differences in the receiver location and how it works.
Miracle-Ear also carries more discreet and often custom-fit styles, such as completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids, which fit into the ear canal and do not have external packs behind the ear. In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids also fit inside the ear but have larger casings and do not go as deep into the ear canal. Miracle-Ear also offers tiny, self-contained invisible-in-canal (IIC) hearing aids designed to go unnoticed when worn.
Screenshot: Miracle-Ear Technology
Miracle-Ear Hearing Aid Cost
Miracle-Ear doesn’t list the price of its hearing aid products on their website. Miracle-Ear says its products can run between $1,000 and $5,000 and according to the AARP, the average cost in the United States for a single hearing aid is approximately $2,300. It’s important to note, hearing aid cost will vary depending on your specific hearing needs, type of hearing aid and the technology included in the hearing aid. After doing some online research, we discovered customers paid within the following price ranges for hearing aids, including Miracle-Ear products.
Miracle-Ear offers six different hearing aid products plus custom-fit devices in several styles.
The GENIUS™ 3.0 RIC is a leading receiver in canal device. It comes in eight colors and offers two case designs with different battery options. Like most Miracle-Ear products, it includes Bluetooth connectivity and can be controlled through the Miracle-Ear smartphone app, along with the technology to adjust for tinnitus, noise reduction and feedback cancellation.
The Rechargeable LI RIC is the rechargeable version of the GENIUS 3.0 RIC and comes with a built-in lithium-ion power cell that provides up to 24 hours of use per charge.
The Mini RIC stands out for its compact size. It has the same remote control features through the Miracle-Ear app as other products, as well as speech isolation and wind noise reduction.
The ReadyFit CIC, an entirely in-canal device that does not have to be custom fit. It is flexibly designed to fit the majority of users comfortably without the need for custom work. It uses Miracle-Ear’s proprietary SingleMic™ sound collection technology and can connect via Bluetooth to the Miracle-Ear smartphone app.
The Miracle-Ear Mirage™ IIC is an ultra-compact hearing device within the invisible in canal category, providing the most privacy for those who do not want anyone to know they use a hearing aid.
Miracle-Ear distinguishes itself from competitors by offering custom hearing aids. The CIC, ITC and ITE devices are customizable, available in five skin-tone colors and include the same innovative technology and app connectivity as other Miracle-Ear products. Custom devices are fit to your needs and specifications through local Miracle-Ear stores.
The following chart compares Miracle-Ear device types and features.
Hearing device type
RIC
Features
Direct canal placement for quality soundMost natural sound experienceSmall, lightweight, discreet
Great For
Sound quality
Miracle-Ear Products
GENIUS 3.0 RICRechargeable LI RICMini RIC
Hearing Aid Device Features (RIC)
Hearing device type
BTE
Features
Maximum amplificationEasy to adjust and cleanBest option for severe hearing loss
Great For
Severe hearing loss
Miracle-Ear Products
GENIUS 3.0 BTE
Hearing Aid Device Features (BTE)
Hearing device type
Custom Fit: CIC ITE, IIC, ITE
Features
Secure fit when activeEasy to put on and take offSmall and nearly invisible
Great For
Active lifestyle
Miracle-Ear Products
ReadyFit CICMirage IICCustom designs
Hearing Aid Device Features (CIC, ITE, IIC, ITE)
Miracle-Ear Warranties and Service
Miracle-Ear offers a limited three-year warranty on the majority of its hearing aids. For more on exclusions, customers are directed to speak with a Miracle-Ear representative. Miracle-Ear also provides lifetime service for its devices, including free programming, free quarterly check-ups and cleanings, free annual hearing tests to determine if your hearing aid needs to be adjusted, and free cleaning and adjustments when needed.
A great reputation for customer service helped Miracle-Ear earn a spot on our list of the Best Hearing Aid Companies for 2018. Accredited by the Better Business Bureau, Miracle-Ear has an A+ rating with the agency. The company also gets four and a half stars out of five on ConsumerAffairs, with more than 200 reviews on the site. Most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, and the few negative reviews tend to involve personal conflicts with local representatives. As a franchise operation with 1,300 locations throughout the US, Miracle-Ear strives to offer the same level of service wherever you live.
Miracle-Ear Q&A
How do I know if I need a Miracle-Ear hearing aid?
As part of your first visit to Miracle-Ear, a hearing test is done to help determine what you might need. Come prepared with your health history and expect an inspection of your ear canal, along with evaluations of your hearing and ability to understand speech in a variety of environments. If you do need a device, Miracle-Ear will test an assortment of hearing aid types to see what works for you. The company even has a free online hearing test and a free downloadable hearing loss guide to help you get started.
Does Miracle-Ear accept Medicare?
No, Medicare does not cover any hearing aids and only covers hearing tests for specific diagnostic purposes. However, while it’s uncommon to find hearing aid coverage in Medicare supplement and Medicare Advantage plans, some plans do offer limited hearing aid benefits. It is worth checking with your plan’s hearing aid policy and how to submit a claim yourself.
Are Miracle-Ear salespeople doctors?
No, Miracle-Ear store staff are not doctors but are trained and certified by Miracle-Ear, with annual recertification. The company’s hearing care professionals must also maintain any required state licensing.
Can I get Miracle-Ear hearing aids through my doctor?
No, Miracle-Ear sells directly to the consumer. They have a network of stores across the country staffed by hearing professionals for those who need customization service or prefer to shop in person. The centers also offer hearing tests.
Are there any discounts available?
Miracle-Ear works through the Miracle-Ear Foundation to provide hearing aids to those in need without any other way of paying for a hearing aid. To find more information and learn about eligibility, you can visit the Miracle-Ear Foundation website.
I am not on Medicare. Will my insurance cover the cost of hearing aids?
The majority of health insurance plans do not cover hearing aids, or coverage is limited depending on the reason for needing hearing aids or coverage amount. A few plans cover hearing aids in limited amounts, such as up to $1,000 towards the devices on some plans. In the case of children who need hearing aids, 20 states mandate that health insurance plans cover hearing aids for children in some way.
What Does Miracle-Ear’s Lifetime Service Include?
With its long history, expansive store network and hearing aid technology, Miracle-Ear is a top contender in terms of quality and support. While it isn’t our #1 pick for hearing aid companies, it is a good choice. Our favorite part about the company is its commitment to serving the hearing impaired community through the Miracle-Ear Foundation, which provides hearing aids at a low cost or no cost. Overall, Miracle-Ear’s lifetime services, including free hearing tests and regular cleaning and adjustments, are good value and may reduce costs compared to companies that sell additional warranties or service plans for an extra cost.
Concluding Thoughts on Miracle-Ear
With its long history, expansive store network and hearing aid technology, Miracle-Ear is a top contender in terms of quality and support. While it isn’t our #1 pick for hearing aid companies, it is a good choice. Our favorite part about the company is its commitment to serving the hearing impaired community through the Miracle-Ear Foundation, which provides hearing aids at a low cost or no cost. Overall, Miracle-Ear’s lifetime services, including free hearing tests and regular cleaning and adjustments, are good value and may reduce costs compared to companies that sell additional warranties or service plans for an extra cost.
Hi, I had my hearing aids for one week. Got an answer. Went back finally. They weren't fitting right and wanted to exchange and was not happy with them, I called and never got an answer, when I finally going to charge 500 dollars more. What kind of satisfaction is that the office and told them what was going on was automatically set up for different hearing aids and taw told it was.
Rose D.
Talking Rock, GA
December 04 2024 5:48PM
My husband and I love Miracle Ear and especially Crystal ** who meet our every need when we go in for an appointment. She is a wonderful person and helps us understand why it is so important to wear hearing aids all day long when you have a hearing loss. She has explained how it affects the brain positively when you wear your hearing aids. I can't say enough how much we appreciate Crystal **.
Christine C C.
Sequim, WA
October 24 2023 2:35AM
Had my hearing aids only about two weeks before I had to send them back for adjustment. Waited almost two weeks to get them back. Still had the same problem, sent them off again. Have the same problem when they came back. Sent them back two more times and the problem was never fixed. By the time I got them back the first time I was past the refund period and in the seven months I have had them they were being repaired for three of them, Would not recommend them to anyone.
James J.
Conyers, GA
August 04 2023 7:07PM
I received a post card from Miracle Ear promising $25 if I came in for a free hearing test. I did that in May, and when I presented the card, I was told I'd receive the $25 in two weeks. Didn't happen, so I called first the Coon Rapids Miracle Ear office, then the 800# they provided for Miracle Ear, and again was told I'd receive it in two weeks. Didn't happen.
I called again and talked to someone on June 22, and again on July 11, same response. Nothing. On July 11, they were very apologetic, and the woman said she would make sure I get it this time! She promised I would receive it by July 26. It's August 4 today, still nothing.
On Aug 2, there was a missed call on my phone from the Miracle Ear in Coon Rapids. I thought maybe they had information for me about the $25, but when I called them back, both the receptionist and the audiologist said they knew nothing about anyone calling me, and they knew nothing about the $25.
I realize this is not a large amount, but it makes me mad that a company can get away with promoting offers that they don't honor. The hearing test and the people in the Miracle Ear office were fine, but they have permanently ruined their reputation for me, and for the people I talk to about them.
Nancy S.
Coon Rapids, MN
December 15 2022 8:21PM
So far so good great service from Santa Rosa California store. Looking forward to a long sevice relationship with Miracle Ear and have referred many friends to them. God bless Miracle Ear. Give them a while to have your brain adjust to your new hearing.
Now I can hear conversations and listen to my grandchildren laugh and talk. My advice is to give them a chance and be patient with your new hearing aids. You most likely have had hearing loss for a long time so give your brain some time to catch up.
Raymond B.
Santa Rosa, CA
October 11 2022 6:41PM
I brought my aid from Miracle-Ear 7 years ago for 2,600 dollars. They did not perform as the rep said they would. They did not drown out background noise. In a crowded room I couldn't hear somebody next to me. TV was a nightmare because of all the background noise on the movie.
I couldn't understand children or most women. I could not communicate in church because background noise of others talking would drown out the people talking to me. The aids only helped with a few people in a small room. I complained several times but nothing was done.
The staff was friendly on all my visits for the first three years. Then they wanted to sell me a new pair for six thousand that would take care of all the problems I was having.
My rep retired or was promoted and I was assigned a new rep. She changed my plugs to a pair that was too tight and gave me an earache. The plugs was hard to pull out of ear and caused the wire to disconnect and one of the aids stopped working.
The rep wanted to charge me 99 dollars to fix the wire they broke. I refused and they got real nasty. On the fourth year I begin having more problems with the aids squealing.
The one aid in right ear stopped working, but they were so rude I did not go back in and will not go back in and my plugs need changing. I will just buy me a pair from Walmart when I get the money.
Jerry C.
Radcliff, KY
July 20 2022 2:18PM
I have a set of CIC that are great when they are working, but that's the problem, I have had to send them in a dozen times for repair. These things cost 5k and they are unreliable. The last time I sent them in, I was told the warranty was up and they charged me 750.00.
I hadn't had them a week and I started having problems, clicking sounds, one would tone up but not pick up sound, low battery tone as soon as I changed the battery, shut off for no reason. Like I said I love the CIC but the quality does not match the price, for 5K there should be a lifetime warranty!
Terry S.
Vian, OK
April 03 2022 1:31AM
I have had my hearing aid for several years. I only have one. They have been very good to me. I have upgraded to a rechargeable one because my hands shake. They keep me on a schedule for checkups & are so friendly.
There has been an employee change but the new ones are very friendly also. I had another aid before this one. I like this one much better.
Sondra G.
Paducah, KY
March 31 2022 11:18PM
I have both Miracle Ear (ME) and Jabra hearing aids (bought at Costco). Both work quite well. However, the Jabra phone app is much better than the ME phone app, which automatically changes the volume I have set every time I start up the hearing aids.
Sometimes, it even reduces the right hearing aid volume to 0! (They say they have received lots of complaints about this volume reset.) Also, the Jabra app works with the Apple Watch to control the volume and program but unfortunately not to stream voice or audio.
The ME app does not work at all with the watch. The customer service at ME started out great, but due to personnel changes, has become much worse. The Costco customer service is excellent (at least so far).
I was told at purchase that if I lose my Miracle Ear aids, I would have to pay almost full price for replacements. Costco gives one FREE replacement for each hearing aid. The Miracle Ears cost me $7200. The Jabras cost $1800. Enough said.
Steven S.
Irvine, CA
February 28 2022 12:34PM
After paying near 9 thousand for them 6 months ago, I have been trying to get them serviced since the first of the year. They called again and rescheduled my appointment for the end of next month. I bet if you call to buy new hearing aids, you would get right in.
