Written by Spencer Kildare, CLC, Fortune Recommends Writer
Methodology
Our thorough review process involved a team of reviewers who evaluated over 30 hearing aids. Over 20 factors were considered and used to narrow down the list to these six devices.
Learn more
In This Review
Dr. Raj Dasgupta brings his quadruple-board certification in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine to our review. Krista Manning complements him with her profound understanding of language and literature to ensure our reviews are factually accurate and professional.
It’s easier than ever to take your health in your own hands thanks to the wide availability of over-the-counter (OTC) devices and tools. Handy health-monitoring smartwatches, powerful massage therapy devices, and even the best treadmills are purchasable at retail stores. This advancement of readily available technology has improved the lives of many in the areas of weight loss, physical recovery, and even hearing.
The best hearing aids were previously only available through doctor prescriptions. However, on October 17, 2022, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made a ruling permitting the sale of OTC hearing aids. ( 1 ) Since then, OTC hearing aids have gained popularity to the point where several retail stores have added a designated area for the devices to their sales floor.
It’s only natural that the purchase and interest in OTC hearing aids have increased, especially because elderly populations and lifespans are increasing. ( 3 ) The FDA’s ruling opened the floodgates for manufacturers to produce a multitude of OTC hearing aids. Our team of experts and consumers meticulously tested over 30 OTC hearing aids using over 20 parameters to find the best OTC hearing aids on the market.
Best OTC hearing aids overall
The Jabra Enhance 300 stands out as our top pick after meticulous testing. It’s pricey for an OTC hearing aid, but its features—such as hands-free calling, Bluetooth streaming, noise reduction, and Smart Start—make it a good option for seamlessly staying connected to who and what you love.
Our picks for the best OTC hearing aids
- Best overall: Jabra Enhance Select 300
- Best inexpensive: Audien Atom Pro 2
- Best invisible fit: Eargo 7
- Best remote customer service: MDHearing Volt
- Most user-friendly: Lexie Lumen
- Best Bluetooth: GoHearing Go Ultra
Compare OTC hearing aids
 |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Jabra Enhance Select 300 | Audien Atom Pro 2 | Eargo 7 | MDHearing Volt | Lexie Lumen | GoHearing Go Ultra | |
| Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.1/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Price | $1,495-$1,695 | $289 | $2,550 | $397 | $799 | $499 |
| Type | Behind-the-ear (BTE) | In-the-ear (ITE) | ITE | ITE | Receiver-in-canal (RIC) | BTE |
| Degree of hearing loss | Moderate | Mild | Mild to moderate | Moderate | Mild to moderate | Mild to moderate |
| Battery type | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Disposable | Rechargeable |
| | | | | | | |
Best overall OTC hearing aid: Jabra Enhance
Best overall OTC hearing aid
The Jabra Enhance boasts standout features, impressive performance, and exceptional comfort.
Fortune Score:
4.7 / 5
Key product features
Battery Rechargeable
Bluetooth Yes
Warranty Three years
Trial period 100 days
Noise reduction Yes
What you should know
The Jabra Enhance Select 300 is a powerful hearing aid with a smart start feature that prevents unwanted feedback. It stands out with its Bluetooth capabilities, noise reduction, sound processing, and comfort.
- Our product testers appreciated that the Jabra Enhance Select 300 was packaged with an in-depth user manual, information cards, extra tips, and a charging cord.
- It is expensive for an OTC option, but it boasts a quality comparable to prescription hearing aids and is perfect for mild to moderate hearing loss.
- Its Smart Start feature, sound quality, and ease of use make it great for senior citizens.
Pros
Reduces background noise and enhances speech clarity
Comfortable
Offers music streaming
User-friendly controls
Inconspicuous and discreet design
Cons
Expensive price point
Streaming quality could be improved
Optimal settings may require a device upgrade
Not available in retail stores or online marketplaces
Why we like Jabra Enhance 300 as best overall
Jabra is a company that specializes in audio equipment and is renowned for its headphone products. As such, it’s no wonder that its headphones’ remarkable quality and innovative technology are experienced in the Jabra Enhance Select 300.
We like the Jabra Enhance Select 300 because it’s a standout hearing aid for performance and features. These hearing aids block out unwanted background noise while spotlighting speech through its sound processing and noise-reduction technology. Also, many states require a testing period for hearing aids. ( 4 ) The Jabra Enhance Select 300 goes well beyond the requirements—just 30 days—with a 100-day testing period.
The Jabra Enhance Select 300’s sound processing allows the device to cover all manner of noise levels. This means it’s useful for users who are likely to be in different environments. Users can enjoy a fulfilling listening experience during quiet conversations with loved ones or even complex listening situations such as restaurants and theme parks.
Additionally, these hearing aids are well-designed to handle an active lifestyle, since they’re inconspicuous and discreet. Moreover, they’re remarkably comfortable, to the extent that one tester thought they lost the device while it was in their ear.
“Comfort with hearing aids is all about how they fit your ears and how they feel in terms of sensitivity. Give yourself time to get used to them, and if they still bother you or are uncomfortable, talk to your audiologist about getting some adjustments.”
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, Fortune Recommends Medical Advisor
Several of our testers praised the Jabra’s Smart Start feature, which delays the device from turning on after its removal from the charging case. This prevents any whistling or inconvenient sounds.
One standout feature is the Bluetooth connection, which allows users to stream music, TV, and phone calls directly into the hearing aids. However, testers found the streaming quality a little fuzzy.
Finally, we like that these hearing aids come bundled with bonus domes (earpieces), an in-depth user manual, and information cards, which act as a simpler setup experience from the manual.
What customers are saying
Because the Jabra Enhance Select 300 is not sold in retail stores, it’s difficult to find online commentary from customers. We combed the r/HearingAids subreddit for the opinions of real users.
User “Adventerous-Ad-1133” raved, “I am unbelievably happy with Jabra device and how easy it is to set up with my Google Pixel 4 XL running Android 13. All the features are working to my expectations.”
“So far I am very happy with my 300s,” writes Reddit user “Jasesdad.” “I’m using the restaurant mode for watching TV since it will suppress noise behind and [on the] sides of me and focuses on front audio…The 300s definitely do a much better job at suppressing loud noises.”
Specs
| Type | BTE |
| Degree of hearing loss | Moderate |
| Battery type | Rechargeable |
| Price | $1,495-$1,695 |
| Warranty | Three years |
Best inexpensive OTC hearing aid: Audien Atom Pro 2
Best inexpensive OTC hearing aid
The Audien Atom Pro 2 offers features like background noise cancellation and UV sanitation for a fraction of the price of the other brands.
Fortune Score:
4.4 / 5
Key product features
Battery Rechargeable
Battery life Up to 24 hours
Style ITE
Programmable Yes
Trial period 45 days
Noise reduction Yes
What you should know
The Audien Atom Pro 2 is notable for its compact size and performance. It’s an inexpensive device for the features it offers, such as noise cancellation, all-day battery life, and a two-in-one charging case.
- Our product testers noted that changing settings within the ears requires pressing the on-device buttons. This is a problem because they may push the device deeper into the ear.
- It’s best for users with mild hearing loss.
- Testers complained noticed whistling and feedback.
Pros
Costs 10 times less than prescription models
Small size and case size
Charging case also sanitizes with UV light
All-day battery life
2.5-hour charge time
Cons
Whistling and feedback are common
Changing modes or volume pushes device deeper into the ears when worn
Why we like Audien Atom Pro 2 as best inexpensive
Audien Hearing, or simply Audien, has a reputation for producing over-the-counter hearing aids at affordable prices. Its Atom 2 hearing aids cost only $189, while the Atom Pro 2 are just $100 more at $289. This low price gives more people access to better hearing, and studies show that good hearing improves physical and mental health. ( 5 )
The Atom Pro 2’s features and performance are comparable to those of more expensive brands. The device’s A2™ chip offers competitive-level sound clarity and advanced noise cancellation to maintain clear sounds. However, testers noted frequent whistling and feedback noise when putting the device on.
“Whistling in hearing aids can be caused by a number of factors,” begins Dr Raj. “It can take your ears a few weeks to get used to your aids and during the adjustment period some people may experience a ringing or whistling noise. Other factors such as earwax buildup, having the volume too high, and incorrect fitting hearing aids can cause frequent feedback noises. Speak with your audiologist if you are experiencing feedback while using hearing aids.”
The button on the back of the devices allows users to select one of four available modes and three power levels. However, one of our testers noted that changing the modes or volume settings while the device is in the ear may push the device deeper into the ear.
Fortunately, each piece of the Atom Pro 2 has a “pull line” that allows the device to be easily removed from inside the ear. Our testers agree that the device is fairly discrete and comfortable in the ear.
Users can enjoy up to 24 hours of battery life. Additionally, these hearing aids can reach a full battery in 4-6 hours.
The two-in-one charging case has a built-in UV light that sanitizes and removes up to 99.9% of germs. It’s Audien’s smallest case and fits in the pocket just like an AirPods case.The Audien Atom Pro 2 is a budget-friendly hearing aid for those looking for an easy, affordable hearing solution. Users have access to a lifetime of Audien customer service and support despite the lack of audiologist support that comes with traditional prescription hearing aids.
What customers are saying
Amazon users generally have positive things to say about the Audien Atom Pro 2’s performance. However, hearing feedback was a recurring issue in a few reviews.
Amazon reviewer, Kevin, notes that the Atom Pro 2 “works well for me.” He prefers them to his previous hearing aids, which caused discomfort and were less useful: “I needed a solution but didn’t have $5,000-$6,000 for a new set. So I thought I’d try these. I’ve worn them a few days, and so far, they help me hear better.”
However, Kevin did note one concern: “They’re more comfortable than my old hearing aids, but they’ve had one noticeable issue: For me, they generate some feedback. I hear this feedback when the aids move around—start to pull out, or when something moves my ear canal, like chewing or blowing my nose. I found it helped to switch to the smaller dome.”
Specs
| Type | ITE |
| Degree of hearing loss | Mild |
| Battery type | Rechargeable |
| Price | $289 |
| Warranty | $4/month protection plan |
Best invisible fit OTC hearing aid: Eargo 7
Best invisible fit OTC hearing aid
Eargo 7 is the champion of the “invisible” OTC hearing aids and still provides natural sound amplification and user-friendly design.
Fortune Score:
4.6 / 5
Key product features
Battery Rechargeable
Self-fitting Yes
Style ITE
Warranty Up to two years
Trial period 100 days
Noise reduction Yes
What you should know
The Eargo 7 hearing aids are renowned for their discrete design, making them virtually invisible. These hearing solutions provide noise reduction, Sound Adjust+, and up to 16 hours of listening on a single charge.
- Our product testers had difficulty with the Eargo 7’s 15-to-20-minute initial setup. One tester had a problem pairing the hearing aids to the app, but the remote Eargo audiologist was able to assist the tester.
- The $2,550 price tag is justified by performance and customization options but may not be reasonable for potentially “tinny” and “echoey” sounds.
- They are capable of handling mild and moderate hearing loss, but our testers didn’t like the confusing instructions and app dependency. These factors and size may make it unsuitable for seniors.
Pros
Virtually invisible to onlookers
Petal earpieces provide a conforming fit
Advanced sound processing capabilities
Charge case provides up to two days of battery life
Available for financing
Cons
Expensive compared to other hearing aids
Up to 16-hour battery life is shorter than others
Confusing instructions
Initial setup with app is time-consuming
Hard to put in and take out of ears
Why we like Eargo 7 as best invisible fit
The Eargo 7 hearing aids are a modern solution to the age-old problem of hearing loss. These hearing aids are not only small, with a sleek, all-black design, but they’re also practically invisible to others when worn. This makes them an appealing choice for those who might be embarrassed about their reliance on a hearing aid or even worried about the device not matching an outfit or skin tone.
Another quality of the Eargo 7 is its ability to perform well in a variety of environments despite its small frame. It has Sound Adjust+, a feature of its clarity mode that allows users to hear more crisp speech through different soundscapes. These hearing aids are also self-fitting, with one product tester noting that the self-fitting process takes about 15 minutes.
Additionally, the flexible petal tips of the dome are removable, and each of the two tips provides a separate listening experience. The closed tip helps to seal off the ear to reduce sound leakage and background noise. The open petal tip grants a more natural listening experience yet also offers sound clarity. A couple of our product testers noted that the sound quality isn’t as good as other hearing aids and may even be “tinny” and “echoey.”
The Eargo 7 is generally a user-friendly device. Its downloadable app has a plethora of customizable features, such as programs, individual listening parameters, and volume. However, the app requires a 20-minute download, rendering the Eargo 7 unusable until the download is complete. Also, the volume cannot be changed on the device, only on the app, which was frustrating for one product tester.
Some testers had trouble understanding the manual, using the app, plus putting in and taking the Eargo 7 out of the ear. The Eargo 7 is still a viable choice, even for seniors, if the user can handle any setbacks.
What customers are saying
The Eargo 7’s reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Most users boast of its performance prowess, especially when compared to other devices.
“I love my Eargos and wouldn’t know what to do without them. They are amazing; nothing comes close to Eargo. Please don’t mess with lesser products; it’s a waste of your time and money.”
David L., Verified Amazon Buyer
Amazon reviewer Andrew K. had the complete opposite experience, as explained in his 1-star review: “Don’t waste your money on these. These are not designed for people with moderate hearing loss. Good luck with programming them. It keeps running into error after error when trying to program them. I’ll stick with my behind-the-ear hearing aids.”
Andrew’s programming issue coincides with some of our product testers’ reviews. Still, many Amazon reviewers were “totally satisfied” with their Eargo 7 hearing aids.
Specs
| Type | ITE |
| Degree of hearing loss | Mild to Moderate |
| Battery type | Rechargeable |
| Price | $2,550 |
| Warranty | Two years |
Best simple OTC hearing aid: MDHearing Volt
Best simple OTC hearing aid
The MDHearing Volt is a simple and user-friendly OTC solution that utilizes advanced digital technology to produce crystal-clear sound.
Fortune Score:
4.4 / 5
Key product features
Battery Rechargeable
Bluetooth Yes
Style BTE
Warranty One year
Trial period 45 days
Hearing support Yes
What you should know
The MDHearing Volt offers a unique blend of simple controls and advanced technology. The features are packaged in a user-friendly design. Some testers had issues with the initial setup, but most had no problems.
- Our product testers appreciated the Quick Start Guide’s clear setup instructions, yet some had issues with the initial process.
- The MDHearing Volt hearing aids are $799 when bought separately, but the price shifts to $397 when both earpieces are bought as a pair.
- Product testers had nothing to say about poor performance issues. There were no comments regarding any feedback, whistling, or “tinny” audio.
Pros
Simple, with on-device buttons
Lifetime support available
Easy to follow quick start guide
User-friendly design
Advanced noise reduction and feedback cancelation
Cons
No available app
Limited customization
Not for severe hearing loss
Why we like MDHearing Volt as best simple OTC hearing aid
Simple and effective is the phrase best suited to describe the MDHearing Volts. None of our product testers complained about any feedback, whistling sounds, or “tinny” or “echoey” audio.
The MDHearing Volt outperforms similar hearing aids at its sale/bundle price point. Its most noticeable audio-related features are its advanced noise reduction and feedback cancellation.
The Volt’s design makes it virtually invisible. It’s a behind-the-ear hearing aid connected to an in-ear dome by a clear tube. The dome has a comfort tip for all-day comfort, and a product tester stated that it’s comfortable to wear. “Invisible hearing aids can be just as effective as others on the market, but it’s important to speak with your doctor about the correct option for you,” adds Dr. Raj.
There’s no app, as the four modes can be cycled through on the device itself. Our testers noted that its features are very basic, and those who want a more customizable experience should look into other devices.
The Volt comes with a handy Quick Start Guide, three card instructions, cleaning tools, and a charging case. The case stops charging the hearing aids when they’re fully powered up, preserving the battery’s longevity. Moreover, the earpieces snap into the case, which will display a green light if the earpieces are placed correctly.
The MDHearing Volt can cost upwards of $1,699, with either earpiece selling for $799 separately. Such a price per earpiece may be a potential issue for interested parties with unilateral hearing. ( 11 ) However, the price is lowered to about $397 when both earpieces are bundled together. This means purchasers are potentially getting quality devices for a fraction of the cost.
The MDHearing Volt’s strengths are simplicity and performance. Those who need a great-performing, inexpensive option without all the excess bells and whistles will enjoy the Volt.
What customers are saying
Customers find that these hearing aids are worth their higher price tag.
Amazon user Kevin K. compares the MDHearing Volts to a more expensive previous pair in his four-star review. He wrote, “I am very old, so everything is more difficult. [I was] also born with nerve deafness and a tiny canal on the left side. MD hearing aids are $5,000 less than the big box store [hearing aids] I tried in 2010. I can wear them all day and hear much better. MD has been very helpful with the very few problems I had. Mostly my fault too. You may spend more, but you won’t get more elsewhere.”
However, Amazon user “RPreston513” didn’t have the same amount of success with the Volt and “had to send them back.” They write: “I only had these for about a month before the left one stopped working unexpectedly. While they worked, they were decent hearing aids, especially for the price. Since I’m going to the trouble of sending them back, I’ve opted for a refund instead of a replacement. I think this time, I’ll pay a little more and get a hearing aid that has an app for my phone and some type of Bluetooth compatibility.”
Specs
| Type | BTE |
| Degree of hearing loss | Moderate |
| Battery type | Rechargeable |
| Price | $397 |
| Warranty | One year |
Best user-friendly OTC hearing aid: Lexie Lumen
Best user-friendly OTC hearing aid
The Lexie Lumen is an affordable hearing solution that offers great functionality with user-friendly features.
Fortune Score:
4.6 / 5
Key product features
Battery Disposable
Bluetooth Yes
Style RIC
Warranty One year
Trial period 45 days
Hearing support Yes
What you should know
The Lexie Lumen champions simple, user-friendly design, and its app allows for easy program customization and access to support.
- Our product testers appreciated the device and app’s simplicity and ease of use.
- These hearing aids have a lower mid-range price point for OTC hearing aids at $799.
- They utilize self-fitting technology to set up a personal hearing profile. The Lumen is heavily app-dependent, so this essential feature and more will not work without it.
Pros
Voice alerts
Easy-to-use app
Self-fitting for personal hearing profile
Noise reduction
Six environment modes for optimal clarity
Seven days of battery life
Cons
Must have a smartphone
Device is app-dependent
Bluetooth only works between the hearing aid and the Lexie app
Does not stream music, phone calls, or TV
Why we like Lexie Lumen as best user-friendly
Nearly everything about the Lexie Lumen is user-friendly, especially its features and app. However, users must have a smartphone for its initial setup. Having a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone is necessary since it unlocks the Lumen’s functions for a seamless user experience.
Volume settings and mode changes are adjustable through the app as well as on the Lumen earpieces. The Lexie app gives users access to Lexie Experts™, who provide personalized support seven days a week. One product tester liked that the Lexie app has a rewards feature that incentivizes users to wear their Lumens.
The Lumen’s six environment settings give users optimal sound experience in any situation. The earpieces also have dual microphones for the directionality feature, which allows for better pinpointing and clarity of the sound users want to hear. All sounds that enter the Lumen are enhanced through digital sound processing.
The Lumen has nifty voice alerts, which our product testers listed as a notable feature. These alerts use human speech to make users aware of which modes they switched to and when the Lumen’s battery is low.
What customers are saying
Customers on Amazon love how easy it is to set up the Lexie Lumen. Many of their reviews agreed that the Lumen is better than their previous, more premium hearing aids.
“I’ve had $6k hearing aids and $100 amplifiers. The sound quality is not like the $6k hearing aids, but being able to hear better is priceless without the high cost. I have no trouble changing batteries, and the Bluetooth to the app works every time.”
Wendy W., Verified Amazon Buyer
Amazon user Bonnie shared similar sentiments in her own 5-star review: “These are much better than $4,000 ones I previously had. All adjustments are made on your phone.”
Some users, like Dot H., were dissatisfied with the battery life. “The batteries are only lasting about two-and-a-half days, and because of this, I would never buy them again and actually wish I hadn’t bought them this time.”
Specs
| Type | RIC |
| Degree of hearing loss | Mild to moderate |
| Battery type | Disposable |
| Price | $799 |
| Warranty | One year |
Best Bluetooth OTC hearing aid: GoHearing Go Ultra
Best Bluetooth OTC hearing aid
The GoHearing Go Ultra is a hearing solution that keeps users engaged in the world, with the ability to become immersed in their TVs, music, and phone calls.
Fortune Score:
4.6 / 5
Key product features
Battery Rechargeable
Bluetooth Yes
Style BTE
Warranty One year
Trial period 45 days
Noise reduction Yes
What you should know
The GoHearing Go Ultra is our top pick for seamlessly connecting to devices through Bluetooth. Additional features like noise cancelation, digital sound processing, and a Memory Recall function are all packed inside this affordable device.
- Our product testers enjoyed streaming phones, tablets, and television through Bluetooth. They were surprised that the Go Ultra could not connect to the computer for increased versatility.
- The Bluetooth features and general quality are not standard compared to other hearing aids around its price point of $499.
- Perfect for users with mild to moderate hearing loss who don’t want to constantly switch between devices that require their auditory attention.
Pros
Bluetooth streaming from phone, tablet, and TV
Memory recall function
Four preset programming modes
Noise reduction
Charge case and rechargeable battery
Cons
Bluetooth streaming drains the battery
Can’t connect to computers
Tubes are difficult to detach
Why we like GoHearing Go Ultra as best Bluetooth
The GoHearing Go Ultra hearing aid is an excellent choice for those who want a seamless auditory experience as they go from place to place. Convenience is the name of the game, and the GoHearing Go Ultra is a top player with features and technology.
These hearing aids can be connected to modern televisions, smartphones, and tablets with a Bluetooth connection. Not only does the Go Ultra allow users to hear music in a natural manner, but its ability to pair with smartphones and tablets allows direct streaming through music apps. Music can be beneficial to an individual’s well-being, ( 6 ) especially as hearing loss can lead to loneliness, depression, and anxiety. ( 12 )
Our product testers were surprised that the hearing aids do not connect to computers. This means that users cannot stream Zoom calls, videos, music, and games on computers. One product tester noted that Bluetooth streaming drains the battery and decreases operation time to about eight hours.
Of course, the GoHearing Go Ultra has features that are more typical of hearing aids, including noise reduction and digital sound processing. Moreover, there are four preset hearing programs that allow users to personalize their listening experience.
The Go Ultra comes packaged with several slim tubes and tips for the device to fit better, plus a measuring tool for easy sizing. Quite a few of our product testers had issues switching out the slim tubes. One tester was concerned that potential users would fear breaking their devices because of the force required to remove the slim tubes.
There isn’t an app for these hearing aids, so users have to change programming modes and volume settings using the buttons on the device. However, the device has a memory recall function that remembers the last settings the user was using.
The GoHearing Go Ultra is an affordable option for hearing aids with Bluetooth connectivity. Very few hearing aids at this price point utilize Bluetooth for entertainment purposes, and many more don’t offer it at all.
What customers are saying
Customers on Amazon generally enjoy the Go Ultra’s Bluetooth capabilities.
“I can connect these to my TV when I don’t want to disturb my suitemates. When walking, I can easily toggle between hearing mode and audiobooks on my phone. [I] easily connected to my iPad and my Android phone too. I’ve tried a number of devices. These are awesome.”
Nesje, Verified Amazon Buyer
An Amazon verified purchaser named “Dice” wasn’t too pleased, writing: “It’s a decent-performing product, but the battery life leaves a lot to be desired.” This coincides with our product tester noting that using the Bluetooth feature will drain the battery.
Specs
| Type | BTE |
| Degree of hearing loss | Mild to moderate |
| Battery type | Rechargeable |
| Price | $499 |
| Warranty | One year |
How we test hearing aids
Purchasing a hearing aid isn’t just about amplifying sound—it’s about enhancing quality of life. Our aim is to match readers with the hearing aid that best fits their needs. We thoroughly examine each hearing aid we recommend through firsthand testing, evaluating it based on its performance, value, customer service, and other criteria. Read our full hearing aid testing methodology for more information on our testing process.
Testing criteria
Performance (auditory effectiveness)—40%
A hearing aid’s most important factor is how well it performs. We analyze how effectively the devices amplify sound, improve speech intelligibility, and provide a natural listening experience.
- Sound quality
- Noise reduction
- Feedback control
- Programmability and connectivity
Features—30%
Additional features can enhance a user’s hearing experience. We aim to highlight the capabilities that matter most for comfort, satisfaction, and willingness to use the device consistently.
- Durability
- Battery options
- Hearing loss range
- Wireless connectivity
- Water resistance
- Safety features
Value—20%
We delve into the hearing aid’s overall cost-effectiveness, from its upfront price to its potential for longevity. Value isn’t just price but includes durability, maintenance costs, and more.
- Insurance coverage
- Financing options
Customer experience—10%
The customer’s experience makes the difference between a good hearing aid and a great one. We incorporate the following factors into our evaluation to demonstrate a full picture of the service each hearing aid provides.
- Shipping
- Warranty
- Customer support
FAQs
Are OTC hearing aids as good as prescription?
OTC hearing aids are generally as good as prescription hearing aids when dealing with mild and moderate hearing loss. However, they are not suitable for severe and profound hearing loss and will not work as effectively as prescription hearing aids for these conditions.
“While OTC aids are more affordable, prescription ones usually offer more personalized features and performance, though they’re pricier and require regular check-ins with a hearing specialist.”
-Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, Fortune Recommends Medical Advisor
What’s the difference between OTC hearing aids and traditional hearing aids?
The main differences between OTC and traditional hearing aids are price, condition compatibility, and fit. OTC hearing aids cost less, are compatible with mild to moderate hearing loss, and are fitted by the user with pre-packaged tubes and domes. Traditional hearing aids are more expensive, are compatible with mild, moderate, severe, and profound hearing loss, and are professionally custom fit to a user’s ear and condition.
How much do OTC hearing aids cost?
OTC hearing aids generally cost anywhere between $189 to $2,950. Some OTC hearing aids will cost as little as $99. It is unlikely that an OTC hearing aid will cost over $3,300.
Does Medicare or Medicaid cover hearing aids?
Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids, so those who need hearing aids will have to purchase the devices on their own. ( 7 ) However, those with Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) might be covered. Medicaid may cover hearing aids, but it depends on a variety of factors, such as the individual’s residing state. ( 8 )
Alternatively, qualifying veterans can receive hearing aids through Veteran Affairs. ( 9 ) A few insurance plans and non-profit organizations cover hearing aids. ( 10 )
It’s important to contact your plans and programs for more information about hearing aid coverage and support.
Where can I buy OTC hearing aids?
OTC hearing aids are available in retail and big-box stores (like Best Buy, Walmart, CVS), online marketplaces (Amazon), and through a hearing aid manufacturer’s website.
Be aware that purchasing hearing aids from online marketplaces may cause issues with the manufacturers’ warranty. Some reviewers made complaints about receiving used or refurbished hearing aids.
Our experts
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM
Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine. An active clinical researcher, Dr. Raj currently practices at the University of Southern California, where he’s been awarded the Excellence in Teaching award six years in a row. He’s also an associate professor of clinical medicine, assistant program director of the internal medicine residency program, and the associate program director of the sleep medicine fellowship at USC.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Spencer Kildare, CLC
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Spencer Kildare is a talented and published retail consultant with over ten years of experience in the industry. He uses his expertise and knowledge in product and service writing and has written for media brands such as Reader’s Digest. Spencer earned his certification as a Longevity Coach with the Spencer Institute. In his spare time, Spencer operates media businesses and projects.
References
-
- Food and Drug Administration. OTC Hearing aids and what you should know . Accessed April 22, 2024.
- World Health Organization. Aging and Health . Published Oct 1, 2022
- The White House. Statement by President Biden on FDA Hearing Aids Final Rule . Aug 16, 2022
- Hearing Loss Association of America. Consumer Protection Laws . May 2013
- Harvard Health. Good hearing essential to physical and emotional well being . Published Oct 20, 2016
- National Institute of Health, ScienceDirect, Laura Rebecchini. Music, mental health, immunity . Oct 21, 2021
7. Medicare. Hearing Aids . Accessed Apr 23. 2024 - Hearing Loss Association of America. Medicaid . Accessed April 24, 2024
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