Hearing Aid Styles
What to Consider When Choosing a Hearing Aid
Your degree of hearing loss, lifestyle needs, and personal choices all influence the process of selecting hearing aids. Important factors to think about include:
Level of hearing loss (needed power)
Budget
Preferred appearance
Skin sensitivities
Physical/medical considerations
Ability to manage small devices
Lifestyle and listening requirements
Budget plays a major role in choosing the style of hearing aid. Generally, the price of hearing aids is based on the technology and features rather than the style itself. As hearing technology improves, more special features will become available across various models.
The best approach to select a hearing aid is through a discussion with a hearing professional about your needs and preferences. Schedule an appointment today, and one of our specialists will help you find the right option.
Hearing Aid Styles: Behind the Ear (BTE), Receiver in Canal (RIC), In the Ear (ITE), In the Canal (ITC), Completely in Canal (CIC), Invisible in Canal (IIC).
Hearing aids come in many designs. Some are compact and discreet, while others are stronger and can include advanced technology and features. With numerous styles and choices available today, you are sure to find a device that seamlessly integrates into your daily routine.
Types of Hearing Aids
Behind the Ear (BTE)
Powerful, Adaptable Technology
BTE hearing aids are recognized for their strength and adaptability. They are a great choice for mild to severe hearing loss and are often preferred for children due to their developing ear structure. The larger design provides volume and programming controls, customizable fitting options, and extends battery life.
Features and Benefits
Sturdy and user-friendly
Most extensive selection of features and sound settings
Bigger size promotes longer battery duration
Bluetooth and wireless capabilities
Receiver in Canal (RIC)
Comfortable, Flexible and Versatile
RIC hearing aids combine comfort and a modern design with a superior sound experience. The receiver channels sound straight into the ear canal, linking to a compact, lightweight unit that rests unobtrusively behind the ear. RICs are adaptable devices that accommodate almost all levels of hearing loss, from mild to severe.
Features and Benefits
Lightweight and flexible design
More discreet compared to BTE models
In-ear receiver provides improved sound quality
Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
In the Ear (ITE)
Power and Comfort for All-Day Wear
ITE hearing aids use the natural sound qualities of your ear to enhance audio. They are specially shaped to fit snugly in the ear bowl, and their bigger size allows for easy cleaning and adjustments. The strength and style of ITEs make them suitable for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss.
Features and Benefits
Simple to adjust and care for
Custom-shaped for a comfortable fit
Extended battery life for all-day use
Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
In the Canal (ITC)
Advanced Features in a Discreet Package
ITC hearing aids are somewhat bigger and easier to use than smaller canal models, yet they remain quite discreet and come with many features. Numerous ITC models include volume control and directional microphones, assisting users in adjusting to various sound settings.
Features and Benefits
Custom-molded for a comfortable fit
Less visible design
Ideal for mild to moderate hearing loss
Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
Completely in Canal (CIC)
Discreet and Direct Sound Delivery
CIC hearing aids are made to fit snugly inside the ear canal, offering a discreet, almost invisible appearance. They are designed to match the ear’s shape, helping sound reach the microphone while improving sound clarity. Ideal for those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, CIC hearing aids are perfect for active individuals.
Features and Benefits
Custom-fit for security
Almost invisible appearance
Less wind noise, whistling, and feedback
Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
Invisible in Canal (IIC)
Out-of-Sight Sound Amplification
IIC hearing aids are the tiniest and least noticeable type of technology on the market. They are custom-made to fit deep inside the ear canal and use the shape of the wearer’s ear to enhance sound. These aids are ideal for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss who want a discreet appearance.
Features and Benefits
Secure fit for active lifestyles
Nearly invisible to others
Minimized wind noise, whistling, and feedback
Bluetooth and wireless connectivity