What to Consider When Choosing a Hearing Aid
Hearing aids come in all shapes and sizes. Some are sleek and discreet, while others are more powerful and can be equipped with advanced features and technology. With so many styles and options available today, you’re guaranteed to find a device that fits seamlessly into your everyday life.
Hearing Aid Styles
- Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
- Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
- In-the-Ear (ITE)
- Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
- In-the-Canal (ITC)
- Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
Types of Hearing Aids
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
Powerful, Adaptable Technology
BTE hearing aids are known for their power and customizability. They are an excellent option for mild-to-profound hearing loss and are the preferred option for children because of their maturing ear anatomy. The slightly larger design allows for volume and programming controls, customizable fit options and a longer battery life.
Features and Benefits
- Durable and easy to handle
- Most comprehensive range of features and sound programming options
- Larger size allows for longer battery life
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
Comfortable, Flexible and Versatile
RIC hearing aids balance comfort and sleek design with an unparalleled sound experience. The receiver delivers sound directly into the ear canal, connecting to a small, lightweight unit that sits discreetly behind the ear. RICs are versatile devices that suit nearly all types of hearing loss, from mild to severe.
Features and Benefits
- Lightweight feel and flexible design
- More discreet than BTE models
- In-ear receiver delivers enhanced sound quality
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
In-the-Ear (ITE)
Power and Comfort for All-Day Wear
ITE hearing aids use the natural acoustics of your ear to amplify sound. They are custom molded to sit comfortably within the ear bowl and their larger size makes them easy to clean and adjust. The power and design of ITEs make them ideal for those with mild-to-severe hearing loss.
Features and Benefits
- Easy to adjust and maintain
- Custom-molded for a comfortable fit
- Longer battery life for all-day use
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
In-the-Canal (ITC)
Advanced Features in a Discreet Package
While slightly larger and easier to handle than smaller canal models, ITC hearing aids are still fairly discreet and can be equipped with a wide range of features. Many ITC models are available with volume control and directional microphones, which can help wearers better adapt to different sound environments.
Features and Benefits
- Custom-molded for a comfortable fit
- Less noticeable appearance
- Best suited for mild-to-moderately-severe hearing loss
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
Discreet and Direct Sound Delivery
CIC hearing aids are custom-molded to sit within the ear canal, providing a natural, nearly invisible look. They work with the shape of your ear to naturally direct sound towards the microphone, providing the user with an enhanced sound experience. Best suited for mild-to-moderately-severe hearing loss, CIC hearing aids are a great option for wearers that live a more active lifestyle.
Features and Benefits
- Custom-molded, secure fit
- Nearly invisible look
- Reduced wind noise, whistling and feedback
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
Out-of-Sight Sound Amplification
IIC hearing aids are the smallest and most inconspicuous style of technology available. They are custom-molded to fit deeply within the ear canal, utilizing the wearer’s natural anatomy to organically amplify sound. Best suited for those individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss who desire an undetectable look.
Features and Benefits
- Secure fit for active lifestyles
- Virtually invisible to others
- Reduced wind noise, whistling and feedback
- Sits deeper within the ear canal, reducing the “plugged up” feeling.