How to Choose the Right Hearing Aids: Features, Brands, Prices, and Discounts

Hearing aids are life-changing devices that help individuals with hearing loss improve communication, independence, and overall quality of life. But with so many models, technologies, and price ranges available today, choosing the right hearing aid can feel overwhelming.

This guide explains how to evaluate hearing aids based on your needs, compares major brands, highlights key price and feature differences, and shares where to find affordable or discounted options.

How to Choose the Right Hearing Aid

Start by considering the following factors:

🔹 Type of Hearing Loss – Whether it's mild, moderate, or severe. Audiologist testing can help determine this.

🔹 Device Style – Common types include:

• Behind-the-ear (BTE) – Suitable for most hearing losses, easy to handle
• Receiver-in-canal (RIC) – Discreet and versatile
• In-the-ear (ITE) or In-the-canal (ITC) – Smaller and custom-molded

🔹 Technology Needs – Some hearing aids offer:

• Bluetooth connectivity to phones and TVs
• Rechargeable batteries
• Noise reduction and speech clarity features
• AI-powered sound adjustments

🔹 Lifestyle Considerations – Active users might prefer water-resistant or wind-noise reduction features.

🔹 Budget and Insurance Coverage – Hearing aids can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Some insurance plans, VA programs, and Medicaid options offer partial or full coverage.

Popular Hearing Aid Brands Compared

Here are some leading manufacturers and how they compare:

🔹 Phonak

• Known for: Excellent speech clarity, rechargeable models, smart features
• Flagship: Phonak Audéo Lumity
• Approx. Price Range: $2,000–$3,500/pair ( source )

🔹 Oticon

• Known for: BrainHearing™ technology for natural sound
• Flagship: Oticon Real
• Price Range: $2,000–$4,000/pair ( source )

🔹 ReSound

• Known for: Strong app integration, iPhone/Android compatibility
• Flagship: ReSound OMNIA
• Price Range: $1,800–$3,500/pair (source)

🔹 Eargo (Over-the-counter, rechargeable)

• Known for: Discreet design and direct-to-consumer affordability
• Price Range: $799–$2,950/pair (source)

🔹 Lexie Hearing (in partnership with Bose)

• Known for: Budget-friendly OTC devices with remote support
• Price Range: $799–$999/pair (source)

Best Budget Hearing Aids in 2025
If you're looking for affordable yet reliable hearing aids, consider:

🔹 Lexie B2 Powered by Bose – Rechargeable, self-fit via smartphone app, $999/pair
🔹 Audien Atom Pro – Very low-cost option (under $300), rechargeable, basic amplification only
🔹 Eargo 6 – Comfortable and discreet, strong support, ~$2,000/pair, often with financing

For the most up-to-date pricing and feature details, please visit the brand's official website directly.

Where to Find Discounts or Promotions

Real discounts may be available through:

🔹 Seasonal Campaigns – Clinics often run promotions around holidays like Memorial Day, Veterans Day, or World Hearing Day (March 3).

🔹 Hospital & Clinic Bundles – Some hospitals or audiology centers offer package discounts including fitting, follow-ups, and service warranties. Example: Kaiser Permanente often includes care services in bundled pricing (source).

🔹 Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits – U.S. veterans may qualify for no-cost hearing aids through VA clinics.

🔹 Retailer-Specific Promotions – Large chains like Costco offer hearing aid centers with competitive prices (Costco's in-house brand: Kirkland Signature 10.0 ~$1,399/pair) (source)

🔹 Nonprofits and Assistance Programs – Organizations like Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) and state-level vocational rehab programs may help reduce cost.

Do I Really Need a Hearing Aid?

Not everyone with occasional trouble hearing needs a hearing aid, but for many people, early signs go unnoticed. You may benefit from a hearing aid if:

🔹 You frequently ask people to repeat themselves
🔹 You find it hard to follow conversations in noisy environments
🔹 You turn up the TV or phone volume higher than others prefer
🔹 You avoid social situations due to hearing difficulties

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's wise to take a professional hearing test or try an online hearing screening tool (e.g., hear.com, Beltone).

Prescription vs. OTC Hearing Aids: What’s the Difference?

With the FDA’s approval of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in 2022, consumers now have more options. Here’s how they compare:

🔹 Prescription Hearing Aids

• Fitted and fine-tuned by an audiologist
• Suitable for mild to profound hearing loss
• Custom molded options available
• Covered by some insurance plans or VA programs

🔹 OTC Hearing Aids

• Buy online or in-store without a prescription
• Designed for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss
• Generally lower cost
• Self-fit via mobile apps or adjustment tools

Both options serve different needs. A hearing test can help determine which type is appropriate.

Maintenance Tips for Your Hearing Aids

Keeping your devices clean and well-maintained ensures better performance and longevity:

🔹 Daily cleaning – Use a dry, soft cloth to wipe off earwax and moisture
🔹 Keep them dry – Store in a dry box or dehumidifier overnight
🔹 Battery care – Replace or recharge regularly and avoid corrosion
🔹 Regular checkups – Visit a provider for cleaning, tuning, or repairs
🔹 Avoid high heat or water – Remove before showering, swimming, or using a hair dryer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

🔹 How long do hearing aids last? – On average, 3 to 7 years, depending on usage and care.
🔹 Can hearing aids make hearing worse? – No. They amplify sound, but your hearing may seem worse when not wearing them due to adjustment.
🔹 Are hearing aids covered by insurance? – Some private plans, Medicaid (in certain states), and the VA offer partial or full coverage.
🔹 Can I use hearing aids during exercise? – Yes, if they're sweat-resistant and securely fitted. Choose models rated for active use.
🔹 What’s the best age to start using hearing aids? – Whenever hearing loss begins to impact daily life—age is not the deciding factor.

Summary

Choosing the right hearing aid involves balancing personal hearing needs, lifestyle, and budget. Top brands like Phonak and Oticon offer advanced features, while OTC options from Lexie or Eargo provide affordability. Always consult a licensed audiologist for a hearing test and fitting, and don’t forget to check for ongoing seasonal or clinic-based discounts that can make these devices more accessible.