Starkey Hearing Aids
Starkey offers premium hearing aids with unique features like fall detection and activity tracking.
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SeniorLiving.org is supported by commissions from providers listed on our site. Read our Editorial Guidelines
Overview
With more seniors enjoying new technology more than ever,1 many older adults are searching for high-tech hearing aids with advanced features. Starkey is a leading hearing aid provider that fits the bill.
With Starkey, sound quality and AI features make their hearing aids a premium choice comparable to other top-rated brands we’ve tested, including Phonak. The company offers several different styles of hearing aids, ranging from behind-the-ear to invisible-in-the-canal, so users can find the fit that is most comfortable for their lifestyle.
While Starkey doesn’t advertise prices on their website and customers will need to visit a hearing care specialist for a quote, you can expect to pay between $1000 and $4000 per hearing aid with this premium provider. If you’re on a tight budget, there are other hearing aids to consider; however, we believe that Starkey’s industry-leading technology and customizable solutions for mild to profound hearing loss are worth the cost. Now, let’s take a closer look at everything Starkey has to offer!
Testing out Starkey hearing aids
Pros About Starkey
- Innovative technology: Starkey is a leader in innovative hearing aid technology like fall detection,2 AI features, and invisible hearing aids. With this technology, Starkey strives to make life safer and improve hearing for seniors.
- Sound quality: From replicating a warmer, more natural sound to outperforming competitors with sound technology3 that makes it easier to hear in all types of environments, Starkey knows that sound quality is essential.
- U.S.-based: Starkey prides itself on being one of the world’s only major hearing aid providers based in the U.S.
Cons About Starkey
- Can be expensive: As one of the industry’s top-tier hearing aid providers, Starkey’s devices can get pricey, especially for those who want to add extra features. Insurance doesn’t always offer full coverage for hearing aids, so it’s important to consider your budget upfront.
- Battery life: Bluetooth streaming and advanced AI features can drain batteries between charges or changes. While this is typical for these types of features, it does mean battery life will vary based on your use.
Comparing Starkey to Other Hearing Aid Brands
There’s no question that Starkey offers high-end hearing aids with the latest in tech and features. However, they may not be for everyone. If you’re an older adult on a tight budget, you may want to opt for a more affordable device. So, if you want to shop around before making a decision, check out some of the top-rated alternatives that we have reviewed.
The History of Starkey
Before we get into Starkey’s product lineup, let’s look at where the brand got its start. The Starkey family of brands has been specializing in hearing aid technology since 1967. What began as a grassroots startup has grown to a global leader in the hearing aid industry. Today, the Starkey family of brands includes familiar faces like Audibel, MicroTech, and NuEar. Starkey is the only member of the “Big Six” hearing aid providers, a group that manufactures the majority of the world’s hearing aids, based in the U.S. Today, the company is headquartered in Minnesota and employs over 5,000 people across their 26 facilities worldwide.
Starkey Hearing Aid Styles
Below is a look at some of Starkey’s hearing aids. They come in a variety of styles to fit your needs. Just a reminder: Starkey prices will vary by location and dispenser, so the best way to determine the cost of a pair of Starkey hearing aids is to visit a local Starkey provider.
| Model | Styles available | Rechargeable options | Bluetooth | App compatible | AI tech |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genesis AI | Receiver-in-canal,
in-the-ear, invisible-in-canal, completely-in-canal, in-the-canal |
Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Signature Series | Completely-in-canal, invisible-in-canal | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Evolve AI | Behind-the-ear,
receiver-in-canal, in-the-ear, in-the-canal, completely-in-canal, invisible-in-canal |
Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Genesis AI
Genesis AI
Genesis AI hearing aids are one of Starkey’s newer, more technologically advanced options. These hearing aids make over 80 million sound adjustments hourly. They’re designed to process sound the same way that your brain’s outer layer, the cerebral cortex, does. Like your brain, Genesis AI hearing aids fill in the sound gaps generated by long-term hearing loss. This translates into easy-to-understand, natural sound that requires low to no listening effort.
Through the MyStarkey app, you can use AI on demand to sharpen sound quality, as needed. You can also use your voice to adjust settings and set reminders. Two of the unique things about Genesis AI are its health monitoring capabilities and fall detection alerts. If you choose to, you can share details about your daily activities, such as steps taken and the amount of time you’ve spent standing, with caregivers or family through Starkey’s Hear Share app. The hearing aids can even detect if you experience a fall and call for help.
Other features include best-in-class feedback reduction and management, wireless streaming, speech transcription, and tap control. Genesis AI comes in multiple styles, including invisible-in-canal and receiver-in-canal.
Signature Series
Signature Series
Starkey's Signature Series custom-fit hearing aids are designed to provide all-day comfort plus invisibility. This line includes a waterproof and rechargeable, completely-in-canal option, with a 38-hour battery life.
Despite their small size, Signature Series hearing aids generate natural, clear sound with little-to-no feedback.
Unlike Genesis AI, these hearing aids don’t feature advanced tinnitus technology. However, data indicates that the improvement in hearing level that is supplied by simply wearing hearing aids is often enough to reduce the perception of tinnitus sounds.
If you’re looking for discreet hearing aids that produce true-to-life sound, and don’t need added bells and whistles like smartphone connectivity, these may be a great choice for you.
Did You Know: All of Starkey’s hearing aids come equipped with features to relieve symptoms from tinnitus. If you suffer from ringing in the ears, this will be very useful.
Evolve AI
Evolve AI
Evolve AI features superior sound quality that is clear and clean, with less background noise.
According to Starkey, Evolve AI offers 40 percent more reduction in noise energy to reduce the wearer’s listening effort. This model also has upgraded connectivity, featuring a better connection and sound quality when paired with smartphones or TVs. These hearing aids are designed to provide realistic and natural sound, no matter what listening environment you’re in. Evolve AI features health tracking features, advanced tinnitus technology, and fall detection and alerts. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line product, we’d recommend Evolve AI.
Quick Tip: Visit our list of the best hearing aids for older adults to see how Starkey stacks up to the competition!
Starkey Hearing Aid Accessories
In addition to hearing aid devices packed with the latest in sound and AI technology, Starkey offers many accessories to help users get the most out of their devices. We’ll cover a few of our favorites below.
Starkey Accessories
- Table microphone: The table microphone makes conversations within large, sitting groups of people easier to hear and follow. This wireless accessory can be used in conference rooms, restaurants, and dining halls. It contains eight built-in microphones that identify the primary speaker’s voice and stream it directly into your hearing aids. The table microphone can be used with Evolve AI and Genesis AI hearing aids.
- TV Streamer: This device connects to your cable box to stream straight to your hearing aid. The streamer eliminates many of the negative impacts of watching TV with hearing aids the traditional way, such as reverberation and background noise.
- Remote Microphone +: This device can help you focus on one-on-one conversations when in noisy environments. It also comes in a Mini version that can be clipped to your clothes, and it also doubles as a TV streamer.
- Remote: For those who don’t want to control their hearing aid through a mobile app, this portable remote makes it easy to adjust your settings with a press of a button.
Is Starkey the Right Fit for Your Needs?
In the world of hearing aids, you will find a wide range of prices and levels of service. For those who want a quick, straightforward solution that can be purchased online and shipped directly to you, bargain options like MDHearingAid are available. However, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line solution custom-fitted to your unique needs, it’s best to consult a hearing care professional in-person. With Starkey, you’ll need to visit a hearing clinic for a consultation, hearing test, and fitting to find the right solution for you.
To sum it all up, if you’re looking for a simple, inexpensive provider that offers hearing aids for purchase online, Starkey won’t be the right fit for you. But for those who want professional diagnostics, custom fittings, and higher-quality devices, Starkey hearing aids are an excellent option.
Need Help Finding the Right Hearing Aid?
Answer a few easy questions to find the hearing aid that’s right for you.
Purchasing Your Starkey Hearing Aids
Does Starkey sound like the right provider for you? If so, here’s how to get your hands on a pair of their hearing aids.
Start With an Online Hearing Test Assessment
If you think you might be experiencing hearing loss, you can start with a simple online hearing test, which Starkey offers on their website. This test is a self-diagnostic tool that will let you know if it’s time to head to a hearing specialist for a more formal evaluation. If that’s the case, your next step will be finding a hearing care professional near you.
Pro Tip: Want to learn more about hearing assessments? Visit our 2024 hearing aid guide for more information.
Find a Starkey Hearing Specialist in Your Area
Starkey hearing aids are available through a network of hearing professionals. The shopping process can be overwhelming, so trained professionals from Starkey are available to get you started. You can book an appointment with a hearing care provider by filling out an online contact form on Starkey’s website or giving them a call.
Visit Your Local Specialist
At your appointment, a Starkey hearing center professional will perform a complete visual and diagnostic screening. Expect to spend around two hours at this appointment for testing and reviewing your results. There is no commitment required to get your hearing tested. The provider will also ask questions to understand your lifestyle and help you choose the device that best meets your needs.
Money Saving Tip: Many Starkey hearing centers will offer free hearing screenings as a regular or promotional offer. Be sure to ask about this when booking your appointment.
The Follow-up
Your hearing specialist will schedule a thirty-day follow-up appointment to check the fit and performance of your device since it takes some time to get acquainted with new hearing aids. If you decide that the size or style isn’t working for you, Starkey offers a 60-day exchange program to get a different size or model.
Compare Starkey to Other Providers
A Commitment to Our Veterans
As an American-founded company, Starkey makes a special commitment to our veterans.
When you think of the injuries that veterans suffer from, hearing loss is probably not the first thing that comes to mind; however, hearing problems, such as hearing loss and tinnitus, are the leading cause of medical disability among our veterans.5
Starkey is dedicated to providing our veterans with industry-leading hearing aid technology to improve their quality of life after they have served our country. While VA benefit coverage varies by individual benefits packages, veterans can contact their local VA facility to inquire about eligibility. Starkey hearing aids may be free for veterans who qualify.
Final Thoughts on Starkey Hearing Aids
Starkey embraces new technology to bring older adults the latest custom hearing solutions with advanced AI features like fall detection, health and wellness tracking, and voice assistance. The company has a full line of hearing aids for mild to profound hearing loss with various styles to meet most seniors’ needs and lifestyles. Though on the more expensive side for the industry, in this year’s Starkey review, we found that the price indicates the quality of hearing aids and level of service you’ll receive. If Starkey hearing aids are right for your budget, we’d highly recommend this premium provider.
Still trying to decide if Starkey is you? Watch our video below. Audiologist Dr. Brad Ingrao discusses whom Starkey hearing aids, along with other popular brands, are best for and how to choose the right device for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starkey
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Where are Starkey hearing aids made?
Starkey is based out of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and all Starkey hearing aids are made in the U.S.
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Do I have to visit a doctor to purchase a Starkey hearing aid model?
Yes, you’ll need to visit a hearing care specialist to purchase Starkey hearing aids. A hearing specialist or audiologist will be able to diagnose your hearing loss condition, recommend the most appropriate device, and make sure it fits and works properly.
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Can I get a Starkey Hearing Aid for one-sided Hearing Loss?
Yes, many Starkey models are available with CROS or BiCROS technology that allows for a single hearing aid device to be worn on one side.
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Is earwax a problem for Starkey hearing aids?
Models that sit in the ear or completely in the canal may be prone to earwax buildup. There are products on the market that can help users clean their hearing aids at home, or a hearing specialist at one of Starkey’s centers can remove excess earwax buildup.
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How much does a hearing test cost?
Hearing tests are offered complimentary at many locations. However, prices and services may vary by provider, as each location is independently owned and operated.
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Pew Research. (2017). Tech Adoption Climbs Among Older Adults.
Starkey. (2019). The first and only hearing aid with fall detection and alerts.
Starkey. (2019). Evidence of Noise Management Preference for Starkey Hearing Aids.
NCOA. (2020). Falls Prevention Facts.
United States Department of Veteran Affairs. (2020). Hearing Loss.