Best Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
The industry’s best OTC hearing aids tested and reviewed by audiologists in 2024
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- Prices starting at $995 per pair
- Behind-the-ear hearing aids
- 100-day free trial
- Prices starting at $799 per pair
- In-ear and earbud-style hearing aids
- 45-day free trial
- Prices starting at $799 per pair
- In-ear and earbud-style hearing aids
- 45-day free trial
- Prices starting at $297 per pair
- Behind-the-ear and in-ear hearing aids
- 45-day free trial
Our audiologists and senior tech experts tested the best OTC hearing aids and narrowed down the list to our recommendations.
Our audiologists and senior tech experts tested the best OTC hearing aids and narrowed down the list to our recommendations.
Learn MoreContents
Effective October 17, 2022, the FDA made over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids available directly to consumers, generating potential cost savings for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. OTC hearing aids do not require professional advice, fitting, adjustment, or maintenance.
Our team of experts tested and reviewed a dozen OTC hearing aids, evaluating each for factors such as cost, battery life, features, and remote care. We also consulted with audiologist Dr. Ruth Reisman and built this list based on her decades of experience. We found that Jabra Enhance offers the best value, thanks to its follow-up care, advanced features, and 100-day money-back guarantee.
Our team testing out different hearing aids
The Best Online Hearing Aids for 2024
Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best OTC Hearing Aids
How We Tested the Hearing Aids
Our tech team conducted over 100 hours of testing to compare the top OTC hearing aids. We followed the step-by-step process below to test out each OTC provider:
- We tried each brand’s online hearing test, comparing our results to in-person evaluations from an audiologist.
- Then, we selected our hearing aids and made our purchase, evaluating the overall shopping process. We considered the price and value of each hearing aid, keeping seasonal promotions, extra fees, and upfront costs in mind.
- Once we had the devices in hand, we followed the instructions to set them up. If the brand had a mobile app, we downloaded it to our phones and set it up, too. We evaluated the ease of use and the total number of steps to get them up and running.
- We reached out to customer service several times to evaluate the quality of care by phone, mobile app (if applicable), and online chat features.
- Our team tested each hearing aid for a week, using them at home, in noisy environments, and in quiet, conversational settings. We evaluated the hearing aid’s features, sound quality, and ease of use in each sound environment and location.
We also spoke with Dr. Reisman about her expertise with each brand. We used her experience testing these hearing aids, along with feedback from her patients, to evaluate and rank them.
How We Chose the Best OTC Hearing Aids
After narrowing down the list to four OTC providers, we tested each one. Our team of tech experts and audiologists evaluated a variety of criteria, including:
- Cost: Many seniors choose OTC hearing aids based on the cost alone. Our research team compared popular providers to see which ones offer the best prices and most value. We included budget-friendly options starting at just $297 per pair, as well as more advanced models starting at $995 per pair.
- Functionality: Our team tested models from each provider to ensure they offer top-notch functionality. Every provider on this list offers hearing aids that can make listening easier for seniors with mild to moderate hearing loss, and offer clear, crisp sound quality.
- Remote care: Remote care is not something every OTC hearing aid provider offers, but many do. Some include remote follow-up care at no extra charge, while others offer it as a paid add-on. Either way, every provider on this list offers some form of remote care.
- Battery life: All the providers on this list have OTC hearing aids that last for 16 hours or more on one charge. We also included providers offering disposable and rechargeable batteries to suit the diverse needs of older adults with hearing loss.
- Features: Some of the top features seniors request are discreet designs, Bluetooth connectivity, integrated mobile apps, and adaptive volume capabilities. Each provider on this list has at least one of these features; some offer all of the above.
- Warranty: The hearing aids on this list offer manufacturer warranties ranging from one to three years to protect your purchase.
Why Trust Us
Our team of tech experts tries out the latest devices for seniors each year. We’ve logged hundreds of hours testing and reviewing hearing aids from dozens of providers.
Despite all of our experience testing and researching hearing aids, we still like to get help from licensed experts! Our resident audiologist, Dr. Ruth Reisman, provided her feedback on all of the brands that were considered for this list. She also offered useful insight on each provider. Dr. Reisman has more than a decade of experience helping patients with hearing loss.
The Best OTC Hearing Aids at a Glance
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Jabra Enhance
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Eargo
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Sony
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MDHearing
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.8 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.7 |
| Starting price | $995 per pair | $799 per pair | $799 per pair | $297 per pair |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hours | Up to 16 hours | Up to 25 hours (up to 70 hours with disposable batteries) | Up to 22 hours |
| Battery type | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable and disposable | Rechargeable |
| Follow-up care | 3 years (with Premium package) | Lifetime remote support | Lifetime remote support | Lifetime remote support |
| Warranty | 3 years (with Premium package) | 1 or 2 years | 1 year | 1 year |
| Style | BTE | CIC and earbud-style | ITC and earbud-style | BTE and ITC |
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1. Jabra Enhance - Best value
See Pricing Links to Jabra Enhance
What we like most
- Prices starting at $995 per pair
- Behind-the-ear hearing aids
- 100-day free trial
Jabra EnhanceSee Pricing Links to Jabra EnhanceOverview:
Jabra Enhance Select 300 hearing aids
Jabra Enhance’s product lineup, pricing, high-tech features, and dedicated customer support make it a standout in the OTC hearing aid industry. The company’s behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids offer excellent bang for your buck, which is why they earned the No. 1 spot on our best hearing aids list!
Jabra Enhance offers Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids with direct streaming for Apple devices and most Android phones. In addition to Bluetooth connectivity, you’ll get essential features like noise-canceling technology, tinnitus management, and a mobile app for easy adjustments. Every Premium Jabra Enhance package comes with a three-year warranty and three years of follow-up care, so you can easily chat with an audiologist and make remote adjustments from the comfort of your own home.
» For Tinnitus: Best Hearing Aids for Tinnitus in 2024
Jabra Enhance also offers basic packages if you’re not looking for follow-up care or you want to save some money. With free shipping and a 100-day risk-free trial, Jabra Enhance makes it easy to take its devices for a test drive. Most OTC hearing aid brands, such as MDHearing and Eargo, have shorter free-trial periods of 45 days, so we appreciate the extended trial. The one downside is that Jabra Enhance has only behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. If you want something more discreet, consider one of MDHearing’s in-ear Neo models.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Jabra Enhance
- Remote adjustments
- Direct streaming
- Three years of follow-up care with premium packages
- 100-day money-back guarantee
- Affordable monthly payment plans available
- Rechargeable devices
Cons About Jabra Enhance
- Only BTE options available
- Not available as singles (only pairs)
- Follow-up care not included in more affordable packages
Our Hands-on Experience:Our Experience With Jabra Enhance
We tested the Enhance Select 300 Premium package and found that its sound quality was very good compared to other OTC hearing aids we’ve tried. The sound was crisper and richer in tone than MDHearing’s Neo XS model. There wasn’t any whiny feedback or humming sounds, and we were able to fine-tune our settings in the mobile app. The rechargeable devices lasted for about 30 hours — nearly twice as long as Eargo’s hearing aids — which was perfect for all-day wear.
Charging Jabra Enhance Select 300 hearing aids
All three Jabra Enhance models provide great value. The Select 50R is the most budget-friendly option that’s good for everyday listening, but it’s a bit short on features. We really like the Select 300 for users with active lifestyles and the Select 500 for people who want the best sound clarity, as well as features such as enhanced noise reduction, which can be a huge help on windy days. Read our Jabra Enhance review to learn more.
Expert InsightsFrom Audiologist Dr. Ruth Reisman,The clear sound quality is likely due to Jabra Enhance's hearing aids’ ability to meet research-based targets for those adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. These targets are in place to enhance audibility and enhance speech understanding for those with hearing loss.Pricing
Jabra Enhance’s hearing aid prices range from $995 to $1,995 per pair. They’re not the cheapest devices on our list (that honor goes to MDHearing), but they’re less expensive than other premium brands, such as Phonak and ReSound. Jabra Enhance also offers affordable monthly financing options starting as low as $33 per month with Basic packages, so you can still access these quality hearing aids even if you’re on a budget.
» Pricing Guide: Jabra Enhance hearing aid cost and pricing
All models come with either a Premium or Basic package. The Premium package costs $200 more and provides three years of follow-up care, three years of loss and damage protection, and hearing aids customized to your needs. Basic hearing aids are preprogrammed and don’t offer any follow-up care. We think the Premium package is worth the price. During testing, we could speak with an audiologist who answered all of our questions and helped us adjust our settings and equipment to best fit our hearing loss.
Expert InsightsFrom Audiologist Dr. Ruth Reisman,Jabra devices provide an array of benefits, including tinnitus management and hearing-loss treatment. With superior sound quality, seamless connectivity, innovative design, advanced noise cancellation, and versatile applications, Jabra consistently delivers exceptional audio solutions; they enhance productivity, entertainment, and communication clarity. -
2. Eargo - Most discreet
See Pricing Links to Eargo
What we like most
- Prices starting at $799 per pair
- In-ear and earbud-style hearing aids
- 45-day free trial
EargoSee Pricing Links to EargoOverview:
Testing out Eargo 7 hearing aids
Eargo designs its hearing aids for discretion. The company offers three completely-in-canal (CIC) models for mild to moderate hearing loss, plus a unique earbud-style hearing aid. Eargo earned high marks on our best invisible hearing aids list. CIC hearing aids offer high cosmetic appeal, since they’re small and virtually invisible.
» Our Full Review: Eargo hearing aid review
All four of Eargo’s models are rechargeable, and the Eargo 7 really stands out for its discreet design and excellent sound-customization options. Packed with features like automatic sound adjustment, noise reduction, and voice and tone indicators, the Eargo 7 offers top-notch tech.
Did You Know? Active military members and veterans can save 20 percent on the Eargo 7 or Eargo 6 and up to 10 percent on the Eargo SE.
After purchasing your Eargo hearing aids over the phone or online, you’ll receive a personalized consultation from a licensed hearing professional via phone, text, email, or video chat. That makes it easy to get your questions answered quickly or adjust your hearing aids to meet your preferences. You don’t have to pay for a premium package to get follow-up care like you would with Jabra Enhance.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Eargo
- Small, discreet design
- Rechargeable devices
- Lifetime support from a team of licensed hearing professionals
- One- to two-year warranties
- Remote adjustments
- Easy, hassle-free returns and 45-day return policy
Cons About Eargo
- Must purchase in pairs
- Cannot stream sound directly into hearing aids
Our Hands-on Experience:Our Experience With Eargo
We’ve tested two of Eargo’s in-ear models: Eargo 6 and Eargo 7. One of the first things we noticed was that they may be uncomfortable for smaller ears, so that’s something to keep in mind. Other than that, we had a great experience with both devices and found the sound quality to be great for an OTC device. The hearing aids automatically adjusted to different environments, which was one of our favorite features.
Expert InsightsFrom Audiologist Dr. Ruth Reisman,Eargo hearing aids are certainly an innovation in the hearing aid arena. Their unique design, features, and customer-service model have allowed for true evolution in the fitting of direct-to-consumer hearing aids.Like MDHearing, Eargo offers a mobile app. We self-fit our Eargo 7s using the Sound Match hearing test, which took about 20 minutes. The test customizes the hearing aid settings to your needs. We noticed the hearing aids were more effective after using Sound Match. If we weren’t satisfied with the results of the mobile hearing test, we could arrange a telehealth-style meeting with an audiologist to get a more nuanced and comprehensive evaluation. We liked having both options, and we were even able to use the app to have an audiologist adjust the hearing aids remotely.
We took Eargo's Sound Match test, which adjusts your hearing aids to your unique needs and hearing loss.
Pricing
Eargo’s hearing aids range from $799 to $2,950 per pair, making their high-end models the most expensive on our list. Eargo recently added more budget-friendly models to its lineup, including the Link by Eargo and Eargo SE. Like Jabra Enhance, you don’t have the option to buy single devices. Fortunately, Eargo offers financing terms for 12 to 24 months to make its hearing aids more affordable. The company also runs frequent sales for a few hundred dollars off a pair, so keep your eyes peeled!
» Pricing Guide: Eargo Hearing Aid Cost and Pricing
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3. Sony - Best Speech Recognition
What we like most
- Prices starting at $799 per pair
- In-ear and earbud-style hearing aids
- 45-day free trial
Overview:
Testing out Sony s CRE-E10 hearing aids
Sony is one of the most trusted names in the tech industry; in 2022, the company decided to throw its hat in the ring of OTC hearing aids with the CRE-C10 and the rechargeable CRE-E10 hearing aids. With either model, the setup and audio settings are managed through the Sony Hearing Control App. This means you will need an iPhone or Android smartphone with the app installed to use them. It’s also important to note that if you want to use the E10’s Bluetooth connectivity, it will only work with an iOS device; this is why we think the E10 is a better option for iPhone users.
Pro Tip: Looking for made-for-iPhone (MFI) hearing aids? Check out our list of the best hearing aids for iPhones!
The C10 is a nearly invisible in-canal hearing aid that offers excellent sound quality with similar prices to Eargo’s starter models. However, the C10’s disposable batteries only last up to 70 hours, after which you’ll need to switch them out. This may not be ideal for seniors with dementia, who may struggle to remember to switch out their batteries, or even those who have trouble with fine motor skills. Plus, the cost of replacement batteries will add up over time, so we think the E10 offers a better long-term value.
» Also Check Out: A guide to dementia care
While they may cost $300 more, the E10s are rechargeable, earbud-style hearing aids that offer a bit more bang for your buck. A single charge can last for a little over 24 hours; this means seniors who prefer to “set it and forget it” can just put the E10 hearing aids to charge at night and use them all day long — without having to replace physical batteries. The E10’s noise reduction technology and automatic sound adjustment tools make it easy to recognize and understand speech — even in noisy or ever-changing environments. Like Eargo, Sony offers the option to schedule a consultation with a hearing aid expert to help you get your C10s or E10s set up and working right. This might be a good idea, because even making a minor error during the in-app setup could mean you have to start the process over again, some customers have noted.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Sony
- Excellent sound quality and speech recognition
- Small, discreet designs
- Ample customization options in the Sony Hearing Control App
- Both replaceable battery and rechargeable models
- 45-day trial period
- One-on-one consultations with hearing aid experts
Cons About Sony
- Only two models to choose from
- Set up might be a little complicated for less tech-savvy seniors
- C10 model requires replacement batteries every few days
- iPhone or Android smartphone required (iOS 13 or higher; Android 10 or higher)
Our Hands-on Experience:Our Experience With Sony
After performing a study in her university lab, Dr. Reisman found that Sony offers some of the best OTC hearing aids on the market. From her experience, she notes, “Sony OTC hearing aids are a great in-ear option for patients with mild to moderate hearing loss. You can customize both options to your hearing levels using the smart phone application. If you need extra support in noisy environments, the E10 offers the ability to adjust the directional microphones to enhance the speaker's voice over the background noise. The Bluetooth feature allows for direct streaming from your smartphone. If you are most concerned about discretion, the C10 is the way to go, as most patients find that it just looks like a shadow in the ear. But if you don't have the dexterity to manage small batteries, look to the E10 as a rechargeable option.”
Dr. Reisman testing the sound quality of Sony s CRE-C10 hearing aids
Pricing
Sony C10 hearing aids cost $799 and the E10 model is $1,099. They can’t compete with MDHearing’s prices, but they’re comparable to Eargo and even cheaper than Jabra Enhance. We think Sony’s hearing aids offer a good middle ground for people who are willing to spend a little more on discreet hearing aids with enhanced speech recognition technology but still don’t want to spend more than $1,000 per pair.
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4. MDHearing - Most Affordable
See Pricing Links to MDHearingWhat we like most
- Prices starting at $297 per pair
- Behind-the-ear and in-ear hearing aids
- 45-day free trial
MDHearingSee Pricing Links to MDHearingOverview:
Testing out the Neo XS from MDHearing
MDHearing offers several OTC hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss. It has more style options than Jabra Enhance, including BTE and in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids with essential features such as noise reduction and feedback cancellation to meet your hearing needs.
MDHearing’s most popular model is the Volt. The rechargeable hearing aid is equipped with a powerful battery. A full charge lasts up to 20 hours, which is great, but still a few hours less than comparable models from Jabra Enhance. When your MDHearing devices need a recharge, you can just pop them onto the easy-to-use magnetic charger.
» Learn About: Best rechargeable hearing aids in 2024
MDHearing stands out for its affordable prices. Its devices start at just $297 per pair, making it the cheapest company on our list. MDHearing’s team of hearing instrument specialists will guide you through the process of setting up and customizing your hearing aid. Plus, every hearing aid has free shipping and a 45-day trial, so there’s no risk in seeing if they’ll meet your needs.
Pro Tip: Properly caring for your hearing aids is an important part of your hearing health. Check out our in-depth guide to how to clean hearing aids.
Pros & Cons:Pros About MDHearing
- Competitive prices on most models
- ITE and BTE models
- 45-day risk-free trial
- Free U.S.-based lifetime support available 24/7
- Devices available as singles and in pairs
- 12-month financing available
Cons About MDHearing
- One color option
- Only has a one-year warranty
Our Hands-on Experience:Our Experience With MDHearing
We tested MDHearing’s Neo XS and Volt models. We were impressed with the feedback cancellation and noise reduction of both, especially considering their small size and affordable pricing. The Volt features more advanced features, such as smart sound reduction and dual microphones, while the Neo XS is more discreet thanks to its in-ear design. MDHearing’s devices don’t offer the same advanced audio programming features as Jabra Enhance, but they offer sleek designs and lower prices.
Testing out MDHearing's VOLT devices, which are small and sit behind the ear.
We really liked that, unlike Eargo, MDHearing makes it possible to adjust its hearing aid settings without a smartphone. The downside is that MDHearing doesn’t have a mobile app, so you’ll only have the option to adjust settings and control the volume on the device itself. MDHearing offers follow-up care via phone, email, and online chat, but Dr. Reisman notes that some of her patients have had a hard time getting support, especially outside the U.S. In our experience, we always got our questions answered quickly using MDHearing’s online chat feature. Read our full MDHearing review to learn more.
Expert InsightsFrom Audiologist Dr. Ruth Reisman,Of concern, some of MDHearing’s BTE models significantly surpass uncomfortable loudness levels; this can put the hearing-loss patient at significant risk for further nerve-related damage. However, the in-ear options produced results that were closer to targets and provided less risk of overamplification.Pricing
Compared to providers such as Eargo and Jabra Enhance, MDHearing offers some of the most affordable hearing aids available over the counter. MDHearing’s prices range from $297 to $397 per pair, thanks to promotions. That’s around $400 to $500 less than Eargo’s least expensive model. Ongoing sales bring the price down substantially, saving you hundreds of dollars on your purchase. Unlike Jabra Enhance, MDHearing allows you to get a single hearing aid, but you may not be able to secure the same sale price you could by purchasing a pair.
» Pricing Guide: MDHearing hearing aids cost and pricing
The Runners-Up
Our top picks are not the only OTC hearing aids on the market. Below are some of the providers who didn’t make our list but still may be a good option for some users.
- Lexie: Lexie offers two receiver-in-canal hearing aids powered by Bose and one BTE option. The brand offers solid customer service at affordable prices. Head over to our Lexie hearing aid review for more details.
- Otofonix: Otofonix sells several BTE models, each with unique features and capabilities such as directional microphones, sound environment settings, and digital sound processing. Check out our hands-on review of Otofonix to learn more.
- Lucid Hearing: With several hearing aids to choose from, Lucid Hearing delivers a wide range of choices. Lucid Hearing’s prices are affordable, ranging from $199.99 per pair for the Enrich model to $1,299.99 per pair for the premium rechargeable Tala model.
- Go Hearing: Go Hearing offers two wallet-friendly OTC solutions. Priced at $299 per pair, Go Hearing’s Go Prime is among the most affordable OTC hearing aids.
What Are OTC Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids can make a world of difference for people with hearing loss. Untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation, and it has been associated with serious conditions such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, dementia, reduced mobility, and falls.
Pro Tip: Our hearing aid buying guide walks you through hearing tests, purchasing options, and how to fine-tune your hearing aids.
Unfortunately, conventional hearing aids can be very costly. Not everyone can afford the doctor’s visit, let alone the devices. That’s where OTC hearing aids come into play. OTC hearing aids are for individuals ages 18 and older with mild to moderate hearing loss. The self-fitting hearing aids don’t require a hearing exam, an audiologist’s review, or approval from a medical practitioner, resulting in a more affordable price. Some OTC brands offer online hearing tests and follow-up care, even though it’s not required.
Some OTC brands like Eargo offer virtual follow-up care that you can easily schedule online or through a mobile app.
The FDA’s OTC hearing aid category aims to make hearing aids more accessible and affordable. There are a few important considerations to be aware of, however, since you may be responsible for:
- Determining the level of your hearing loss and your hearing needs
- Selecting and purchasing your hearing aids
- Setting up and programming your hearing aids
- Troubleshooting your hearing aids if they malfunction
In the video below, Jeff Hoyt, editor-in-chief of SeniorLiving.org, speaks with Dr. Ruth Reisman, a licensed audiologist and hearing aid dispenser, about the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act and how it could help millions of Americans.
How Much Do OTC Hearing Aids Cost?
Over-the-counter hearing aids were introduced to make hearing devices more accessible to Americans. They typically cost far less than prescription hearing aids. There is also a growing number of OTC hearing aid providers, which has helped keep prices low.
Did You Know? High costs are one of the top reasons why roughly 20 million Americans with hearing loss have not purchased hearing aids.
You can expect to pay anywhere between $300 and $3,000 for a pair of OTC hearing aids, with the majority of models falling around $1,000. This might still be pretty pricey for some, but when you consider that most prescription hearing aids start at $1,000 per ear — not always including the cost of fittings and appointments — OTC hearing aids are a much more affordable option.
Does Medicare Cover Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids?
No, Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids — OTC or prescription models. However, you may be able to get some coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan with hearing benefits. These plans often cover annual hearing exams and, in some cases, partial coverage for hearing aids and related devices.
Pro Tip: Want a Medicare Advantage plan with hearing benefits? Check out our guide to the best Medicare Advantage plans to learn more!
Pros and Cons of OTC Hearing Aids
Still unsure whether OTC hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss are right for you? Let’s take a moment to weigh the potential pros and cons.
Pros About OTC Hearing Aids
- Affordability: President Joe Biden’s statement on hearing aid affordability noted that the final FDA ruling would deliver nearly $3,000 in savings to American families for a pair of hearing aids. Since hearing aid pricing is a major consideration, that could be a game changer for low-income seniors or people on a fixed income.
- Ready availability: OTC hearing aids are available direct-to-consumer. You don’t need to wait for a doctor’s approval or a fitting appointment.
- Simplicity: Some OTC hearing aids come with limited features, making them a viable choice for individuals who aren’t interested in complex devices.
- Smart choice for new hearing aid users: OTC hearing aids can offer a quick and easy solution to help you become more familiar with hearing needs.
Cons About OTC Hearing Aids
- They’re not for all levels of hearing loss: According to the FDA ruling, OTC hearing aids are for people who have mild to moderate hearing loss. If your hearing loss is more profound, you will need a prescription hearing aid that offers more functions, features, and controls.
- They’re not custom-fit: Brands like ReSound and Starkey offer custom hearing aids based on ear size, shape, and structure, but over-the-counter hearing aids are typically not professionally molded to your ears. That one-size-fits-most approach may result in an uncomfortable or incorrect fit.
- The quality may not meet your expectations: A lower-quality OTC hearing aid may not deliver a seamless hearing experience. OTC hearing aids don’t always come with assistance from an audiologist, making it challenging to troubleshoot if your hearing aids malfunction.
OTC vs. Prescription Hearing Aids
The two biggest differences between over-the-counter and prescription hearing aids are price and accessibility. OTC hearing aids can generally be ordered online and delivered right to your door. There’s no need to schedule an appointment with a hearing professional. Prescription hearing aids must be acquired through a licensed prescriber. Prescription devices often cost two or three times more than OTC models and may require multiple in-person fittings or adjustments.
While this might make OTC hearing aids seem like the clear winner for those on a budget, there are several important factors to consider. First, an in-person fitting can help ensure you get the best hearing aids for you and have the help of a professional audiologist to set them up. With OTC hearing aids, you can often get remote support (especially for the initial fitting), but in-person care is rarely available.
Pro Tip: Wondering if you’re wearing your hearing aids correctly? We have you covered with an in-depth look at how to properly put in and remove your hearing aids.
OTC hearing aids are designed for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. So, if you have severe or profound hearing loss, you’ll need to seek out prescription hearing aids. Part of the reason prescription hearing aids cost more is that they offer advanced features and superior performance. Generally speaking, they will offer more advanced technology for better speech recognition or more intuitive adjustments when switching between different environments. Prescription hearing aids also offer more ways to customize your listening experience, with or without professional assistance.
Things to Keep in Mind When Purchasing an OTC Hearing Aid
Since the FDA’s hearing aid category approval in 2022, purchasing OTC hearing aids can be as simple as stopping by your local drugstore. Shopping can be a bit tricky, however, if you don’t know what to look for. Our team put together an explanation of a few important criteria to consider as you evaluate OTC and prescription hearing aid options.
Battery Life
Whether you prefer traditional battery-powered hearing aids or a rechargeable model, your hearing aids are only as good as their battery life. No one wants their hearing aids to lose power in the middle of a conversation! The outer packaging for all OTC hearing aids will note if the battery is rechargeable or replaceable. If the battery is replaceable, the packaging will include how many batteries are needed (and if they are included).
MDHearing offers rechargeable hearing aids, including the VOLT model
Return Policy
It’s important to give yourself adequate time to adjust to wearing your new hearing aids. That’s why a generous return policy is crucial. Before making your purchase, check the return policy. The policy is set by the retailers and manufacturers, not the FDA, so the length will vary.
Warranty
Small but mighty, hearing aids are built with tiny electrical parts. What happens if your hearing aids stop working? A solid warranty ensures that the manufacturer can repair or replace your hearing aids at no additional cost within a specific time frame.
Size and Weight
You’ll likely spend many hours wearing your hearing aids, so choose a lightweight device for optimal comfort. It’s also critical to consider how your hearing aids will fit, feel, and look. Are you in the market for discreet, practically invisible hearing aids, or would you rather have devices that are larger but easier to operate? Consider those questions as you explore your options.
Pro Tip: Wondering if you’re wearing your hearing aids correctly? We have you covered with an in-depth look at how to properly put in and remove your hearing aids.
Volume Control
All OTC hearing aids must be self-adjusting with a user-adjustable volume control. That key feature allows you to tune the volume to fit your situation (e.g., louder in noisy environments, softer in quiet environments). Advanced individual customizations for OTC hearing aids are not required by the FDA.
Smart Device
Are you tech-savvy, or do you prefer a more hands-on hearing aid approach? Some OTC hearing aids depend on wireless technology via a smartphone or a personal computer to program and adjust the devices. Think about what type of OTC hearing aid will work best for you, and look for those product specifications on the packaging.
Making adjustments using the Jabra Enhance mobile app
Additional Hearing Aid Resources
Want to compare all of your options? We’ve tested and reviewed dozens of OTC and prescription hearing aids for various categories that could help you find the right fit:
- Best hearing aids for Alzheimer’s patients
- Best hearing aids for severe hearing loss
- Best hearing aids for single-sided hearing loss
- Best Android-compatible hearing aids
- Best hearing aids for active seniors
- Best BTE hearing aids
Take Our Free Online Hearing Test
Wondering if you have hearing loss? Grab your headphones and get a free hearing evaluation in minutes.
FAQ
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Are OTC hearing aids as good as prescriptions?
Prescription hearing aids often have more advanced technology than OTC hearing aids for an improved listening experience. They also have options for severe and profound hearing loss, and require in-person fittings with an audiologist, which can help personalize the devices to fit your specific needs.
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Are OTC hearing aids just amplifiers?
No. Hearing amplifiers simply make all sound input louder. OTC hearing aids can target specific sounds like speech or music. They can be adjusted to work better in different kinds of sound environments, like restaurants or busy streets.
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Are over-the-counter hearing aids effective?
Yes, OTC hearing aids can be effective for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. Certain models can even help patients struggling with specific issues like tinnitus. However, if you have severe or profound hearing loss, OTC hearing aids are not an effective option.
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Does Costco sell OTC hearing aids?
Yes, Costco sells both OTC and prescription hearing aids.
FDA. (2023). OTC Hearing Aids: What You Should Know.
Harvard Health Publishing. (2022). Tinnitus: Ringing in the ears and what to do about it.
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. (2021). Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids – Who are OTC hearing aids for?
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