Our guide to hearing aids

What different types of hearing aids are there?

Your guide to hearing aid styles

Hearing aids vary in size, shape, fit, color, technology, performance and, of course, price. But it’s a common misconception that smaller, more discreet aids are usually more expensive. The cost instead tends to be more dependent upon the technology, rather than the size.

Today’s digital hearing aids are far more advanced than the analog hearing aids of the past, which simply amplified sounds. And with so much choice, it can be confusing deciding which hearing aid might suit you best.

That’s why, as part of your free hearing consultation, your Amplify hearing care professional will explain the various types of hearing aids to you, and make recommendations based on your hearing loss, your needs and usage of the hearing solution.

Take a look at our useful guide to hearing solutions, for more information on what is available and what to consider when making your choice.

Which hearing aid do I choose?

Choosing the right hearing aid for you can be a daunting choice with so many types and models available. And your preferred hearing aid might not be suitable for your hearing loss, your lifestyle or your budget! That’s where your hearing care professional can help guide you and take you through the best options for you. Simply make a FREE appointment with your nearest Amplify hearing care professional for a free hearing test and they will be happy to advise you.

Receiver In The Ear (RITE) and Receiver In The Canal (RIC) hearing aids

These are similar to open-fit Behind The Ear (BTE) hearing aids, except that the part of the hearing aid that sits behind the ear is smaller. It has a thin wire that connects to a speaker insider the opening of the ear.

  • Smaller and less visible than BTE hearing aids
  • Suitable for a wide range of hearing loss, from mild to profound loss
  • All the benefits of open-fit BTE aids but they can be fitted with more amplification
  • Can be vulnerable to wax and sweat so regular cleaning of the receiver is important

Invisible In The Canal (IIC) hearing aids

IIC hearing aids are fitted very deeply into the ear canal. They are invisible when worn as they cannot be seen and they are custom molded to the shape of your ear.

  • Invisible when worn
  • The ultimate in comfort
  • Durable
  • Only suitable if you have mild to moderate hearing loss
  • Because of their small size, they may have limited features

Completely In The Canal (CIC) hearing aids

CIC hearing aids are not usually seen when worn as the working parts are in the custom molded earmolds, unless someone looks closely at your ear. They fit further into the ear canal than ITE and ITC hearing aids.

  • Extremely discreet and lightweight
  • Extremely comfortable as they are custom made to fit your ear shape
  • Only suitable if you have mild to moderate hearing loss
  • Can be prone to wax and sweat so regular cleaning is important
  • The small controls can be more fiddly, so a remote control can be very beneficial

In The Ear (ITE) and In The Canal (ITC) hearing aids

ITE and ITC hearing aids have microphones in the earmold, so the whole hearing aid fits into your ear. ITE aids come in different sizes and can be seen in the ear, when looking side-on. ITC aids are smaller and less visible as they fit inside your ear canal.

  • Much less visible than BTE hearing aids, with no parts behind the ear
  • Suitable for a wide range of hearing loss, from mild to profound loss
  • Convenient for people who wear glasses
  • Not usually suitable if you suffer from ear infections
  • The small controls can be more fiddly, so a remote control can be very beneficial
  • Not generally as robust as BTE hearing aids

Open fit Behind The Ear (BTE) hearing aids

These send sound through very thin, clear tubing that is connected to a dome (soft tip) that sits inside your ear canal. Open-fit BTE aids are suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss and a good option for people who can hear low pitches well.

  • Lets you hear sound naturally as it does not block up the ear
  • Soft tip reduces that feeling of being plugged up that can happen with an earmold
  • Comfortable and less visible than an earmold
  • Need to be inserted correctly so they do not become loose
  • Not usually suitable if you suffer from ear infections
  • Cleaning can require more dexterity

Behind The Ear (BTE) hearing aids with earmold

BTE aids have microphones that sit behind the ear and send sound through a piece of clear, flexible tubing.

  • Suitable for most people, from mild to severe hearing loss
  • Earmold fits snugly in your ear
  • Versatile and reliable
  • Most visible type of hearing aid
  • Ear might feel full though vents in the mold relieve this feeling

Schedule an appointment

Schedule an appointment at an Amplify Hearing care practice near you. Find your nearest practice to get started.