Eargo Hearing Aids Review 2023 - Cost, Technology and Comparison

Eargo Hearing Aids Review: Cost, Features, Pros and Cons

Hearing loss can significantly impact your quality of life. But many people put off getting hearing aids due to concerns about comfort, cost, and the stigma associated with wearing visible hearing aids. Eargo aims to address these concerns with its innovative nearly invisible hearing aids.

In this Eargo hearing aids review, well cover everything you need to know, including cost, features, pros and cons, and how Eargo hearing aids compare to alternatives. Read on for whether Eargo hearing aids may be the right solution for your hearing needs.

What Are Eargo Hearing Aids?

Eargo hearing aids are discreet, rechargeable hearing aids designed to be virtually invisible when worn. This Silicon Valley-based company launched in 2010 with a mission to improve hearing aid aesthetics using medical-grade silicone construction.

Rather than sitting over the ear canal, Eargo hearing aids are designed to fit completely inside the ear canal. This makes them nearly impossible to detect from the outside. Eargo touts this as a solution to the stigma surrounding visible hearing aids.

Eargo Hearing Aid Models

Eargo offers three rechargeable lithium-ion powered hearing aid models:

• Eargo Max - The latest, most advanced Eargo model with maximum noise reduction and amplification features.
• Eargo 7 - Mid-level model with a more discreet, ergonomic design.
• Eargo 6 - The most affordable Eargo option with basic noise reduction and amplification capabilities.

All Eargo models are designed to be discreet, comfortable, and easy to insert and remove. They share many of the same features and mainly differ in their level of technological sophistication.

Eargo Hearing Aid Technology and Features

Here are some of the core technologies and features Eargo hearing aids offer:

• Invisible in-ear design - Sit completely in ear canal for discreet wearing.
• Silicone construction - Flexible medical-grade silicone allows for natural ear canal movement and personalized fit.
• Rechargeable battery - Built-in lithium-ion batteries provide 16-26 hours per charge depending on model.
• Wireless charging case - Case doubles as charger and storage to protect and charge hearing aids.
• Noise reduction technology - Reduces distracting background noise in noisy environments.
• Feedback cancelling - Prevents annoying whistling and feedback sounds.
• Phone calls & streaming - Connect hearing aids to smartphones and other Bluetooth-enabled devices for calls and audio streaming.
• Tap control - Adjust volume, change programs, and mute hearing aids with simple taps.
• Eargo app - Mobile app lets you personalize settings, locate lost hearing aids, and more.
• Water and sweat resistance - Can withstand exposure to moisture during exercise and daily living.

How Much Do Eargo Hearing Aids Cost?

Eargo hearing aid prices currently range from $2695 to $3095 per pair depending on the model. Here's how the pricing breaks down by model as of January 2024:

• Eargo Max: $3095
• Eargo 7: $2995
• Eargo 6: $2695

This puts Eargo pricing on the higher end compared to traditional hearing aids, which normally range from $1500-$3000 per pair through a hearing center. However, Eargo pricing includes unlimited support from licensed hearing professionals as well as a 45-day trial period.

Eargo Cost Compared to Competitors

Here's how Eargo hearing aid costs stack up against some major competing brands of invisible hearing aids:

• Oticon More MiniRITE R: $3000-$4000
• Lyric Hearing Aid: $2900-$3900
• Signia Pure Charge&Go NX: $2200-$3300
• Phonak Virto Black: $2700-$4250

Eargo's pricing is very similar to these other premium custom-fit invisible hearing aid options when you factor in additional fees from hearing clinics. However, some brands like Signia offer more budget-friendly models under $2000.

Insurance Coverage for Eargo

Unfortunately Eargo hearing aids are not currently covered by insurance. As an online seller, Eargo does not meet the in-person testing requirements of most insurance providers.

However, you can submit your Eargo receipt manually to your insurance company to seek partial reimbursement. Some plans may cover a portion of the cost as an out-of-network purchase.

Eargo Payment and Purchase Options

Eargo offers several payment and purchase options to help ease the cost burden of buying hearing aids:

• 45-day trial - Test out Eargo risk-free for 45 days and return for full refund if unsatisfied.
• Payment plans - Finance your purchase over 24 months with 0% APR through Affirm or PayPal Credit.
• FSA/HSA accounts - Use your Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account funds to pay.
• Military discounts - Veterans and military members get $500 off each Eargo Neo hearing aid pair.

Eargo Hearing Aid Pros

Here are some of the biggest advantages Eargo hearing aids offer compared to traditional hearing aids:

Discreet, Invisible Design

The main selling point of Eargo hearing aids is their tiny, in-canal fit. They sit completely inside your ear for maximum discretion. The slim design makes them virtually impossible to detect from outside your ear.

Comfort and Customization

Eargo hearing aids are made of soft, flexible silicone that allows them to gently fit the unique contours of your ear canal. There are no hard plastic components digging into your ear. The Eargo app lets you customize amplification settings and programs to match your needs and preferences.

Rechargeable and Convenient

The built-in lithium-ion battery recharges each night in the storage case, eliminating the need to fuss with disposable batteries. The charging case provides up to 30 hours of charge and keeps your hearing aids protected.

Advanced Sound Processing

From background noise reduction to feedback cancellation, Eargo hearing aids leverage sophisticated sound processing to optimize audio quality and listening experience based on your environment.

Discreet Phone Use

Eargo hearing aids can connect wirelessly to your smartphone and other Bluetooth audio devices for clear hands-free conversations and immersive music and TV streaming.

Water and Sweat Resistant

With a IPX7 water resistance rating, Eargo hearing aids can withstand exposure to rain, sweat, and other moisture during exercise and normal daily use.

Eargo Hearing Aid Cons

While Eargo hearing aids offer some nice perks, there are also some potential downsides to consider:

Higher Cost

Eargo hearing aids cost significantly more than many traditional hearing aids. While financing plans make them more accessible, the high price tag puts them out of reach for people on tighter budgets.

Not Covered By Insurance

Since they are sold online without an audiologist's evaluation, Eargo hearing aids don't currently qualify for insurance coverage. You'll be paying full price out-of-pocket.

May Not Be Right for Severe Hearing Loss

Eargo hearing aids work best for mild to moderate hearing impairment. People with severe high frequency hearing loss may need more power than Eargo aids can provide.

Can Feel Touchy in Ear Canal

Having a piece of silicone sitting in your ear canal can feel foreign and cause irritation for the first few weeks until you adjust to wearing the Eargos.

Reduced Audiologist Support

You'll need to troubleshoot technical issues more independently versus working with an audiologist in person to program and adjust your hearing aids.

Not Recommended for Children

The FDA has not approved Eargo hearing aids for use in children under 18 years old.

How Eargo Compares to Other Hearing Aid Brands

Here's a rundown of how Eargo hearing aids stack up to some of the major hearing aid players:

Eargo vs. Oticon

Oticon is known for its industry-leading technology and wireless connectivity. But its mini behind-the-ear style doesn't offer the invisible-in-canal fit of Eargo. Oticon offers more budget-friendly options under $2000.

Eargo vs. Signia

Signia hearing aids compete with Eargo's sleek, high-tech features. They offer both in-ear and over-ear styles at slightly lower price points overall. Signia also integrates movement tracking sensors to enhance hearing based on your activity.

Eargo vs. Phonak

Phonak is renowned for a very natural sound experience. Their latest Virto models offer an in-canal fit. But they still have visible components behind the ear. Phonak has more diversity in product lines and price points.

Eargo vs. Starkey

Starkey hearing aids are also exclusively sold through audiologists. They focus more on behind-the-ear power and customization. Starkey is a leader in wireless connectivity controlled through an app.

Eargo vs. ReSound

Owned by GN Store Nord, ReSound offers premium hearing aids with sleek minimalist designs. Prices are generally lower than Eargo. ReSound highlights direct audio streaming from iOS devices.

Eargo vs. Lyric

Lyric is Eargo's biggest competitor in the completely invisible hearing aid space. The Lyric device is implanted deeper in the ear canal by a professional for months at a time. But Lyric pricing is similar to Eargo's.

Alternatives to Eargo Hearing Aids

Beyond standard hearing aids, some alternatives to consider include:

PSAPs (Personal Sound Amplification Devices)

Sold over the counter, PSAPs are basic personal amplifiers that start under $100. They lack custom fitting and programming capabilities of medical hearing aids.

Hearing Amplifiers

Some direct-to-consumer companies like Lucid and Eversa sell more advanced amplifier devices marketed as alternatives to clinical hearing aids.

Cochlear Implants

For severe or profound hearing loss, cochlear implants are surgically implanted devices that stimulate the auditory nerve. Surgery and device costs are $30,000+.

Assistive Listening Devices

ALDs like TV listening systems, personal amplifiers, and alarm systems can help hearing impaired individuals better communicate at home, work, and in public spaces.

Is Eargo Right for You?

Eargo hearing aids offer an excellent experience for people with mild to moderate hearing loss prioritizing discretion. Their virtually invisible design solves the stigma problem of traditional hearing aids.

However, the high cost and lack of custom audiologist support may be deal breakers for some. We suggest comparing Eargo to other top hearing aid brands to make sure you find the right balance of features, technology, and affordability for your needs.

Evaluating your hearing health requires expertise. So get evaluated by an audiologist before purchasing any hearing device. With the right hearing solution, you can transform your ability to communicate effectively and confidently.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.