Top Hearing Aid Brands, Products and Purchasing Considerations

Getting to Know the Top Hearing Aid Companies

Over 48 million Americans experience some degree of hearing loss. For those in need of hearing assistance, a quality hearing aid can vastly improve quality of life. With so many hearing aid models and manufacturers to consider, finding the right match matters. Becoming familiar with the top hearing aid companies, their products and what sets them apart can make the decision process more straightforward.

Types of Hearing Aids

Hearing aids first differ in terms of where they fit:

Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids

As their name suggests, behind-the-ear (BTE) models fit around the outer ear and rest behind it. A clear tube sends sound from the aids into the ear canal. BTE hearing aids are easily adjustable, durable and appropriate for most kinds of hearing loss. However, their external components make them more visible.

In-the-Ear Hearing Aids

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids fit inside the outer part of the ear. Since all components sit inside the ear, they are more discreet. However, they require custom-fitting and are more expensive than their behind-the-ear counterparts. Durability and tampering issues also need considering with ITE models.

In-the-Canal and Completely-in-the-Canal Hearing Aids

As their names suggest, in-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids place even more of their technology inside the ear canal itself for a nearly invisible appearance. The tradeoff is handling increased earwax interference and removal difficulty. These models best serve mild hearing losses.

Key Hearing Aid Brands and Manufacturers

With the basic hearing aid types explained, getting to know some top industry names and their leading solutions helps find which best fits specific needs:

Oticon

Oticon is known as a pioneer in hearing technology for over 115 years. Their leading edge devices leverage proprietary BrainHearing technologies supporting brain function and speech comprehension. Top Oticon hearing aid models include the MoreTM, Nera ProTM and Ruby styles.

Phonak

Part of the Sonova group of companies for over 70 years, Phonak prides itself on hearing innovations that mimic natural sound for better speech understanding with less effort. Their Paradise, Audeo and Bolero hearing aid lines utilize proprietary technologies like AutoSense OSTM 4.0 for automatic program adjustment to surroundings.

ReSound

Also under Sonova leadership, GN Resound Hearing Aids introduced the world’s first behind-the-ear devices. Through intuition and smart, clear sound, their Linx QuattroTM, OneTM and EnzoTM hearing aids help people seamlessly engage with their environments.

Signia

Signia formed through the combination of Siemens AG’s audiology division and Sivantos Group. Their line of technologically advanced hearing aids includes the industry-first Styletto X, Pure Charge&Play AX, and the Motion series. Signia devices offer supreme sound quality, comfort, connectivity and charging convenience.

Starkey

Starkey makes use of innovative technologies like artificial intelligence through their Hearing RealityTM platform. This powers their leading Livio EdgeTM, LivioTM and EvolvTM hearing aids. Starkey is also highly-regarded for their custom-fit invisible in-the-canal aids with the Esté Pro, Diagnosys and Pulsar styles.

Widex

Founded in 1956, Widex is now one of the world’s leading hearing aid brands committed to ZeroDelay Technology® for distortion-free sound. Their high-performing EVOKE, MOMENT and SUPER models utilize integrated machine learning for more natural hearing experiences.

Evaluating the Best Hearing Aid for You

Along with these major players, don't overlook potentially more affordable over-the-counter solutions from quality brands like Eargo and Lucid Hearing. Reviewing the types of hearing loss and consulting audiology specialists helps guide appropriate choices too.

Balance cost, comfort, ease-of-use, durability, connectivity needs, sound quality priorities and audiologist recommendations when making this important assistive technology purchase. The right hearing device makes conversation, work, recreation and everyday life profoundly better.

Choosing Hearing Aid Features

Whether choosing amplified OTC products or more advanced prescription-based aids, understand that all quality hearing enhancement devices share common helpful features to consider including:

• Directional microphones - Improve signal-to-noise ratios in noisy environments
• Adaptive volume control - Self-adjusts amplification levels for comfort
• Telecoil technology - Enhances telephone, loop system and media streaming
• Wireless connectivity - Allows app control, streaming and discreet adjustments
• Rechargeable battery options - Improves convenience and cost-efficiency
• Smartphone compatibility - Enables adjustability via iOS/Android apps

Keep these common valuable functionality options in mind while researching the very best hearing assistance for your needs and budget. Your ability to hear, engage and connect meaningfully awaits.

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.