Which Type of Hearing Aid is Best for You?

The ideal hearing aid for you depends on the severity of your hearing loss, your lifestyle, and your manual dexterity. Smaller aids are less visible, but don't offer quite as many features and might be more difficult to manipulate. People with more severe hearing loss might get better results with a behind-the-ear model with earmolds or an in-the-ear model. Owners of behind-the-ear, open-fit designs tend to have the most improved hearing in loud social settings.



Behind the ear open-fit

Pros: Comfortable, barely visible. No earmold.

Cons: Limited Manual Controls.







Behind the ear with earmold

Pros: Most versatile. Fits the widest range of hearing loss.

Cons: Most visible. Vulnerable to sweat and wax, so must be cleaned regularly.







Completely in the canal

Pros: Nearly invisible.

Cons: Vulnerable to wax and moisture, so needs regular cleaning. Short battery life.






In the canal

Pros: Barely visible.

Cons: Vulnerable to wax and moisture, so needs regular cleaning. Short battery life.






In the ear

Pros: More room for features. Less of a plugged up feeling.

Cons: More visible. Vulnerable to wax and moisture, so needs regular cleaning.



Illustrations courtesy Consumer Reports.