Losing your hearing doesn’t mean losing your quality of life—but untreated hearing loss can affect everything from communication to confidence. The good news? Hearing aids have come a long way in recent years. They’re smaller, smarter, and more affordable than ever before.
Whether you’re shopping for your first pair or replacing an outdated model, here’s how to find hearing aids that fit your needs—and your budget.
Why Hearing Aids Matter
Hearing loss doesn’t just make it harder to catch conversations. It can lead to social isolation, depression, and even cognitive decline. In fact, untreated hearing loss has been linked to a higher risk of dementia.
Hearing aids help by:
Amplifying sound and speech
Reducing background noise
Making everyday conversations and activities more enjoyable
Improving mental health and cognitive function
Types of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids come in several styles, each with its own pros and cons. Here’s a quick overview:
| Style | Visibility | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behind-the-Ear (BTE) | Visible | Moderate to severe hearing loss | Durable, long battery life | Larger, more noticeable |
| Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) | Low | Mild to severe hearing loss | Discreet, comfortable | May be less durable than BTE |
| In-the-Ear (ITE) | Moderate | Mild to moderate loss | Easy to insert, volume control | Can be visible, shorter battery life |
| Completely-in-Canal (CIC) | Minimal | Mild hearing loss | Nearly invisible | Small size = limited features |
| Over-the-Counter (OTC) | Moderate | Mild to moderate loss | Affordable, no prescription needed | May lack custom fitting options |
Prescription vs. Over-the-Counter (OTC)
As of 2022, FDA-approved over-the-counter hearing aids are now available in the U.S., making hearing assistance more accessible than ever. Here’s how they compare:
Prescription Hearing Aids: Customized to your hearing loss profile, fitted by audiologists, with advanced features like Bluetooth and directional microphones.
OTC Hearing Aids: Available without a hearing test or prescription, designed for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.
OTC hearing aids are a great starting point if you’re price-conscious or not ready for a full audiologist visit.
Affordable Hearing Aid Options
You don’t have to spend thousands to hear better. Check out these budget-friendly picks:
| Brand/Model | Type | Price Range | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lexie B2 by Bose | OTC/RIC | $799–$899 | Customizable, app-controlled | Tech-savvy users |
| Eargo 7 | CIC | $2,650–$2,950 | Rechargeable, virtually invisible | Style-conscious users |
| Audien Atom Pro | CIC | $250–$350 | Rechargeable, noise cancellation | Budget shoppers |
| Jabra Enhance Select | BTE/RIC | $1,195–$1,995 | Remote audiology support | First-time users |
| MDHearingAid VOLT MAX | BTE | $699–$999 | Rechargeable, telehealth included | Older adults |
Prices vary by provider and may include trial periods or warranties.
Key Features to Look For
Not all hearing aids are created equal. When comparing models, pay attention to:
Noise Reduction: Filters background noise in busy places.
Directional Microphones: Focus on sound from a specific direction (like someone speaking).
Rechargeable Batteries: Avoid frequent battery changes and save money.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Stream audio directly from your phone or TV.
App Control: Customize settings with your smartphone.
The right combination of features can greatly improve your daily experience.
Insurance and Financial Help
Hearing aids are an investment—but you may not have to pay full price out of pocket. Here’s where to look for help:
Medicare: Traditional Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids, but some Medicare Advantage plans do.
Medicaid: Varies by state; some offer full or partial coverage.
Private Insurance: May reimburse part of the cost—check your plan details.
Veterans Affairs (VA): Offers free hearing aids to eligible veterans.
Nonprofits: Organizations like Hearing Loss Association of America and Lions Clubs often offer assistance.
You can also ask your provider about financing plans or sliding scale pricing.
How to Know If You Need Hearing Aids
Recognizing when you need hearing aids can be tricky because hearing loss often develops gradually. You might find yourself frequently asking others to repeat themselves, struggling to hear conversations on the phone, or turning the TV volume up higher than others find comfortable. Background noise in places like restaurants or busy streets may make it harder to understand speech, and you could feel mentally drained after social situations that require active listening. If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s a good idea to get your hearing checked—many clinics and providers offer free or low-cost hearing tests to help you take the first step.
Online vs. In-Person: Where to Buy
You can now buy hearing aids online, in retail stores, or through audiologists. Each has pros and cons:
Audiologist: Best for custom fit and complex needs, but more expensive
Retail (CVS, Walgreens, Best Buy): Convenient and increasingly affordable
Online (Lexie, Jabra, MDHearing): Direct-to-consumer pricing, trial periods, and remote support
Choose the buying method that offers the right balance of support and affordability for you.
Taking the First Step
Hearing better doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. With the rise of over-the-counter models and more online options, affordable hearing aids are finally within reach. Whether you want something invisible, rechargeable, or smartphone-connected, there’s a hearing solution that fits your lifestyle and budget. The sooner you start hearing clearly again, the sooner life sounds like itself.
