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Types of Hearing Aids
Choosing the right type of hearing aid depends on many factors such as your level of hearing loss, lifestyle, features, ear shape and size, manual dexterity, budget, and appearance.
At Direct Ear Care, we offer a wide range of hearing aids to suit every need, from invisible models to custom-made options.
At Direct Ear Care, we offer a wide range of hearing aids to suit every need, from invisible models to custom-made options.
Different Type of Hearing Aids
There are two main types of hearing aids: In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids and Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids.
Within these two categories, there are different styles available, each designed to suit various needs. The right style depends on factors such as hearing loss, ear shape and size, manual dexterity, and personal preference. Our audiologist will work closely with you during your appointment to find the hearing aid that best suits your needs.
Below, we outline what to consider when choosing a hearing aid, along with the pros and cons of each hearing aid style.
Within these two categories, there are different styles available, each designed to suit various needs. The right style depends on factors such as hearing loss, ear shape and size, manual dexterity, and personal preference. Our audiologist will work closely with you during your appointment to find the hearing aid that best suits your needs.
Below, we outline what to consider when choosing a hearing aid, along with the pros and cons of each hearing aid style.
What are the Different Styles of Hearing Aids?
Invisible-in- Canal (IIC) Hearing aids
Invisible hearing aids are the smallest custom hearing aids available. They are moulded to fit your unique ear shape and sit deep inside the ear canal, making them virtually invisible to others.
Best For:
- Those who want a discreet look and custom hearing aid.
- Individuals with mild to severe hearing loss
Pros
- Small, lightweight and nearly invisible
- Custom-made for a comfortable fit
- No tubes or external wires
- Provides natural sound quality
- No interference with glasses
- Can use headphones and phones normally
Cons
- Requires frequent battery changes
- Not suitable for all levels of hearing loss
- May not be ideal for those with vision or dexterity issues
- Limited features compared to larger models
- No rechargeable option available
- Not suitable for all ear canal shapes
Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing Aids
Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids are very discreet hearing aids that sits in the ear canal and are custom made to fit perfectly in your ears
Best For:
- Those who want a discreet look and custom hearing aid
- Individuals with mild to severe hearing loss
Pros
- Very discreet, designed to be virtually unnoticeable
- Custom-made for a comfortable fit
- Includes volume, telecoil, and program buttons
- Can use headphones and phones normally
- Provides natural sound quality
Cons
- Battery powered
- Not suitable for all hearing losses
- Limited features compared to larger models
- Not ideal for people with dexterity issues
- Can be vulnerable to ear wax and moisture build-up
- Not suitable for all ear canal shapes
In-the-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids
In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids sit comfortably at the bottom of the ear canal and are custom-moulded for a perfect fit.
Best For:
- Those who want a custom hearing aid
- Want an all-round hearing aid performance for rechargeability and Bluetooth connectivity
- Those with dexterity or vision issues.
- Individuals with mild to profound hearing loss
Pros
- Easy to handle
- Discreet, but slightly visible
- Custom-made for a comfortable fit
- Bluetooth technology available
- Rechargeable options available
- Includes volume, telecoil, and program buttons
- Longer battery life compared to smaller hearing aids
- Can use headphones and phones normally
Cons
- Less discreet than smaller custom hearing aids
- Not suitable for profound hearing loss
- May require regular cleaning
- May not be suitable for those with narrow ear canals
In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are custom-made to fit the entire area of your ear and are moulded to fit your ear shape perfectly. They are an excellent option for those with dexterity or vision difficulties, as they are easier to handle than smaller hearing aids.
Best For:
- Those who want a custom hearing aid
- Want an all-round hearing aid performance for rechargeability and Bluetooth connectivity
- Those with dexterity or vision issues.
- All levels of hearing loss from mild to profound.
Pros
- Easy to handle due to their size
- Custom-made for a comfortable fit
- Ideal for those with dexterity and/or vision problems
- Bluetooth technology available
- Rechargeable options available
- Includes volume, telecoil, and program buttons
- Longer battery life compared to smaller hearing aids
Cons
- Less discreet than smaller custom hearing aids
- May require regular cleaning
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids
A discreet and popular hearing aid that sits behind the ear, connected by a thin wire that sits inside the ear canal.
Best For:
- Individuals who want all round hearing aid performance for rechargeability and Bluetooth connectivity
- All levels of hearing loss from mild to profound.
Pros
- Small and very discreet
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Bluetooth technology available
- Available in rechargeable
- Durable and long-lasting
- Suitable for all types of hearing loss
- Provides clear and natural sound quality
- Includes volume, telecoil, and program buttons
Cons
- Sits behind the ear
- May not be suitable for those with dexterity or vision problem
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids
The hearing aid sits behind the ear and is connected to a custom ear mould or a dome that fits inside the ear. The ear mould is shaped precisely for a secure fit.
Best For:
- Individuals who want all round hearing aid performance for rechargeability and Bluetooth connectivity
- All levels of hearing loss from mild to profound.
Pros
- Easy to handle
- Comfortable to wear
- Available in rechargeable
- Bluetooth technology available
- Suitable for all types of hearing loss
- Includes volume, telecoil, and program buttons
- Durable and versatile
- Less prone to earwax and moisture damage
Cons
- More visible than other styles
- Can interfere with glasses
- Sensitive to wind noise
- Requires regular cleaning
Key Hearing Aid Features to Consider
When choosing a hearing aid, consider these features to improve your hearing experience and quality of life:
Rechargeable Batteries
No need to change batteries, simply charge your hearing aids overnight and wake up to full power for the entire day. Rechargeable hearing aids are both convenient and environmentally friendly.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Connect your Bluetooth hearing aids to your smartphone and for hands-free phone calls, stream music, audio and control the hearing aids through an app. Also connect to other Bluetooth devices.
Telecoil (T-Coil)
Allows you to connect the hearing aids to the hearing loop systems in public places.
Automatic Adjustment
Adapts to different environments without manual control.
Noise Reduction & Directional Microphones
Improves speech clarity in noisy environments.
Try Hearing Aids for 60 Days – 100% Risk-Free
Try any of our hearing aids for 60 days with no risk, if you’re not completely satisfied, return them for a full refund.
Top Hearing Aid Feature
Rechargeable Hearing Aids
Enjoy clear, hassle-free hearing with rechargeable hearing aids, no more changing batteries. Simply place them in their charger overnight and wake up to full power every day.
Bluetooth Hearing Aids
Effortlessly connect your hearing aids to your smartphone for hands-free calls, music and TV streaming, and easy control through an app.
Invisible Hearing Aids
Small, custom-fit, and invisible. These hearing aids sit inside your ear canal for a discreet and comfortable fit.
When are hearing aids needed?
Hearing aids are needed when you have trouble hearing conversations, frequently ask people to repeat themselves, increased TV volume or struggle with background noise. If you’re noticing signs of hearing loss, a hearing test can help determine if hearing aids are right for you. Learn more about hearing loss here.
How much do hearing aids cost?
Hearing aid prices vary depending on the technology and aftercare package. We offer a variety of options to suit different budgets.
Find out more about hearing aids prices
How long do hearing aids last?
Most hearing aids last 5-6 years with proper care. Regular maintenance and check-ups can extend their lifespan.
Can I try hearing aids before buying?
Yes! We offer a 60-day money-back guarantee on all hearing aids. If you’re not completely satisfied, you can return them for a full refund.
What’s the most discreet hearing aid available?
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) hearing aids AND Completely-in-Canal (CIC) are the smallest and most discreet option. They fit deep inside the ear canal, making them nearly undetectable.
Are invisible hearing aids effective for all types of hearing loss?
Invisible hearing aids work best for mild to severe hearing loss. They are not suitable for those with severe or profound hearing loss.