Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are a type of hearing aid that can be purchased without a prescription from a doctor or audiologist; which cuts around $300 from the total cost of treating your hearing. They are typically smaller, less expensive, and easier to use than traditional hearing aids. While most hearing aids can’t be tailored to your specific hearing needs, there are a few which are easily customizable through the help of a hearing aid app. The importance of this feature is often underestimated and hard of hearing individuals find their hearing aid too loud in certain sound frequencies and poor amplification of others.
Why You Should Consider An OTC Hearing Aid
For one, the cheaper price may seem tempting or, for some, may look a bit ‘too good to be true’. However, they are just less powerful, which for most hard of hearing individuals is more than adequate. The NCOA (national council on aging) states that OTC hearing aids are designed to treat mild to moderate hearing loss in adults 18 years and older. So, if your level of hearing loss is anywhere from mild to moderate, then OTC hearing aids are the best option.
If you have hearing loss, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids may be an option to consider. They are sold without a prescription and are designed to provide a basic level of hearing assistance. While they may not offer the same level of amplification as a traditional hearing aid, they can be a cost-effective solution for those who may not want to commit to a more expensive device.
Let’s go over the 15 best OTC hearing aids on the market today, so that you can make an informed decision about which hearing aid is right for you.
The Best 6 OTC Hearing Aid Brands of 2023
1. Hear+Hi
Hear+Hi offers a range of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids that are designed to be used without the need to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist. These OTC hearing aids are convenient, cost-effective, and easy to use.
They are designed to improve the hearing capability of the user. The products feature simple controls and adjustable settings to ensure users can hear properly despite their hearing loss. In addition, these OTC hearing aids boast a comfortable fit, allowing users to wear them for extended periods of time. Using advanced noise reducing algorithms, Hear+Hi hearing aids cut out the background disturbance without generating irritating low frequency sounds, a frequent byproduct of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology.
For those who are new to hearing aids or are not sure which hearing aid is best for them, we recommend using Hear+Hi’s OTC hearing aids. They are a great first step into hearing aids, and there is a helpful online guide to aid on hearing aid selection on their website. The guide offers advice on choosing the right hearing aid, and provides information on the benefits of OTC hearing aids, and helps users determine which hearing aid features are most important to them.
Hear+Hi has a very reasonable price point, while providing exceptional quality.
From $200 to $600
2. Sony
Sony's OTC Hearing Aids are designed for those who require a discreet and comfortable hearing solution. These hearing aids are completely in-the-canal and feature an ultra-lightweight design for a comfortable fit. The hearing aids also come equipped with Sony's Clear Resolution Enhancer, which helps to reduce background noise and improve sound clarity for a more natural listening experience. With these features, Sony's OTC Hearing Aids provide an ideal solution for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Sony’s OTC hearing aids come at a high cost, which is why they missed the top spot.
Just under $1000
3. Bose
Bose's SoundControl Hearing Aids are a revolutionary type of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids designed to help people with mild to moderate hearing loss. These discreet and comfortable earbuds are easy to use and allow users to customize their sound settings to their specific hearing needs. They feature ANC technology that helps to reduce background noise while having many drawbacks. Additionally, SoundControl Hearing Aids come with an app that lets users adjust their sound settings and monitor their hearing health. With this innovative technology, Bose is offering a convenient and affordable solution to improve hearing.
Range from $799 to $999
4. Jabra
Jabra's OTC Hearing Aids are a range of over-the-counter hearing aids designed to provide a discreet solution for mild to moderate hearing loss. These hearing aids allow users to customize their sound experience remotely, like the Hear+Hi hearing aids, via a mobile app. The app features easy-to-use hearing aid controls, compatible with both iOS and Android devices, and are available in a range of colors.
Price: $799
5. Lucid Hearing
Lucid Hearing's OTC Hearing Aids are designed to provide an affordable and accessible solution for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. These hearing aids are 100% digital and offer a wide range of features and benefits. They are easy to fit and use, with adjustable volume and tone control, allowing you to customize your sound. They are lightweight and comfortable to wear, and come with a carrying case and ear tips for easy storage and portability.
Price Range From: $200 to $800
6. Eargo Neo HiFi OTC Hearing Aid
These ‘HiFi’ OTC hearing aids are designed with a rechargeable battery and a comfortable, low-profile fit. They have digital noise reduction technology to reduce background noise and adjust the sound to best suit your hearing needs.
Price: $1950
The right OTC hearing aid depends on your individual needs, budget and lifestyle. There are many OTC hearing aids available and it's important to research and compare the options so that you can choose the best hearing aid for you. The OTC hearing aid brands mentioned above are the best choices out there for most hard of hearing individuals and can help improve hearing and overall quality of life. Remember to consult with a hearing specialist, or take a free online hearing assessment, to determine the best hearing aid for you.