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Hearing aid types and styles

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From small, virtually invisible design to wireless features such as call-streaming through Bluetooth® and AI health tracking, refined audio technology has made hearing aids better, easier and more convenient for everyone regardless of age, lifestyle or level of hearing loss. 

 

Hearing aid types: finding the right fit

At Amplifon Hearing Health Care, we offer the most sophisticated technology in a range of hearing solutions, including the best hearing aids for seniors and all ages, with price options to fit your budget and excellent customer service along the way.

Hearing aid types: finding the right fit

Behind-The-Ear (BTE)

BTE Hearing Aids

These hearing aids fit on top and around the outer ear, connecting to a custom earpiece within the ear.

Excellent for almost all types of hearing loss. 

About: Typically one of the largest hearing aid styles, a BTE hearing aid offers the most power of hearing aids. Some miniature versions are available.

Is it right for me? A durable, versatile style, BTEs use advanced technology to perform exceptionally well everywhere, including

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC)

RIC

Smaller than BTE, these fit comfortably behind your ear, with a wire and small receiver instead of the tubing and ear mold used by a BTE hearing aid.

Great for nearly all hearing losses except the most significantly impaired.

About: RICs are a popular choice that uses tiny wires to provide excellent comfort and minimize the

In-The-Ear (ITE)

ITE hearing aid

A one-piece custom-made hearing aid fills the ear.

Works well for mild to severe hearing loss.

About: ITE hearing aids fit comfortably in the outer portion of your ear, completely filling the bowl of your ear. They’re large enough to add optional controls so you can adjust volume as desired.

Is it right for me? Larger-sized ITEs are easy to operate. However, they occasionally pick up more background noise. If you prefer small gatherings or one-on-one

In-The-Canal (ITC)

This smaller custom-molded hearing aid is fitted directly in the ear canal.

Great for mild to moderately-severe hearing loss.

About: Smaller and less visible than the larger ITEs, ITCs fit comfortably in your inner ear. Because they are small, ITCs don’t have as many control options as BTEs and ITEs.

Is it right for me? ITCs are a good choice if you want a one-piece

Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC)

CIC hearing aid

This minimal custom design fits deeply in the ear canal.

Works well for mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

About: One of the least visible styles, completely-in-canal hearing aids are placed securely deep within your ear canal. Lightweight and custom-fit, they're designed to help you hear in challenging environments like restaurants.

Amplifon carries all the leading hearing aid brands Discover your options

Even more options

Hearing aids charging on bedside table
Rechargeable hearing aids

Rechargeable hearing aids eliminate the hassle of changing batteries. Not to mention, they’re convenient for people with dexterity issues. Read how they stack up against hearing aids with disposable batteries. 

Why rechargeable hearing aids?
Hand holding tiny hearing aid
Invisible hearing aids

Learn how invisible hearing aids work, when they’re a good fit, and what drawbacks you need to consider.

Invisible hearing aids
Young girl at hearing aid fitting
Hearing aids for children

Children with hearing loss may require pediatric-specific hearing aids specially designed to accommodate their growing ears and active lifestyles.

Hearing aids for kids
Woman controling hearing aid with smartphone
Hearing aids for severe hearing loss

Severe hearing loss can dramatically impact daily life as well as your treatment options. Learn more about what you need to know before purchasing a hearing aid if you or a loved one has severe or profound hearing los

Hearing help for profound loss

Hearing aid frequently asked questions

BTE hearing aids vs. ITE hearing aids?

BTE hearing aids (Behind-the-ear) sit behind the ear and have a small tube that connects to a custom earmold or dome placed inside the ear canal. ITE hearing aids (In-the-ear) are custom-fitted to sit directly in the ear canal or the outer portion of the ear.

What are the advantages of hearing aid types?

BTE hearing aid styles are often preferred for their durability, power, and ability to accommodate various degrees of hearing loss. ITE hearing aid styles are discreet and can offer more natural sound quality, but due to their smaller size, they may have limited features.

What should I consider when choosing hearing aids?

When selecting a hearing aid, you’ll want to consider the degree and type of hearing loss, budget, lifestyle, manual dexterity, and cosmetic preferences.

Can I customize my hearing aid?

Many hearing aid models offer customizable options for color, style, and additional features such as rechargeability, health tracking, or AI technology.

Are some hearing aid types more comfortable?

Yes, comfort and ease of use can vary depending on the hearing aid type, fit, and individual preferences. A BTE hearing aid may be more comfortable for some users due to its behind-the-ear placement, while ITE hearing aids offer a more discreet option.

Can I test different types of hearing aids?

Amplifon Hearing Health Care offers a 60-day trial period (no return or restocking fees), so you can try different styles and models before making a final decision.

How do I take care of my hearing aids?

For optimal performance, make sure to regularly maintain your hearing aids, including cleaning, battery replacement, and periodic adjustments.

Are there additional accessories for hearing aids?

Many hearing aids offer compatibility with accessories such as remote controls, smartphone apps, and wireless streaming devices for enhanced functionality and convenience.

Does hearing aid size affect its functionality?

Smaller hearing aids may offer greater discretion and comfort but may have fewer advanced features than larger models.

How do I start the process?

First, you’ll need a comprehensive hearing evaluation and a consultation with a hearing care professional. They can help you determine your level of hearing loss,  select a hearing aid type, fit and customize the device, and provide follow-up care and adjustments as needed.
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Which hearing aid is right for me?

Take this short quiz to find out which type of hearing aid might work for you. Then, talk about the results with your hearing specialist. They can help you find the make and model that’s best for you.

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