Hearing aid types and styles

RICs are a popular choice that use thin micro-tubes to provide excellent comfort and minimize the “plugged” feeling sometimes experienced with hearing aids. 

• Much smaller than BTEs, these styles fit comfortably and securely in your ear.
• This option is great for people with nearly all hearing losses except the most significantly impaired.

Is it right for me? RICs are discreet, comfortable, and one of the most advanced hearing aid styles. They work well even in noisy listening environments and are appropriate for active lifestyles.

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.

• A one-piece custom-made hearing aid fills the ear.
• Works well for mild to severe hearing loss.

Is it right for me? Larger-sized ITEs are easy to control, even if you have dexterity issues. However, they occasionally pick up more background noise. If you prefer small gatherings or one-on-one conversations, ITEs are a good choice.

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.

• This smaller custom-molded hearing aid is fitted directly in the ear canal.
  
  
• Great for mild to moderately-severe hearing loss

Is it right for me? ITCs are a good choice if you want a one-piece style that is easy to manipulate but you want a more discrete style than an ITE. If your lifestyle is less active and you prefer small-group interactions with friends and family, ITCs work well.

One of the least visible styles, CICs, are placed securely deep within your ear. Lightweight and custom-fit, they are designed to help you hear in challenging listening environments.

• A minimal custom design that fits the most deeply in the ear canal.
• Work well for mild to moderate hearing loss.
  

Is it right for me? While it’s nearly undetectable, you may experience a “plugged” feeling. Because they’re small, CICs don’t offer as many technologically advanced features, and may not be Bluetooth compatible.