The Pros and Cons of Different Hearing Aid Types
Hearing aids come in various shapes and sizes. Deciding which one is right for you may seem daunting, so we have prepared this guide to help you choose the right type. Whether you want a small and discreet design or something convenient and straightforward to handle, there is something for everyone regarding hearing devices.
It is important to first have a hearing exam with a licensed hearing professional in order to determine whether you can benefit from hearing aids. If a hearing loss is detected, your audiologist will recommend the best devices to address your hearing needs.
Here, we give you some general information on different hearing aid types.
Hearing Aid Styles
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
This is the most common style and is the style most people think of when they imagine a hearing aid. It fits more severe hearing losses or those with hard-to-fit ear canals. All electronic components are located in a case behind the ear, hence the name. The actual sound is transmitted through a tube into the ear canal.
This style is very comfortable, which makes them ideal for first-time wearers. They are also easy to insert and control for anyone, including children and those with dexterity issues. On the downside, they are the least discreet of all hearing aid types.
Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)
This is a common style of hearing aid because it is ideal for a wide variety of applications. The microphone and amplifier are placed behind the ear and discreetly attach to the receiver via a thin tube. The RIC is appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss.
RICs provide people with hearing loss with some of the best-assisted hearing experiences available, making them appealing to people wanting a comfortable hearing experience and true-to-life sound. The open ear canal, however, often leaves wearers more vulnerable to ‘wind noise.’ The receiver end that sits in the ear canal is also moisture-sensitive and may require regular repair.
In-the-Ear (ITE)
These are customized for your unique ear shape. If you prefer manually adjusting your hearing aids instead of using a remote control or app, the ITE style is a great option. They are ideal for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss. This custom style is placed further into the ear canal than other models, so it is almost invisible when worn.
Completely-in-canal (CIC)
These fit directly into your ear canal, as with the IICs. Just a small portion of the hearing aid is on display, and even more than other styles, the style is almost invisible to notice. They are useful for keeping you discreet, and for those with an active lifestyle, they are perfect. It is also possible to conveniently fit these personalized hearing aids under helmets or headbands. Precise amplification is provided, with virtually no wind interference.
Which hearing aid is right for you?
There are several things to consider about your own needs before buying hearing aids. Considering your own needs will help you choose the right hearing aid type for you.
- The degree of your hearing loss: People with more severe hearing loss will be limited in their choice of models. They will be better served by larger styles such as the BTE or RIC types. These models have the processing power to handle the larger amounts of amplification needed.
- Dexterity: If you have dexterity issues, it could prohibit you from using the smaller models comfortably, such as the CIC, IIC styles. Their small size might make it tricker to place them into your ears every morning. If this sounds like you, it’s best to stick to the BTE or RIC.
- Range of features: Larger styles like the BTE and RIC are more likely to carry the widest range of features, such as a telecoil, a rechargeable battery, Bluetooth capabilities and artificial intelligence.
- Price: There are devices for all price points, But the more discreet styles might command a higher fee, as they tend to contain specialised components that pack more into a smaller footprint, they are also generally custom-fit, which takes on an extra fee.
- Style: Predictably, the most stylish models will likely be more expensive than standard models. It is up to you whether this factors into your purchasing decision.
- Lifestyle: If you have an active lifestyle that demands you are outside often, a smaller hearing aid might be right for you, as they are less prone to wind noise and feedback. All hearing aid styles are suitable for indoor use.
If you’re interested in learning more about hearing aids, find a provider within the FitHearing Audiology Network and schedule an appointment today!
