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Hearing Aid Styles

What to Consider When Choosing a Hearing Aid
Things to Think About When Selecting a Hearing Aid
When choosing a hearing aid, it’s important to take into account your level of hearing loss, daily lifestyle, and personal preferences.
 
Key considerations include:
  • Severity of hearing loss (power needs)
  • Budget
  • Preferred look or style
  • Skin sensitivities
  • Medical or anatomical factors
  • Comfort with handling small devices
  • Daily listening environments and lifestyle demands
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Budget often plays a big role in deciding on a hearing aid style. Keep in mind that pricing typically reflects the technology and advanced features offered—not just the design. As hearing technology continues to evolve, more models are becoming equipped with enhanced features.
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In the end, the best way to find the right hearing aid is to consult with a hearing care professional. Schedule an appointment today, and one of our specialists will help you find a solution that fits your needs.
Hearing Aid Styles: Behind the Ear (BTE), Receiver in Canal (RIC), In the Ear (ITE), In the Canal (ITC), Completely in Canal (CIC), Invisible in Canal (IIC)
Hearing aids are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Some models are sleek and nearly invisible, while others offer more power and can include advanced technology and features. With so many styles to choose from, you’re sure to find a device that fits comfortably and integrates effortlessly into your daily routine.
Types of Hearing Aids
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Behind the Ear (BTE)
Powerful, Adaptive Technology
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are valued for their strength and adaptability. They’re a great choice for individuals with mild to profound hearing loss and are often recommended for children due to their growing ear structure. The slightly larger size makes room for added features like volume and program controls, a personalized fit, and extended battery life.
Features and Advantages
  • Sturdy design that’s easy to handle
  • Wide range of features and customizable sound settings
  • Larger size supports extended battery life
  • Bluetooth and wireless connectivity options
Receiver in Canal (RIC)
Comfortable, Adaptable, and Discreet
Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids offer a blend of comfort, modern design, and high-quality sound. The receiver sits directly in the ear canal, connected to a small, lightweight component that rests subtly behind the ear. RIC devices are highly versatile and can accommodate a wide range of hearing loss—from mild to severe.
Features and Benefits
  • Lightweight and adaptable design
  • More discreet than traditional BTE styles
  • In-ear receiver provides improved sound clarity
  • Compatible with Bluetooth and wireless technology
In the Ear (ITE)
Custom Fit and Easy to Use
In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids take advantage of your ear’s natural shape to enhance sound. Custom-molded to fit comfortably within the ear bowl, their larger design makes them simple to handle, clean, and adjust. ITEs are a powerful option well-suited for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss.
Features and Benefits
  • Simple to adjust and care for
  • Personalized, custom-molded fit for comfort
  • Extended battery life for full-day performance
  • Supports Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
In the Canal (ITC)
Advanced Features in a Discreet Package
While slightly larger and easier to handle than smaller canal models, ITC hearing aids are still fairly discreet and can be equipped with a wide range of features. Many ITC models are available with volume control and directional microphones, which can help wearers better adapt to different sound environments.
Features and Benefits

  • Custom-molded for a comfortable fit

  • Less noticeable appearance

  • Best suited for mild-to-moderate hearing loss

  • Bluetooth and wireless connectivity

Completely in Canal (CIC)
Discreet and Direct Sound Delivery
CIC hearing aids are custom-molded to sit within the ear canal, providing a natural, nearly invisible look. They work with the ear’s shape to direct sound to the microphone and enhance sound quality. Best suited for mild-to-moderate hearing loss, CIC hearing aids are a great option for wearers that live a more active lifestyle.
Features and Benefits

  • Custom-molded, secure fit

  • Nearly invisible look

  • Reduced wind noise, whistling, and feedback

  • Bluetooth and wireless connectivity

Invisible in Canal (IIC)
Out-of-Sight Sound Amplification
IIC hearing aids are the smallest and most inconspicuous style of technology available. They are custom-molded to fit deep in the ear canal and utilize the wearer’s ear anatomy to amplify sound. Best for those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss who desire an undetectable look.
Features and Benefits

  • Secure fit for active lifestyles

  • Virtually invisible to others

  • Reduced wind noise, whistling, and feedback

  • Bluetooth and wireless connectivity

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