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9 Best Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids of 2023

We selected our top over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid choices based on cost, availability, features, and more.
Sep 15, 2023
Written by: MS, RDN, LDN
Medical Reviewer: HIS
Reviewed by: BSPharm, MPH, Senior Director, NCOA Center for Healthy Aging
Fact Checked

Best OTC Hearing Aids: Key Takeaways

  • Adults 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss can now buy hearing aids over the counter without a hearing exam, prescription, or appointment with an audiologist.
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are FDA-regulated medical devices that can improve brain function and may even prevent depression and early onset dementia.
  • OTC hearing aids are designed to be used right out of the box and customized by the user, but this convenience often comes without in-person care.
  • The average cost of OTC hearing aids is about $1,600 per pair—$3,000 less than the price of many prescription hearing aids.

A quick look at the best OTC hearing aids

Did you know that your hearing health is an important measure of your overall wellness? Research shows that hearing loss can lead to a host of other health problems, such as depression, falls, and even early dementia.1 The good news is that hearing aids can not only help you hear better, they can also help prevent some of those conditions, improving brain function and your quality of life.2

But hearing aids are an expensive purchase, making it difficult for many Americans to get treatment for their hearing loss. On Oct. 17, 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took a big step toward increasing access to hearing aids for millions of Americans by making over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids available for sale nationwide.

What exactly are OTC hearing aids, and how can you buy them? Read our review of the best OTC hearing aid brands to find out how much they cost, where you can buy them, and what to consider before purchasing. For information on both OTC and prescription hearing aids, read our review of the best hearing aids of 2023.

Why you can trust our expert review
5300
Hours of
Research
12
Experts
Consulted
18
Brands
Considered
6
Models
Selected

Our Reviews Team recommends products and services we believe provide value in the lives of our readers. We’ve spent more than 5,000 hours conducting in-depth research on hearing aid devices to give you the most accurate hearing aid reviews. To make these selections, we:

  • Consulted with audiologists and geriatric care experts
  • Mystery shopped 18 brands
  • Selected 7 models as best OTC hearing aids
  • Surveyed hundreds of hearing aid users
  • Tested various models of hearing aids
  • Interviewed experts in the field
  • Read thousands of verified customer reviews

Read more about our hearing aid review methodology.

Comparison of the best OTC hearing aids

Jabra EnhanceAudicusMDHearingLexieEargoAudienGo HearingLucidSony
Price per pair$799–$1,995$1,398–$2,998$299–$699$799–$999$1,650–$2,950$99–$249$199–$499$199–$999$999–$1,299
Reviews Team rating (5-point scale)4.214.193.274.533.913.914.244.564.4
Hearing aid styleReceiver-in-canal, in-the-earReceiver-in-canal, completely-in-canalBehind-the-ear, in-the-canalReceiver-in-canal, behind-the-earCompletely-in-canalIn-the-canalIn-the-earBehind-the-ear, receiver-in-canal, in-the-ear, in-the-canalIn-the-canal, in-the-ear
Battery life (hours)12–301815–20181620–24301626
BluetoothYesYesYes (adjustments only on Volt Max, no streaming)Yes (adjustments only, no streaming)Yes (adjustments only, no streaming)NoYes (one model)Yes (some models)Yes
How to adjustApp, buttons on hearing aid, or remote assistanceApp remote control, or buttons on hearing aidApp (Volt Max) or buttons on hearing aidApp or buttons on hearing aidApp, tapping the hearing aid, or remote assistanceScrew on back of hearing aidButtons on hearing aidApp or buttons on hearing aidApp
Warranty length (years)32211–21111
Financing available?YesYesYesNoYesNoYesYesYes

Table 1 Comparison of the best OTC hearing aids, as of August 2023

Best OTC hearing aids review

Best for Seniors
Why We Chose

We chose Jabra Enhance as the “Best for Seniors” due to its long warranty, reputation for good customer support, and devices that offer a package of easy-to-use features. We also found the app easy to use for making adjustments to the volume and listening settings, and that wasn’t the case for every hearing aid we tested.

Features
  • Rechargeable battery: Yes
  • Bluetooth and mobile app capabilities: Yes
  • Adjustment: App, buttons on hearing aid, or remote assistance
  • Standard warranty: One to three years, depending on basic versus premium package
  • Financing available: Bread
  • Purchasing options: Online, Best Buy
Pros & Cons
Pros 100-day trial period Three-year warranty with the premium package, the longest of any OTC hearing aid Three years of free telehealth support from the Jabra Enhance audiology team if you purchase the premium package Bluetooth streaming Cons Jabra Enhance Plus has a short battery life of 12 hours
Additional Details

The federal government estimates that Americans could save up to $3,000 off the average price of a pair of prescription hearing aids as a result of being able to buy hearing aids over the counter.3 Jabra Enhance OTC devices deliver even greater savings with good quality hearing aids that can be remotely adjusted by the Jabra Enhance audiology team to fit your hearing profile. Take a look at Table 2 for an overview of the models offered by Jabra Enhance.

Comparison of Jabra Enhance OTC hearing aids

Enhance Plus

Enhance Select 50

Enhance Select 100

Enhance Select 200

Price per pair

$799

$1,195–$1,395

$1,495–$1,695

$1,795–$1,995

Color choices

2

5

5

5

Battery type

Rechargeable

Disposable

Rechargeable

Rechargeable

Bluetooth streaming

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

App for adjustments

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Hands-free calling

Yes

No

No

Yes

Number of listening settings

3

4

4

4

Table 2 Comparison of Jabra Enhance OTC hearing aids, as of May 2023

 

The biggest difference between the top two models is that the Enhance Select 200 has the most advanced hearing technology Jabra offers for a natural hearing experience. The Enhance Plus and Enhance Select 200 also include hands-free calling with iPhone 11 and newer, so you can take phone calls with your hearing aids by connecting them to your phone with Bluetooth.

While hands-free calling is only an option with iPhones, Bluetooth streaming is available on all Jabra Enhance models with Apple devices and Androids with OS version 9.0 or later.

Every model except the Enhance Select 50 comes with rechargeable batteries, something that 21% of respondents to our hearing aids survey said was the No. 1 feature they wanted in a hearing aid. For anyone with arthritis, vision impairment, or other conditions that could make handling tiny hearing aid batteries difficult, rechargeable hearing aids are convenient.

The Enhance Select 200 and 100 both have a 30-hour battery life, longer than any other OTC brand we’ve found. We liked the fact the hearing aids were easy to insert and remove from the charger, and we didn’t have a hard time making sure the devices were in contact with the charging ports. This is a small but important point: if your hearing aids don’t have solid contact with the ports, you may take them out later only to find they haven’t been charging.

Online hearing screening

Jabra Enhance offers a free online hearing screening to help determine your degree of hearing loss. Our Reviews Team had to search to find the hearing test on the website though; the link above will take you right to it.

You can either submit your Jabra Enhance hearing test results, or the results from an in-person hearing test if you’ve had an exam by an audiologist or other hearing specialist. The Jabra Enhance audiology team will use your hearing test results to program your new hearing aids.

Check out more online hearing test options.

Customer support

Jabra Enhance provides three years of telehealth support by its audiology team if you purchase the premium package with the Jabra Enhance Select models (basic and premium packages are not available for Jabra Enhance Plus). You also get 100 days to try the hearing aids with no commitment as part of both the basic and premium packages. If you don’t think they’re a good fit within that time, you can return them for a full refund.

We found the Jabra Enhance support staff to be friendly and knowledgeable. One of our focus group participants owns a pair of Jabra Enhance devices, and he said that the audiology team has been very helpful.

Warranty

The three-year warranty is the longest of any OTC brand we’ve reviewed, and is another reason we chose Jabra Enhance as the best for older adults. The warranty covers both manufacturer’s defects and loss or damage. An important thing to note is that in order to get the three-year warranty, you have to purchase the premium package versus the basic package. The basic package only comes with a one-year warranty.

A strong warranty can help give you peace of mind when purchasing an OTC hearing aid, since you can’t take it to a hearing clinic for repairs. About 53% of Jabra Enhance users who responded to our Reviews Team’s survey said they never needed a repair during their warranty period, while 35% said they needed a repair once or twice.

Not only is the quality of your hearing aids important, the customer care that you receive in the years after your purchase can make all the difference in how much you benefit from using your hearing aids. Jabra Enhance delivers on all points related to customer care, making it a good choice for older adults who are new to hearing aids.

Customer service

Payment options

  • Credit card
  • PayPal
  • FSA and HSA cards

Learn more about Jabra Enhance from our Jabra Enhance hearing aids review.

Our Top Pick
Most Financing Options
Why We Chose

While increased competition among OTC hearing aid manufacturers has led to lower prices, hearing aids are still an expensive purchase. For many people, financing can mean the difference between treating their hearing loss and having to wait.

Audicus offers five models of OTC hearing aids, along with multiple choices for financing, making it our choice for the “Most Financing Options.” And while Audicus has more ways to finance than any other company on this list, it’s worth noting that its hearing aids do have a below-average battery life at 18 hours—which is lower than half the companies on this list.

Features
  • Rechargeable battery: Yes (Spirit and Omni lines)
  • Bluetooth and mobile app capabilities: Yes (except for Mini)
  • Adjustment: App remote control, or buttons on hearing aid
  • Standard warranty: Two years
  • Financing available: Care Credit, Allegro for Omni and Spirit models only, and payment plan options
  • Purchasing options: Online
Pros & Cons
Pros 45-day trial period Bluetooth streaming Multiple color options Cons Fairly short battery life One of the more expensive OTC hearing aid brands Only treats mild to moderate hearing loss
Additional Details

Comparison of Audicus OTC hearing aids

Mini

Spirit 1

Spirit 2

Omni

Omni 2

Price per pair

$2,498

$1,398–$1,598

$1,798–$1,998

$2,398

$2,798–$2,998

 

Monthly membership cost

N/A

N/A

$99

N/A

$149

Style

CIC

RIC

RIC

RIC

RIC

App for adjustments?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Water resistant?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Bluetooth streaming

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Battery type

Disposable

Rechargeable or disposable

Rechargeable or disposable

Rechargeable or disposable

Rechargeable or disposable

Table 3 Comparison of Audicus OTC hearing aids, as of August 2023

 

Audicus subscription plan

Audicus has a subscription plan called Audicus Premier . For the monthly fee noted in the table above, you can lease a pair of hearing aids rather than buying them. Note: The membership plan is now only available for the newest Series 2 models, Spirit 2, and Omni 2. In addition to the monthly dues, there’s a one-time signup fee of $249, but there’s no required contract or ongoing obligation, which means you can cancel at any time.

The plan includes the following benefits:

  • Free support from Audicus hearing specialists
  • Regular shipments of supplies
  • Care and cleaning at no extra cost
  • A new pair of hearing aids every 18 months
  • Insurance against loss or damage

This could be a good option if you’re new to hearing aids and want to try them out on a rental basis before committing to a purchase.

Other financing options

Audicus also has three financing options for people who need hearing aids but can’t afford to pay up front, or who just want to spread their payments out. First, Care Credit includes a payment plan that’s interest free if you pay off the balance within 12 months.

Allegro is the second option. It provides financing for people with lower credit scores, but is only available if you’re purchasing the Omni or Spirit.

Finally, Audicus finances its hearing aids directly with 6-, 12-, or 18-month payment plans. With multiple hearing aid models and payment plans to choose from, a wide range of customers can find something from Audicus that works for both their hearing needs and their budget.

Customer service

Payment options

  • Credit card
  • PayPal

Read more about Audicus in our complete Audicus hearing aids review.

Best Remote Customer Service
Why We Chose

MDHearing is an OTC hearing aid manufacturer that offers free lifetime support from its remote team of audiologists. We’ve been impressed with the after-purchase follow up provided by this company, and the level of care they provide when we’ve had questions or needed help getting the correct fit. All of these points make MDHearing our choice for “Best Remote Customer Service.”

Features
  • Rechargeable battery: Yes
  • Bluetooth and mobile app capabilities: Yes (Volt Max)
  • Adjustment: App (Volt Max) or buttons on the hearing aid
  • Standard warranty: One year (Neo, Air, and Volt) or two years (Volt Max)
  • Financing available: Affirm
  • Purchasing options: Online
Pros & Cons
Pros Affordably priced hearing aids with a range of features Lower in cost than many other brands Remote audiology support for the life of your hearing aids Cons No Bluetooth streaming
Additional Details

Ongoing audiology care is a critical part of your success with hearing aids, and hearing experts say that counseling and coaching are two of the most important parts of their job.

We talked with Stefanie Godbey, AuD, an audiologist at Ohio Hearing and Audiology. She says that in recent years, she’s seen more patients who want to learn about hearing health, which helps her meet their needs better.

“People are now asking us better questions, and they want to be part of the journey, and that really helps a lot of patients because they’re engaged in the process. When you have a patient who’s engaged, that makes it a lot easier on both ends to focus on the common goal.”

Customer experience with MDHearing

From our hands-on testing, mystery shopping, and real-world purchasing experiences, we’ve found that the audiologists at MDHearing work hard to help their customers meet their hearing goals and have a successful experience with hearing aids.

One of our Reviews Team’s members helped her father buy MDHearing devices, and the audiology team worked with him remotely to achieve the correct fit and troubleshoot a problem. On the first day, he experienced some whistling in one of the devices, which can be caused by feedback, earwax, or not having the device fully inserted into the ear canal.

After talking with the MDHearing audiology team by phone and adjusting the fit (which was done by emailing photos and receiving the audiologist’s feedback), he was able to eliminate the whistling noise. “I am really amazed at how well these work and how much I can hear,” he said.

The audiologist also followed up several times in the following weeks to make sure he was wearing his hearing aids consistently, and to answer any questions.

Not all OTC companies offer unlimited remote support, so this is a benefit worth looking for. It’s especially important to make sure you can get help with your hearing aids when shopping for OTC devices, because they’re meant to be adjusted, fitted, and used by the customer at home without the help of a hearing specialist. In many cases you won’t need additional help, but if you do it’s great to have a hearing care professional to call. The MDHearing staff can be reached by phone, email, or online chat.

MDHearing models

The Volt Max is an FDA-approved, self-fitting hearing aid that can be adjusted with the MDHearing app to match your hearing loss profile.5 Both the Volt and Volt Max provide four listening settings to choose from and come with dual directional microphones to help you hear and understand conversations in front of you. By comparison, Audien only offers one listening profile, no app capability, and no directional microphones.

The Neo is too small to accommodate directional microphones, but it does feature noise reduction and rechargeable batteries that last 17 hours or longer per charge.

Warranty and online hearing screening

MDHearing offers a free online hearing screening, along with a complimentary consultation with an MDHearing audiologist. They will assess your hearing test results and advise you on whether MDHearing devices would fit your needs, or whether you need an in-person evaluation at a hearing clinic.

We think that the variety of features offered at a relatively low price and the great customer service are two selling points of this brand. The standard warranty is also consistent with other OTC hearing aid companies. You can purchase an extended warranty that covers damage and defects, but not loss or theft. Called the MDShield Protection Plan, the extended warranty is available for a monthly fee of $3.99–$14.99, depending on your model.

Customer service

Payment options

  • Credit card

Learn more about MDHearing in our detailed MDHearing hearing aids review.

Most User-Friendly
Why We Chose

Lexie has partnered with Bose to develop three self-fitting OTC hearing aids. All Lexie models can be adjusted using the Lexie app, so you can get the best listening experience possible in every environment. We found the app easy to use, the manual clear and simple, and Lexie’s customer service helpful, prompt, and friendly, making this brand our pick for the “Most User-Friendly” OTC hearing aid.

Features
  • Rechargeable battery: Yes (B2), No (Lumen and B1)
  • Bluetooth and mobile app capabilities: Yes
  • Adjustment: App or buttons on the hearing aid
  • Standard warranty: One year
  • Financing available: Subscription plan
  • Purchasing options: Online, Best Buy, Walgreens, Walmart
Pros & Cons
Pros Available online and in stores Easy-to-use app with a variety of functions Unlimited remote support from Lexie hearing professionals Cons B1 and B2 require an app for making adjustments to listening settings
Additional Details

What to know about self-fitting hearing aids

Not all OTC hearing aids are self-fitting. This term means that the user can adjust the settings themselves rather than relying on a hearing specialist to make adjustments. For example, Lexie hearing aids allow you to switch between listening profiles (called “environment settings” in the Lexie app). The B1 and B2 also let you adjust parameters like directionality of sounds, balance between your left and right ears, bass, and treble.

Manufacturers of self-fitting hearing aids must prove to the FDA that their devices are safe and effective, and that they can be adjusted by the user similarly to how a hearing specialist would adjust them. Their devices can then be advertised as FDA-cleared, self-fitting hearing aids.

OTC hearing aids that are not self-fitting, such as Audien and some models sold by MDHearing and Audicus, only provide the option to toggle between different listening settings. They still have to be registered with the FDA, but do not have to meet the same testing requirements as self-fitting hearing aids. You can look up any hearing aid brand in the FDA’s database to see if it’s registered.4

While it may seem that self-fitting hearing aids with fine-tuning abilities are the best choice for everyone, this isn’t always the case. It takes some background knowledge to be successful with the fine-tuning adjustments available on certain self-fitting models like the B1 and B2.

We spoke with a Lexie support specialist who said that this type of hearing aid can be a great choice for people who have worn hearing aids before and/or have experience in the sound engineering or music industry.

Lexie Lumen vs. B1 and B2

If you’re new to hearing aids or aren’t very comfortable using technology, look into the Lexie Lumen. This model comes with six listening profiles you can choose from and the same hearing technology as the B1 and B2, but it doesn’t have the capability to make fine-tuning adjustments.

In addition to selecting your listening profile, you can take a hearing test using the app, and the app will automatically adjust your hearing aids based on the results of your test. So while you don’t have as much control over the small adjustments, the app does more of the work for you, making it a great choice for someone who’s new to hearing aids.

What is a telecoil?

Another feature offered only in the Lumen is a telecoil, also known as a T-coil or T-switch. Telecoils work with assistive-listening technology (called induction loop systems) in other sound equipment to help you hear more clearly. When activated in the hearing aid, the telecoil routes sounds directly to your hearing aids without the need for Bluetooth pairing.

Public places of worship, theaters, auditoriums, and museums are often equipped with induction loop technology to allow you to use a telecoil for a better listening experience. Telecoil-equipped hearing aids can also make talking on a landline telephone easier by reducing feedback.

Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences among the three Lexie models.

Comparison of Lexie OTC hearing aids

Lexie Lumen

Lexie B1

Lexie B2

Purchase price

$799

$849

$999

Subscription price*

Security payment

Monthly payment 

       (x 24 months)

 

$149

$42

 

$199

$47

 

$249

$49

Style

Behind-the-ear

Receiver-in-canal

Receiver-in-canal

Color choices

5

1

1

Battery type

Disposable

Disposable

Rechargeable

Telecoil

Yes

No

No

Table 4 Comparison of Lexie OTC hearing aids, as of August 2023

 

*While Lexie doesn’t offer a traditional financing option, the company does have a subscription plan. With a security payment and monthly fee, you can pay off your hearing aids over a 24-month period. You’ll end up paying $358–$426 more for your hearing aids with the subscription plan compared to buying them up front, but this may be a good option if you need to spread your payments out over time.

Based on features, customer service, and price, Lexie is one of our top-rated hearing aid brands with 4.51 out of 5 stars. If the price is within your budget, Lexie could be just what you’re looking for.

Customer service

Payment options

  • Credit card
  • FSA or HSA card
  • Subscription plan

Read our full Lexie hearing aids review.

Best Invisible Fit
Why We Chose

Eargo sells three OTC models of completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids that are so small you can barely see them in your ear, making this brand our choice for “Best Invisible Fit.”

Features
  • Rechargeable battery: Yes
  • Bluetooth and mobile app capabilities: Yes
  • Adjustment: App, tapping the hearing aid, or remote assistance
  • Standard warranty: One year (Eargo 5 and 6) or two years (Eargo 7)
  • Financing available: Bread and Covered Care
  • Purchasing options: Online, Best Buy, Victra-Verizon
Pros & Cons
Pros 45-day trial period One- to two-year warranty that covers unlimited repairs and one-time replacement Lifetime hearing specialist support Cons No Bluetooth streaming Fairly short battery life Only one style (CIC)
Additional Details

We liked the variety of tips and domes that Eargo provided with the hearing aids we tested (see Figure 1), allowing each person to find the fit that was most comfortable for them.

Figure 1 Eargo tips and domes unboxed by our Reviews Team

Eargo petals on a grey background against a rule best rechargeable hearing aids

We talked with Brian Murray, a hearing instrument specialist in Raleigh, North Carolina, and he pointed out that two styles and sizes of tips may not fit every ear canal. He also cautioned that people with certain types or degrees of hearing loss may need a BTE or RIC-style hearing aid rather than an ITE or CIC style.

Many people like the discreet look of smaller hearing aids that fit completely in the ear, but if you try one of those styles and still have trouble hearing or understanding speech, it’s worth a trip to a hearing care clinic for an in-person exam to get a more accurate picture of your hearing loss. Your hearing specialist can also evaluate whether your current OTC hearing aids are meeting your needs, or whether you could get greater benefit from a different type of hearing aid.

All Eargo devices are rechargeable, so you won’t have to worry about changing batteries. This can also save money over time by removing the cost of replacement disposable batteries.

Other than the battery type, each Eargo model has its own set of unique features, which are outlined in Table 3.

Comparison of Eargo OTC hearing aids

Eargo 5

Eargo 6

Eargo 7

Price per pair

$1,650

$2,250

$2,950

App for adjustments?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Battery life (hours)

16

16

16

Water resistant?

No

Yes

Yes

Number of listening settings

4*

4*

4*

Warranty length (years)

1

1

2

Table 5 Comparison of Eargo OTC hearing aids, as of August 2023

 

*These are self-fitting models, so settings can also be customized to your preferences using the Eargo app

Eargo hearing aids provide Bluetooth connectivity, so you can use the Eargo mobile app for making adjustments and getting remote support from an Eargo hearing specialist. But they’re too small to include Bluetooth streaming technology. If listening to music or phone calls with your hearing aids is important to you, consider OTC brands Jabra Enhance or Audicus. Both companies make devices with Bluetooth streaming.

The Eargo 7 is the newest model. It features Sound Adjust+ with Clarity Mode, which makes automatic sound adjustments as you move between environments for a clearer listening experience compared with the Eargo 6. On the Eargo 5, you can make those adjustments yourself by tapping on the hearing aid or using the app.

You can either submit previous hearing test results or take a free online hearing screening on the Eargo website to find out if this brand is a good match for your needs. People with severe or profound hearing loss, for instance, will need to see an audiologist for prescription hearing aids. For more information on the different degrees of hearing loss, read our hearing aids buyer’s guide.

How to try Eargo hearing aids

Eargo will send you a free, non-working pair so you can see how they feel. If you decide you want to buy a pair, you have 45 days to make sure you’re happy with them.

Eargo also offers free remote support from hearing specialists, which is important when buying OTC hearing aids online. You won’t be going in person to see an audiologist for help with your hearing aids, so buying from a company that offers care for a long period of time can make a big difference.

In addition to online sales, Eargo hearing aids are available at Victra-Verizon stores. We were pleased to find that our local Victra-Verizon store was staffed with several employees who were knowledgeable about the Eargo devices and the app. They said that customers can come back to the store any time after making an Eargo purchase for help with their devices or using the app.

Customer service

Payment options

  • Credit card
  • PayPal

Financing options

  • Third-party lender Bread, which offers 12-, 18-, and 36-month payment plans
  • Third-party lender Covered Care—call 800-252-0546 to learn more

Learn more about Eargo from our Eargo hearing aid review.

Best Price
Why We Chose

Audien offers a basic but affordable FDA-registered hearing aid that beats the prices of all other brands, making it our choice for “Best Price” OTC hearing aid.

Features
  • Rechargeable battery: Yes
  • Bluetooth and mobile app capabilities: No
  • Volume adjustment: Screw on the hearing aid
  • Standard warranty: One year
  • Financing available: No
  • Purchasing options: Online, Walmart
Pros & Cons
Pros Lowest price of any rechargeable hearing aid currently on the market Small in-the-canal style is barely noticeable Cons Volume adjustment is inconvenient More basic than many other hearing aids Not water resistant No financing options
Additional Details

As with all OTC hearing aids, Audien devices are meant for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. Both of its FDA-registered models, the Atom and Atom Pro, are small in-the-canal hearing aids with a rechargeable battery. Neither one has Bluetooth capabilities nor advanced sound processing features like directional microphones, noise reduction, or the ability to be customized to fit your type of hearing loss.

Audien only offers one listening profile as well, and in testing we were surprised to find that a small screwdriver is needed to change the volume. A black screwdriver/brush hybrid tool is included with the hearing aids, but it’s not a convenient or discreet way to adjust the volume.

We also found that the user manual was brief compared to other brands we tested; detailed instructions are only available through videos that Audien posts on YouTube. Still, if price is your main consideration, as it is for many people with hearing loss, Audien could be a great place to start.

Customer service

Payment options

  • Credit card

Learn more about Audien from our Audien hearing aids review.

Best Rechargeable for the Money
Why We Chose

Go Hearing offers three inexpensive OTC hearing aids in two different styles, earbud and behind-the-ear. Go Hearing devices are made by hearX, the same South Africa-based company that manufactures Lexie OTC hearing devices. We’re impressed with the sound features and battery life Go Hearing packs into all three of its models at a relatively low price, so we designated this brand the “Best Rechargeable for the Money.”

Features
  • Rechargeable battery: Yes
  • Bluetooth and mobile app capabilities: Yes (Go Ultra)
  • Adjustment: Buttons on the hearing aid
  • Standard warranty: One year
  • Financing available: Klarna
  • Purchasing options: Online, Best Buy, CVS, Walmart
Pros & Cons
Pros Longest battery life of any budget hearing aid Excellent customer service Available for purchase at a variety of retailers Cons Only one model has Bluetooth streaming Fewer listening settings than most other brands
Additional Details

Standard features

The Go Ultra ($499 per pair) stands out from the other two hearing aids because it’s the only behind-the-ear style offered by Go Hearing, as well as the only one with Bluetooth capabilities. The two earbud-style hearing aids, the Go Lite ($199 per pair) and Go Prime ($299 per pair), are somewhat similar, but they do have a few key differences. First, let’s take an up-close look at the two earbud-style devices.

Both earbud-style models are built with these features:

  • Small in-the-ear (ITE) style, offered only in black
  • Rechargeable battery with up to 30 hours of use on each two- to three-hour charge
  • Battery charger that holds six charges
  • Adjustable volume
  • One-year warranty

As noted above, what really makes these hearing aids stand out compared to others in the same price class is the long battery life. Only one other OTC hearing aid brand, Jabra Enhance, offers a rechargeable hearing aid with a 30-hour battery life. But Jabra Enhance chargers hold only three charges before needing to be plugged in, compared to the six charges you can get with Go Hearing.

This charging case feature can be nice if you’re on the go a lot, like to travel, or if you just want to charge your hearing aids without plugging in your charger.

Extras included with Go Prime

The Go Prime model costs $100 more than the Go Lite, but it’s also more sophisticated. With the higher price you’ll get improved sound processing and a better listening experience, such as:

  • Three sound profiles
  • Feedback cancellation
  • Digital sound processor
  • Six processing channels and twelve bands

The more channels and bands a hearing aid contains, the more accurately it can separate, analyze, and amplify sound frequencies. This means a better listening experience for you, because the hearing aid can then transmit the sounds you need help hearing in a more natural way.

The three sound profiles found in the Go Prime can be selected by the user depending on which frequencies they have the most trouble hearing:

  1. Low frequencies
  2. High frequencies
  3. All frequencies

If you’re wondering how to determine which frequencies you have trouble hearing, the best way is with an in-person hearing test at a hearing care clinic. Go Hearing also provides a free, two minute hearing screening on its website to give you a general idea of your degree of hearing loss.

Extras included with Go Ultra

The Go Ultra is the most expensive hearing aid offered by Go Hearing and costs $200 more than the Go Prime model. Along with more advanced technology, this style may offer easier daily wear with its comfortable behind-the-ear style. Here are the features you get with the Ultra:

  • Behind-the-ear style only available in gray
  • Hands-free Bluetooth streaming capabilities
  • Rechargeable battery with up to 20 hours of use on each two- to three-hour charge
  • Noise and wind noise reduction
  • Four sound profiles
  • Volume and program memory function
  • One-year warranty

Customer service

  • Phone: 302-754-3190, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Sunday
  • Email: sales@gohearing.com

Payment options

  • Credit card
  • FSA or HSA card

Learn more about rechargeable hearing aids in our review of the best rechargeable hearing aids of 2023.

Best Variety
Why We Chose

Lucid Hearing offers the largest selection of OTC hearing aids on the market. This brand is our pick for “Best Variety” due to its wide range of styles, prices, and purchasing options.

Features
  • Rechargeable battery: Yes
  • Bluetooth and mobile app capabilities: Yes
  • Adjustment: App (on the Engage model) or buttons on the hearing aid
  • Standard warranty: One year
  • Financing available: In-house
  • Purchasing options: Online and a variety of third-party retailers (see below)
Pros & Cons
Pros Offers more OTC hearing aid styles than any other manufacturer Available for purchase at over 500 partner clinics and a wide variety of retail stores Transparent, easy-to-use website Cons Not all models include Bluetooth capability Battery life of rechargeable models is shorter than most other brands
Additional Details

Lucid is a Texas-based company that sells both prescription and OTC hearing instruments at more than 500 partner clinics across the nation, most of which are located in Sam’s Clubs. Lucid OTC hearing aids are also available for purchase online and at a growing number of third-party retail stores.

The preset listening programs built into Lucid OTC hearing aids are based on research done in partnership with an audiology program at the University of Texas at Dallas. Let’s take a look at the features included in each of the models.

Comparison of Lucid OTC hearing aids

Model Price per pair Style Color options Battery type Bluetooth connectivity Special features
Enrich $199 BTE 1 Disposable No Feedback cancellation, background noise reduction, wind noise filter
Enrich Pro BTE $299 BTE 1 Disposable No
Engage $549 RIC 3 Rechargeable Yes* Water resistance, directional microphones
Engage Rechargeable $799 RIC 3 Rechargeable Yes* Water resistance, directional microphones, customizable settings
Fio $999 ITE 1 Rechargeable Yes Water resistance, customizable settings

Table 6 Comparison of Lucid OTC hearing aids, as of August 2023

 

*Includes Bluetooth streaming for music, movies, and phone calls

As you can see from Table 3, the three most expensive models (Engage, Engage Rechargeable, and fio) include advanced features like rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth connectivity,

Where to buy Lucid hearing aids

Lucid hearing aids are available from more third-party retailers than any other OTC hearing aid brand we’ve researched. In addition to shopping on the Lucid website, you can buy the company’s OTC devices from the following online retailers:

  • Amazon
  • Best Buy
  • Crutchfield
  • Home Shopping Network
  • QVC

Look for Lucid OTC hearing aids in these stores:

  • Best Buy
  • Boscov’s
  • Crutchfield
  • CVS
  • Health Mart
  • Kinney Drug
  • Walmart
  • Sam’s Club

The company says that more retailers are being added daily. If you’re not sure whether an OTC hearing aid is right for you, Lucid offers a free, five minute online hearing test. You can also get a free in-person hearing exam at any Lucid partner clinic, which includes many Sam’s Club locations. Find a location in your area and make an appointment using the Lucid online scheduler.

Trial period and warranty

Lucid offers a free trial period, during which you can return the hearing aids for any reason. The length varies by retailer, though: buying the devices through Lucid or Sam’s Club gives you a 90-day return window, but with other retailers you’ll only get 60 days to try them out.

This should be enough time to determine if the devices are meeting your hearing needs, as most people become accustomed to wearing hearing aids within three to four weeks with consistent use.

Lucid offers a one-year manufacturer’s warranty for defects in workmanship. You also have the option to add loss and damage coverage for an additional monthly fee. Just keep in mind that each claim is subject to a $300 deductible.

Customer service

  • Phone: 800-785-6052
    • 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday
  • Online: Chat or contact form

Lucid provides free remote assistance from its team of hearing professionals for the life of your hearing aids, which is a great benefit that not all OTC brands offer.

In our testing, we contacted Lucid through the online chat to ask a couple of questions. Unfortunately, we didn’t get a response and ended the chat after a 15-minute wait. We had a better experience on our next try, though. A licensed hearing specialist responded within five minutes and answered all of our questions.

Payment options

  • Credit card

Learn more about hearing aid styles in our hearing aid buyer’s guide.

Best Earbud-Style
Why We Chose

Sound giant Sony has partnered with hearing aid manufacturer WS Audiology, which produces the prescription hearing aids Widex and Signia, to bring two FDA-registered OTC hearing aids to the market. Both have a design similar to earbuds and are receiving great reviews for comfort and sound quality, making Sony our pick for “Best Earbud-Style” OTC devices.

Features
  • Rechargeable battery: Yes (E10)
  • Bluetooth and mobile app capabilities: Yes
  • Volume adjustment: App
  • Standard warranty: One year
  • Financing available: Affirm
  • Purchasing options: Online, Best Buy
Pros & Cons
Pros Self-fitting hearing aids with in-app fine tuning adjustments Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable battery available in the E10 Cons More expensive than some other OTC brands
Additional Details

The CRE-C10 and E10 are both self-fitting, giving you the opportunity to customize your settings in the Sony Hearing Control app. The app is compatible with both iOS devices (version 13 and newer) and Androids (version 10 and newer).

When you first unbox and set up your hearing aids, you’ll pair them to your phone using the app. It will then take you through a short hearing screening to match your hearing loss to the correct sound profile on your hearing aids.

After the initial set up is complete, you can adjust the following parameters using the Hearing Control app:

  • Overall volume
  • Bass/treble balance
  • Left/right volume
  • Sound quality in different situations (using the fine tuning menu)

Both the C10 and E10 also feature automatic adjustments, changing the sound settings as you move from one listening environment to another.

The C10 is this brand’s smallest model, an in-the-canal device similar in size to Eargo hearing aids. It’s too small for a rechargeable battery or Bluetooth, though. If those features are important to you, the E10 includes them both in a slightly larger in-the-ear model. But unlike some other brands, the Sony E10 can only stream sound from iOS devices, not Androids.

Sony hearing aids are available both online and at Best Buy stores.

Learn more in our Best Buy hearing aids review.

Customer service

  • Online chat
  • Phone or text: 877-864-7669, 10 a.m to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday

Payment options

  • Credit card

Brands that didn’t make our best OTC hearing aid list

We chose the top seven OTC hearing aid brands through research and mystery shopping. Although HP Hearing was a top contender, here’s why they—and others—didn’t make our list.

Nuheara HP Hearing Pro

HP Hearing hearing aids on display

HP Hearing Pro hearing aids are self-fitting, FDA-cleared OTC devices manufactured by Nuheara, and are available at Best Buy, CVS, Crutchfield, or on the HP Hearing Pro website. The ITE earbud-style hearing aid features rechargeability, Bluetooth streaming, a two-year warranty, and a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Sony and HP Hearing Pro were close competitors for our “Best Earbud-Style” hearing aid. Sony outperforms in its style variety (ITC and ITE) and battery life. It offers up to 26 hours in its rechargeable model, while the HP Hearing Pro only offers eight—a significant disadvantage since you may not be able to get through an entire day without needing to recharge. And if you stream music or calls to your HP devices, you’ll reduce your battery life to only five hours.

Bossa

Bossa hearing aids with controls on display

Bossa OTC hearing aids come in three rechargeable ITE styles priced between $79.97–$197.97 per pair. Although none of the models have Bluetooth technology to connect to smartphones for wireless adjustments or streaming, they do have other features like built-in tinnitus relief that boosts ambient sounds, which can make tinnitus sounds less noticeable.

This brand was a strong competitor for the “Best Price” pick, but Audien outperformed in its customer reviews. While Bossa holds a 2.8 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot and a 3.61 out of 5 rating on BBB, Audien has a 3.8 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot and a 4.27 out of 5 rating on BBB. Audien hearing aids are priced a bit higher at $99–$249 per pair, but they have better customer satisfaction according to online reviews.

We found that many of the negative reviews for Bossa referred to problems getting a refund when customers returned the hearing aids within the trial period. For example, one customer said, “Bossa is the worst company I have ever dealt with. Ordered two pairs of hearing aids that were guaranteed. If you didn’t like them you could return them within 30 days. I tried them [and] didn’t like them so took all of the proper channels and did exactly what I was instructed to do to get my refund. Well, it has been one month since I returned them and four calls later and still no refund.”

LumiEar

LumiEar hearing aids on display

LumiEar OTC hearing aids are available online in two rechargeable models: the BTE LumiCharge V3 ($247 per pair) and the ITC LumiMini ($397 per pair). Both OTC models have Bluetooth technology for in-app sound adjustments, but the LumiMini is the only model with streaming capabilities for hands-free calling.

We acknowledge that LumiEar offers Bluetooth capabilities at a lower price point than other OTC hearing aids, but the 30-day trial period is shorter than many other brands. Jabra Enhance offers a 100-day trial period, and MDHearing offers a 45-day trial period. Also, brands in this review have warranties that cover up to three years, while LumiEar doesn’t list any warranty on its site.

Neptune

Neptune Hearing hearing aids on display

The Neptune Hearing website advertises two OTC rechargeable hearing aid models. The XL-1 is an ITE-style device listed at $199 per pair, and the VH-23 is a BTE-style device listed at $299 per pair. Neither have Bluetooth capabilities, but they do claim to have tinnitus-masking technology to help you focus less on tinnitus sounds and more on your environment.

We don’t love the fact that both Neptune models have volume adjustments but only one listening setting, similar to Audien devices.

Similar to LumiEar, Neptune does not have a clearly defined warranty and only offers a short 30-day trial period. For $299, you could purchase MDHearing Volt devices with a 45-day trial period, a one-year warranty, and more advanced technology to adjust the settings based on your listening needs in different environments.

Nano

Nano hearing aids on display

Nano rechargeable OTC hearing aids come in BTE and CIC styles. You can purchase them online for $297–$597 per pair. The Nano Sigma Plus model ($597) is the only one that offers Bluetooth connectivity to an app for wireless adjustments.

This brand’s price range is lower than most, but consider the company’s history before buying. We found that Nano was involved in a lawsuit over false advertising for “implying its products are approved by the FDA when they are not,” among other misleading business practices, like unlawfully recommending its products for children. Read more about the lawsuit in the recently published press release from the attorney general for Vermont.

What are OTC hearing aids?

OTC hearing aids are FDA-regulated medical devices that can be bought directly from the manufacturer. You don’t need a hearing exam, prescription, or appointment with an audiologist to purchase OTC hearing aids.

OTC hearing aids are designed and best for people who:

  • Are age 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss
  • Do not require a prescription or monitoring from a licensed hearing health professional
  • Can comfortably complete a hearing loss self-assessment
  • Will be able to independently control their hearing aid settings and software without assistance

According to the FDA’s final rule on OTC hearing aids passed in August 2022, this class of devices is appropriate for people over the age of 18 with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.6

We interviewed Jacquelyn C. J. Lovitt, Au.D., co-founder of Capital Institute of Hearing and Balance in Silver Spring, Maryland, to learn more about OTC hearing aids.

Amy Sapodin, a doctor of audiology in New York City, points out that availability of OTC hearing aids has the potential to help many people with hearing loss. “Early intervention is key for the long-term health of your auditory system,” said Sapodin. “The new category of OTC hearing devices is intended to increase accessibility and awareness for the need to treat difficulty hearing in its early stages, not just when it’s unlivable. The new ruling will, hopefully, be the impetus people need to prioritize hearing, as it is often one of the last on folks’ health care checklist. It will also remove barriers to access to hearing solutions for those who cannot afford prescription hearing aids.”

Where to buy OTC hearing aids

OTC hearing aids began hitting stores in October 2022, and you can now buy them online and in stores that carry health care devices, such as Walgreens, Best Buy, and Walmart. Look for OTC hearing aids in the pharmacy section.

FDA Regulation of OTC Hearing Aids

The FDA has developed a set of regulations that apply to all OTC hearing aids in order to ensure their safety for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss.8 These regulations outline details like how OTC hearing aids can be labeled, the degree to which they can magnify sounds, and how far they can be inserted in the ear.

The FDA has certain guidelines when it comes to the certified labeling on OTC hearing aid packaging. The most noticeable is the box that warns against the use of hearing aids for those younger than 18. Additional label requirements enforced by the FDA include:

  • Perceived symptoms of mild to moderate hearing loss
  • When to seek help from a hearing health professional
  • “Red-flag” conditions requiring a doctor’s attention
  • Manufacturer’s contact information
  • Information on the manufacturer’s return policy
  • Whether the hearing aids are used or rebuilt
  • What is needed to control the settings and customize the hearing aids to the user’s needs (e.g., mobile phone app or remote control)

You may see labels on hearing aids regarding their FDA certified registration, approval, or clearance. Let’s take a look at each term to see what they mean.

FDA registration of hearing aids

Products that are registered with the FDA have listed their manufacturing facility and provided information about their manufacturing process. Traditional medical device companies in the United States are required to register with the FDA every year. FDA registration does not mean the FDA has tested a product or deemed it to be safe, nor does it imply FDA clearance or approval.9

Certified OTC hearing aids that are not self-fitting, but instead have preset volume control profiles you can select from, are designated by the FDA as Class I medical devices, meaning they pose little to no risk of harm when used according to the label instructions. These devices are typically only FDA-registered, not approved or cleared.

Beware of products claiming to have an FDA “registration certificate.” This is a common OTC hearing aid scam. The FDA does not issue registration certificates for medical devices.

FDA clearance and approval

Self-fitting hearing aids, because they involve more detailed customization by the user, are Class II medical devices and require the manufacturer to submit clinical research findings, safety data, and performance information to prove their safety and efficacy. This information may include details from in-house product testing and consumer hearing tests.

Devices that successfully complete the process receive FDA clearance. You may also see this listed with 510(k) FDA approval. You can look up any hearing aid brand to see which of its devices have undergone this process in the FDA’s database.10

Hearing aids that have received 510(k) FDA approval or are labeled as FDA-cleared have completed a more rigorous process than those that are only FDA-registered. FDA registration applies to the facility that makes the devices, while FDA clearance or approval applies to the devices themselves.

OTC vs. prescription hearing aids

OTC hearing aidsPrescription hearing aids
Regulated by FDAYesYes
Levels of hearing loss coveredMild to moderateMild, moderate, severe, and profound
Average price$1,600*$4,600
Hearing exam required?NoYes
Prescription required?NoYes
Fitting appointment required?NoYes
Purchasing optionsIn retail stores, online, and in some hearing care clinicsHearing care clinics

*Based on President Biden’s estimate that customers may save up to $3,000 compared to the average price of prescription hearing aids.5

OTC hearing aids vs hearing amplifiers (PSAPs)

Over-the-counter hearing aids are not the same as personal sound amplification products (PSAPs). Unlike hearing aids, PSAPs magnify all sounds equally, are not designed to treat hearing loss, and are not regulated by the FDA.7

Who are OTC hearing aids for?

Adults 18 and over with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss can buy and use OTC hearing aids. Children under the age of 18 and people with severe or profound hearing loss will need to visit an audiologist or other hearing professional for prescription hearing aids.

Before buying OTC devices, it’s a good idea to think about whether you’re comfortable using technology, making adjustments to your hearing aids, and cleaning them on your own. Also consider whether you’d like to have in-person support from an audiologist when you need it, or if you feel confident with remote audiology support.

We spoke with Frank Lin, M.D., director of the Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health at Johns Hopkins University. He noted that different people have different needs when it comes to hearing loss treatment.

“In treating hearing loss, there is technology and there are services. They’re two different things. For example, I can think of many of my patients in their seventies and eighties who theoretically could benefit from an OTC hearing aid, but they’re still going to need the assistance of an audiology or other health professional to help guide, counsel, and educate them.

“And I have other people, who are probably younger, who could get an OTC hearing aid and be fine. They don’t need my help or another audiologist’s help. And we have other people who don’t even need a hearing aid or hearing technology. They just need the services of an audiologist to guide and counsel them about how to use closed captioning, how to be face-to-face with whoever you’re talking to in environments with background sound.

“So it’s a combination—some people need services, some people need technology, some people need services and technology.”

Although you can buy OTC hearing aids without a prescription, it’s still a good idea to have an in-person exam at a hearing clinic before you make a purchase. A hearing care specialist will do a physical exam of your ears to rule out any problems causing your hearing loss (such as wax buildup or other obstructions). They can also determine your level and type of hearing loss more precisely than an online hearing test.

Once you have received the hearing specialist’s recommendations, you can make an informed decision about whether OTC hearing aids will address your needs.

Some hearing care clinics are now offering services for customers with OTC hearing aids, but others only service the prescription devices that they sell. Many stores that carry the best OTC hearing aids, such as Walmart and Walgreens, don’t have trained staff in the store to help if you run into issues after your purchase. Most OTC companies do provide remote care, though, so if you’re happy getting help over the phone or on a video call, OTC hearing aids could be a great fit.

What to look for in an over-the-counter hearing aid

If you think this type of device will meet your needs, how can you decide on the best OTC hearing aids among all the choices on the market? Take a look at our list below to help you make an informed choice.

Style

This is the starting point for many people when thinking about which hearing aid is best for them. It’s important to buy a hearing aid that is comfortable to wear and one that provides great sound quality, since you’ll be wearing it for eight or more hours every day.

OTC hearing aids are available in a variety of designs, from in-the-ear (ITE) earbud-style devices to models that sit behind the ear, which include receiver-in-canal (RIC) or behind-the-ear (BTE) styles. Read our hearing aids buyer’s guide to learn more about hearing aid styles.

Features and Technology

OTC hearing aids come in a wide range of models, from very basic devices to advanced hearing instruments that can be adjusted to your hearing profile. It can be tempting to buy the most high-tech hearing aids available, but it’s important to consider which features you’ll use before paying for them.

For instance, do you want a hearing aid with Bluetooth connectivity? The volume and setting on Bluetooth hearing aids can be adjusted using a smartphone app, but some people prefer making adjustments with buttons or dials on the hearing aid itself. Certain Bluetooth hearing aids will also stream audio from your phone or other electronics, so it’s good to know whether you want that capability as well.

Also, consider your lifestyle when thinking about hearing aid features. If you spend most of your time at home, in quiet environments, and in small groups of friends and family, a more basic and affordable hearing aid, like Audien, Go Hearing, or the least expensive Lucid or MDHearing models may be fine for your needs.

But if you’re often in noisy environments that present listening challenges, you may want a higher-end device with more advanced sound processing abilities and options for customization to your hearing needs in each environment. Brands like Jabra Enhance, Eargo, Lexie, and Audicus, offer some of the best OTC hearing aids with higher-end technology.

Battery type

Are you interested in disposable or rechargeable batteries? You’ll pay several hundred dollars more for rechargeability in most cases, but you may find that the convenience is worth the extra cost.

Trial period

Because most OTC hearing aids don’t come with the option of seeing an audiologist in person for adjustments and support, it’s very important to look for a brand offering a trial period to allow you time to make sure the hearing aids fit well and are helping with your hearing loss.

It’s ideal to have a trial period of at least 45 days, because hearing specialists say new hearing aid users may need several weeks to get used to their new devices.14 Most states require hearing aid dispensers to provide a trial period. To view a list of each state’s requirements, see the Hearing Loss Association of America.

Warranty

Warranty length is also important, as hearing aids are complex electronic devices. You’ll want to find out not only how long the standard warranty is, but also what it covers. Among OTC hearing aids, a one-year warranty covering manufacturer defects is common.

Some manufacturers do include loss, damage, or wear and tear in their standard warranties. Jabra Enhance is a good example, with a three-year manufacturer’s warranty and three years of coverage for loss and damage.

Still other brands provide a short and/or limited warranty, with the option to purchase extended warranty coverage. MDHearing and Lexie both offer this type of coverage.

Take a look back at Table 1 at the beginning of this review to compare the warranty lengths of every brand in this review.

Brand reputation

New manufacturers are emerging constantly in the rapidly changing OTC hearing aid market. Consumers need to know how to spot reputable companies and avoid handing their money over to those who are making false claims or selling devices that aren’t true hearing aids.

One of the best ways to find out if a company is registered with the FDA is to search the FDA establishment registration and device listing, which includes medical device registrations.1 It’s also important to read independent customer reviews of any hearing aid you’re interested in buying. Don’t take the company’s word for their reputation; check out sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and TrustPilot to see what others have to say.

Read about ways to avoid OTC hearing aid scams for more information.

Over-the-counter hearing aids pros and cons

While OTC hearing aids are an exciting opportunity for many people, allowing them to buy more affordable hearing aids with fewer appointments, the devices do have drawbacks compared to prescription hearing aids. Let’s look at the pros and cons of OTC hearing aids.

Pros

  • Cost: The OTC hearing aids on the market are less expensive than prescription hearing aids, and the price is expected to drop even more in the future due to increased competition.
  • Availability: OTC hearing aids are available online and in a few stores that carry health care devices. Retail chains that sell OTC hearing aids include Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens.
  • Ease of use: OTC hearing aids are designed to be adjusted by the user. Manufacturers have made them easy to use right out of the box with clear instruction manuals, volume dials, and program settings that can be adjusted directly on the hearing aids—or in a smartphone app for some models. Our Reviews Team found that nearly every brand was easy to set up and use, without professional assistance.

Cons

  • Limited in-person care: If you’re new to hearing aids or don’t feel at ease using technology, the lack of in-person care by a hearing specialist could be a drawback to OTC hearing aids. Every brand except Audien offers remote support from audiologists or other hearing specialists, and you can also call or email your hearing aid manufacturer for help. But remote support still doesn’t give you the option to have a hearing specialist fit your hearing aid in person.
  • Fewer features: Because OTC hearing aids are less expensive than prescription hearing aids, they don’t include the most advanced hearing technology some top-of-the-line brands do. For instance, prescription brand Oticon uses machine learning to teach the hearing aid which sounds you hear most often. Then your hearing aids can optimally process sounds in your environment for the most natural listening experience possible. You won’t find that type of technology in an OTC hearing aid, but many people find they have a high level of success with OTC devices even without cutting-edge technology. If you have a specific type of hearing loss, such as one-sided hearing loss or tinnitus, you may need a more expensive prescription device. It all depends on your unique needs and your budget.
  • Not appropriate for all levels of hearing loss: Remember that OTC hearing aids are only approved for use in adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. If you’ve been told by a hearing specialist you have severe or profound hearing loss, you will need to buy prescription hearing aids.

How much do OTC hearing aids cost?

OTC hearing aids range in price from $99 per pair to more than $3,000 per pair. The average price is expected to come down, though, as more manufacturers enter the market.

The federal government estimates Americans can expect to save up to $3,000 per pair compared to the average price of prescription hearing aids.11

Our survey of 600 hearing aid users found that cost was at the forefront of respondents’ buying decisions. Price ranked as the No. 2 factor when customers were deciding which hearing aid to buy, right behind ease of use.

A number of factors influence the cost of hearing aids. Features and technology are two of the biggest indicators of cost. Audien, for example, is a budget hearing aid that starts at a price of $99 per pair, but it has very few features.

At the higher end of OTC hearing aid prices is Audicus, with a cost of $2,998 for a pair of Omni 2 hearing aids. This rechargeable model offers multiple listening profiles, automatic sound adjustments between environments with Speech Finder technology (to enhance speech in your surroundings) and a quicker scanning and memory capacity, Bluetooth streaming on two devices at once and a tap control feature, a smartphone app, and advanced sound processing.

How to save money on OTC hearing aids

Look at the following ways to save money when you’re buying OTC hearing aids. Also read our review of the most affordable hearing aids to find budget hearing aids and more money-saving tips.

Watch for sales: Hearing aid companies run seasonal and holiday-related sales frequently. Once you’ve decided which brand and model you want to buy, check the website or retail store the week of a holiday to see if you can take advantage of a sale.

Match prices: Hearing aid manufacturers usually won’t match another brand’s prices because each brand and model is unique. But with OTC hearing aids now sold in retail stores, you can often ask one store to match another store’s lower price if you find the same brand and model at two different stores.

Search for discounts and financial assistance: Although in most cases Medicare doesn’t cover the cost of hearing aids, you may be eligible for reduced-price or free hearing aids through other organizations. Some insurance companies give hearing aid allowances, and certain state Medicaid programs may cover some or all of the costs associated with hearing exams and devices.

Take advantage of payment plans: Most OTC and prescription hearing aid companies offer financing plans if you prefer paying a smaller amount each month rather than paying the full cost up front.

As noted above, Audicus also offers a unique plan called Audicus Premier. After paying a flat setup fee of $249, you can access the membership benefits for the Series 2 models, Spirit 2 ($99 per month) and Omni 2 ($149 per month) to get a pair of hearing aids that are upgraded every 18 months, insurance coverage for loss or damage, and online support from Audicus hearing specialists.

As new hearing aid manufacturers enter the OTC market, we expect to see more companies offer payment plans to make the cost affordable for a wider range of consumers.

Use veterans hearing aid benefits: U.S. veterans can receive hearing exams, hearing aids, and hearing aid supplies free of charge if they are eligible for VA health care. Check with your local VA office to find out what benefits you have. [12] U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services. Found on the internet at https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/psas/Hearing_Aids.asp

Bottom line

OTC hearing aids are a significant step forward in making hearing loss treatment more accessible to millions of Americans. If you have mild to moderate hearing loss and budget is your primary concern, Audien is a low-cost hearing aid that may meet your needs.

For people who want a higher level of technology, customer care, and financing options, Jabra Enhance, Eargo, Lexie, MDHearing, and Audicus are all good choices.

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.

Sources

  1. Bigelow RT, et al. Association of Hearing Loss With Psychological Distress and Utilization of Mental Health Services Among Adults in the United States. Journal of the American Medical Association (2020). Found on the internet at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7372323/
  2. Desjardins, JL. Analysis of Performance on Cognitive Test Measures Before, During, and After 6 Months of Hearing Aid Use: A Single-Subject Experimental Design. American Journal of Audiology (2016). Found on the internet at https://pubs.asha.org/doi/10.1044/2016_AJA-15-0067
  3. The White House. Statement by President Joe Biden on FDA Hearing Aids Final Rule. Found on the internet at https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/08/16/statement-by-president-joe-biden-on-fda-hearing-aids-final-rule/
  4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Devices@FDA. Found on the internet at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/devicesatfda/index.cfm
  5. MDHearing. MDHearing Receives 510(k) FDA Approval for Its Self-Fitting Smart Hearing Aids. Found on the internet at https://www.mdhearingaid.com/blog/mdhearing-receives-510k-fda-approval/
  6. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA Finalizes Historic Rule Enabling Access to Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids for Millions of Americans. Found on the internet at https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-finalizes-historic-rule-enabling-access-over-counter-hearing-aids-millions-americans
  7. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Hearing Aids and Personal Sound Amplification Products: What to Know. Found on the internet at https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/hearing-aids-and-personal-sound-amplification-products-what-know
  8. Federal Register. Medical Devices; Ear, Nose, and Throat Devices; Establishing Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids. Found on the internet at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/08/17/2022-17230/medical-devices-ear-nose-and-throat-devices-establishing-over-the-counter-hearing-aids
  9. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Are There “FDA Registered” or “FDA Certified” Medical Devices? How Do I Know What Is FDA Approved? Found on the internet at https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/consumers-medical-devices/are-there-fda-registered-or-fda-certified-medical-devices-how-do-i-know-what-fda-approved
  10. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Devices@FDA. Found on the internet at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/devicesatfda/index.cfm
  11. The White House. Statement by President Joe Biden on FDA Hearing Aids Final Rule. Found on the internet at https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/08/16/statement-by-president-joe-biden-on-fda-hearing-aids-final-rule/
  12. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services. Found on the internet at https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/psas/Hearing_Aids.asp
  13. Hearing Loss Association of America. Medicaid. Found on the internet at https://www.hearingloss.org/hearing-help/financial-assistance/medicaid/
  14. Hearing Loss Association of America. Consumer Protection Laws. Found on the internet at https://www.hearingloss.org/wp-content/uploads/ConsumerProtectionLaws.pdf
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