Oticon Hearing Aids Review 2024

Dec 07, 2023
Fact Checked
Discover Oticon hearing aids. We discuss the brand's technology, tailored solutions, pros and cons, and more.
Oticon
4.1/5
  • More than 100 years in business
  • 57 models to choose from
  • Prices range from $1,900–$6,550 per pair

Oticon hearing aids review: Key Takeaways

Oticon hearing aids come from a leading brand under Demant A/S of Denmark, which is a prominent figure in the hearing aid industry. The brand’s hearing aids provide different levels of support to meet the needs of a broad range of people with mild to profound hearing loss, including those with single-sided deafness. If you’re looking to avoid the many known negative effects of untreated hearing loss, [1]Arlinger, Stig. Negative Consequences of Uncorrected Hearing Loss–A Review. International Journal of Audiology. July 2003. Found on the internet at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12918624 such as cognitive decline, dementia, social isolation, and an increased risk of falls, Oticon hearing aids offer a proven, effective solution.

In this comprehensive review, we explore the features, benefits, and advancements, so you can decide if Oticon is the right brand for you.

Why you can trust our expert review

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 review.

To make these selections, we:

Read more about our hearing aid review methodology.

About Oticon

The Oticon Own is a prescription hearing that stands out for its feedback suppression and Deep Neural Network (DNN), which is a type of machine learning that learns tasks in the same way our brains do—through trial and error. Oticon trained the More hearing aid using 12 million sounds until it could instantly recognize each sound and organize groups of sounds in different environments.

In 2016, Oticon was the first company to make an internet-connected hearing aid (the Oticon Opn), which offers wireless capabilities and advanced sound processing for improved hearing. Some Oticon hearing aids have IFTTT (If This Then That) compatibility, which is an internet-based service that allows you to use your hearing aids with other wireless products like, lighting systems, home appliances, home alarms, and more.

And finally, Oticon is a respected company established in 1904 by Hans Demant, who was inspired to create a hearing aid to help with his wife’s hearing loss.

Trisha A. Bents Muth, AuD, CCC-A, of Bay Area Audiology, told us:

“Oticon’s Deep Neural Network (DNN) uses 12 million different real-life sound samples to analyze and learn to process sounds replicating the way the human brain works. In noisy situations, traditional hearing aids use directional microphones to focus on the speech sounds coming from the front and limiting sounds coming from the sides and behind. The DNN allows Oticon hearing aids to process sounds coming from all directions, balancing the sounds and prioritizing the speech over the noise. In turn, this provides Oticon hearing aid users a more natural listening experience without being overwhelmed by noise.”

Pros/cons of Oticon

Pros
Wide range of model options
Treats profound and single-sided hearing loss
Wireless connectivity
Artificial intelligence and Deep Neural Network technologies
Waterproof and dust-tight (IP68 rating)
Cons
Does not sell directly to consumers
Higher price
Expensive accessories
Complicated technology

Table 1 Comparison of popular Oticon model lines, as of December 2024

Real (4 models)Own (5 models)Xceed (2 models)Zircon (4 models)CROS (2 models)
Cost*$3,410–$5,445$2,150–$5,945$2,605–$3,965$1,925–$2,475$1,925
Type/StyleBTE, RICITC, CIC, IIC, ITC, ITE (full and half shell)BTEBTE, RICRIC
Type of hearing loss treatedMild to profoundMild to severeMild to profoundMild to profoundSingle-sided
Rechargeable battery?Yes, 2 modelsNoNoYes, 2 modelsYes, 1 model
Bluetooth streaming?YesYesYesYesYes
Water resistanceIP68IP68IP68IP68IP68
TelecoilYesYesYesYesYes, 1 model
Directional microphoneYesYesYesYesN/A
Noise reductionYesYesYesYesN/A
Listening programs4444N/A
Tinnitus supportYesYes, 4 modelsYesYesN/A

*Pricing varies by distributor

Oticon hearing aid reviews

Oticon Real

The four models of Oticon Real hearing aids displayed in order are the miniRITE R, miniRITE T, miniBTE R, miniBTE T

The newest model line from Oticon is the Real. It was released in February 2023 to replace the older More model line. Unlike some other major hearing aid manufacturers, Oticon is hanging on to disposable battery options, at least for now. The Real comes in four models, a disposable battery BTE (miniBTE T), a rechargeable battery BTE (miniBTE R), a disposable battery RIC (miniRITE T), and a rechargeable battery RIC (miniRITE R). Rechargeable battery models are designed to last a full day (16–22 hours) and then be charged overnight, while disposable battery models last about a week before requiring a battery change.

Each model is available in three technology levels (1, 2, and 3), and all Real hearing aids are rated IP68, which means they are dust-tight and briefly submersible (sweat and rain-proof). They also come in nine matte color options.

The Oticon Real is designed to deliver precise and balanced sounds, providing better access to the full sound scene and increasing awareness, engagement, and focus in the real world. It uses the following advanced technologies:

All Real models have Telecoils ⓘ A telecoil is a small copper wire (similar to a receiver) built into a hearing aid that allows you to connect to a phone or loop system to bring audio directly to you. Loop systems are commonly found in public facilities, like theaters, places of worship, and on public transportation. for streaming audio from loop systems and landline phones. Oticon Real can be controlled using push buttons on the devices and the new Oticon Companion app. This model also works with the Oticon EduMic remote microphone to wirelessly stream voice or other sounds directly to your devices. Rechargeable Real devices come with a desktop charger but a portable SmartCharger may also be purchased.

Oticon Own

The five models of Oticon Own hearing aids displayed

The Oticon Own stands out as a discreet, personalized hearing aid, precisely tailored to fit your unique ear shape and ear canal. With five styles to choose from, ranging from IIC to full-shell ITE, and five color options complementing your skin tone and appearance, the Own line is designed to blend with your individual look. The Own IIC model, in particular, is the smallest hearing aid ever crafted by Oticon.

Just like the Real, the Own uses enhanced BrainHearing technology to reduce your brain’s processing effort, enabling you to concentrate on conversations and understand speech effortlessly. It also uses DNN technology to navigate complex auditory situations, like bustling restaurants or office meetings, providing reduced listening effort and freeing your brain for other tasks.

The Own line offers Bluetooth connectivity with compatible iPhone and Android devices, facilitating high-quality streaming for music and hands-free calls. The 2.4 gigahertz Bluetooth Low Energy Technology in the ITC, half-shell, and full-shell ITE styles further enhances the connectivity options.

Own hearing aids are powered by disposable batteries, with IIC and CIC styles using a size 10, and ITC, half-shell, and full-shell ITEs uses a size 312. Like all Oticon hearing aids, the Own is dust- and water-resistant with an IP68 rating.

The three larger Own ITC and ITE models are compatible with Oticon accessories, including the Oticon On App, ConnectClip, EduMic, and Remote Control 3.0 The two smaller IIC and CIC models do not use an app and instead have push buttons and volume wheels for making adjustments.

The four larger models have the option of Oticon Tinnitus SoundSupport free of charge.

Oticon Xceed

The seven colors of Oticon Xceed hearing aids

The Oticon Xceed line, introduced in 2019, is designed for people with severe to profound hearing loss.

Powered by the Velox S platform, which provides advanced resolution and speed, this powerful platform makes it possible for Xceed to host specialized technologies addressing a wider range of hearing. It also features BrainHearing technology, which provides high-performance benefits for those with significant hearing loss. The Oticon Xceed line is available in two power levels: Super Power and Ultra, with seven different colors to match users’ skin tone or hair color.

Key features of the Oticon Xceed line include:

Oticon Zircon hearing aids

The four models of Oticon Zircon hearing aids with charging cases in the background

Released in 2022, the Oticon Zircon is a quality lower-cost hearing aid in the company’s “essential” product line. It is based on the latest Polaris chip platform, which was originally used in the company’s flagship product, Oticon More, and is now featured in the Oticon Real line. Polaris allows for the use of the DNN and the other advanced technologies seen in the Real line.

Just like the Real, the Zircon comes in rechargeable and disposable-battery RIC styles (miniRITE R and T) and rechargeable and disposable-battery BTE styles (miniBTE R and T). The Zircon is available in five color options and two technology levels: Zircon 1 and Zircon 2.

Key features of the Oticon Zircon include:

The Oticon Zircon is a good option if you’re seeking advanced features in an essential-level technology hearing aid. While Zircon offers many advantages, there are some limitations, such as no hands-free compatibility with Android without an accessory and the absence of custom products. Additionally, some users have reported connectivity issues with the Oticon ON smartphone app.

Oticon CROS/BiCROS

The eight color options of Oticon CROS transmitters

CROS (contralateral routing of signals) is a solution for people with limited or no hearing in one ear combined with normal hearing in the opposite ear. BiCROS (bilateral contralateral routing of signals) is a solution for people with limited or no hearing in one ear and hearing loss in the opposite ear.

A CROS or BiCROS solution consists of a transmitter and a hearing aid. The transmitter is placed on the poorer-hearing ear and wirelessly sends sound from the transmitter ear’s surroundings to the hearing aid placed on the better-hearing ear. The microphones on the hearing aid are deactivated, which means there is no sound coming from the hearing aid.

Diagram of two heads using a CROS transmitter and a hearing aid

The transmitter is compatible with Zircon, More, Xceed, Xceed Play, Opn S, Opn Play, and Ruby and comes in the miniRITE T style (RIC), with a rechargeable or disposable battery, and in eight color options.

Built on the Velox S platform (like the Xceed line), Oticon CROS incorporates BrainHearing technology. This platform was designed to provide a high-quality open sound experience in both simple and complex environments, providing balanced and noise-free sound transmission to the better ear. A key feature of Oticon CROS is the TwinLink technology, which allows users to enjoy external audio streaming, like from a television, while simultaneously engaging in conversations with people positioned on the poorer ear side.

Rachel Magann Faivre, AuD, owner of Oklahoma City-based Ash Audiology, told us, “CROS hearing aids are great for allowing a user to hear sounds from their poorer ear. But, there are two areas that CROS devices can’t help, quite simply because the brain isn’t receiving input on the poorer ear side. It’s not the hearing aid’s lack of technology but rather a need for two ears to work and hear in order to accomplish, one, localizing where sounds come from, and two, hearing well in noise.”

Other Oticon model lines

Oticon still has older model lines on the market: the More, Ruby, Siya, and Opn. They have all been replaced by the newer model lines detailed in this review.

Oticon More

The Oticon More line, introduced in early 2021, once represented a cutting-edge series of hearing aids built on the Polaris platform. It features Deep Neural Network technology, providing wearers with a natural and realistic hearing experience by analyzing and processing sounds in great detail. With its BrainHearing technology and 360-degree open sound experience, the Oticon More offers an enhanced listening experience in various environments. The Oticon More line has been replaced by the Real line.

Oticon Ruby

The Oticon Ruby line is a family of hearing aids introduced in 2020, designed to provide essential features and reliable performance at an affordable price. As an entry-level offering from Oticon, Ruby delivers advanced speech understanding capabilities, helping users comprehend conversations in various listening environments better. The hearing aids are equipped with noise reduction technology, which reduces background noise, enhancing speech clarity even in challenging situations. The wireless connectivity feature enables seamless audio streaming from compatible devices, allowing users to enjoy their favorite music, phone calls, and other media directly to their hearing aids.

Oticon Siya

The Oticon Siya line was introduced in 2019 as a more affordable hearing aid option for people seeking essential features without the premium price tag. Despite being an older technology now, Siya offered users key benefits, such as improved speech clarity, reduced listening effort, and access to wireless connectivity for streaming audio and phone calls. It was designed to cater to a wide range of hearing losses, from mild to severe, making it a versatile choice for many users. Although the Zircon line has replaced it, Siya was a reliable and budget-friendly solution for those desiring a simple yet effective hearing aid option.

Oticon Opn/OpnS

The Oticon Opn line, previously at the forefront of hearing aid technology, was known for its open sound experience, introduced in 2016. This line was the first to leverage the Velox platform, incorporating fast and precise sound processing to create a more natural listening environment. With its ability to handle multiple sound sources simultaneously and its open sound navigator, the Opn line provided wearers with speech understanding even in noisy situations. The Own model line has succeeded the Opn line.

Oticon for children

Oticon has designed specialized hearing aids tailored to the unique needs of children with hearing loss. Hearing aids for children are not only designed to deliver exceptional sound quality but also to encourage social interaction and boost confidence.

Play PX

The Play PX model is designed with children’s active lifestyles in mind. These hearing aids are durable, comfortable, and available in fun colors, so kids can feel confident and excited to wear them. The Play PX hearing aids come equipped with advanced sound processing technology, allowing children to hear and understand speech more clearly, even in noisy environments. With wireless connectivity options, children can connect to their favorite devices.

Xceed Play

For children with severe to profound hearing loss, Oticon offers the Xceed Play hearing aids. These devices are built to provide maximum amplification power while maintaining clear and natural sound quality. Xceed Play is designed to withstand the active and playful lives of children, with a water-resistant design. With the combination of powerful sound processing and wireless connectivity, children with profound hearing loss can enjoy improved speech understanding and enhanced communication.

Oticon for tinnitus

For people with tinnitusⓘ A condition that is often linked to hearing loss and causes constant or periodic ringing or buzzing in the ear. the persistent ringing or buzzing sensation can be a challenging and distressing experience. While sound therapy can’t eliminate tinnitus, it’s proven to be a valuable tool in managing and reducing its impact. [2]Wang, Haiyan, et al. The State of the Art of Sound Therapy for Subjective Tinnitus in Adults. Therapeutic Advances in Chronic Disease. Sept. 14, 2020. Found on the internet at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7493236 By introducing more pleasant and soothing sounds, sound therapy can make it seem like the tinnitus is eliminated or reduced, providing much-needed relief. This therapy aids in redirecting attention to more enjoyable and calming auditory experiences.

All newer Oticon hearing aids (Real, More, Zircon, CROS, Own, and Xceed) are equipped with a wide range of relief sounds, such as white noise and soothing ocean-like sounds. By working closely with your hearing professional, you can find the sound therapy to provide the most relief, tailored to your unique needs.

With the Oticon Companion app and Oticon ON app, you can discreetly control the relief sounds in your hearing aids. You have the flexibility to adjust the sounds until you find the level of relief to best suit your needs.

Oticon apps and accessories

Companion App

Screenshot of the Oticon Companion APP

The Oticon Companion App gives you discreet, improved control over your hearing aids in any environment. You can adjust the volume of your hearing aids independently and switch between listening programs. You can also easily switch between streaming sources, activate SpeechBooster, check battery levels, adjust your tinnitus relief settings, find your hearing aids if you lose them, and receive remote support from your hearing care professional (the audiologist or ENT from whom you purchased your devices), including conducting remote video visits.

“The Companion App also allows remote programming, so someone can have adjustments made by their audiologist at a distance. The ON app doesn’t have this feature,” added Magann Faivre.

ON App

Oticon ON App menu page displayed on a cellphone next to a pair of Oticon hearing aids

With the Oticon ON, you can adjust volume and programs, stream music, or listen to your TV, as well as set personal listening goals through HearingFitness, check battery status, and control tinnitus relief sounds. You can also connect your hearing aids to your smart home controls.

SmartCharger

Oticon SmartCharger portable charging case with hearing aids and charging cord

All rechargeable devices come with a desktop charger. For portable charging, you can purchase the SmartCharger for around $250, which will:

ConnectClip

Oticon ConnectClip accessory

Costing around $343, ConnectClip is a wearable accessory that turns hearing aids into a wireless stereo headset. It allows you to:

EduMic

Oticon EduMic remote wearable microphone

EduMic is a wireless wearable remote microphone, which connects to any Bluetooth-enabled Oticon hearing aids. It picks up voices more effectively than hearing aids alone, so it’s useful in improving speech understanding in a classroom or lecture hall-type setting. It also has an optional audio jack cable for streaming sound from computers, smartboards, and tablets. The cost is around $295.

Remote control

If you prefer not to use a mobile app, you may use a remote control to receive low battery warnings, change programs, adjust volume, and mute your devices. The remote costs around $250.

Customer reviews

Online reviews are difficult to come by, probably because purchases are not made directly from Oticon. Oticon only has three customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and one review on Trustpilot. Oticon has a satisfaction rating of 75 on Consumer Reports and is ranked third out of 16 hearing aid companies. It scored highest in the category of “one-on-one conversations in loud places.”

hearing aid icon

We spoke with Gerry Odorizzi of Denver, Colorado, 73, who is on his second pair of Oticon hearing aids (after his new puppy chewed up the last ones). His newest pair are rechargeable hearing aids from the Real line. “I can wear these all day and never have to worry about the battery dying,” Odorizzi said. He also values the Bluetooth features. During the conversation a member of our Reviews Team had with him, he said, “I’m using Bluetooth to speak to you right now. I can hear your voice through the aids, but I speak to you through my phone.” According to Odorizzi, the Real model has noticeably improved sound quality and clarity over his last pair.

Oticon customer service

If you have problems with your Oticon devices, you are instructed to contact the hearing professional who provided them to you. You may do so directly or through the Oticon Companion app. You can also contact support@oticon.com. Oticon has offices worldwide, with the company’s U.S. headquarters located in New Jersey. The brand’s website provides instructional videos and troubleshooting on the support page.

Oticon warranty

Oticon hearing aids are covered by a standard 12-month international warranty. It’s limited to issues related to manufacturing defects only. Damage caused by misuse, over-use, accidents, exposure to water or corrosive elements, or repairs made by anyone other than an authorized Oticon repair center are excluded. Additional warranty coverage may be provided by the hearing professional from which you purchase your devices. Trial periods and return policies vary depending on the consumer protection laws in the state where the device is purchased and the policies of each Oticon dealer.

Who should consider Oticon hearing devices?

Oticon hearing devices are a suitable choice for a wide range of people with varying hearing needs and preferences:

How to buy Oticon hearing devices

Oticon hearing devices may only be purchased through a partnered hearing professional. Local hearing center partners may be located using the brand’s hearing center locator page on the website. Military veterans may use the VA locator. It’s important to know prices, trial periods, and warranties will vary by distributor.

A survey from our Reviews Team found expense to be the biggest challenge for those with hearing aids. When it comes to insurance, coverage for hearing aids varies widely. Unfortunately, traditional Medicare does not cover hearing aids, though some Medicare Advantage plans may offer hearing aid benefits. Medicaid coverage for hearing aids varies from state to state and also by plan within each state. Some private insurance plans do cover hearing aids, so it’s always worth checking your specific plan.

You may qualify for certain local programs to help pay for hearing aids. To check what’s available in your area, visit our BenefitsCheckUp® page.

Comparing Oticon to other brands, as of December 2024

Brand

Starting cost per pair

Types/styles

Degrees of hearing loss treated

OTC or Prescription?

Oticon$2,000IIC, CIC, ITC, ITE, RIC, and BTEMild, moderate, severe, profound, and single-sidedPrescription
Jabra Enhance$800ITCMild to moderateOTC
Phonak$2,100IIC, ITE, RIC,and BTEMild, moderate, severe, profound, and single-sidedPrescription
Eargo$1,500CICMild to moderateOTC
Audicus$1,400CIC and RICMild to moderateOTC

If you’re interested in learning about the best hearing aids, check out our top picks in 10 Best Hearing Aids.

Bottom line

Oticon offers a diverse range of higher-end hearing devices and accessories, catering to most hearing needs. The Real line boasts the latest, advanced technology and the Own line provides a discreet, nearly invisible option. The Zircon line offers a lower-cost choice. For those with severe to profound hearing loss, the Xceed line stands out as the most powerful hearing aid in this lineup. Lastly, the CROS line addresses single-sided deafness.

Regardless of the brand you choose, it’s important to visit a hearing professional regularly, especially if you suspect your hearing might be diminishing, in order to avoid the physical and mental health ramifications of untreated hearing loss.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, Oticon hearing aids are generally considered to be high quality and are well-regarded in the hearing aid industry. Oticon is a reputable and established brand. The brand’s hearing aids are known for their advanced technology, innovative features, and focus on providing a natural and clear sound experience for users.

The cost of Oticon hearing aids can vary widely depending on where they are purchased and the specific model, technology level, features, and additional accessories. Generally, Oticon hearing aids fall within the mid-to-higher price range (around $2,000–$7,000), reflecting the advanced technology and performance they offer.

Oticon hearing aids are made by a Danish company called Oticon A/S. The company was founded in 1904 and has since become one of the leading manufacturers of hearing aids and hearing care solutions worldwide.

Yes, Oticon hearing aids are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have been cleared for sale in the U.S. market.

Medicare typically does not cover the cost of hearing aids for beneficiaries. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not include coverage for hearing aids or routine hearing tests. Fortunately, some Medicare Advantage plans or supplemental insurance plans may offer partial coverage for hearing aids. It’s essential to review the specific details of your insurance coverage to determine if any benefits are available for hearing aids.

Yes, Oticon is a highly reputable company in the hearing aid industry. With more than a century of experience, Oticon has built a strong reputation for producing reliable and advanced hearing aids. The company is known for its focus on research, innovative technologies, and commitment to improving the quality of life for people with hearing loss.

Yes, Oticon hearing aids are designed to address tinnitus (ringing in the ears) through the brand’s Tinnitus SoundSupport feature. This feature offers a variety of sounds, such as white noise or ocean-like sounds, which can help mask or minimize the perception of tinnitus. Users can customize and control the tinnitus sounds using the ON or Companion smartphone apps.

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

Sources

  1. Arlinger, Stig. Negative Consequences of Uncorrected Hearing Loss–A Review. International Journal of Audiology. July 2003. Found on the internet at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12918624
  2. Haiyan Wang, et al. The State of the Art of Sound Therapy for Subjective Tinnitus in Adults. Therapeutic Advances in Chronic Disease. Sept. 14, 2020. Found on the internet at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7493236
  3. NCOA Adviser Hearing Aids Survey. 600 respondents. Conducted using Pollfish. Launched February 2022
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