Jabra 500

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• 24 hours of use on a single charge
• 100-day trial period

• Bluetooth streaming in all models

Eargo 8

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• Charging case holds up to two weeks of full recharges
• Almost invisible design

• Lifetime support and warranty

Audien Ion Pro 2

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• Five rechargeable hearing aid models
• 24-hour battery life

• Lifetime support from hearing experts

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to purchasing hearing aids. You may be wondering if you need a prescription or should consider the best over-the-counter hearing aids. Then there are different styles—like those that rest behind your ear or more discreet, nearly invisible hearing aids. But the factor that may make the biggest difference might surprise you. Respondents to a recent survey of hearing aid owners rated rechargeable batteries as the feature with the most positive impact.¹ The technology is still relatively new, but finding the best rechargeable hearing aids on the market today can have many benefits.

Rechargeable hearing aids really only became widespread within the last decade. Because the rechargeable power source stays inside the hearing aid and doesn't need to be replaced, you don’t need to buy, store, change, or dispose of the tiny zinc batteries that traditionally powered hearing aids. Instead, you place the entire hearing aid into a case to charge overnight. There are pros and cons to rechargeable hearing aids. But if you are considering them, you’ll want to read about how we selected the best OTC rechargeable models and what our testing revealed about battery life, features, and more. 

Our picks for the best rechargeable hearing aids

• Jabra Enhance: Best Overall
• Eargo: Best Invisible 
• Audien: Most Affordable

Comparing the best rechargeable hearing aids

*RIE: Receiver-in-ear; CIC: Completely-in-canal; BTE: Behind-the-ear; ITE: In-the-ear 

Our reviews of the top rechargeable hearing aids

Jabra Enhance: Best Overall

We chose Jabra Enhance as the Best Overall Rechargeable Hearing Aid due to its top performance in our tests, long battery life, superior sound quality, and features. It was also our top pick in our roundup of the best hearing aids. These over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are available in three sizes and five colors. Jabra also has one of the longest free trial periods in the industry at 100 days.

Jabra Enhance

Best Overall

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• Available in three sizes and five colors
• Small profile and lightweight for a comfortable fit 

• Bluetooth streaming capable
• Select 300 and 500 have SoundScape speech clarity technology

Jabra Enhance features

• Type of hearing aid: RIE
• Type of hearing loss: Mild to moderate
• Bluetooth compatible: Yes
• Trial period: 100 days

Why we chose the Jabra Enhance Select as Best Overall

We chose the Jabra Enhance Select as the Best Overall Rechargeable Hearing Aids because the Enhance Select 500 scored exceptionally well in our testing (no scores below a 4/5 in any category). All three Jabra models have some of the longest battery life on a single charge (24 hours) of any hearing aid we tested, plus they come with cases that carry additional charges.

Our testers also found the sound quality of these OTC hearing aids well worth the price. They said the features, including Bluetooth streaming (available on all three models) and the app for controlling hearing aid settings and volume, were very user-friendly. Our testers also appreciated that these hearing aids are ready to be used straight out of the box with no fuss. 

Jabra Enhance pros and cons

Our testing experience with the Jabra Enhance Select 500

Jabra offers three models of receiver-in-the-ear (RIE) style hearing aids: 

• Select 50R is the entry-level model
• Select 300 is the mid-range model, with advanced sound processing and hands-free calling
• Select 500 is the most expensive model with the most advanced Bluetooth streaming and tap control (meaning you can answer phone calls by double-tapping your hearing aid

All models come with Bluetooth streaming, a mobile app, and a three-year warranty. They all have a 24-hour battery life, but the Select 300 and Select 500 also come with portable cases that provide an additional three charges. We tested the Jabra Select 500. 

Our testers found charging these hearing aids with the case was straightforward. “The charging case is very clean and intuitive,” said one. “There is a clear place to put each hearing aid, and color matching between the case and the hearing aid itself ensures that the hearing aid sits in the case in a way to prevent any damage. Lights on the case help show the amount of charge and charging status.”

Using the app was equally glitch-free. “The app makes each step small enough and short enough that they are easy to complete, and they give clear next steps,” said one tester. “It was very easy to pair the hearing aids with my phone. I was connected in less than five minutes.” You can adjust the hearing aids manually using buttons on the hearing aids or using the app. Testers preferred the app. “Switching volume and presets is easy in the app, and you hear the changes made instantly in your hearing aids,” said one. They also noted that, in addition to the four sound presets, it is possible to make custom noise filters.

Testers found the sound quality to be great—even when they were streaming audio to the hearing aids through their phones. “Even 50 feet away from my phone, the hearing aids worked great and I could still hear very clearly,” said one. They also said the Enhance Select 500 fit comfortably and securely. “The hearing aid by itself does not move much at all as I jog, walk, or bend over,” said one tester. “With the sport lock, it feels extra secure for more intense movements.” 

They did note the sport lock was initially challenging to put on, and switching out the domes to the smallest size requires some dexterity. 

You can learn more about these hearing aids in our Jabra Enhance review.

Comparing Jabra Enhance Select Models

*Jabra Enhance hearing aids cost an additional $200 when you add the premier package

The Jabra customer experience

• Warranty and trial period: 100-day risk-free trial period for all Jabra Enhance Select devices; one- to three-year manufacturer’s warranty; loss-and-damage protection (depending on basic or premium package)
• Financing: Yes
• Customer service: If you need additional assistance, you can visit the Jabra Enhance customer support page to fill out an online contact form. Other options include:
  • By phone: 800-854-2772 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.– 8 p.m. ET; Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. ET)
  • By email: support@jabraenhance.com
  • Using chat: Type your message, and a real-life support agent will respond within two to five minutes

Eargo: Best Invisible

We chose Eargo as our Best Invisible Rechargeable Hearing Aid because the brand is known for its discreet CIC (completely-in-canal) designs. All its models have at least a 16-hour battery life, and the newest, the Eargo 8, also has a case with extra on-the-go charging. The Eargo 8 was our top overall pick in our roundup of the best invisible hearing aids. 

Eargo

Best Invisible

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• Discreet and secure CIC design
• Battery lasts a minimum of 16 hours

• Eargo 8 comes with an on-the-go charging case
• Unique flower-shaped petals for a more comfortable fit

Eargo features

• Type of hearing aid: Earbud and CIC
• Type of hearing loss: Mild to moderate
• Bluetooth compatible: No
• Trial period: 45 days

Why we chose Eargo as Best Invisible

We chose the Eargo 8 as the Best Invisible Rechargeable Hearing Aid because of its discreet design, long battery life (up to two weeks with the charging case), comfortable fit, and clear sound quality. Eargo is known for making hearing aids that fit entirely in the ear canal, and the latest model is small, lightweight, and comfortable without sacrificing sound quality. 

The Eargo 8 lacks Bluetooth streaming because it’s too small to fit this technology. But our testers found connecting the hearing aids to the app was a quick and straightforward process. From the app, they could adjust the settings of this small, discreet hearing aid without any issues. They also found the charger to be simple and efficient, giving it a perfect 5/5 rating. The small size of the Eargo 8 hearing aids could pose a problem for those with dexterity issues. But for someone preferring a nearly invisible look, the Eargo 8 is a great option to consider.

Eargo pros and cons

Our testing experience with Eargo

Testers who tried the Eargo 8 hearing aids reported feeling immediately comfortable and appreciated that they could easily set up the devices. Eargo provides a link in its packaging to download the Eargo app and start the setup process. “The hearing aids connected seamlessly with my phone, and I was able to get them connected automatically without issue,” said one tester. “The setup was instant, and I did not have to tweak anything to customize my configuration. There wasn't much I had to do to get a good sound.”

Our tester did say the ability to adjust the sound manually, as well as through the app, would be nice. “One thing that is frustrating is the volume in the app doesn't correspond with numbers,” they said. You adjust the volume using the plus or minus buttons in the app, so it can be a little confusing to know your current volume level. “While there is a noise in your ear you’ve changed the volume, it doesn't say whether it is going up or down or what number.” But they appreciated the ability to customize noise reduction and volume beyond the presets and found the app to work well overall. 

Testers commented on the comfortable fit of these discreet hearing aids, which sit entirely inside the ear canal. “I wore these for several hours and did not have any issues with them hurting my ears,” said one tester. “The fit was great overall. They were snug, but not too tight. I moved around, jogged, and did jumping jacks, and they did not budge.” One reason Eargo’s hearing aids are extra comfortable is the brand’s unique petal-shaped eartips, or domes. This design is made to fit more snugly in the ear while reducing the “plugged up” feeling that comes with many other hearing aids.

Our testers had no issues charging the Eargo 8. “The charger is great, very small and compact,” said one tester. “The hearing aids snap into place and easily charge.” Unlike previous Eargo models, this one features a case that can charge the batteries up to 14 more times. That means the case can carry up to two weeks of power. It is also compatible with wireless charging devices, making it easier to charge your case.

“Overall, I enjoyed using these hearing aids and like how discreet they were,” said one tester. “They were easy to charge, connect to my app, and get fitted in my ear. While I would like to see more setting options and a more crisp sound for this price, they get the job done and are a great option for people wanting something discreet.”

Comparing Eargo Models

The Eargo customer experience

• Warranty and trial period: 45-day risk-free trial period for all Eargo devices; one- to two-year manufacturer’s warranty depending on model
• Financing: Yes
• Customer service:
  • By phone: 855-435-0174 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.– 8 p.m. CT; Saturday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CT.)
  • Using chat: Representatives are available during the same times as above

Audien: Most Affordable

We chose Audien as the Most Affordable Rechargeable Hearing Aid because it is the lowest-priced device on this list by far. Audien offers the Ion BTE models and CIC devices in its Atom line. We found the Atom 2 delivers great value for its price, with a 24-hour battery life on a single charge. The Atom Pro 2, which we did not test, has a case that holds an extra charge, doubling its battery life to 48 hours, and is 20% smaller. These features earned Audien a top spot on our list of the most affordable hearing aids.

Audien

Most Affordable

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• Choice of ITC and BTE designs
• Most affordable option on this list

• Discreet design and comfortable fit

Audien features

• Type of hearing aid: ITC and BTE
• Type of hearing loss: Mild to moderate
• Bluetooth compatible: Yes, depending on model
• Trial period: 45 days

Why we chose Audien as Most Affordable

We chose Audien as the Most Affordable Rechargeable Hearing Aids because Audien hearing aids were among the lowest-cost devices we tested, but provided great value. Audien offers BTE and CIC hearing aids ranging in price from $99–$689. We tested both the Ion Pro BTE hearing aid and the Atom 2, and both received ratings of 4/5 or higher. They had especially high marks for simple charging (a 5/5) and comfortable fit. The battery life for all Audien devices is a minimum of 24 hours on a single charge. Some devices (the Atom Pro 2, which we did not test) have an additional charge from their carrying case.

Testers found Audien’s sound quality to be good even on the lower-priced model. They also praised the comfort and secure fit of both hearing aid styles. Audien offers features, like background noise cancellation, that you typically only see on more expensive OTC hearing aids. With Audien you’ll be sacrificing some advanced features like Bluetooth streaming for a lower price. But we believe Audien’s technology features and lifetime support from hearing experts make it a high-value hearing aid brand.

Audien pros and cons

Our testing experience with Audien

We tested both the Ion Pro BTE hearing aid and the Atom 2 CIC hearing aid from Audien. The Ion Pro is the most expensive model Audien offers, at $689. It features Bluetooth streaming and directional sound technology, along with six preset hearing modes. Testers had almost no issues with setting up or using these hearing aids. “I found most aspects of these hearing aids really straightforward and easy,” said one tester. “Inserting them, changing the domes, getting them to fit comfortably and securely in my ears all worked really well. Overall, I had a good experience with these hearing aids.” Several sets and two sizes of domes are included to find the best fit. 

The tester noted that while they didn’t find swapping the domes to be challenging, for someone with vision or dexterity issues, it may be harder. They compared it to “threading a needle.” The Atom 2 CIC hearing aids are even smaller, but our tester said, “The domes were very easy to switch out. I have dexterity issues, and I was still able to slip them off and on with ease.”

Testers found the Ion Pro 2 hearing aids to be fairly discreet for a BTE model. Yet they noted these hearing aids only come in one color, so if your skin tone doesn’t match, they may be more noticeable. Testers found the Ion Pro 2s stayed in place securely, even during vigorous exercise. There was one drawback to the devices, though. “People with long hair may hear rustling from BTE models, especially when the hair moves and brushes the hearing aids, or when tucking hair behind. It's common with all BTE hearing aid models, but worth noting,” said one tester.

Testers of the Atom 2 hearing aids also found them to be discreet and comfortable. “The hearing aids worked really well and felt comfortable,” said one. “I didn’t need to readjust them after I got them in the correct location in my ear. At first, I did get some feedback, so it just took a minute to get them in where they weren’t hitting my hair or incorrectly in position.”

Testers liked that the charging case also features a UV light for cleaning the hearing aids while they charge. The biggest complaint was that the hearing quality was inconsistent, with one side clearer and the other more muffled.

Overall, testers felt both Audien models we tested were worth the price. You can learn more in our Audien hearing aid review.

Comparing Audien Models

The Audien customer experience

• Warranty and trial period: 45-day money-back guarantee for all Audien devices; limited one-year warranty unless you upgrade to a protection plan
• Financing: Yes
• Customer service:
  • By phone: 205-255-1112 (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.– 4 p.m. PT)
  • By email: support@audienhearing.com

How do rechargeable hearing aids work?

Modern rechargeable hearing aids work a lot like wireless earbuds. They feature built-in lithium-ion batteries (the same type used in smartphones) that charge without needing to be removed from the device. 

“Rechargeable batteries are a great option in hearing aids, and I always recommend them when possible,” said Sarah Lundstrom, AuD, FAAA, a board certified audiologist at HearCare Audiology & Tinnitus Center, which has several locations in Florida. “Placing the device in the charger is usually much easier than replacing the small batteries, especially if you have vision or dexterity problems.”

How do you charge a rechargeable battery?

Hearing aids with rechargeable batteries can be charged overnight in their case. Some cases hold a certain number of charges, while others require plugging in. The Eargo 8’s case can also be charged using a wireless charging mat, just like many phones. 

“Most people charge them while they sleep and can wear the hearing aid all day,” said Lundstrom. “With rechargeable devices, you don't have to worry about the battery running out on you in the middle of your day as long as you are charging the hearing aid each night,” she said. 

Different types of rechargeable cases

Charging your rechargeable hearing aids is simple: Pop them into the case and let them power up. But there are several options available, and it pays to know the differences:

• Standard: These cases require an outlet to charge, as they plug into the wall.
• Portable: Many brands offer cases that can hold a charge (or several) for on-the-go charging when an outlet isn’t available. The Eargo 8, for instance, holds up to 14 days' worth of extra charges.
• Self-sanitizing: Some hearing aid cases, such as the Audien Atom Pro 2, now feature UV light to sanitize the devices while they charge.

Pros and cons of rechargeable hearing aids

Rechargeable hearing aids represent a big advancement in technology, but they may not be right for everyone who wears hearing aids. Here are some things to consider:

Rechargeable hearing aid pros

• Predictability: Rechargeable hearing aids are more predictable. You rarely have to worry about the battery running out in the middle of your day if you charge it at night.
• Cost-effective: Rechargeable hearing aids are usually more cost-effective. “Disposable batteries cost extra (about $1 per battery) and need to be properly recycled after use,” said Lundstrom.
• Convenience: Rechargeable hearing aids are convenient. “You can buy disposable batteries at a lot of places, but you have to stay organized about purchasing and replacing them,” said Lundstrom. 
• Ease of use: Rechargeable hearing aids may be better for those with vision or dexterity concerns, as they can be charged in a case and don’t require you to change out tiny batteries.
• Eco-friendly: Rechargeable hearing aids are more environmentally friendly. “Rechargeable batteries are better for the environment, both in manufacturing and post-use waste,” said Lundstrom. 

Rechargeable hearing aid cons

• Size: Rechargeable hearing aids tend to be larger than those with disposable batteries. “If someone wants a very small invisible-in-canal (IIC) hearing aid, they may need to use a disposable battery,” said Lundstrom.
• Charging time: Rechargeable hearing aids require charging. They are not plug-and-play like disposable batteries. Some can take several hours to charge, so if you forget, you’ll be without hearing aids for that long. 
• Battery life: The average battery life of a disposable hearing aid is longer than that of a rechargeable one. So a traditional hearing aid’s batteries may last several days, compared to a maximum of 24 hours for a rechargeable hearing aid. Also, experts we spoke with said rechargeable batteries lose about 20% of their charge after about three years. You may need to replace rechargeable hearing aids more frequently in the long run.
• Maintenance: Rechargeable hearing aids are all-in-one devices, so if something goes wrong with the battery, the entire aid needs to be repaired or replaced.
• Cost: Rechargeable hearing aids have a higher upfront cost. 

Who are rechargeable hearing aids right for?

Rechargeable hearing aids can be a good choice for many reasons. Here are a few people who may want to consider them:

• People with vision problems, dexterity issues, or chronic pain may prefer rechargeable hearing aids and not having to handle small parts like disposable batteries.
• Those who like a routine. Rechargeable hearing aids need to be charged every night, so it helps to have a daily routine that you can incorporate into your charging schedule. If you travel often or camp and won’t always have ready access to outlets, rechargeables may not be your best bet. 
• People who use Bluetooth streaming a lot. Rechargeable batteries can better handle the higher power demands of audio streaming than disposable ones. 
• Anyone who values convenience. Rechargeable hearing aids will cost you slightly more upfront, but you won’t have to worry about buying, storing, or disposing of disposable batteries.

Rechargeable hearing aid prices

Yes, rechargeable hearing aids tend to cost more upfront. But they offer many other advantages. And one of those is not having to buy (or dispose of) disposable batteries. 

“The amount you spend on disposable batteries varies depending on their size, how you use and care for them, and other factors,” said Lundstrom. “In general, hearing aid batteries need to be changed at least once per week.” Battery prices can vary a lot, but if, for example, you bought a 16-pack at Walmart for $16, that would last you eight weeks. That means you’d be paying $104 every year for batteries alone. 

Audicus is a hearing aid brand offering many of its hearing aids in both disposable and rechargeable models. Audicus charges an additional $100 for the rechargeable option. If you keep your rechargeable hearing aids for more than a year, they will be worth the extra upfront cost.

How to save money on rechargeable hearing aids

Rechargeable hearing aids do tend to cost several hundred dollars more than those with disposable batteries, but there are ways to save. Many brands offer sales or provide financing options, rebates, or other incentives. There are also resources for people who need financial assistance to purchase hearing aids, including:

• The nonprofit Hearing Aid Project of America publishes a searchable directory of state, national, and international resources.
• Some Lions Clubs have programs providing free or low-cost hearing aids. Contact your local chapter to learn more.
• If you’re a veteran whose hearing loss is service-related, you may qualify for free hearing aids through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
• The Indian Health Service may provide free or low-cost hearing aids for tribal members.
• You can also check with your state’s Department of Rehabilitation Services to see if they can help you cover the cost.
• Check NCOA’s BenefitsCheckUp® to find benefits in your area.

How long do rechargeable hearing aids last?

Tips for extending the battery life of your rechargeable hearing aids

Rechargeable hearing aids typically last three to six years. Over time, the batteries will hold noticeably less charge and need to be replaced. That means replacing the entire hearing aid. Some manufacturer warranties will cover battery replacement. If yours does, you can have the battery replaced before the end of your warranty period. These other tips may also help extend the life of your rechargeable hearing aid batteries. 

• “Keep up on hearing aid maintenance,” said Lundstrom. Properly cleaning and drying them in between uses will help extend the life of your hearing aid and battery.
• Keep your charger clean and dry. Do not store it in your bathroom or in other wet or humid locations.
• Lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries should not be fully drained before recharging. 
• Avoid extreme temperatures. Using or storing rechargeable lithium-ion batteries in extreme temperatures has been shown to shorten battery life.²

Frequently asked questions

What is the longest-lasting rechargeable hearing aid?

In our review, the rechargeable hearing aids with the longest battery life (24 hours on a single charge) are the Jabra Select and Audien Atom lines. 

How much do rechargeable hearing aids cost?

The hearing aids in this guide cost between $98–$2,699 per pair. On average, rechargeable hearing aids may cost several hundred dollars more per pair upfront than hearing aids that use disposable batteries. But you won’t have to purchase batteries for them, which will save you money after about a year.

How long do rechargeable hearing aids last?

Rechargeable hearing aids can last up to 24 hours on a single charge, and many models can be recharged multiple times from their cases. Many rechargeable hearing aids use lithium-ion batteries, which will degrade over time. Their lifespan is three to six years.

Where can I buy rechargeable hearing aids?

Many brands carry at least one style of rechargeable hearing aid. You can purchase them over-the-counter or through an audiologist or other hearing specialist. 

Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org