Widex Hearing Aid Review
Widex hearing aids are known for their natural sound and quality build. Learn more about this brand’s prescription devices and the technology that may make daily life with hearing loss easier.
- Widex stands out as a top brand of prescription hearing aids for its focus on natural sound.
- The hearing aids in this review cost around $2,798–$3,898, which may seem expensive compared to some OTC options.
- Widex says it's often the choice of professional musicians. This could be due to its great sound quality and minimal transmission delays.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. That’s why we test and recommend products we believe can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 5,000 hours researching hearing aids to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best hearing aids, we:
- Consulted with audiologists, hearing instrument specialists, and aging care experts
- Put more than 50 hearing aids through a series of 21 different tests
- Mystery shopped more than 20 brands
- Surveyed hundreds of older adults who use hearing aids
- Interviewed experts on hearing loss
- Sent hearing aids to our friends and family with hearing loss to provide long-term testing notes
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new hearing aids to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our hearing aid review methodology.
Of all the things people look for in the best hearing aids, sound quality is by far the most important. In fact, 95% of respondents to our survey listed sound quality as the top feature they looked for when buying hearing aids.1 This is exactly where Widex stands out among prescription hearing aid brands. Widex has built a strong reputation for delivering some of the most natural sound in the industry. It's the result of decades of researching and innovating. Widex focuses on how people actually experience sound in everyday life.
Widex hearing aids aren’t the most well-known. Fewer than 3% of our survey respondents purchased from the brand.1 But the Danish company has been innovating ways to make hearing aids sound better since 1956. Now part of WS Audiology, Widex has always aimed to create hearing aids that sound as close to real life as possible. The brand’s technology is designed to reduce artificial noise and delay. This focus helps users feel more connected to their surroundings.
Along with sound quality, Widex is known for comfort and thoughtful features that enhance the user experience. This Widex hearing aid review takes a deeper dive into what the brand offers and what sets it apart.
If you are considering purchasing any kind of hearing aids, schedule an appointment with a hearing care specialist to get your hearing tested first. Doing so can tell you whether you need OTC or prescription hearing aids and give you an idea of what other factors to consider before you buy.
Why Widex is a top brand for prescription hearing aids
One of the biggest reasons Widex is such a respected name in prescription hearing aids is its exceptional sound quality. Many users describe it as “natural” or “pure,” especially compared to other hearing aids that sound artificial or processed.
Widex’s zero-delay technology helps sound reach the ear without noticeable lag. This feature is especially important for conversations and music. Widex hearing aids also offer relief from tinnitus through its Zen app and SoundRelax technology. It uses sound therapy and calming tones to help manage ringing in the ears.
Widex claims to be popular among first-time hearing-aid wearers. It also boasts the lowest return rate among brands. This may be because Widex designs its hearing aids to feel and sound as close to natural hearing as possible.
The company has built a strong reputation for breakthrough technology. It uses AI-driven features that learn a user’s listening preferences over time. Models like Widex Moment and Widex Allure use smart processing to adjust sound in real time. So people can hear clearly in both quiet and noisy places. This level of customization is designed to make the experience feel less like using a device and more like a natural extension of hearing.
Comparing Widex hearing aids
| Comparison Features | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Hearing aid type (BTE, RIC, CIC, etc.) | BTE, ITE, RIC* |
RIC |
RIC, BTE, ITE, CIC |
| Battery type (disposable or rechargeable) | Rechargeable |
Rechargeable |
Rechargeable and disposable options |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Hands-free calling? | Yes, with Sound Assist |
Yes, with Sound Assist |
Yes, with Sound Assist |
*BTE=behind-the-ear; ITE=in-the-ear; RIC=receiver-in-canal; CIC=completely-in-canal
Understanding Widex hearing aid models
Like many prescription hearing aid brands, Widex offers several technology platforms in its hearing aids. These work like different operating systems in a computer. Each platform can be used with different hearing aid models. For this Widex review, we take a closer look at the brand's Allure and Moment platforms.
Widex Allure: Natural sound, clear speech
The Widex Allure stands out for its natural, lifelike sound, especially speech. A faster processor reduces speech delays and filters out unwanted background noise. It automatically adjusts to different environments to deliver the best sound quality in each. The Allure has an upgraded app that simplifies settings and streaming and uses Bluetooth Low Energy to preserve battery life.
Widex Allure
- Zero-delay sound processing for more natural sound
- More consistent streaming, and less drain on batteries
- Rechargeable batteries last up to 25 hours, including 7 hours of streaming
- New app is more accessible and works with smart watches
- Type of hearing aid: RIC, BTE, ITE
- Battery type: Rechargeable
- Bluetooth compatible: Yes
Pros
- Very natural, lifelike sound quality
- Good at filtering out background noise to make speech clear
- New app allows more control over settings
Cons
- Works with telecoil but not Auracast
- May not be compatible with all model phones
- Does not use AI technology to improve speech-in-noise performance like some other hearing aids
What’s different about the Widex Allure
Allure is Widex’s most recent model and comes in three styles: a receiver-in-canal (RIC), a behind-the-ear (BTE), and the brand’s first rechargeable in-the-ear (ITE) style. All are discreet designs, use rechargeable batteries, and come in many color options.
What makes Allure stand out, though, is the upgraded technology that handles sound in a very natural way. It uses a new microchip that is said to offer four times the speed and memory of the previous Moment line. Faster processing means fewer delays, which helps voices sound less artificial and more real. Features like PureSound and Speech Enhancer Pro work together to soften background noise while keeping speech clear. The hearing aids also adjust automatically as your environment changes, so you don’t have to keep switching settings. Many people with tinnitus find that this offers some relief. The settings help mask tinnitus noise with white noise or soothing sounds.
Allure also features a new app with many useful features, including Find My Hearing Aid. You can also check your device’s battery status and change program settings and volume using the app. It even has an AI assistant for help. The AI assistant draws on data from you and other users to suggest the best settings wherever you are. This feature can create a more personalized hearing experience. The devices can be used with smartwatches, too. Widex hearing aids in the Allure line can use Bluetooth LE, which helps conserve battery life, and is said to have superior streaming quality. They also have a built-in telecoil for connecting to hearing loops in public. But the Allure is not yet compatible with Auracast public broadcast systems.
Widex SmartRIC: Long-lasting Noise Reduction
The Widex SmartRIC is part of the Widex Moment line. It has a unique shape that positions the dual microphones to block unwanted background noise, resulting in clearer sound. It also has the longest battery life among Widex hearing aids (37 hours). Lastly, it features a case for on-the-go charging (up to five extra charges), making it a great travel option.
Widex SmartRIC
- L-shaped design improves microphone placement
- The brand’s longest-lasting rechargeable battery (37 hours)
- Comes with portable charging case with five more charges
- Four levels of technology to choose from
- Type of hearing aid: RIC
- Battery type: Rechargeable
- Bluetooth compatible: Yes
Pros
- Minimal feedback or interference from wind and touch
- Clear Bluetooth audio streaming (but not LE)
- Longest battery life (37 hours) of any Widex hearing aid, plus on-the-go charging
Cons
- Not Bluetooth LE or Auracast enabled
- Doesn't have a built-in telecoil
- App only has basic controls and features
- Allure line has faster processing and fewer delays
What’s different about the SmartRIC
The SmartRIC is a unique option in the Widex Moment line, distinguished by its L-shaped design. It positions the device's two microphones to reduce wind and touch noise, which can muffle speech. The design makes it easier for sound to travel from the speaker to the receiver without interruption.
The SmartRIC is also known for its long battery life—37 hours on a single charge. Of course, that does not include streaming. The SmartRIC is not compatible with Bluetooth Low Energy, which means it tends to drain the batteries faster than devices that are. But 37 hours is still significantly longer than most comparable models. Plus, the SmartRIC includes a portable charger with up to 5 more charges.
The SmartRIC has the same processing capabilities as the rest of the Moment line. It uses PureSound™ with ZeroDelay™ technology to deliver an experience as close to unaided sound as possible. Although we did not test these hearing aids, many users have said the sound is natural and not jarring, especially for their own voice.
Widex Moment: Authentic Sound Without Distortion
The Widex Moment Sheer 440 was the brand’s flagship model. When it launched the Moment platform in 2020, it was known for creating more realistic, natural sound compared to most hearing aids. This model introduced ZeroDelay technology. This reduces the lag that often causes sound distortion and makes many hearing aids sound artificial and “tinny.”
Widex Moment
- ZeroDelay technology to reduce sound delay
- Machine learning for personalized sound settings
- Direct streaming from phones and devices
- Type of hearing aid: BTE, RIC, ITE
- Battery type: Rechargeable
- Bluetooth compatible: Yes
Pros
- Very natural, lifelike sound
- Comfortable listening, including your own voice
- Learns user preferences over time
Cons
- No hands-free calling
- Battery life is not as long as later models, and no on-the-go charging (except SmartRIC)
- Streaming can be somewhat limited
What’s different about the Widex Moment
The Widex Moment line was the brand’s initial platform and was fairly advanced for its time. Five years later, the Moment's technology remains among the best at capturing natural sound. Moment hearing aids use fast processing technology and machine learning to help make speech sound clearer and more human. Widex hearing aids also have features that may help people with tinnitus. These include Zen tones, which can be used for sound therapy or masking.
The Moment line includes behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), and in-the-ear (ITE) styles. ITE styles do not support Bluetooth streaming, and the others are limited. None are compatible with telecoil or Auracast for public broadcasts. Calls can be streamed to the devices, but accessories are required for true hands-free calling. The Allure line has improved on these features.
The Moment line is a winner in terms of sound clarity. In many hearing aids, sound is slightly delayed, which can feel “off” when listening. These devices use ZeroDelay technology to keep sound in sync, so it feels smoother and more natural. This can make everyday listening, like talking or hearing your own voice, feel more comfortable. The platform also uses machine learning to learn what kind of sound you prefer and adjust automatically over time.
How much do Widex hearing aids cost?
Like most prescription hearing aid manufacturers, Widex does not publish prices on its website. The price of a hearing aid will vary depending on factors such as battery type (disposable vs. rechargeable), features, and style. For specific pricing information, you’ll need to speak with a local hearing care professional who sells Widex hearing aids.
Most insurance plans, including Medicare Part A and Part B, do not cover the full cost of hearing aids. Medicare Advantage (Part C) may cover some of your hearing aid costs.2 If you have a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA), you may also be able to use those for the purchase of hearing aids. Check with your insurance provider to see what’s covered.
One of the biggest factors in a hearing aid’s price is the level of technology it uses. This chart gives you an idea of the price range of different hearing aids:
| Prescription Hearing Aid Technology Level | Price Range per pair |
| Premium | $10,000–$6,000 |
| Advanced | $9,000–$5,500 |
| Standard | $7,500–$4,500 |
| Essential | $5,800–$4,000 |
| Base | $5,500–$3,500 |
Widex smart features and connectivity
Widex is best known for its high-quality, natural sound, but it also offers advanced features like streaming on most devices. There are limitations, so here is what to know:
App control
Widex offers two apps, one for each of its main technology platforms. The Moment app lets you control volume, switch programs, and use machine learning to create sound settings that match your preferences over time. The Allure app has some upgrades, including an AI assistant for help and a Find My Hearing Aids function.
Bluetooth connectivity
Most Widex devices, except for some ITE styles, can stream Bluetooth audio. Newer models support the Bluetooth Low Energy protocol, which helps save battery life. Older models may be less consistent with streaming, especially on Android phones, according to some Widex hearing aid reviews.
Remote fine-tuning
Widex hearing aids are offered by prescription only. But this feature allows your hearing care provider to adjust your settings from home. So you can keep your sound just right without extra office visits.
Widex hearing aid accessories
Most Widex hearing aids come with a standard charger and access to the free smartphone app that lets you adjust settings and control your sound. You can even make some adjustments using the app. But Widex offers other accessories for purchase that may be useful in your daily routine. Here are Widex’s top accessories:
- Widex Sound Assist: This tabletop microphone can make conversations and meetings easier to hear. It also functions as a telecoil if your devices do not have that function.
- SoundConnect: Plug this USB-shaped device into your computer and stream audio directly to your hearing aids from up to 28 feet away.
- Chargers: Widex offers extra chargers, including some that clean your hearing aids while they charge and others that hold extra power for on-the-go charging when you travel.
- TV Play: This flat triangular speaker streams television directly to your devices. It uses Bluetooth LE, so it won’t drain your batteries too quickly.
- TV-DEX: Similar to TV Play, this device sends clear, wireless TV sound to your hearing aids. It also has a feature that lets you turn the rest of the room's sound off so you can focus on a show.
- EasyWear: These thin tubes and ear tips are designed to give your hearing aids a better, more comfortable fit or address aesthetic issues.
- RC-DEX: For those who prefer not to fuss with a smartphone app, this keychain-sized remote control allows you to change basic settings like volume and program at the touch of a button.
- Dryers: Widex hearing aids are rated highly for moisture and dust resistance. But it can be a good idea to use a dryer occasionally to help them last longer.
- COM-DEX: This device allows you to wirelessly stream high-quality audio from any Bluetooth device directly to your hearing aids for up to 8 hours per charge.
Are Widex hearing aids right for you?
Widex hearing aids can be a strong choice if you have mild to severe hearing loss and want very natural sound. Many people like that the technology focuses on reducing sound delays, which helps listening feel more real and less processed. If your hearing loss is more advanced, you may need to check if a specific model has enough power for your needs.
Your budget is also important. Widex hearing aids cost more than some basic options, especially for newer models with advanced technology and machine learning features. Some people feel the sound quality is worth it, while others may prefer a simpler and lower-cost device. Widex hearing aids are also available only by prescription and require an appointment with an audiologist for the initial fitting and possibly for adjustments.
You should also think about how comfortable you are with technology. Widex devices often use apps and smart features to adjust sound, which can be helpful but may feel overwhelming if you prefer something simple. Widex hearing aids reviews indicate that people who enjoy using apps tend to get the most benefit from these devices.
Some questions to ask yourself when buying hearing aids:
- How severe is my hearing loss?
- What is my budget for hearing aids?
- Do I want advanced technology like machine learning?
- Am I comfortable using a smartphone app?
- Do I want a very natural sound, or just basic help with hearing?
- Am I looking for streaming or other specific features like Auracast?
Frequently asked questions
How much do Widex hearing aids cost?
The cost of Widex hearing aids can range depending on the model and features. Widex does not publish prices on its website, so for specific pricing information, you must speak with a local Widex dealer.
Does Widex make good hearing aids?
Yes, Widex is known for high-quality devices with natural sound technology.
How do Widex hearing aids compare to other leading brands?
Widex stands out for natural sound and low delay, while other brands may focus more on power or extra features.
Do Widex hearing aids have tinnitus features?
Yes, many Widex models include built-in tinnitus relief sounds and tools.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.