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Discover the best OTC hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss. Our experts compare cost, features and more.
Hearing loss is common in Americans, affecting one in eight people (13% or 30 million people) age 12 years or older. Untreated hearing loss is linked to depression and cognitive decline, yet only one-fifth of those who would benefit from hearing aids actually use them. In October 2022, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) created a category of over-the-counter hearing aids that is more accessible and less expensive than traditional prescription-based devices in order to help close this gap in treatment.
After this announcement, the market for OTC hearing aids was quickly flooded, so navigating the myriad options can be overwhelming. Our MarketWatch Guides team compiled this review of our top five picks for OTC hearing aid brands in order to simplify the selection process for you. Whether you’re new to the world of hearing aids or simply looking for a more wallet-friendly alternative, OTC options are definitely worth exploring.
OTC hearing aids were defined by the FDA in 2022 and approved for use in those 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. According to the FDA, OTC hearing aids:
Though not a replacement for comprehensive hearing care, OTC hearing aids have become a viable option for many due to their affordability and accessibility.
Always consult with an audiologist if you have questions about your hearing loss level and the best type of hearing aid for you.
For those with more severe hearing issues, a hearing consultation and prescription hearing aids are more suitable options.
When it comes to cost, OTC hearing devices offer a more affordable alternative to prescription devices from an audiology clinic. On average, consumers can expect to spend between $300 and $3,000 per pair. Prices vary based on the brand, features and technology offered. For instance, higher-end models with advanced noise reduction and Bluetooth capabilities will typically cost more.
OTC hearing aid models that don’t do much more than amplify sound will be significantly less expensive. You can purchase OTC hearing aids from a variety of outlets, such as pharmacies like Walgreens, big-box stores like Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Best Buy and online retailers like Amazon.
For a closer look at cost-effective options, explore our guide on affordable hearing aids.
Selecting the right OTC hearing aid involves more than just looking at the price tag. Here are other key factors to consider before making your decision:
Understanding your degree of hearing loss is crucial to solving your hearing needs. OTC hearing aids are generally designed for mild to moderate hearing loss. Many OTC hearing aid companies will offer an online hearing test to help you get an idea of the severity of your hearing loss. If you think your hearing loss may be more severe than moderate, consult an audiologist for a more tailored solution.
Modern OTC hearing aids offer a range of tech features, such as Bluetooth connectivity to a smartphone app, directional microphones and background noise reduction. Many devices are only compatible with Apple products using iOS. If you use Android devices, it will be more difficult to find compatible apps.
Consider if you want to use the volume control through an app or on the device. Your lifestyle will often determine which features are most important. If you regularly visit noisy, bustling places, you will want to consider noise cancellation and listening environment presets such as “restaurant.” If you spend most of your time in a quiet home, that may not be important to you.
If you love listening to music, podcasts or audiobooks, you will likely value Bluetooth streaming capabilities.
Finally, consider if you prefer self-fitting hearing aids, which come with preset listening environments versus more customizable devices.
Pay attention to the battery lifespan. Rechargeable hearing aids are often considered more convenient than those requiring replaceable batteries. Battery life can vary a lot from one model to the next, ranging from 12–30 hours. Using features like Bluetooth streaming will drain the battery much faster than using them only for sound adjustments.
The device should be comfortable to wear for extended periods. Consider the different styles available, such as in-the-ear, behind-the-ear, receiver-in-canal and those that resemble modern earbuds, and which one might be most comfortable for you all day long.
Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of the device. Look for consistent patterns in reviews, both positive and negative, to get a well-rounded perspective.
Check the warranty period and what it covers. Also, be sure to look into the return policy. You should be offered at least a 45-day money-back guarantee. After-sales support, such as customer service availability and the ease of repairs, should also be considered.
While not mandatory for purchasing OTC hearing aids, an audiologist can provide a professional hearing test and guidance on the most suitable type of aid for you and your hearing health.
OTC hearing aids are an affordable and accessible option to more expensive and difficult-to-obtain traditional hearing aids.
The OTC hearing aid market was flooded after the FDA approval in 2022. Which hearing aid manufacturer is best for you will depend on a number of factors including cost, comfort and fit, tech features, warranties, trial periods and customer support.
If you are looking for an affordable option with a fair amount of tech features and a robust warranty, trial period and rechargeable battery life, Jabra Enhance is an excellent choice. Those willing to forgo tech features for a low price point should consider MD Hearing. Those who want an easy-to-use app for customization should look to Lexie. And finally, those who prefer an invisible CIC device should consider Eargo.
All of these brands have high scores from our MarketWatch Guides team.
Brands like Jabra, Audicus, MDHearing, Lexie and Eargo often receive high marks for their balance of cost, features and performance.
OTC hearing aids are generally effective for mild to moderate hearing loss and offer the advantage of being more accessible and affordable. That said, they may lack some of the advanced features and customization available in prescription hearing aids, which are tailored to your specific hearing profile by an audiologist. For those with severe hearing loss or more complex hearing issues, prescription aids are usually the better option.
Inexpensive hearing aids, such as those offered by MDHearing, can provide basic amplification and may be sufficient for those with mild hearing loss. However, you often get what you pay for. Cheaper models may lack advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity, directional microphones or noise cancellation. Also, they may be less durable and have shorter warranty periods. Before choosing a budget-friendly option, consider what features are most essential for your lifestyle. If cost is your primary concern, check out our guide on affordable hearing aids.
When you start to compare the different types of OTC hearing aids, there are a few factors to consider. First, think about your budget. This will ultimately help you narrow down your options. Then, peruse the styles offered by the brands that are within your budget.
Style decisions are typically made based on your personal preferences and the actual comfort and fit of the device when it is in your ear. If possible, visit a hearing center that will allow you to try different hearing aid styles. Next, take a look at the features offered. Will a basic hearing aid work for your needs, or do you need a more advanced hearing aid with environmental sound settings and Bluetooth connectivity? Once you find a hearing aid with the right features, consider the battery type (rechargeable or disposable) and battery life (how many hours of use before the battery needs to be recharged or replaced), and which will suit your needs best. For instance, hearing aids with replaceable batteries sometimes cost less, and they minimize time spent waiting for hearing aids to recharge, but tiny batteries can be difficult to handle for some people.
Finally, it’s important to consider the level of customer service offered, as many OTC hearing aid companies do not provide the same level of customer care that comes with buying prescription devices. You might find it helpful to visit some consumer review sites, like Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot, to read reviews from hearing aid users who have had experiences with the hearing aid companies you’re considering.
If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at editors@marketwatchguides.
