Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are a versatile and powerful option suitable for a wide range of hearing loss levels, from mild to profound. The main components of a BTE aid are housed in a casing that rests comfortably behind the ear. This casing contains the microphone, amplifier, and battery. Sound is then transmitted through a clear tube to a custom-fitted earmold that sits securely in the ear canal.

BTE hearing aids are known for their robustness and ability to provide significant amplification. Their larger size often allows for more features, such as directional microphones for improved hearing in noisy environments and telecoils for better phone conversations. While traditionally the most visible style, newer mini-BTE designs are significantly smaller and more discreet. BTEs are often preferred for children as the earmold can be easily replaced as the child grows, and the behind-the-ear component is more durable.

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids, also known as receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) aids, are a popular and discreet style that offers excellent sound quality. Similar to BTEs, the main body of a RIC aid sits behind the ear, housing the microphone and amplifier. However, unlike BTEs, the speaker, or receiver, is located in a small casing at the end of a thin wire that inserts directly into the ear canal. This proximity of the receiver to the eardrum can reduce sound distortion and provide a more natural listening experience.  

RIC hearing aids are generally smaller and less visible than traditional BTEs, making them a cosmetically appealing choice for many users. They often feature open-fit options with a dome earpiece, which avoids completely blocking the ear canal, allowing low-frequency sounds to enter naturally. RIC aids are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss and often incorporate advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and rechargeable batteries, reflecting the latest technology in hearing solutions.

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are custom-made devices that fit entirely within the outer portion of the ear, known as the concha. There are two main types of ITEs: full-shell, which fills most of the concha, and half-shell, which fills only the lower part. ITEs are custom-molded to the individual’s ear shape, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.  

Being larger than in-the-canal styles, ITE hearing aids can accommodate more features, such as volume controls, directional microphones, and telecoils, making them easier to handle for some individuals. They also typically use larger batteries, offering longer battery life. ITEs are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. While more visible than smaller in-the-canal options, they offer a balance of functionality and relatively discreet appearance.

In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids are custom-molded devices that fit partly within the ear canal. They are smaller than ITE models, making them less visible. The components of an ITC hearing aid are housed in a shell that sits in the lower portion of the outer ear, with only a small portion visible at the opening of the ear canal.

ITCs offer a compromise between discretion and functionality. While smaller than ITEs, they can still accommodate some features like directional microphones, although adjustments might be more challenging due to their size. They are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss in adults. Dexterity can be a factor, as the smaller size can make insertion, removal, and battery changes more difficult for some users. They are also more susceptible to earwax buildup due to their placement within the canal.

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids are the smallest and most discreet custom-made hearing aid style. They fit entirely within the ear canal, making them nearly invisible to others. A tiny removal line is typically the only visible part, aiding in insertion and removal. 

Due to their very small size, CIC hearing aids have limited space for features and typically have shorter battery life, using very small batteries that can be challenging to handle. They are generally suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss in adults. Their deep placement in the ear canal can offer some benefits, such as reduced wind noise and a more natural sound experience due to their proximity to the eardrum. However, their small size can make them difficult to handle and adjust, and they are more prone to blockage from earwax and moisture. They typically do not have manual controls like volume adjustments or directional microphones.

The best hearing aid depends on your specific hearing loss, lifestyle, ear anatomy, and budget. A hearing professional will conduct tests and discuss your needs to recommend the most suitable options.

In most cases of hearing loss in both ears, wearing two hearing aids is recommended. This provides a more balanced and natural listening experience, improves sound localization, and makes it easier to understand speech in noisy environments.

Regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth and specialized tools to remove wax and debris is important. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures and moisture. Store them in a safe place when not in use, and change batteries as needed.

Hearing aids amplify sounds, making them louder and easier to hear. They typically have a microphone to pick up sound, an amplifier to increase its volume, and a receiver to deliver the amplified sound to your ear.