Top Hearing Aid Styles to Consider

There are countless different hearing aid styles available on the market, but generally speaking there are three options that tend to be the most popular choices – in the ear, behind the ear and in the canal. Understanding more about these types can help you to make the most informed decision. Read on to discover more!

In the Ear (ITE)

ITE hearing aids are made to fit comfortably just in your outer bowl. ITE hearing aids are suitable for many forms of hearing loss, and can be specially adapted to fit your individual ear. ITE hearing aids feature external switches to suit your unique specifications, making them very simple and easy to use. It has to be said that they are larger than other alternatives like in-the-canal hearing aids and will cover the outer ear area, so they are not a style which can be hidden. However, their larger size does mean that they can accommodate a greater number of features and controls.

Behind the Ear (BTE)

BTE hearing aids are less visible as they sit just behind your ear, so they are a better choice for users who are seeking a less obvious choice. This stylish option contains all of its electronic components tucked neatly in a small shell sat behind your ear, and they come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors, including skin tones to increase the invisibility.

BTE hearing aids are connected to an earpiece that is located inside your ear canal using a clear plastic tube, and they are likely the most common type of hearing aid on the market today. These hearing aids are simple to adjust and have buttons that control volume or change your device’s program settings to better suit the surroundings or situation.

In the Canal (ITC)

ITC hearing aids are located inside of your ear canal rather than having any external parts like the two options detailed above. They tend to have a long battery life despite their generally tiny size, but the main advantage is that they are nearly invisible. Most users would agree that they are very comfortable and are not difficult to use.

ITC hearing aids work well in noisy places so can be great for outdoor social situations, and they have adjustable volume controls to suit your needs. It has to be said that despite them sitting inside the ear canal they are surprisingly easy to put in and take out.

Choosing the right hearing aid for your unique needs will make a big difference to the results you can expect to achieve from your device. In order to get the best hearing loss support from your hearing aid, be sure to consult your audiologist so that you can get matched up with the perfect device. Whether you go for an ITE, BTE or ITC hearing aid always do your research beforehand so that you benefit from clarity, independence and peace of mind.