The first signs of hearing loss can manifest themselves in various forms: poor perception of sounds, problems following a conversation... in the UK, 1 in 8 people would present hearing problems. Hearing aids exist to overcome most of these problems, but you still need to find the right one! Our guide is here to help you.
Here is our commitment, to make sure that we provide the best user experience and content quality:
You can support us by using our links to make your purchases (at no extra cost to you)! This sometimes earns us a commission which allows us to remain independent. More about us
Our selection
"Sonotone offers you a hearing aid with impeccable quality for daily use and in full sound excitement."
"Adjustable to your needs, this hearing aid will allow you to better hear and perceive what is happening around you. At first glance, this hearing…"
"This listening assistant comes in the form of a digital headset that intelligently amplifies sounds. Whatever hearing problems you may have, this device will help…"
"Despite its slightly old-fashioned design, this hearing aid does its job perfectly well. Once placed in the ear canal, the user can hear with maximum…"
Sonotone offers you a hearing aid with impeccable quality for daily use and in full sound excitement.
125 £ on FnacThe sonotone RIC hearing aid is fully automatic, it has the latest digital technology, it offers a perfect sound quality (while comfort and discretion). It allows up to 35 dB of hearing gain without loss. Indeed, on this device the earphone is at the end of the device. Light and compact, it is very easy to use: it is preset. You will not have thus complicated handling to make, it is enough for you to put it, to choose the volume which is appropriate to you and the turn is played.
As for the volume, it is manually adjustable and you can choose between two preset programs. Finally, the hearing aid is powered by an Earpower 312 battery (5 days autonomy). A spare battery pack is supplied with the product.
Adjustable to your needs, this hearing aid will allow you to better hear and perceive what is happening around you. At first glance, this hearing aid seems imposing, but it remains discreet.
22,41 £ on Amazon
This listening assistant comes in the form of a digital headset that intelligently amplifies sounds. Whatever hearing problems you may have, this device will help you overcome them.
304 £ on DoctipharmaThis hearing aid looks imposing on the pictures, but once placed on your ear, it is hardly noticeable. Indeed, discretion is one of the main advantages of this listening assistant with rechargeable battery. It is important to specify that this device is not a hearing aid and that it is not really intended for people with hearing loss. It is rather recommended to people who are looking for a better listening comfort.
The latest generation digital processor coupled with the background noise attenuator and the anti-larsen will allow the wearer to take advantage of all situations during which it is essential to listen well. The plus of this device: it has an ingenious device which allows to stabilize it on the contour of the ear.
Despite its slightly old-fashioned design, this hearing aid does its job perfectly well. Once placed in the ear canal, the user can hear with maximum clarity.
39,20 £ on AmazonThe main advantage of this hearing aid lies in the comfort it provides, but also in its compatibility with both ears. Indeed, this device can be used on the right ear as well as on the left ear. In addition, it offers a digital tone that reduces sound distortion for clearer listening.
To optimize sound reception, this hearing aid is equipped with a volume reduction and increase function. As for the overall quality, its internal and external components are made of high-end materials. Nowhere is it mentioned that this hearing aid is waterproof, but since it fits snugly around the ear, you can carry it with you during strenuous physical activity, including running.
Any specific needs?
The best entry-level hearing aid
Your guide :
Rate this buying guide :By rating this buying guide, you are helping us to reward our best writers. Thank you!
| TOP OF THE TOP | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
8/10 |
9/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
SONOTONE - Hearing aid ric
|
Beurer HA 20
|
Sonalto R
|
Audioactive Assintent BTE
|
|
Sonotone offers you a hearing aid with impeccable quality for daily use and in full sound excitement.
|
Adjustable to your needs, this hearing aid will allow you to better hear and perceive what is happening around you. At first glance, this hearing aid seems imposing, but it remains discreet.
|
This listening assistant comes in the form of a digital headset that intelligently amplifies sounds. Whatever hearing problems you may have, this device will help you overcome them.
|
Despite its slightly old-fashioned design, this hearing aid does its job perfectly well. Once placed in the ear canal, the user can hear with maximum clarity.
|
|
|
Comfort of use
|
|
|
|
|
|
Programs / frequencies
|
2 programs
|
Adjustable volume. Frequency ranges from 200 to 5000 Hz
|
2 amplification programs
|
It's high quality battery offers 500 charge and discharge cycles.
|
|
Visibility
|
Presumably invisible
|
Visible but still discreet
|
Very discrete
|
Unremarkable
|
|
Quality
|
|
|
|
|
|
Specificity(s)
|
Autonomous; Use for any circumstance
|
Batteries are included in delivery.
|
0 to 20 dB amplification
|
Rechargeable battery, 500 cycles.
|
Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!
We spend thousands of hours each year studying the major specialized websites, analyzing products of hundreds of brands and reading user feedback to advise you on the best products.
We are a product review company with a single mission: to simplify your buying decisions. Our research and testing helps millions of people every year find the best products for their personal needs and budget.
To support us you can: use our links to make your purchases (which often earns us a small commission), share our articles on social networks, or recommend our site on your blog. Thanks in advance for your support!
Choosing a good hearing aid that will help you properly. You should consider the advice of your doctor, but at the same time, take into account the following criteria:
Mild hearing loss is a moderate hearing loss of between 21 and 40 dB. Moderate hearing loss is a hearing loss between 41 and 70 dB. Severe hearing loss is a tonal loss between 71 and 90 dB, where the total loss exceeds this maximum threshold.
Mild hearing loss leads to a micro BTE or ITE hearing aid. BTE hearing aids are used for moderate to profound hearing losses. Severe to profound hearing losses require significant amplification, such as the level offered by a BTE or RIC Power.
The nature of the device will vary depending on the degree of hearing loss but also on the personality of the wearer. Each type of instrument has its advantages and disadvantages.
Wearing comfort should also be a priority when purchasing a hearing aid. For example, a micro BTE hearing aid will prevent the ear canal from being blocked. An earphone is inserted for optimal discretion.
The aesthetic aspect is important when choosing a hearing aid. As such, the in-the-ear prosthesis meets the aesthetic requirements of the person. It is usually custom made. The microphone is inserted inside the ear canal and remains perfectly invisible.
The hearing aid models currently on the market are intended to be discrete. Nevertheless, one must also refer to the level of hearing loss. Light to medium presbycusias, below 70% of loss, can be managed with miniaturized hearing aids. Above this level, a larger device is required. It will then be necessary to choose between a micro BTE or an ITE.
Similarly, for higher levels of deafness, it is possible to find BTE hearing aids that are smaller than conventional models, at the same power level. If the electronics are hidden behind the earlobe, the earmold may be visible, even if the device is custom-made.
The advice given in this article does not constitute medical advice, and concerns only hearing aids (made to compensate for slight hearing problems) and not hearing aids. If you have significant hearing problems, it is essential to consult a specialist who will prescribe a suitable hearing aid.
To maintain your hearing aid, you must go through two actions. First, you have to clean it and second, you have to dry it.
The cleaning of a hearing aid is done with classic solutions like cleaning sprays, wipes and effervescent tablets. It must be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria from accumulating and causing damage. Cleaning sprays are ideal for dissolving earwax and then carefully brushing the device and wiping it with a soft, dry cloth.
With the wipes, simply wring out and gently rub the device. Finally, if you use effervescent tablets, first dissolve it in a cup, separate the tube from the device and its mouthpiece, and leave it in the solution for 15 minutes before wiping with a cloth.
For drying, there are three possible solutions including the use of desiccant tablets, drying sprays and blowing pears.
Depending on the level of hearing loss, there are three main types of hearing aids to choose from. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, but it all depends on the need. In some cases, hearing care professionals suggest the use of a particular type of device based on their diagnosis.
It is the oldest hearing aid on the market. However, it is widely used and highly sought after on the market. In general, it is suitable for people who have a severe hearing loss of more than 70%. There is a BTE on the outer casing that houses the electronic part of the device. Its size varies according to the performance of the model. An earmold in the form of a very flexible tube of 3 mm to 6 mm in diameter conducts the sound.
The BTE hearing aid is very powerful to help those who are in great difficulty. Moreover, it is autonomous and is equipped with various accessories. Its robustness is unmatched by other types. On the other hand, the external part is quite bulky, it is not very aesthetic and sometimes, it is embarrassing.
The
in-ear device is an aid device that is custom
made
and inserted afterwards into the ear canal. Thus, there is no external part behind the ear of the wearer. The model depends on your preferences because you can tell the designer what you want. There are even very deep and very discreet devices. To make the shell that will contain all the electronics, the audioprosthesist takes an impression of your ears. This way, there is no risk that the device will not fit you.
It is more aesthetically pleasing and allows for a natural fit. The device can become truly invisible depending on the size of the canal. On the other hand, it lacks autonomy. It is also not adapted to all shapes of conduit and hearing losses.
For
this type of device, there is a small box that is placed in the back part of the auricle. There is a very thin wire that will connect it with the ear canal in order to make the sound pass. The micro BTE device exists in two categories, including the micro BTE with remote receiver or RIC and the open micro BTE. The latter are distinguished by the location of all electronic devices.
Aesthetically, the device is quite attractive. It is also suitable for mild hearing loss and is equipped with various accessories to facilitate the passage and understanding of sound. Quite autonomous, you can use it for a long time without any problem
. However, the external part may bother you if you wear glasses or when putting on and taking off your clothes. Sound amplifier
Opt for simple sound amplifiers if you do not have a serious hearing problem (a loss of less than 35%)
Also known as a listening assistant, a listening amplifier can be purchased without a prescription. It comes in the form of stereo headphones or a hearing aid.
Many people use this device when they begin to experience hearing problems. This device amplifies the surrounding sounds, which helps to improve listening. It is very useful for listening to music, following a conversation, enjoying birdsong...
A prescription hearing aid is a medical device, whose role is to provide a solution in case of hearing loss. This treatment can only be put in place after a medical examination and an audiogram. The device is custom-made and adapted to the owner's ear. It offers a natural sound, thanks to the system of rebalancing of the weak ear with the strong ear.
The useful frequencies are increased in order to manage the hearing loss, ensuring optimal listening comfort. These adjustments must be made by a hearing care professional.
There is no right or wrong device, but it all depends on your needs. Before making a choice, you should consider your doctor's advice because he or she can recommend a particular device. The hearing amplifier is more accessible and it improves listening significantly. On the other hand, the hearing aid on medical prescription is rather professional. Its use requires the intervention of a specialist.
Hearing aids are very useful for people who need them. It must be said that it has many advantages:
To live better
The wearing of a hearing aid allows first of all to preserve the capacity of comprehension of the person who uses it. Indeed, the first consequence of hearing loss is the progressive inability to receive and interpret the sounds around us.
Hearing aids are there to ensure that this does not worsen while preventing the onset of certain pathologies frequently linked to hearing loss. The device also helps the wearer to feel better about themselves and to be socially active and comfortable.
A device for every need
A hearing aid is available in many models adapted to the nature and degree of the hearing loss. Young and old, teenagers and seniors alike will find something to suit their needs in one of these devices.
A micro BTE and an ITE are suitable for mild hearing loss, for example. For moderate to profound losses, BTE hearing aids are the most suitable. Finally, a BTE and RIC Power hearing aid can be used for severe to profound hearing loss. These hearing aids offer significant amplification.
Invisible
A hearing aid can be made invisible. An in-the-ear hearing aid is custom-made to fit the microphone inside the ear canal. This major advantage more than compensates for a slight constraint: the battery must be changed every 5 days or so.
Discretion
Although not invisible, some models are very discreet. Miniaturized hearing aids can effectively correct mild to moderate presbycusis.
The latest generation of micro-bands and in-the-ear hearing aids also meet this criterion. Manufacturers have succeeded in producing models that are much smaller than their predecessors, with an earmold that remains exposed, but with the possibility of ordering custom-made ones. The electronic part does not pose any concern, because it is hidden behind the earlobe.
Worry-free use
A hearing aid promises worry-free use over time. In order to prescribe the most suitable device, the hearing aid acousticians refer to various parameters, including the level of hearing loss.
After the first few days of use, the patient can return to the specialist to report any concerns about the device. The patient will be asked to provide important details, such as situations where he or she is asked to repeat himself or herself.
Increased performance
The performance of hearing aids is constantly being improved. The latest models allow for better signal processing. The advancement of new technology also leads manufacturers to offer a new version of the chip every 2 years or so.
The latest wave offers a good selection of words, very useful in very noisy places. It is therefore better to choose the latest devices rather than some amplifiers sold in pharmacies that do not offer all the criteria of a hearing aid.
Robust device
BTE hearing aids have sturdiness as one of the names that go with them. This makes them ideal for the somewhat rough-hewn boy. In addition, the ease of handling of this type of hearing aid promises carefree use over time.
Optimal wearing comfort
Many hearing aid models are also comfortable to wear. In order to avoid a blocked ear canal, the wearer can choose a micro BTE hearing aid.
In-the-ear devices are often available in custom sizes, so that the wearer does not have to worry too much. With an earpiece inserted in the ear canal, the wearer also benefits from optimal discretion. The only problem is that in-the-ear devices are not suitable for telephone use.
In our opinion, the best brands of hearing aids in 2022 are :
Sonotone is a brand that was created in 1929 in the United States and that has always cultivated the ambition to revolutionize the hearing sector. This brand mobilizes the efforts of the best prosthetists and sound engineers in the sector to offer ever more efficient products.
Hestec is a brand of the AIC International group. Founded in 2008, its mission is to offer a range of products designed to facilitate daily activities, allowing people to maintain their independence, confidence and comfort in their daily lives. Their hearing aids are no exception to this rule.
With 10 years of experience, the Spanish company Audiben offers state-of-the-art hearing solutions. We would like to emphasize the efforts made by this company to listen to its customers in order to meet their expectations.
Founded in 1940 in Illinois, USA, Beltone specializes in the design and distribution of hearing aids worldwide. We value its strong commitment to research and development of new and innovative hearing technologies.
The Philips brand is well known. It is a company that invests in many areas of technology to put innovation at the service of the health and well-being of its customers. In particular, we liked the diversity of this brand's products in the field of hearing aids.Back to the comparison table
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Give yourself time.
They say you shouldn't compare hearing aids to glasses, and it's true. You immediately see sharper images when you put on a new pair of glasses, but hearing aids take some getting used to before they have the desired effect.
Move forward one small step at a time.
When
you first use a hearing aid, start by wearing it for only a few hours
at a time.
If you feel exhausted or overwhelmed, you can take them off, but try to wear them a little longer each day.
Read aloud.
Be
careful with the volume the first time you use your hearing aid. It's natural to start talking loudly when you have a hearing loss, but it can be horribly harsh on your ears once you have your hearing aid on. Remember to adjust the volume of your hearing aid to suit your needs, but don't forget to adjust the volume of your own voice as well to take care of your ears. In order to adjust the hearing aid optimally, practice reading aloud while wearing your hearing aids.
Keep a diary of how your ability to hear with the hearing aid is progressing
Note
any noises you hear that bother or irritate you. If the ticking of your clock seems too loud and starts to bother you after a few days, write it down. If you still have trouble hearing conversations in a crowded restaurant, make a note of it. Keeping track of your hearing problems will help you discuss them later with a hearing care professional.
Keep your goals realistic.
You
will hear sounds a little differently through hearing aids. They may sound less natural to you, since they may be different from what you used to hear before your hearing loss. That's okay! Celebrate the improvement in your hearing, even if it's not exactly the same as before.
The best hearing aid depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide to find out which products are the best.
A doctor's prescription is required for reimbursement of the device. Also remember to ask for invoices for fitting services. Consult our comparison table to find the model that will meet your expectations.
The audiogram is an examination prescribed by an ENT doctor. This hearing test allows to determine the exact degree of hearing loss. To learn more about the different criteria to consider when purchasing a device, read our buying guide.
By buying a second-hand machine, you run the risk of using a machine that is not suitable for your needs. In addition, the risk of wear and tear must be taken into consideration. However, it is possible to find good value new hearing aids.
If you work in a very dusty or humid environment, choose a hearing instrument that is suitable for your working conditions. Ask your doctor for advice before buying your hearing aid.
Every month we help more than 1 000 000 people buy better and smarter.
Copyright © 2022 - Made with ♥ by buyingbetter.co.uk
Your reviews and buying guides 0% advertising, 100% independent!
