Hearing Aid Styles

Discover the Right Hearing Aid Style for You

Hearing aids come in a variety of styles to suit different listening needs and personal preferences.  Whether you prioritize the physical appearance of the device or the technology within, there is a solution that is just right for you.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Device

• The Degree of Hearing Loss - Each device can be programmed to certain levels.  Not all devices are suitable for all levels of hearing loss.
• Dexterity - As we age it can become more challenging to handle smaller devices.  Choosing a device that you can properly insert and remove is very important.
• Cosmetics - Do you prioritize the appearance of the device or the features available?  Typically, the larger the device the more room available for additional electronics (power options and extra features).
• Skin Sensitivity - If you have sensitive skin, the options available to you may be more limited to accommodate any sensitivities.

Device Styles

Behind-the-Ear (BTE)

BTE instruments sit behind or on top of the outer ear with a tube that connects to an ear tip or mold inside of the ear. BTE’s offer the widest range of features, colors, battery types, and degrees of power. Today, they’re offered in small, discreet designs that are often unnoticeable when worn. For those who prefer to “show them off”, they also come in multiple colors and designs.

Mini BTE

Mini BTE styles are designed to hide behind the outer ear and have ultra-thin tubing to discreetly route sound into the ear. The tubing typically connects to a soft tip that sits in the ear canal but doesn’t occlude it. The result is a natural, open feeling as airflow and sound enter the ear naturally around the tip, while amplified sound enters through the tip. This is known as “open fitting” and is recommended for mild to moderate hearing loss.

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) or Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE)

RIC and RITE hearing aid styles are BTEs that have the speaker built into the ear tip instead of the main body of the hearing aid. It is slightly larger than the Mini BTE but is still relatively unnoticeable when worn. They are designed for mild to severe hearing loss.

In-the-Ear (ITE) or Full Shell

Full shell instruments fill the entire outer ear bowl. Due to their larger size, they allow for more features and functions. These include a larger battery, directional microphones, volume controls, and can fit larger receivers for more severe hearing losses. They are designed for mild to severe hearing loss.

In-the-Canal (ITC)  or Half Shell

ITC instruments sit in the lower portion of the outer ear bowl. Since they are slightly larger than the CIC, they are able to hold additional features. These include a larger battery, directional microphones, and volume controls. They are designed for mild to moderate hearing loss.

Completely-in-Canal (CIC)

CIC instruments fit deeply into the ear canal. Slightly larger than the IIC, they are still relatively hard to see. They are designed for mild to moderate hearing loss.

Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)

IIC instruments are the smallest custom hearing aids available. They sit in the second bend of the canal and are nearly invisible to the naked eye. They are designed for mild to moderate hearing loss.