6 Types of Hearing Aids: In and Behind-the-Ear Styles (2025)

When choosing a hearing aid, it's important to understand the different types available to suit your needs. Hearing aids come in various styles that fit inside and behind the ear. Each style offers certain benefits and drawbacks depending on your severity of hearing loss and lifestyle.

1. Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

One of the most popular styles is behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. These devices sit behind your ear, with a tube that directs sound into the ear canal. The hearing aid case is linked to an earmold or earpiece using a flexible, clear tube.

This style may be ideal for young children as it can easily be paired with different earmolds that can be switched out as their ears grow. BTE hearing aids are:

• Easy to clean and manage
  
• Designed to be durable
• Suitable for a wide range of hearing loss

However, due to their size, they may be noticeable to others.

2. In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids fit entirely inside the outer ear and are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. The case is made of durable plastic, and some models include a telecoil, a small magnetic component that allows the hearing aid to pick up sound through its circuitry instead of the microphone. They are less noticeable than behind-the-ear hearing aids.

It makes hearing phone conversations and sounds easier in crowded spaces such as churches, schools, and airports. ITE aids are not usually recommended for young children, as their ear size changes, and the device would need frequent replacement. They also use smaller batteries that require regular replacement.

3. In-the-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids

In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids are smaller than ITE models and fit partly inside the ear canal. They are discreet and are often chosen for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Canal hearing aids can be challenging to adjust and remove due to their small size. Additionally, their compact design offers limited battery space and features like a telecoil. Because of their size constraints, canal aids are typically not recommended for young children or individuals with severe to profound hearing loss, as they may not provide enough power or volume.

4. Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids fit deep into the ear canal, making them one of the most discreet types available. These devices are ideal for those with mild to moderate hearing loss who want a nearly invisible hearing aid. However, due to their smaller size, they are not recommended for children and have a limited battery life.

5. Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids

Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) hearing aids, also known as "mini BTEs," are a smaller version of the traditional behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. These devices sit behind the ear, but the speaker (or receiver) is placed directly in the ear canal for better sound quality. Instead of a large tube, RIC hearing aids use a thin, flexible tube to connect the device to the earpiece. They are suitable for a wide range of hearing loss levels.

The earpiece is usually smaller than a regular BTE, but some models still use a standard earmold. This design has many benefits, including:

• Reduces the feeling of a blocked ear (the occlusion effect)
• Makes the device more comfortable
• Decreases unwanted noise
• Makes the hearing aid look less noticeable to many people

6. Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are available without a prescription, making them a convenient and accessible option for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. These devices are designed to amplify sounds, offering a cost-effective solution. However, while they are an easy-to-acquire and -use alternative, they may have limited customization compared to prescription hearing aids.

While OTC hearing aids are affordable and accessible, they may not offer the same customization or professional support as prescription options. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before purchasing OTC hearing aids to ensure they are the right choice for your hearing needs.

Do Certain Styles Work Better?

Hearing aids come in different styles and suit a range of levels of hearing loss. BTE hearing aids are ideal for people with moderate to profound hearing loss, while CIC or ITC models are better for those with mild to moderate hearing loss who want a more discreet option. When choosing the right style, it’s important to consider your level of hearing loss, lifestyle, and how visible you'd like them.

How to Choose

Choosing the right hearing aid depends on factors like the severity of your hearing loss, comfort, battery life, and aesthetic preference. A hearing specialist can help guide you toward the best option for your needs. It’s also important to consider how much you are willing to spend, as prices vary significantly among models.

Here are some common hearing aid features to consider:

• Bluetooth compatibility: Enables phone calls, music, and audio streaming directly to the hearing aid
• Directional microphone: Focuses on sounds in front of the wearer, helping with hearing in noisy environments
• Feedback cancellation: Prevents whistling or buzzing sounds
• Noise reduction: Reduces background noise for clearer sound
  
• Rechargeable batteries or batteries with a long life: Eliminates the need for frequent battery changes
• Telecoil: Enhances hearing in places with induction loop systems (public places that can transmit sound directly to a hearing aid), such as theaters and airports
• Volume control: Allows users to adjust the sound level easily
• Water resistance: Protects against damage from moisture and sweat
  
• Wireless connectivity: Allows connection to smartphones, TVs, and other devices

How to Care for Your Hearing Aids

Proper care is crucial to maintaining the performance and longevity of your hearing aids. Here are some general tips:

• Clean your hearing aids regularly with a soft cloth.
• Check batteries with a battery tester and replace them if low.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance.
• Keep them dry and store them in a safe, clean place when not in use.
• Store batteries in a safe place and away from young children.

Summary

Hearing aids come in various styles, each designed to accommodate different types and degrees of hearing loss. Whether you choose a discreet in-the-canal style or a more durable behind-the-ear model, it is important to select one that matches your needs.

With proper care, hearing aids can significantly improve your hearing and quality of life. Consult with a professional to find the best hearing aid for you.