Types of Hearing Aids

The main electronics sit in a small case behind the ear, connected to a custom earmold or dome in the ear canal via a thin tube. BTEs suit virtually all degrees of hearing loss and are easy to handle — ideal for those with dexterity challenges.

• Suits mild to profound loss
• Easy to clean and handle
• Long battery life
• Compatible with telecoils

Similar to BTE but with the speaker (receiver) placed directly in the ear canal via a thin wire, making the behind-the-ear unit smaller and more discreet. RIC devices offer excellent sound quality and are the most widely fitted style today.

• Very discreet profile
• Natural sound quality
• Suits mild to severe loss
• Easy to upgrade receiver

Custom-made to fill the outer bowl of the ear. ITEs are larger than canal styles, making them easier to insert and adjust — a good choice for people who want custom fit without the very small size of IIC or CIC devices.

• Custom shell for comfort
• Easier to handle
• Directional microphones
• Suits mild to severe loss

Smaller than ITE, sitting partly in the ear canal. ITCs balance discretion with ease of use and can include features like volume controls and directional microphones.

• More discreet than ITE
• Custom fit
• Some manual controls
• Suits mild to moderate loss

Fits almost entirely inside the ear canal, making it nearly invisible. CICs are custom-made and use the ear's natural shape to reduce wind noise. Best for mild to moderate hearing loss.

• Nearly invisible
• Reduced wind noise
• Natural sound localization
• Custom fit

The smallest custom hearing aid available, sitting deep in the second bend of the ear canal and completely invisible when worn. IICs suit mild to moderate hearing loss and those who prioritize cosmetic discretion above all else.

• Completely invisible
• Deep canal placement
• Reduced occlusion effect
• Natural sound quality