Hearing Aid Styles
If you’re considering hearing aids, you may be surprised by the variety of styles available today. While traditional Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are still common, there are many other options designed to fit different lifestyles and hearing needs. At Revolution Hearing, we work with all major hearing aid manufacturers, ensuring that you have access to the best hearing aid styles to suit your unique requirements.
Basic Styles of Hearing Aids
When you work with our hearing specialists, you’ll have a wide range of hearing aid styles to choose from. Here’s an overview of the basic types available:
In-The-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids are popular for their versatility and custom fit. These devices range in size from low-profile designs that are visible to those small enough to be placed entirely within your ear canal, making them nearly invisible. ITE hearing aids are typically suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss, though some models can also help with more severe loss.
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are the most recognized style. Positioned behind the ear, these devices connect to the ear canal via a tube. BTE hearing aids are versatile, capable of addressing mild to profound hearing loss. They are also available in various sizes, including mini BTE models, which offer the benefits of BTE hearing aids in a smaller, more discreet package.
Rechargeable Hearing Aids
For those who prefer to avoid the hassle of changing batteries, rechargeable hearing aids are a great option. Currently, only BTE-style hearing aids offer rechargeable models, with some hybrids like the Oticon Opn that allow for both rechargeable use and traditional batteries.
Explore Hearing Aid Styles
Full-Shell In-The-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
Full-shell ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit within the shell of your ear. Their larger size allows them to accommodate more features, such as feedback reduction and directional microphones, making them suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.Pros:
- Custom-made for a perfect fit
- Longer battery life
- Easy to handle
- Suitable for mild to severe hearing loss
Cons:
- Visible design
- Can cause a plugged-up sensation
Half-Shell In-The-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
Similar to the full-shell version, half-shell ITE hearing aids offer a lower profile while maintaining many of the benefits of the full-shell design. However, they can be slightly more challenging to position correctly in the ear.
Pros:
- Low-profile design
- Longer battery life than smaller ITE styles
- Suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing loss
Cons:
- Can be difficult to handle for those with dexterity issues
- May still be visible
In-The-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids
In-The-Canal (ITC) hearing aids are positioned partly in the ear canal with a portion extending into the bowl of the ear. They are more discreet than ITE models but typically offer less power, making them best for mild to moderately severe hearing loss.
Pros:
- Custom-made for a snug fit
- Discreet design
- Includes manual controls
Cons:
- Visible design
- Prone to moisture and earwax damage
- May cause a plugged-up sensation
Completely-In-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids
Completely-In-Canal (CIC) hearing aids fit entirely within the ear canal, with only a small portion visible. They are nearly invisible when worn, making them a popular choice for those who prefer discreet hearing aids.
Pros:
- Barely visible
- Custom-made for a perfect fit
- Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss
Cons:
- Shorter battery life
- Prone to earwax and moisture damage
- No manual controls
Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aids
Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) hearing aids are designed to sit deep within the ear canal, making them virtually invisible. These devices are ideal for those with minimal hearing loss who want a discreet option.
Pros:
- Practically invisible
- Custom-made for a perfect fit
- Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss
Cons:
- Shorter battery life
- Prone to earwax and moisture damage
- No manual controls
Receiver-In-The-Ear (RITE) Hearing Aids
Receiver-In-The-Ear (RITE), also known as Receiver-In-Canal (RIC), hearing aids feature a small speaker that sits in the ear canal, connected to the main body of the device, which rests behind the ear. This style is often less noticeable than traditional BTE hearing aids and provides clear sound quality.
Pros:
- Suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing loss
- Smaller and less visible than traditional BTE aids
- Repairs can often be done in-office
- Lessens the sensation of being plugged up
Cons:
- Visible design
- Speaker in the ear canal can be prone to earwax and moisture damage
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are the most commonly recognized style of hearing aid. They are large enough to incorporate advanced technology, such as tinnitus management, Bluetooth connectivity with smart devices, and many other modern hearing aid advancements. The tube of a BTE hearing aid does not always end in an earmold, but this is common for BTE devices. Mini BTE hearing aids offer the benefits of the standard BTE style while being smaller and more discreet.
Pros:
- Appropriate for mild to profound hearing loss
- Repairs can often be done in our clinic office
- More space for advanced hearing technology
- Easy to handle
- Earmold custom made for you
- Longest battery life (some types are rechargeable)
Cons:
- Most visible style of hearing aids
- Earmold can cause feelings of being plugged up
Choosing the Right Hearing Aid Style
Selecting the right hearing aid style is a personal decision that depends on your hearing loss, lifestyle, and preferences. At Revolution Hearing, our specialists will work with you to determine the best option for your needs, ensuring that you get the most out of your hearing aids.
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