7 Best Affordable Hearing Aids in 2024 | Fortune Recommends Health (2024)

Age-related hearing loss is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions impacting older people today and is estimated to affect as many as 900 million people by 2050. ( 1 ) Yet, research indicates that less than one-third of people over age 70 have ever used a hearing aid to address their hearing needs—even though this is the primary way to manage the condition and prevent the issues that come with untreated hearing loss like cognitive decline, dementia, balance issues, frequent falls, and more. ( 2 )

“Possible reasons for the low adoption rate of hearing aids could include the stigma associated with wearing hearing aids, the high cost of devices, and a lack of awareness about the serious consequences of untreated hearing loss, such as cognitive decline and an increased risk of falls,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, quadruple-board certified medical reviewer.

Until recently, cost was the primary prohibitive factor when it came to selecting and wearing hearing aids. Without a prescription—and the financial means to pay for pricey, prescription hearing aids—most people went without addressing their hearing needs. However, in 2022, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss, making hearing accessible for some people. ( 3 )

To help you weed through the available over-the-counter options and select the best affordable hearing aids for your needs, we spent hours testing 34 makes and models of hearing aids. Not only did we consider the price and value of the hearing aids, but we also put them through hours of wear and testing to evaluate the sound quality, noise reduction, and feedback control. We also considered the battery options, durability, and ease of use to curate this list of the best affordable hearing aids.

Our picks for the best affordable hearing aids

• Best overall: Jabra Enhance Select
• Best rechargeable: Audien Atom Pro 2
• Most discreet: Eargo SE
• Best simple: MDHearing Volt
• Most user-friendly: Lexie Lumen
• Best for Bluetooth streaming: Go Hearing Go Ultra
• Most high-tech OTC: Lexie B2 Plus

Best overall affordable hearing aid: Jabra Enhance Select

Why we like Jabra Enhance Select as best overall

The Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids earned top marks in our testing process for their excellent sound quality and ease of use. We also were impressed with how discreet, lightweight, and comfortable these devices were. In fact, our tester indicated that the hearing aids were so unobtrusive that they forgot they were even wearing them.

We also appreciated how detailed the accompanying app was. In fact, our tester said it was one of the best they have ever tried. Not only is it thorough and detailed, but it also provides so many options that you can customize these hearing aids and truly make them your own. Though the information on the app is extensive and might be overwhelming initially for those unfamiliar with technology, it is well-organized and easy to use. Plus, if you need help, customer support people are ready and willing to walk you through the setup.

But perhaps the most impressive option with these hearing aids is the versatility in choosing and personalizing your sound inputs based on your environment or what you’re doing. You can also customize the hearing aids to your hearing loss. If you need help doing so, our tester found that the remote audiology and customer support team were helpful, friendly, patient, and knowledgeable.

As an added bonus, these hearing aids are easy to clean and care for. In fact, our tester noted that you can simply wipe them with a cloth, while the wax filters are easy to change with the tool provided.

That said, using these hearing aids is not without a few hiccups. For instance, you will need to change out the provided domes until you find the right fit for you—a process our reviewer found a little challenging. Part of this difficulty was because these pieces were so thin that our tester was afraid they might rip or tear.

We also found that when you remove the hearing aids from the charger, they automatically reset to the middle volume or the default setting. Knowing this ahead of time will save you a great deal of frustration, as you will not have to wonder why your levels are not set where you want them.

What customers are saying

Most reviewers find that the Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids offer good sound and high-quality, durable devices. They also mention that besides the amazing sound, the companion app for the hearing aids is intuitive and straightforward.

Meanwhile, Best Buy verified reviewer Daniel G. appreciated the product support, especially because these hearing aids were purchased for his elderly father, who needed some extra assistance getting started. But he notes that despite needing help, his Dad loved the hearing aids. “Putting these hearing aids in opened up a whole new world for him.”

That said, some reviewers are disappointed that these hearing aids are primarily compatible with Apple devices like the iPhone and the iPad and are very limited regarding Android compatibility. What’s more, Amazon verified reviewer David W. did not like that you must register your device with the company and download several applications. “While I can use my phone for Bluetooth connections, I don’t really like loading random applications,” he says.

Specs

Best rechargeable affordable hearing aid: Audien Atom Pro 2

Why we like Audien Atom Pro 2 as best rechargeable

Our testing revealed that these Audien Atom Pro 2 hearing aids rank near the top regarding battery life. Not only does this in-the-canal hearing aid provide nearly 24 hours of charge, but it also comes with a portable charging case that serves a dual role.

It efficiently and quickly charges the hearing aids, but it also uses UV light to sanitize them while they charge—a feature that ensures you put a clean device in your ear every time. Our tester struggled somewhat with changing the wax filters due to their small and delicate design. This could pose a challenge for anyone with dexterity issues.

We also appreciate that these hearing aids have a simplistic and straightforward design. You can choose from five different volume settings and four different program settings: conversation, noisy environment, road noise, and outdoor. Plus, the volume and programs can be adjusted by simply tapping the side of the device, and the device notifies you of the changes with a series of beeps. And while our tester found this easy to work with, they did say that someone with more significant hearing loss may struggle to hear these notifications.

Overall, these hearing aids are at a price point that makes them a good starter pair—especially since there is no companion app to familiarize yourself with. While having an app is a feature some may prefer, those looking for something straightforward and easy to use will appreciate the ease of use of these hearing aids. Plus, there’s no “left side” or “right side,” so you can expect a universal fit every time. They’re also easy to wear, comfortable, and lightweight—though our tester did report that their ears felt congested after long hours of wear.

That said, it should be noted that these hearing aids have been instructed by the Better Business Bureau, National Advertising Division, to cease claiming that their devices can help with tinnitus management. Tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing noise in one or both ears, sometimes associated with hearing loss. ( 4 ) It also indicated that Audien should not be claiming that their technology is on par with $5,000 prescription-level hearing aids. ( 5 ) To date, it appears some of these claims have been removed from their website.

What customers are saying

People who have purchased the Audien Atom Pro 2 like the ease of use of these hearing devices. They appreciate the comfortable fit, and like that they are simple and straightforward to use.

For instance, Amazon verified reviewer Jeannie M. appreciates the devices’ automatic on and off and likes their long battery life. “[I also] love the UV cleaning idea and the small size of the charging case.”

Meanwhile, Amazon verified reviewer N. Georgia appreciates how easy it is to change modes or adjust the volume. “Fast recharging requires simply placing them in the portable charging case, which can also be used to recharge them while traveling or if power is lost,” she adds.

That said, opinions are mixed on these devices’ sound quality and overall durability. Some find the sound a little tinny, while others are concerned about the longevity of the devices.

Specs

Best discreet affordable hearing aid: Eargo SE

Why we like Eargo SE as the best discreet

While it may seem impossible at times to find a hearing aid that is not immediately noticeable, Eargo SE proves otherwise. These hearing aids are so small in size they are almost invisible. Plus, they are so unassuming that you may even forget they are there once they are in your ears. They even come with a small charger that our tester found is easy to put in your pocket when on the go.

We also appreciate that these hearing aids are comfortable despite fitting so deeply in the canal. Our tester never had to worry about them falling out. They also indicated that these hearing aids are more seamless and give less of a plugged-in feeling than other completely-in-the-canal devices.

That said, their small size also can make it a bit more challenging for them to get in and out of the ear, especially for people who struggle with fine motor skills. While they will require a little more attention to detail when it comes to cleaning since they are completely in the canal, they do come with several cleaning tools—such as a cleaning brush and cloth—to ensure the device you’re putting in your ear stays clean, safe, and usable.

These hearing aids also come with several features that allow for extensive customization. Users can choose from a variety of programs and listening parameters within each program, as well as a variety of volume options and environmental settings. The company also offers an initial hearing screening for self-fitting that sets the devices to your hearing loss needs, though you can still make changes in the app or by double-tapping the ear if you don’t like the recommended settings.

The only downside to these minute hearing aids is that they don’t come with Bluetooth, and their battery life seems to wane around 16 hours. We also wish there was a troubleshooting section in the instruction manual to help quickly address minor issues along the way. Our tester also found that updates tend to take longer than expected, which can be a challenge if you are in a hurry or need access to your hearing aids immediately.

What customers are saying

People who have purchased the Eargo SE hearing aids appreciate that they are almost impossible to detect once in the ear and note that the enhanced hearing is amazing. They also report that other people’s voices sound clearer, less muffled, and easier to understand.

In fact, Amazon verified reviewer Paul D. notes that his expectations were exceeded.

He also found that setting up the hearing aids with the intuitive phone app was very simple and straightforward. “I have found them very useful during meetings, especially ones in large rooms with multiple people. People’s voices seem clearer, less muffled, and easier to understand. This really has helped me stay focused and attentive during work meetings as well as club meetings.”

Meanwhile, Amazon reviewer Julius W. indicates that the Eargo SE hearing aids have allowed him to fully hear again, especially in crowded environments. “The online tutorials offer outstanding customer support…and the online phone app combined with the excellent technology provide high-quality hearing enhancement at a very reasonable price point.”

That said, there is some concern about their durability. For instance, Amazon verified reviewer Francesco reports that he has been using Eargo devices for two-plus years, and has already experienced malfunctions with two pairs of hearing aids. His concern is that they may need replacing more often than other, more expensive, over-the-counter hearing aids.

Specs

Best simple affordable hearing aid: MDHearing Volt

Why we like MDHearing Volt as best simple

Nothing is more frustrating than feeling limited by technology—either because it is not intuitive or because it’s too difficult to use. But that’s not the case with these versatile, straightforward MDHearing Volt hearing aids.

Not only are they easy to use, but they can also be adjusted with buttons on the actual hearing aid, removing the burden of navigating a complicated app or pairing them with a phone. This fact makes them beneficial for anyone who wants a quality pair of affordable hearing aids that are both simplistic and versatile.

Through our testing process, we also discovered that these hearing aids have a simple set-up process and offer very clear instructions. We appreciate that they come with a two-sided cleaning tool that is equipped with a long wire that can be pushed through the tubing to clear out any stuck moisture or ear wax. There’s even a brush to clean the tips and buttons. These accessories help ensure that the hearing aids remain clean and sanitary after regular use.

Our tester also liked the helpful “Read Me First” guide, which explains what to expect while wearing hearing aids from day one through week three. They were impressed with the troubleshooting information and the support provided when things weren’t working as they should.

That said, these hearing aids tend to be more basic and do not contain many technological features. In fact, there is no companion app, and there aren’t many customization options. Moreover, our tester found it somewhat cumbersome to adjust the settings on the hearing aid itself rather than through an app. However, these may be a good choice for those who are easily frustrated by technology.

It’s worth noting that, while the Volt’s price tag is officially $1,600, customers can expect to find them frequently discounted to $397 per pair. But since this is technically a sale price, it’s subject to change at any time.

What customers are saying

When it comes to the MDHearing Volt hearing aids, people tend to like the value and the versatility of these audiologist-designed devices. And many appreciate the sound quality as well, though experiences have been mixed in this area.

For instance, Amazon verified reviewer Jim notes that he never realized what he was missing until he put these hearing aids in his ears. He also appreciates that the hearing aids are well made and that the controls are easy to master—especially since there is a wide range of volumes and programs to choose from.

Meanwhile, Amazon verified reviewer Kevin K. likes the fact that these hearing aids are not only versatile and easy to use but that the company offers solid customer service. “I am very old, so everything is more difficult…MDHearing has been very helpful with the very few problems I have had.”

That said, opinions are mixed on the feedback and noise level. Some verified reviewers, such as an Amazon shopper named “Happy Dae,” have even noted that they will not stay in their ears. “They are of no value if they will not stay in my ears 100% of the time.”

Specs

Most user-friendly affordable hearing aid: Lexie Lumen

Why we like Lexie Lumen as most user-friendly

Shoppers looking for user-friendly hearing aids that are easy to connect to and set up will find just that and more with a pair of Lexie Lumen. Not only do these hearing aids provide voice prompts instead of beeps to let you know which program you’ve selected, but they will even tell you when your battery is getting low.

If you are experiencing challenges, you can contact support directly through the app using video, chat, or even phone. Because these hearing aids are easier to use than most of the ones we tested, you may not have to contact them much at all. However, if you do, our tester found them to be knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly.

Our tester was also impressed with how easy it was to change the volume and settings with these hearing aids—a real bonus as hearing needs frequently fluctuate. Even cleaning these affordable hearing aids was a piece of cake. Plus, our tester appreciated the rewards feature, which is designed to encourage people to wear their hearing aids. However, given the good sound quality, this likely won’t be an issue.

“Some people may not like wearing their hearing aids because they can be uncomfortable, especially if they cause irritation in their ears or fit poorly,” Dr. Dasgupta says. “Others may dislike the background noise or feedback that some hearing aids give, making it hard to focus on conversations or your surroundings.”

One downside is that you must enter your phone number and email to use the app. This may be off-putting for some people who dislike sharing their personal information, particularly with large companies.

Plus, there are times when noise reduction is not as effective as some would like, and background noise can filter through, especially in busy environments. Some of this may be tied to a person’s brain needing time to adjust and get used to hearing sounds and noises it hasn’t heard in a while. So, it’s normal for things to sound strange at first. ( 6 )

What customers are saying

When it comes to the Lexie Lumen hearing aids, customers who have purchased them appreciate the quality, value, fit, and ease of use of these intuitive devices. Not only are they pleased with the easy setup, but they also tend to like the flexibility offered when making necessary adjustments.

Headly, another Amazon verified reviewer, also appreciated the hearing test—especially because it allowed her to get the best possible experience from the hearing aids. She also liked the cleaning brush and cleaning wire and the extensive owner’s manual. “I’m impressed with these hearing aids, and for the money, you can’t beat them,” she says.

That said, another Amazon verified reviewer, Spirit, found that hearing aids tend to project the sound behind the ear better than the sounds in front of the ear. She felt like a room full of ambient noises was picked up and amplified more than the speech in front of her. “This is annoying in a noisy restaurant,” she says.

Specs

Best affordable hearing aid for Bluetooth streaming: Go Hearing Go Ultra

Why we like Go Hearing Go Ultra as best for Bluetooth streaming

From Go Hearing, the Go Ultra hearing aids are one of the more affordable hearing aids on our list, but that certainly doesn’t mean they fall short in any way. In fact, the Go Ultras are packed with features that make them among the best in their class.

Aside from the quality digital sound and noise reduction capabilities, these hearing aids even have memory recall. This means you can establish your preferred settings and not have to worry about them being lost or having to duplicate your efforts the next time you put them in. And since the battery life runs up to 20 hours, it’ll last all day long without worry.

Plus, our tester was impressed with how easy it was to set these devices up, including the Bluetooth capabilities. Not only are the devices simple to use, straightforward, and intuitive, but they also include several useful images and graphics in the user manual that help you through the setup and customization process. The company’s support team is ready to help if you’re still having issues.

We were also impressed with how surprisingly simple it was to use Bluetooth for phone calls and music listening, though using it does drain the battery faster than using the hearing aids without it. While Bluetooth works well on phones or tablets, it is not compatible with computers, so using Bluetooth while on a Zoom call is not an option.

Moreover, there is no accompanying app to go with the hearing aids. Everything is done through buttons on the devices. But the top and bottom buttons are easy to differentiate—even when they are in the ears.

Our tester also noted that the retention wire tickled their ear somewhat but later discovered that the user manual indicates that the wire can be cut for a better fit. This may eliminate some of the movement, causing the tickling sensation.

What customers are saying

Those who have purchased the Go Hearing Go Ultra hearing aids appreciate the quality of the devices and the approachable price point. They also seem to enjoy the Bluetooth capabilities, though they do note that using them can cause the battery to drain faster than it normally would.

For instance, Nesje, an Amazon verified reviewer using Bluetooth functionality, allows them to connect to the television so that they can enjoy a program without disturbing their suitemates. “When walking, I can easily toggle between hearing mode and my audiobooks on my phone,” they add. I have tried Bluetooth on a number of different devices, and these hearing aids are awesome.”

Meanwhile, Tre, another Amazon verified reviewer, notes that the battery life is good for these hearing aids, but they lose a bit of power when connected via Bluetooth. “They lose a ton more battery when used with Bluetooth for constant talking and streaming, but the rechargeable case helps greatly, and the indicator lights are very helpful.”

However, if you have warranty-related issues with hearing aids, getting help from support can sometimes be challenging. In fact, one verified reviewer says they emailed customer support as instructed about a warranty issue and did not receive a reply for several weeks.

Specs

Best high-tech OTC affordable hearing aid: Lexie B2 Plus

Why we like Lexie B2 Plus as best high-tech OTC

For those who like more technologically advanced products, the Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids do not disappoint. Our testing process revealed that utilizing the accompanying app is not only easy but also fairly intuitive. Even setting up call streaming and connecting to Bluetooth was a breeze for our testers.

Plus, the app is equipped with handy walk-through videos, images, and diagrams on everything from correctly fitting the hearing aid to using all the technical features. We also found that you can toggle easily between sound profiles and use the app to update microphone directionality and balance. In fact, our testers noted that this app is far and above the apps for other similar devices.

Though the app is useful and loaded with features, you are not restricted to using it exclusively when you make adjustments. You have the option of changing the volume setting in the app or directly on the hearing aids themselves. This flexibility helps these hearing aids fit seamlessly into someone’s life while still providing access to a number of technological features.

We also appreciate the strong audio quality and feel that it provides a super clear hearing experience. The charging case and other accessories are definitely high-quality.

However, we were disheartened by the fact that you had to input your phone number and email to utilize the app. This requirement may be a turnoff for people who prefer not to share private information.

What customers are saying

Customers who have purchased the Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids like their technological features, ease of setup, comfort, and adjustability. They appreciate the ability to customize them to their specific needs and are happy with the value and connectivity.

In fact, Robert M, an Amazon verified reviewer, says these devices allow the user to experience realistic sounds. He finds conversations more natural and lets his partner set the television volume. “The sound is now clear and understandable at a much lower setting,” he says.

However some people do find the sound quality a little lacking, and the high-frequency beeps and clicks tend to produce a slight echo through the hearing aids. “It may be that I’ve been without my high-frequency hearing for so long that I don’t remember what the world actually sounds like,” says James S., an Amazon verified reviewer.

“But being able to hear my wife speak even when she’s not facing me and being able to pick individual voices out of the jabber of a crowded restaurant is great,” he adds. “You miss these things even if you don’t realize it, and the frustration gets to you.”

Specs

How we test hearing aids

Hearing aids are crucial to help users understand and interact with the world around them. We aim to empower readers to make the best purchase possible for their needs, so we thoroughly test and evaluate products in this market. Read our full hearing aid testing methodology for more information on our testing process.

Performance (auditory effectiveness)—40%

We evaluate hearing aids on their performance in the following categories to assess their overall performance.

• Sound quality
• Noise reduction
• Feedback control
• Programmability and connectivity

Features—30%

Features like water resistance and Bluetooth connectivity can take an affordable hearing aid from good to great.

• Durability
• Battery options
• Hearing loss range
• Wireless connectivity
• Water resistance
• Safety features

Value—20%

Maintenance costs, insurance coverage, and financing programs can all vastly affect the overall price of your hearing aid.

• Insurance coverage
• Financing options

Customer experience—10%

We evaluate customer experience factors because fast, free shipping and friendly customer service can make all the difference in a product’s overall value and usefulness.

• Shipping
• Warranty
• Customer support

What to look for in the best affordable hearing aids

When it comes to selecting an over-the-counter hearing aid, start by considering your hearing loss. An over-the-counter hearing aid may not be the right choice for severe or profound hearing loss, as these are only intended for mild to moderate hearing loss. ( 3 )

Also, consider the sound clarity and ensure the hearing aids fit your ears well and are comfortable. Ideally, you should forget they’re in your ears once you get past the adjustment period. Not only does the proper fit impact sound quality, but it also influences whether or not you will wear them consistently.

“Ensuring the right fit for your hearing aids is very important because it affects both how well you hear and whether you’ll actually wear them,” Dr. Dasgupta says. “If they’re not fitting well, it can interfere with the sound quality and make them uncomfortable, which makes you less likely to want to wear them regularly. ”

Finally, consider the hearing aids’ features and whether they fit your goals and lifestyle, what type of battery you need, and whether you would benefit from features like Bluetooth. ( 7 )

How to save money on hearing aids

To save money, consider purchasing over-the-counter hearing aids, which are less expensive than prescription ones. You also should opt for an inexpensive model or design. For instance, behind-the-ear styles are typically less expensive than in-the-canal or completely-in-the-canal hearing aids. Likewise, choosing a hearing aid with a replaceable battery over a rechargeable one is another way to keep the cost down.

You also can check to see if your state has an agency for the deaf and hard of hearing that can advocate for you and help you find affordable hearing aids. These agencies vary by state, but you can check the National Association of State Agencies of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing website to see if your state is listed. ( 8 ) You can also check with several nonprofit organizations to see if they can offer financial help. These include the Hearing Aid Project, Foundation for Sight and Sound, Miracle-Ear Foundation, and Starkey Hearing Foundation. ( 9 )

FAQs

Our experts

Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM

Dr. Raj is a quadruple board-certified physician by the American Board of Internal Medicine, specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care, and sleep medicine. He is also an active clinical researcher with over 20 years of experience teaching worldwide.

Krista Manning

Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.