The Top Hearing Aid Picks for 2025 – Taking a Closer Look at Popular Brands, Models and Features

Navigating the diverse landscape of available hearing aids, each boasting various promises, can be a challenging task. The multitude of factors to consider when choosing a suitable hearing aid requires a comprehensive approach, typically initiated by a consultation with a hearing care practitioner (HCP). This consultation investigates  the potential causes of hearing loss, medical history, lifestyle considerations, and the functional difficulties experienced due to their hearing loss.

Subsequent to the case history analysis, individuals undergo a series of tests to assess the degree and configuration of their hearing loss. Speech in noise tests are also frequently conducted by the HCP to gauge the challenges faced in noisy environments and determine the potential benefits of hearing aids.

• Hearing Aid Features Most Desired by Users and Professionals
• Top Hearing Aid Picks for 2024

It is crucial to emphasize that in the field of prescription hearing aids, the testing process coupled with the expertise of an HCP provides a holistic approach. This approach integrates the potential detection of underlying medical conditions, appropriate referrals, and advanced measures to ensure that the prescribed hearing aid settings are based on precise measurements, utilizing advanced algorithms for optimal levels of amplification and comfort.

Moreover, hearing loss is a deeply personal experience. Traditional prescription fitting not only addresses the technical aspects but also offers patients comprehensive counseling, support, and aural rehabilitation when the prescribed guidelines are diligently followed.

In this article, we look into the most coveted attributes of hearing aids, considering both user preferences and professional perspectives to identify the top prescription hearing aids for the current year. Understanding what users and hearing care professionals prioritize provides valuable insights into the qualities that define the best hearing aids.

Hearing Aid Features Most Desired by Users

User-desired features play a crucial role in shaping the perspectives of individuals using hearing aids. Addressing these desired features enhances the likelihood that users will fully embrace and positively perceive their hearing aids, fostering a more favorable attitude towards adopting and consistently using these devices.

Key Patient-Desired Features Include:

• Rechargeability
• Hearing speech in noise
• Appearance
• Price considerations (Budget or medical insurance)
• Bluetooth and streaming capabilities
• Tinnitus relief
• App-based control
• Remote support options
• Physical comfort
• Noise reduction

Similarly, hearing professionals are guided by desired features in their choices when recommending hearing aids. Their preferences are influenced by experiences with specific hearing aids and the attributes that contribute to a successful fit, ensuring satisfied clients.

Essential Features Recommended by Professionals:

• Feedback management
• User-friendly programming interface
• Evidence-based support for hearing aid functionality
• Directional microphones
• Noise reduction
• Manufacturer support

While this is certainly not an exhaustive list, most professionals would agree that the essentials will be an excellent starting point and are often standard features available on most of today’s modern prescription hearing aids.

A Quick Look at the Best Hearing Aids

• Future-Proof Connectivity: ReSound Nexia
• Next-Generation Hearing: Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio
• Ultra Fast Processing and Natural Sound: Widex SmartRIC
• Personalized Hearing with 4D Sensor Technology: Oticon Intent
• Most Discreet Hearing Aids: Phonak Lyric
• Advanced Sound Processing Meets AI-Powered Adaptability: Starkey Edge AI
• Enhanced Sound Processing: Signia Pure Charge&Go IX
• Ultimate Power and Battery Life: Signia Motion SP X Charge&Go
• Hearing Tech with Style: Phonak Slim

 

ReSound Nexia Hearing Aids – Future Proof Connectivity

The ReSound Nexia is the latest solution from GN Hearing, which replaced the company’s popular Omnia devices. The Nexia range introduces two non-rechargeable RIE (Receiver-In-Ear) models and a compact rechargeable microRIE. The microRIE stands out as the smallest and most comfortable style, boasting advanced technology.

Additionally, ReSound Nexia seamlessly connects with Auracast™ broadcast audio, offering an exciting advancement in connectivity for individuals with hearing loss. 

Key Features:

• Smallest Rechargeable RIE: The microRIE is 25% smaller than the standard RIE, prioritizing comfort, microphone performance, and convenience. It includes features like an accelerometer for answering calls with a double tap and a wireless CROS/BiCROS system for individuals with single-sided deafness.
• Improved Speech Understanding in Noise: Addressing common pain points for hearing aid users, ReSound Nexia focuses on enhancing speech understanding in noisy environments, providing industry-leading access to surrounding sounds.
• ReSound’s M&RIE system combines traditional hearing aid mics with an in-ear mic for natural sound capture, addressing limitations in RIC and BTE aids. It is said to enhance sound localization by 9% to 10%, benefiting those with mild hearing loss. Suitability depends on ear canal size, with potential feedback issues in smaller canals. Hearing care providers assess compatibility.
• Binaural Beamformer and Omni-Directional Listening: The combination of a 4-microphone binaural beamformer and omni-directional listening allows users to automatically hear speech from all directions.
• Bluetooth® LE Audio: ReSound Nexia features Bluetooth® LE Audio, the new connectivity standard, offering multiple simultaneous connections, hands-free calls with compatible devices, and improved sound quality with lower battery consumption.
• Compatibility with Auracast™ Broadcast Audio: A standout feature, ReSound Nexia is compatible with Auracast™ broadcast audio, transforming the hearing aid experience by delivering important announcements and facilitating audio streaming in private and public spaces.

Limitations:

• Only 3 technology levels offered, so may be out of reach for some budgets

Average pricing ranges from $3500-$8000/pair for professionally fit devices, depending upon performance level chosen and clinic service offering provided. The ReSound premium technology typically includes 3 year repair warranty and 3 year loss/damage insurance.

Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio Hearing Aids – Next-Generation Hearing

Phonak has introduced the Audéo Sphere Infinio, a next-generation hearing aid platform that leverages real-time AI processing to enhance speech clarity in complex listening environments. The Sphere Infinio aims to improve the way users perceive speech in noisy settings through a dedicated AI-driven deep neural network (DNN). Unlike traditional noise reduction algorithms, this system is trained on over 22 million real-world sound samples, allowing it to adapt dynamically and optimize clarity based on changing environmental conditions.

A key innovation in the Infinio platform is Spheric Speech Clarity™, designed to enhance speech understanding from multiple directions rather than focusing only on front-facing speakers. This feature provides an improved signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of up to 10dB, allowing users to follow conversations more easily in group settings or dynamic environments. Additionally, the DEEPSONIC AI chip, capable of processing 7,700 million operations per second, further refines speech enhancement in real time, offering greater differentiation between voices and background noise.

Beyond sound processing improvements, the Infinio platform introduces enhanced connectivity and user accessibility features. With Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast™ capabilities, users can experience better streaming fidelity, multi-device pairing, and extended connectivity range. Hands-free calling is also improved, providing a smoother transition between different devices. These updates, combined with remote programming support via the myPhonak app, position the Audéo Sphere Infinio as a more adaptive and responsive hearing aid solution for a variety of listening situations.

Key Features:

• DEEPSONIC AI Chip

  • Dedicated real-time AI processing for speech clarity
  • Capable of 7,700 million operations per second
  • Trained on 22 million real-world sounds for adaptive noise reduction

• Spheric Speech Clarity™

  • Improves speech understanding from multiple directions
  • 10dB SNR improvement, surpassing traditional beamforming technology
  • Enhances group conversations and dynamic speech environments

• Enhanced Bluetooth Connectivity

  • Bluetooth LE Audio for higher-quality streaming
  • Auracast™ technology enables multi-device pairing and direct audio streaming from public broadcast systems
  • Hands-free calling with extended connection range

• Smart Control & Remote Customization

  • myPhonak app for real-time user adjustments
  • TeleCare support allows remote audiologist programming
  • Adaptive AI settings that learn user preferences over time

Widex SmartRIC Hearing Aids – Ultra Fast Processing and Innovative Design for More Natural Hearing Experience

Widex has introduced the SmartRIC, a new receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid designed to improve both speech clarity and listening comfort through an innovative L-shaped design. This departure from traditional hearing aid styles allows for optimized microphone positioning, which enhances directional hearing and reduces unwanted background noise. By placing the microphones at a slight upward angle, the SmartRIC improves signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), helping users hear conversations more clearly, even in challenging environments like restaurants, meetings, and outdoor spaces.

The SmartRIC builds on Widex’s well-known Moment platform, incorporating PureSound™ with ZeroDelay™ technology, which reduces processing delay to just 0.5 milliseconds. This improvement minimizes the artificial “tinny” or “metallic” sound that some hearing aid wearers experience, instead delivering a more natural and immersive listening experience. In addition, the new wind and touch noise reduction system significantly decreases disruptions from wind interference and accidental contact, making it a strong option for active users and outdoor enthusiasts.

Beyond its sound quality enhancements, the Widex SmartRIC also offers a long-lasting rechargeable battery, capable of providing up to 37 hours of use on a single charge. The portable charging case supplies up to five additional full charges, making it a convenient choice for those who travel frequently or prefer extended battery life without daily charging concerns. Combined with Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and streaming, the SmartRIC is designed to deliver a balance of performance, usability, and discreet design for modern hearing aid users.

Key Features:

• Optimized Microphone Placement
  • L-shaped design positions microphones at an ideal angle for improved speech focus
  • Enhanced signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for better speech clarity in noisy environments
• PureSound™ with ZeroDelay™ Technology
  • 0.5-millisecond processing delay minimizes artificial sound distortions
  • Provides a more natural listening experience with a clearer, more immersive sound
• Advanced Wind and Touch Noise Reduction
  • Reduces wind noise by up to 20 dB, improving outdoor usability
  • Touch noise reduction of 88%, preventing accidental disruptions
• Long-Lasting Rechargeable Battery
  • Up to 37 hours of battery life on a single charge
  • Portable charging case provides five full additional charges
• Bluetooth Streaming & Connectivity
  • Hands-free calling and high-quality streaming from smartphones and other devices
  • Compatible with Widex apps for sound personalization and remote adjustments

Limitations:

• Recharging case is less portable than some competitors
• Some may not like the style and prefer a more traditional RIC design

Average pricing ranges from $3000-$8000/pair for professionally fit devices, depending upon performance level chosen and clinic service offering provided. The Widex premium technology typically includes 3 year repair warranty and 3 year loss/damage insurance.

Oticon Intent Hearing Aids – Personalized Hearing with 4D Sensor Technology

In February 2024, Oticon introduced the Intent™, a hearing aid designed to adjust its processing based on a user’s listening environment and physical movements. Unlike traditional hearing aids that rely on fixed noise reduction settings, Intent uses 4D Sensor Technology to analyze head and body movements, conversation activity, and acoustic surroundings. This allows the device to detect shifts in attention and adjust sound processing in real time, aiming to provide more relevant speech enhancement and noise management based on situational context.

The Intent builds on Oticon’s BrainHearing™ approach, incorporating MoreSound Intelligence™ 3.0 and a second-generation Deep Neural Network (DNN 2.0). These updates improve speech clarity in noise, offering up to 12dB of noise suppression while maintaining a natural soundscape. The system is designed to help users access a broader range of speech cues, particularly in complex environments where traditional directional microphones may have limitations.

The device also introduces Bluetooth® LE Audio, supporting high-quality streaming and hands-free calls for compatible devices. In terms of physical design, Intent is a miniRITE model with IP68-rated water and dust resistance, and it offers a rechargeable battery with up to 20 hours of use per charge. These updates reflect an ongoing shift in hearing aid technology toward more adaptive processing and greater personalization in sound management.

Key Features:

• 4D Sensor Technology: Captures head and body movements, conversation activity, and environmental sounds to personalize sound processing based on the user’s intentions.
• MoreSound Intelligence™ 3.0: Provides up to 12 dB noise suppression, delivering clearer speech and granting users access to 35% more speech cues compared to previous models.
• Second-Generation Deep Neural Network (DNN 2.0): Trained on diverse complex sound scenes, enabling accurate representation of sounds and better access to soft speech in noisy environments.
• Enhanced Connectivity: Supports next-generation Bluetooth® LE Audio, allowing for high-quality streaming and compatibility with a wide range of devices, including iOS and select Android devices.
• User-Centric Design: Features a sleek, discreet miniRITE style with IP68 dust and moisture resistance. Offers up to 20 hours of battery life, with a quick 30-minute charge providing 8 hours of power.

Limitations:

• More premium price point, even for entry-level devices.
• Since Oticon changed it’s approach to managed care plans, Intent may not be available on discount plans offered through some insurance plans

Average pricing ranges from $4000-$8000+/pair for professionally fit devices, depending upon performance level chosen and clinic service offering. Oticon’s premium technology typically includes 3 year repair warranty and 3 year loss/damage insurance.

Lyric Hearing Aids – Ultimate in Discretion

Lyric hearing aids stand out as a distinctively unique solution. Unlike traditional hearing aids that are removed daily, Lyric remains in the ear canal 24/7 for approximately two months, allowing wearers to shower and sleep without removal. After this period, an audiologist replaces them with two new devices.

In contrast to typical hearing aids used for 4-6 years, Lyric operates on an annual subscription model. This subscription covers both the devices and services for a 12-month period, with the option to renew at the end. While Lyric hearing aids are comparatively expensive, their unparalleled ease of use and sound quality, free from the bass-heavy occlusion effect, contribute to high satisfaction among users.

Despite lacking advanced features like Bluetooth streaming or an app, Lyric excels in invisibility, convenience, and clear sound quality. Lyric’s key features include deep, invisible placement, 24/7 wear without removal, professional insertion and replacement every 4-6 weeks, and subscription-type pricing averaging around $4,000 per year.

Why Lyric Stands Out:

• Invisibility, offering the most discreet appearance.
• Unmatched convenience with no need for removal, cleaning, battery changes, or charging.
• Suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing loss.
• Natural sound quality with analog processing.
• Provides relief for tinnitus.
• Quick placement times.
• Water-resistant, allowing showering with the device.
• Accommodates a wide range of ear canal sizes.
• Allows for activities like wearing helmets, playing sports, and using external headphones or some earbuds.
• Enables phone calls by placing it on your ear.

Considerations and Limitations:

• Requires professional assistance for insertion and replacement.
• Involves more frequent professional visits.
• Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.
• Annual subscription cost.
• Limited user-adjustable settings.
• Lacks Bluetooth technology due to its small size.
• Not waterproof (no swimming).
• Must be removed for MRIs due to metal parts.
• Higher cost.

Starkey Edge AI Hearing Aids -Advanced Sound Processing Meets AI-Powered Adaptability

Starkey has once again pushed the boundaries of hearing aid technology with the Edge AI, a successor to its previous AI-driven models. While the Genesis AI was a breakthrough in sound clarity and adaptive processing, the Edge AI takes it a step further by incorporating always-on artificial intelligence, enhanced speech clarity features, and health-focused innovations that make it a true multi-functional device.

The G2 Neuro Processor, which powers the Edge AI, delivers faster and more efficient sound processing, ensuring that speech is clearer and background noise is reduced—even in challenging environments like restaurants, public spaces, or social gatherings.

Key Features:

1. Always-On Deep Neural Network (DNN) for Smarter Adaptation
   Unlike conventional hearing aids that rely on fixed sound settings, the Edge AI is equipped with a constantly learning Deep Neural Network (DNN) that analyzes sound environments in real time and automatically optimizes speech and ambient noise balance. This means better clarity in conversations, less effort required to hear speech in noisy settings, and a more natural listening experience.
2. Edge Mode: AI-Enhanced Speech Clarity
   One of the standout features of the Edge AI is Edge Mode, an on-demand AI-powered feature that fine-tunes clarity in difficult listening environments. By simply tapping the hearing aid, users can activate instant speech enhancements, making voices crisper, clearer, and easier to distinguish. Whether in a crowded room, at a busy airport, or watching TV, Edge Mode allows users to customize their hearing experience on the fly.
3. Health & Wellness Integration: More Than Just a Hearing Aid
   Starkey continues its commitment to holistic well-being by integrating fall detection, heart rate tracking, and wellness monitoring into the Edge AI. The hearing aid can detect and alert caregivers or emergency contacts in the event of a fall, making it a valuable tool for older adults or individuals with balance concerns. Beyond fall detection, the Starkey app provides daily activity tracking, encouraging users to stay active and monitor steps, movement, and general physical activity.
4. Bluetooth LE Audio & Auracast™: A New Era of Streaming
   For users who prioritize connectivity, the Edge AI supports Bluetooth® LE Audio and Auracast™. This means:
   • Higher-fidelity sound streaming from smartphones, tablets, and TVs.
   • Lower latency, ensuring better lip-syncing when watching videos.
   • Multi-device pairing, allowing seamless switching between different audio sources.
5. TeleHear Remote Support & Customization
   With TeleHear, users can access remote audiologist adjustments, meaning less frequent office visits and more real-time support. The My Starkey app enables users to personalize their hearing settings, fine-tune listening environments, and even receive AI-powered hearing assistance.

Limitations:

• More premium price point, currently not available in entry level, only mid to premium technology levels
• Not yet offered in a behind-the-ear (BTE) model.

Average pricing ranges from $3500-$8000+/pair for professionally fit devices, depending upon style and performance level chosen and clinic service offering. Starkey’s premium technology typically includes 3 year repair warranty and 3 year loss/damage insurance.

Signia Pure Charge&Go IX Hearing Aids – Enhanced Sound Processing

At the end of 2023, Signia launched the Pure Charge&Go IX, their latest receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid. Compact and lightweight, it features advanced technology such as Bluetooth streaming, a telecoil option, lithium-ion batteries, and Signia’s latest sound processing. 

The battery life is impressive, providing up to 39 hours of use per charge in telecoil equipped model. The redesigned rocker switch button enhances tactile functionality. The Pure Charge&Go IX showcases improvements in sound quality, connectivity, and battery life, supporting direct streaming from both iPhone and Android devices and future Bluetooth LE Audio standard compatibility. 

Key Features:

• Compact and lightweight RIC design.
• Bluetooth streaming and telecoil option.
• Lithium-ion batteries for up to 39 hours of use per charge.
• Programmable rocker switch for volume adjustment and program switching.
• Signia smartphone app for additional customization and wireless connectivity.
• RealTime Conversation Enhancement technology for clear and detailed conversations.
• Own Voice Processing 2.0 for natural-sounding voice.
• AI-powered Signia Assistant for on-the-fly adjustments.
• Compatibility with upcoming Bluetooth LE Audio standard.
• Current support for Made-for-iPhone (MFi) and ASHA direct streaming.

Limitations

• No battery powered RIC option is available yet for the IX platform

Average pricing ranges from $3500-$8000/pair for professionally fit devices, depending upon performance level chosen and clinic service offering. Signia’s premium technology typically includes 3 year repair warranty and 3 year loss/damage insurance.

Signia Motion Charge&Go SP X – Ultimate Power and Battery Life 

The Motion Charge&Go SP X stands as the industry’s first rechargeable super power hearing aid, targeting individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. Its standout feature is an unprecedented 61 hours of run-time per charge, making it the most powerful rechargeable hearing aid globally. Equipped with acoustic-motion sensors, Own Voice Processing (OVP™), and compatibility with the Signia Xperience platform, these devices offer personalized and precise hearing experiences.

Noteworthy features include Made for iPhone direct streaming, the Signia App for controls and remote care, Li-ion charging, Bluetooth® connectivity, and telecoil support. The Motion Charge&Go SP X series is available across a wide range of performance levels, with an upgrade option that includes a UV Dry&Clean charger. Average pricing ranges from $2000-$7000/pair for professionally fit devices, depending upon performance level chosen

Key Features:

• Up to 61 hours of run-time per charge.
• Own Voice Processing (OVP™) for enhanced voice clarity.
• Made for iPhone direct streaming capability.
• Signia App for controls, streaming, tinnitus therapy, and remote care support.
• Li-ion charging for convenience and sustainability.
• Bluetooth® connectivity for seamless device integration.
• Telecoil support for improved hearing in specific environments.
• Acoustic-motion sensors for adaptive hearing experiences.
• Available across various performance levels to suit individual needs and budgets
• Option to upgrade to include a UV Dry&Clean charger.

Limitations:

• No disposable battery option offered for those that want them
• Based on the older Xperience platform, rechargeable SP BTE model not yet available on current IX platform

Average pricing ranges from $2000-$8000/pair for professionally fit devices, depending upon performance level chosen and clinic service offering. Signia’s premium technology typically includes 3 year repair warranty and 3 year loss/damage insurance.

Phonak Slim – Hearing Tech with Style

In 2023, Phonak announced the launch of the Phonak Slim, a groundbreaking hearing aid that seamlessly merges sophisticated technology with a sleek, fashion-forward design. Beyond its stylish appearance (similar in design to the Signia Styletto), the Phonak Slim stands out as a high-performance device, designed to enhance the hearing experience for users.

Its unique form factor follows the natural curvature of the ear, breaking away from the traditional bulkiness associated with hearing aids, while offering an array of colors for personalization. Average pricing ranges from $4000-$8000/pair for professionally fit devices, depending upon performance level chosen and clinic service offering.

Key Features:

• Fashion-forward Design: Distinctive and ergonomic design with a 7-degree bend, providing a snug fit while aiming to break down the stigma of wearing hearing aids.
• Color Varieties: Available in four two-tone color combinations, including Graphite/Black, Copper/Black, Sandalwood/Black, and Silver/Black, allowing users to match their personal style.
• Latest Technology: Runs on the same platform as Phonak’s flagship product, the Audeo Lumity
• AutoSense OS 5.0: Automatic operating system employing machine learning to scan the environment 700 times per second for real-time adjustments, ensuring a seamless listening experience.
• SmartSpeech Technology: Incorporates StereoZoom 2.0 and SpeechSensor for enhanced background noise management and better speech understanding.
• Advanced Connectivity: Features tap-control, hands-free calling for Android and iPhone devices, and stable Bluetooth classic connection for easy control of hearing aid settings and seamless audio experiences.
• myPhonak App Compatibility: Pairs with the myPhonak app, offering personalized hearing experiences, health data tracking, and remote control functionality for adjusting settings.

Limitations:

• Limited availability in the 90 and 70 technology levels only, excluding the more affordable 50 and 30 technology levels.
• Longer than traditional hearing aid and no telecoil available

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Average pricing ranges from $4000-$8000/pair for professionally fit devices, depending upon performance level chosen and clinic service offering. Phonak’s premium technology typically includes 3 year repair warranty and 3 year loss/damage insurance.

Insurance Benefits

While this article has primarily discussed the top hearing aids and their features, insurance benefits will often play a significant role in the decision-making process. While Medicare itself unfortunately doesn’t cover hearing aids, many Medicare Advantage plans have hearing benefits, as do a number of different commercial, private insurance plans.

These benefits can potentially reduce the price of hearing aids by 25%, 50%, or even cover the entire cost in some cases. It is advisable to explore your insurance benefits before making a purchase and have a discussion with your HCP as to how using the benefit may impact your care. (In the US, United Healthcare and TruHearing are among the more popular managed care programs that have varying degrees of benefit, depending on your individual insurance plan coverage). 

Summary

In the dynamic landscape of hearing aid technology, the choices available in 2024 cater to diverse preferences and needs, showcasing innovations that redefine convenience, advanced features, and discretion. It is evident that the intersection of artificial intelligence, connectivity, and ergonomic design has paved the way for groundbreaking solutions.

The decision-making process involves careful consideration of individual preferences, lifestyle, and hearing requirements. The synergy of user-friendly interfaces, intelligent algorithms, and sleek designs ensures that the next generation of hearing aids is not just about amplifying sound but about seamlessly integrating into the rhythm of modern life, offering a symphony of choices for every individual’s unique hearing journey.

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**Interested in over-the-counter (OTC) options? If you’ve had an evaluation and believe OTC hearing aids might be right for you, we explore the year’s best OTC hearing aids here.**

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Hearing Aid Resources:

Click the links below to visit the company’s website to learn more about their hearing aids:

• Phonak hearing aids
• Widex hearing aids
• Signia hearing aids
• Oticon hearing aids
• Starkey hearing aids
• ReSound hearing aids

Looking for information on models found at Costco? Click here for a review of Costco hearing aids

 

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