Over-the-Ear

Over-the-Ear hearing aids are the most common style. The reason is because they are the most versatile. They fit most ears both physically and can support a wide range of hearing power needs due to added space for technology to be housed behind the ear. However, these are not large hearing aids. Over the ear hearing aids have shrunk in size and are virtually invisible (especially for people with longer hair).

Over-the-Ear Hearing Aid Styles

Receiver-In-Canal Hearing Aid

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC)

Side profile of middle aged man wearing hearing aids Behind the ear hearing aids

Behind-The-Ear (BTE)

Micro RIC RT Model Hearing Aid

Mini Receiver-In-Canal

Receiver-In-Canal Hearing Aid

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC)

Side profile of middle aged man wearing hearing aids Behind the ear hearing aids

Behind-The-Ear (BTE)

Micro RIC RT Model Hearing Aid

Mini Receiver-In-Canal

Over-the-Ear vs In-the-Ear

Each style has benefits.In-the-EarOver-the-Ear
Light, Airy fit – only a soft tip attached to a tube or wire rests within the ear canal. 
Quick fit- These devices require little customization to the physical device. 
Wide-Range of hearing loss – Easily stores all power and technology needed for all levels of needed amplification. 
Easy to fix – wires, receivers and soft tip buds are easily changed out for quick repairs. 
Doesn’t Interfere with Glasses, Hats, or Masks – With the entire device fitting within the ear, nothing can be tangled or cause pressure.  
Natural Acoustics – The ear is the best microphone. These products still use the natural shape of the ear for direction identification. 
Great for Dexterity Challenges – One device is easier to grab and correctly place  
Discrete Look – When the entire device is within your ear, nothing stands out. 

Learn more about In-the-Ear styles.

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