Hearing Aid Styles

Style and technology level are independent decisions. All technology levels come in all styles of hearing aids. Your hearing difficulties and your lifestyle are the key factors in determining what style and level of technology would serve you best. We have classified the levels of technology into five categories ranging from the most technologically advanced to the most basic. We will discuss your everyday listening environments and options with you to help you find the solution that is most appropriate for you.

The pictures below show the various styles of hearing aids that are available. There are advantages and disadvantages for all of them. You can learn more information about the various hearing aid styles and technological differences prior to discussing it with us.

Daily Wear Hearing Aids

 
ITE (In-the-Ear) Hearing Aids

Made to fit your ear. All the electronic components are in the custom-made shell. They come in several sizes.

 
BTE (Behind-the-Ear) Hearing Aids
 
All the components are in a case that sits on top and behind the ear. The sound is directed into the ear through a tube and, usually, an earmold that is custom-made to fit your ear, or a generic dome.

 
RIC or RITE (Receiver-in-the-Ear) Hearing Aids
 
A case with most of the components also sits on top and behind the ear (as with a BTE), but the receiver (speaker) is placed in the ear canal and connected to the case with a thin wire. It is fit in your ear with a generic dome, or a custom-made earmold.