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Best Hearing Aid List
The latest hearing aids for 2022 have exceptional sound quality, Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable batteries which means that no matter which brand or device you pick, you’ll be getting some of the best technology on the market today.
Below we have listed some of the latest devices available and why they are worth considering for your first or next pair of hearing aids.
If you have any questions or need some advice, give us a call on 1300 848 335.
1. Starkey Edge AI
Why We Like It
- Starkey’s latest premium platform, with advanced onboard AI for complex sound environments.
- Excellent speech enhancement and noise reduction, especially for busy cafés, restaurants and group conversations.
- Rechargeable models offer very strong battery life, with some Australian retailers listing up to 51 hours.
- Waterproof, sweatproof and robust for day-to-day conditions.
- My Starkey app supports streaming, reminders, lost-aid finding and TeleHear remote care.
2. Phonak Audéo Infinio Ultra Sphere
Why We Like It
- One of the strongest choices for speech clarity in background noise.
- Uses Phonak’s DeepSonic deep neural network chip and Spheric Speech Clarity processing.
- Universal Bluetooth connectivity, making it a strong option for both iPhone and Android users.
- Good fit for active users who need strong automation in difficult listening environments.
3. Oticon Intent
Why We Like It
- World-first 4D Sensor technology uses movement, conversation activity and the sound environment to understand listening intent.
- Excellent all-round premium option for natural sound and everyday clarity.
- Rechargeable, discreet and designed for all-day use.
- Strong future-facing connectivity, including Bluetooth LE Audio support.
4. ReSound Vivia
Why We Like It
- A leading AI-powered hearing aid for hearing in noise.
- Very small rechargeable microRIE design with strong battery and comfort credentials.
- Excellent app and connectivity ecosystem, including Auracast-focused features.
- A good choice for users who want a discreet device without sacrificing modern speech-in-noise processing.
5. Widex Allure
Why We Like It
- Widex’s latest Australian platform, replacing Moment as the stronger current recommendation.
- Excellent for natural sound quality, music and users who dislike overly processed sound.
- Balances clearer speech with environmental awareness.
- Modern rechargeable RIC design with updated app and accessory support.
What Main Features Should I Look For?
Best Hearing Aid Styles Types
The two main types of hearing aids are those that go in the ear, and those that go behind the ear.
In the ear models can range from the tiniest, most invisible hearing aids that are worn inside the ear canal (sometimes referred to as CIC or IIC hearing aids), to the larger low profile hearing aids that can be seen in the bowl of the outer ear (ITE or ITC hearing aids).
Behind the ear (BTE or RIC – Receiver in Canal) styles are available for those who find that wearing a hearing aid inside of the ear is uncomfortable for them or they require hearing aids with more options. They also range in size and style, and are the style used most often for people with severe or profound hearing loss. Each style of hearing aids has its own advantages and disadvantages for you to consider when choosing the best hearing aids for you.
Best Technology
Another important consideration when choosing the best hearing aid to fit your needs is the technology in the hearing aid itself. While there are many basic models of hearing aids to choose from, technology has advanced to make many hearing aids more automatic and customisable.
For example, many hearing aids produced today are using wireless technology to both give the wearer more control over the customisation of their device, as well as to make the two separate hearing aids operate like one device, which makes the use of hearing aids feel more like natural hearing. Some of the best hearing aids are equipped with Bluetooth connectivity so that the hearing aid can be connected to a wireless device such as a tablet or smartphone, and those devices can send their electronic signals directly to the hearing aid for making phone calls, listening to music, watching videos, and connecting to the TV. Now, with smartphone apps from most of the leading hearing aid manufacturers, your phone can also act as a remote control for your hearing aid.
Many of the best hearing aid brands have technology to assist with tinnitus management. Tinnitus programs can be set on the hearing aids and adjusted by the wearer through a tinnitus app on their smartphone. The Widex Zen is one such tinnitus program that has good results.
Hearing aid users can now expect to have devices that not only provide excellent noise reduction but have an extended frequency range for improved hearing of high frequency signals. Not only are modern hearing aids now rechargeable, and have Bluetooth and Telecoil options, but they also have artificial intelligence and provide improved speech understanding for more natural sounding hearing.
What are Some of the Best Hearing Aids Brands?
Starkey, Widex, and ReSound are great brands to start with if you’re looking for a good mix of excellent sound quality as well as best in class Bluetooth streaming and phone connectivity.
You can view a complete list of hearing aid brands on the chart below
The first step in selecting the best hearing aids for your needs is to make an appointment with a hearing care specialist who can assess your hearing loss, lifestyle and find an option within your budget.
All the hearing aids listed on this page are considered top tier devices and are suitable of treating a wide range and type of hearing loss. Ultimately, the best hearing aid for you is the one that fits your hearing loss, your lifestyle and of course your budget.
The most important thing is to find a trusted local hearing care professional to program and fine-tune your hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
The audiologists at Hearing Choices want to help you to find the best solution for your hearing loss and can guide you in the right direction to find what works for you individually.
How much do the best hearing aids cost?
Hearing aid prices vary mainly by the technology level of the hearing aid you end up with. In general, the basic or standard level hearing aids start from around $1,500 – $2,800 for a pair anywhere north of $7,500 a pair for hearing aids with the very best technology.
The main difference between the technology level is how well the hearing aids perform in more challenging listening environments. The more expensive hearing aids generally have better performance in noise and more automatic programs for different listening environments.
As a general guide expect to pay the following prices for hearing aids.
| Technology Tier | Hearing Aid Prices |
|---|---|
| Standard | $1,500 – $2,800 |
| Advanced | $2,800 – $3,500 |
| Premium | $3,500 – $4,400 |
The price of hearing aids also depends on the level of service included with the devices. Some companies sell hearing aids packaged with an unlimited amount of service and tuning appointments at no additional costs while others ‘un-bundle’ the price of the service from the cost of the hearing aid itself.
Service is a critical component of the purchase as clients generally need a number of follow-up appointments to get the most out of their hearing aids so when comparing prices of hearing aids, make sure you are comparing not only the price of the hearing aid itself, but also the level of service included with the hearing aids.
Are there subsidies available for hearing aids?
If you are a pensioner or returned serviceman you may be eligible to receive partially or fully-subsidised hearing devices and services under the Hearing Services Program. This
program is run by the Australian Government*.
Eligibility categories in this program include:
- Senior Australian holding a Pensioner Concession card
- Receiving a Sickness Allowance from Centrelink
- Department of Veteran’s Affairs
- Gold card holder
- White card holder
- Dependent person of either above category
- Australian Defence Force member
- Referred by Disability Employment Services Program
- Participant in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
If you would like assistance with claiming the subsidy, please contact us so we help you determine the benefits you’re eligible for.
Advancements in Hearing Research
Hearing aid manufacturers are working to continually update the technology in their hearing aids. Bluetooth and rechargeable hearing aids, as well as advancements in speech understanding and noise reduction have been at the cutting-edge of hearing aid technology in the last decade. Now, advanced hearing aids come with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the ability to have flexible appointments with your hearing specialist with tele-audiology. Hearing aids are also becoming health trackers, with the introduction of Starkey’s AI hearing aids – healthable hearing technology.
The science of audiology isn’t only involved with developing hearing aid technology. Research into all the aspects and conditions of the auditory system is ongoing. Study results are constantly emerging on many topics, including possible ways to restore hearing, tinnitus treatments and the links between hearing loss and dementia.
