Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids sit behind the ear, with a thin tube or wire connecting the main body of the device to an earpiece inside the ear canal. Due to their incredible versatility and performance power, BTE hearing aids are some of the most popular styles of hearing aids.
Discover the latest advancements and the top behind-the-ear hearing aids available today.
Top BTE Hearing Aids
What are Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids? (BTE)
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are a type of device that rests behind the ear and uses a tube or wire to connect to an earpiece that sits in the ear canal. Because the main body of the device is larger than [in-the-ear (ITE)] models, BTE hearing aids are typically more powerful, technologically advanced, and have a longer battery life.
Most BTE hearing aids are suitable for all levels of hearing loss ranging from mild to profound making them a popular choice for many people.
Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aid Styles
There are two main styles of behind-the-ear hearing aids available today. This includes standard BTE hearing aids and receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids. While both devices look similar, there are some key differences.
Below is an overview of each style:
Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids (BTE)
Standard behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids house all the electronic components in a durable case the sits behind the ear. Sound is delivered via a clear, hollow tube connected to a custom-made earmold or dome that fits securely in the ear canal.
BTE hearing aids are the most powerful hearing devices available, and are suitable for all degrees of hearing loss, from mild to profound. They are especially beneficial for people need significant amplification or who have dexterity concerns.
Receiver-in-Canal Hearing Aids (RIC)
Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids have a thin wire that connects to a small speaker (receiver) inside the ear canal. Because the speaker isn’t housed in the main body of the device, RIC hearing aids are smaller and more lightweight than a traditional BTE devices. RIC hearing aids are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss, making them a popular hearing loss solution for many people.
Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids Features
Behind-the-ear hearing aids are among the most versatile and widely used hearing devices available today. Many BTE models are discreet, powerful, and packed with advanced features designed to make hearing in everyday environments easier.
Below are some of the key features you’ll find in today’s top behind-the-ear hearing aids:
Rechargeable Batteries
Many behind-the-ear hearing aids use rechargeable batteries, eliminating the constant need to buy and replace disposable batteries. Rechargeable devices can be charged overnight and provide reliable power all day long.
Bluetooth Connectivity
BTE hearing aids with Bluetooth allow you to stream calls, music, and other audio directly to your ears from your smartphone, tablet, TV and more.
Tinnitus Relief
Some BTE hearing aids offer sound therapy features to help relieve tinnitus symptoms like ringing or buzzing in the ears.
Waterproof Design
Top brands offer BTE hearing aids that are also waterproof. This waterproof design makes BTE devices even more durable, helping protect the device from sweat, moisture, rain, and accidental splashes.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The most advanced BTE hearing aids use artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically adjust to your surroundings, minimize background noise, clarify speech, and more.
Find a Clinic
Our Find a Clinic tool makes it simple to discover hearing clinics near you. From your first test to ongoing care, local audiologists are ready to guide you every step of the way. Take the guesswork out of finding help and get connected to the right support close to home.
Top Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aid Brands
The best hearing aid for you will depend on several factors including your unique hearing needs, budget, and lifestyle. However, selecting a reputable brand can greatly influence the comfort, performance, and reliability of a device. Here are some of the top BTE hearing aid brands widely recommended by audiologists:
Talk to a Trusted Audiologist
Hearing Choices Australia has a national network of trusted audiologists and hearing consultants available to provide FREE, no-obligation consultations. Contact us today to find the best hearing for your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids:
Are BTE hearing aids any good?
Yes, behind-the-ear hearing aids can be a great option for people looking for a high-performing, easy to handle, and comfortable hearing loss solution. BTE hearing aids can are the most widely used by people experiencing high levels as hearing loss, and their larger size also make them suitable for anyone who might have dexterity issues.
Still unsure if they are right for you? Get in touch with our audiologists for a free consultation to find the best BTE hearing aid for your needs and budget.
Behind-the-ear vs. In-the-ear hearing aids
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids have an external case that rests behind the ear, which connects to an earpiece in the canal. [In-the-ear (ITE)] hearing aids are smaller and worn inside the ear or canal. Because of their larger size, BTE hearing aids typically offer higher performance power and versatility, while ITE styles prioritize discretion and a custom fit.
Contact our audiologists to see which type of hearing aid is most suitable for you.
How much do BTE hearing aids cost?
BTE hearing aid prices typically vary between $1,300 and $6,000 or more, depending on the features they have. More advanced technology usually means a greater investment in your hearing health.
Our audiologists are ready to help you find the best hearing aids for your budget. Contact us today.
What is the best BTE hearing aid?
The best BTE hearing aid depends on your type of hearing loss, lifestyle preference, and budget. Some of the most popular BTE hearing aid brands include Starkey for their superior speech clarity and ease-of-use, among others.
Want to find the best BTE hearing aid for you? Contact our audiologists for a free consultation.
