4 Best Bluetooth Hearing Aids 2024 | Fortune Recommends Health (2024)

Bluetooth technology has revolutionized the hearing aid industry by providing seamless connectivity and advanced features that enhance the user’s auditory experience. It offers numerous benefits, such as streaming audio directly from smartphones, televisions, and other devices. It also connects your devices to a mobile companion app, allowing for remote adjustments, and some even support hands-free phone calls. Studies have shown that users of Bluetooth hearing aids experience improved speech recognition and overall auditory satisfaction compared with users of non-Bluetooth models. ( 1 )( 2 )

Our team at Fortune RecommendsTM has meticulously evaluated Bluetooth hearing aids to bring you the top four options available today. We analyzed and tested these devices based on performance, features, value, and customer experience to ensure our readers can make informed purchasing decisions. We tested a total of 20 products, narrowing down the list to the best four by considering sound quality, noise reduction, feedback control, programmability, and connectivity.

Our picks for the best Bluetooth hearing aids

• Best overall: Jabra Enhance Select 500
• Best for severe hearing loss: Phonak Audéo Lumity
• Most user-friendly: Lexie B2 Plus
• Best lifestyle: Starkey Genesis AI

Best overall Bluetooth hearing aids: Jabra Enhance Select 500

Why we like Jabra Enhance Select 500 as best overall

Jabra Enhance released its latest flagship OTC model, the Select 500, on May 14, 2024. ( 3 ) This device combines cutting-edge technology with user-centric design, making it our top pick for the best overall Bluetooth hearing aid. It boasts exceptional sound quality, noise reduction capabilities, and seamless connectivity, providing a superior auditory experience.

Performance and sound quality

One of the standout features of the Jabra Enhance Select 500 is its impressive sound quality. This hearing aid utilizes advanced algorithms to deliver clear, natural acoustics with advanced background noise cancellation. This particularly benefits those frequently in bustling settings like restaurants or social gatherings.

Connectivity and features

With Bluetooth connectivity, users can stream audio directly from their smartphones, TVs, and other devices, so it’s easier to enjoy music, podcasts, and phone calls without the need for additional accessories. The Jabra Enhance also supports hands-free calling for both iOS and Android phones, a rarity in currently available healing aids, which usually only offer this feature in iOS devices, if at all. It also employs TapControl, which allows you to simply double-tap your ear or hearing aid to activate the hands-free calling feature.

Bluetooth also connects to the Jabra Enhance app for remote adjustments to volume, listening programs, and noise reduction. Jabra Enhance hearing professionals can also make technical adjustments remotely through the app.

The Select 500 is the only OTC Jabra Enhance model to offer cutting-edge Low Energy (LE) Audio, which is the new standard in connectivity that improves audio quality, battery life, and enables more stable connections. With it, users can share audio with other LE Audio-enabled devices. ( 4 )

LE Audio gives you access to Auracast, a broadcast audio technology that streams live audio to equipped devices in public spaces like concert venues, event spaces, and transit stations. We think users will find this feature incredibly valuable as it makes information and audio more accessible in airports, railway stations, conferences, theaters, and places of worship, reducing stress and enhancing the listening experience. Auracast can also stream in multiple languages simultaneously and enables shared audio experiences in private settings, ensuring compatibility across different hearing aid brands. ( 5 )

User experience and comfort

Comfort is crucial for hearing aids, and the Jabra Enhance Select 500 does not disappoint. The small and lightweight model fits snugly in the ear, and ensures long-term wearability without discomfort.

The battery life is also noteworthy. A single three-hour charge provides a full day—24 hours—of use. A one-hour charge provides 15 hours of use, and a quick 10-minute charge gives 2.5 hours of use.

Select 500 hearing aids come in five color options: silver, champagne, gold, bronze, and dark gray.

Cost, warranty, and trial period

Jabra Enhance devices come with two package options: premium and basic.

The premium package includes:

• Custom-programmed devices tailored to your hearing test
• Professional assistance with setup and fitting
• Three years of professional care and remote adjustments
• A three-year warranty and loss and damage protection

The basic package includes:

• Pre-programmed devices, which you set up and manage yourself
• One-year warranty and loss and damage protection

Select 500 hearing aids cost $1,995 with the premium package and $1,795 with the basic package. Jabra Enhance devices come with a 100-day trial period, with free return shipping and no restocking fees, so you have ample time to determine if they’ll meet your needs.

What customers are saying

Because these hearing aids are so new there are no online customer reviews yet. Jabra Enhance has a 71 out of 100 satisfaction score on Consumer Reports. The highest scores were for overall value and battery life. Jabra Enhance has a 3.6 out of 5-star score and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) from 40 customer reviews.

BBB reviewer Kyle E. gave only one star due to disappointment with customer service. He said, “I have tried calling [customer service] with zero luck. Every time I do, I get the ‘thank you for calling’ and then straight to please leave a message. A message is left with zero response. I have tried emails. Again, no response.”

Best Bluetooth hearing aids for severe hearing loss: Phonak Audéo Lumity

Why we like Phonak Audéo Lumity as best for severe hearing loss

The Phonak Audéo Lumity stands out as the best Bluetooth hearing aid for severe hearing loss, combining powerful amplification with advanced features to deliver exceptional performance. While OTC hearing aids are meant for self-perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, more powerful prescription-based models are better suited to severe hearing loss. ( 11 ) This model can meet the needs of individuals with significant hearing challenges, ensuring clear and natural sound quality even in the most demanding environments.

Performance and sound quality

The Phonak Audéo Lumity provides superior sound clarity and speech understanding, particularly for those with severe hearing loss. It’s programmed by your audiologist to meet your specific hearing needs as determined by an audiogram.

We know that deciphering speech in loud environments leads to listening fatigue. ( 6 ) These hearing aids combat that by making conversations easier to follow, even in noisy environments. They use a technology called StereoZoom to automatically increase the strength of speech focus as the background noise level increases. You can also adjust the focus strength through the myPhonak app. Our testing confirmed strong sound clarity.

Connectivity and features

In addition to Bluetooth connecting to the myPhonak app, it allows direct audio streaming from smartphones, TVs, and other devices. Our tester found the app well-designed and feature-rich without feeling overwhelming. The app’s standout is health data tracking, which tracks wear time and steps, a handy feature for health-conscious users. After all, studies show that tracking steps lead to better health outcomes. ( 7 ) The app also lets your audiologist make remote adjustments.

These hearing aids can also provide tinnitus treatment with sound therapy, which offers significant relief from the negative impacts of tinnitus by “masking” the tinnitus sounds with more pleasant sounds. (8) Sound therapy is customized to the individual, programmed by your hearing professional, and controlled through the myPhonak app.

User experience and comfort

Comfort and ease of use are crucial for hearing aids, and the Phonak Audéo Lumity delivers on both fronts. They fit securely and comfortably behind the ear, even during extended use. Our tester found them comfortable and ergonomic.

This is our review’s only hearing aid offering a disposable battery option. The rechargeable battery’s life is on par with that of other Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids, with 24 hours of life from a three-hour charge. They come with an easy-to-use charging case. We noticed that the strong internal magnets pull the devices right into position.

The Audéo Lumity is rated for water resistance, so you can wear them in the shower but not for extended underwater activities like swimming.

Their multi-function button can turn the aids on and off, put them into flight mode, take phone calls, and control sound, though our tester found it a bit small. This may make it difficult for users with larger fingers or dexterity limitations to use. But we appreciated that the high positioning of the button didn’t make manual adjustments to disrupt the fit as we noticed with some other models with lower-positioned buttons. Of course, you can always make adjustments through the app instead of using the button.

The Audéo Lumity comes in eight color options, the most in this review.

Cost, warranty, and trial period

The Phonak Audéo Lumity is a premium prescription hearing aid, and the high cost reflects its cutting-edge technology and the accompanying comprehensive professional support. Prices, warranty, and trial periods vary by supplier. The warranty will depend on the care package level purchased.

What customers are saying

Phonak has only 1.8 stars on Trustpilot with 83 reviews. But it should be noted this score is not specific to the Audéo Lumity but rather to the company itself.

June Farmer wrote, “I have had the Phonak hearing aids for a few months now, and they are fantastic, no feedback noises, they are small and discreet, easy to charge, and usually when I fly when the plane tips, I feel sick and dizzy but not anymore. The app is so easy to use. When I go out with friends, I can change the settings to hear the conversations…I can listen to music through my hearing aids as they connect through Bluetooth and answer my phone by tapping the button on the hearing aid, so no rummaging in my bag to locate the phone. They also count my steps. These hearing aids are fantastic.”

Some customers report technical difficulties, especially with pairing to the app.

Glynis Jones gave one star and said, “I’ve had the myPhonak app for a week now. I’ve had to uninstall and reinstall it over six times that week! My hearing aids keep ‘unpairing’, and the app can’t find them again, even if I close the program, unpair the aids, repair them, and do everything else recommended. The only way to reconnect them is to install the app again. Shame, since it would have been useful to have all the controls easily at hand on my phone.”

Specs

Most user-friendly Bluetooth hearing aid: Lexie B2 Plus

Why we like Lexie B2 Plus as most user-friendly

The Lexie B2 Plus, powered by Bose, is one of the most user-friendly Bluetooth hearing aids on the market. It stands out for its rechargeable battery, self-customizable settings, and Bluetooth calls streaming capabilities from an iPhone.

Performance and sound quality

The Lexie B2 Plus offers clear and natural sound quality, supported by advanced noise reduction and feedback cancellation features. It provides an exceptional listening experience in various environments, with four presets: noisy indoors, outdoors, music, and every day. The optional in-app hearing test may create up to 10 recommended settings.

Connectivity and features

The Lexie B2 Plus offers seamless Bluetooth connectivity with iPhones. Users can easily stream phone calls directly to their hearing aids, but it’s important to note that the streaming feature is not optimized for music or video, and doesn’t support hands-free calling. Also, there’s currently no compatibility with Android devices.

Bluetooth does connect to the Lexie app, which offers volume control and muting, treble and bass adjustments, microphone directionality adjustments, balance adjustments, switching between customizable environmental settings, software updates, and video chats with Lexie support. Unlike the other devices in this review, these cannot be worn in the shower.

User experience and comfort

This is a true self-fitting hearing aid, meaning you’re in charge of the actual fit and the functionality settings, a desirable feature for do-it-yourselfers. ( 9 ) No hearing test or visit to an audiologist is required.

Rachael Cook, AuD, an audiologist at Applied Hearing Solutions and content creator for Dr. Cliff, AuD YouTube channel, told us, “I think OTC hearing aids are a great option for those with budget constraints or in rural areas without access to audiological care, but I always recommend a medical examination first. You may have something as simple as extreme wax buildup causing your hearing loss.”

If you decide to go the OTC route, Lexie makes the self-fitting aspect simple to set up and manage. Our tester confirmed the setup was easy using the steps outlined in the Lexie app.

They come with six sets of domes—three sizes of closed and three sizes of open—to ensure the best possible fit and sound experience. The open domes have small holes in them, allowing for a more natural sound, while the closed domes boost the hearing aid’s sound level and bass. Users can choose the dome that best suits their preferences.

Cost, warranty, and trial period

The Lexie B2 Plus is priced at $999, making it a mid-range option among OTC hearing aids.
They’re purchased directly through Lexie, which provides a one-year warranty, covering any manufacturing defects and essential repairs, and a 45-day trial period so users can test them and ensure they meet their needs.

What customers are saying

Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids have 4.3 stars on Amazon and 71 ratings. Most customers are impressed with the quality of sound, especially for speech.

Reviewer Ben feels they’re as effective as prescription options. He wrote, “I just purchased these after my puppy chewed up one of my $6,000 dollar hearing aids. I will just say, wow! I was totally impressed right out of the box with no adjustments. The fit and sound are superior to my old ones. This is just day one, but I am very pleased.”

Lexie Hearing has 2.9 stars on Trustpilot with only 19 customer reviews. Claudia gave a one star rating and was disappointed in the customer service. She said, “My husband’s Lexie B2 stopped working after nine months. He spent days on the phone trying to get help…the company is inflexible about helping customers with problems with their products.”

Specs

Best lifestyle Bluetooth hearing aids: Starkey Genesis AI

Why we like Starkey Genesis AI as best lifestyle

The Starkey Genesis AI is our pick for best lifestyle Bluetooth hearing aid, integrating cutting-edge technology with comprehensive health and wellness features. This device goes beyond traditional hearing aids, offering functionalities such as fall detection, fitness monitoring, language translation, long battery life, and water resistance, making it an ideal choice for active individuals.

Performance and sound quality

The Starkey Genesis AI delivers exceptional sound quality with advanced noise reduction and feedback cancellation. This hearing aid provides clear and natural audio, enhancing speech understanding in various environments, from quiet settings to bustling public spaces. It uses AI-driven algorithms to adapt to different listening situations, ensuring optimal performance at all times. Its Deep Neural Network (DNN) technology is highly effective at improving speech intelligibility. In fact, one study found it restored speech intelligibility to normal hearing levels. ( 10 )

Connectivity and features

The Starkey Genesis AI provides seamless LE Bluetooth connectivity, so users can stream audio directly from smartphones, tablets, and other devices. It also has hands-free calling, music streaming, and video playback. Unfortunately, it’s not compatible with Auracast.

The My Starkey app further enhances usability thanks to its various customization options, including volume control, environmental presets, and health tracking. This hearing aid’s unique lifestyle features, such as fall detection, fitness monitoring, language translation (for 77 languages), and a find-my-hearing-aids feature, set it apart from competitors. Our tester noted that the app is complex and could prove difficult for less tech-savvy users.

User experience and comfort

Our tester noted that the Genesis AIs were comfortable, lightweight, and felt secure on the ear. They’re also waterproof, so users can wear them in various conditions without worrying about damage. The long battery life—lasting up to 30 hours on a single charge—is ideal for users with active lifestyles. The portable charging case also means the hearing aid is always ready for use.

Cost, warranty, and trial period

The Starkey Genesis AI is priced at the lower end of the prescription hearing aid market, starting at $2,950 at Yes Hearing. As with any professionally provided hearing aid, the price, warranty, and trial period will vary by supplier.

What customers are saying

Starkey has 3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with 362 customer reviews. Nearly half of the customers rated it five stars.

Dorothy rated five stars and had this to say about her husband’s Starkey Genesis hearing aids: “My husband has given his rave review of his Starkey Genesis hearing aids. I want to also thank Starkey for making our conversations better, not having the TV blaring, and seeing him happy to go out amongst our friends and be sociable again.”

Nearly 20% of customers gave Starkey only one star. It’s important to note that a large part of customer satisfaction will be determined by the supplier used. Customers don’t have much direct interaction with Starkey itself. Also, reviews are generally not specific to the Genesis AI model.

Danny rated one star and said, “The hearing aids have never worked properly, always echoing back into the ear. We took them back many times to be repaired when we received them back, but the same issue arose. It’s been nearly five years, and I never used the aids for more than a day. They sat in the box.”

Specs

How we test hearing aids

Hearing aids are an essential tool for understanding and interacting with the world. We aim to help readers make the best hearing aid purchase for their needs, so we rigorously test and evaluate hearing aids before recommending them. Read our full hearing aid testing methodology for more information on our testing process.

Testing criteria

Performance (auditory effectiveness)—40%

A hearing aid is only as good as the sound amplification it delivers. We test for the following factors as part of our evaluation process.

• Sound quality
• Noise reduction
• Feedback control
• Programmability and connectivity

Features—30%

Additional factors like battery life and water resistance are important for the hearing aid’s day-to-day usefulness.

• Durability
• Battery options
• Hearing loss range
• Wireless connectivity
• Water resistance
• Safety features

Value—20%

Value isn’t just the sticker price, but includes factors like financing, maintenance costs, and insurance acceptance.

• Insurance coverage
• Financing options

Customer experience—10%

We evaluate secondary customer experiences, like shipping options and the ease of purchase, so consumers don’t have to.

• Shipping
• Warranty
• Customer support

What to look for in a Bluetooth hearing aid

When searching for a Bluetooth hearing aid, you’ll want to consider these key features to ensure optimal performance and user satisfaction:

• Sound quality: Look for devices with clear, natural audio and effective noise reduction to enhance speech understanding.
• Connectivity: Ensure seamless Bluetooth pairing with smartphones, TVs, and other devices for effortless streaming. Make sure they are compatible with the devices you own.
• Comfort: Choose a lightweight, well-fitting design for all-day wear without discomfort.
• Battery life: Opt for models with long battery life to avoid frequent recharging.
• Ease of use: Consider user-friendly interfaces and controls, especially for those who are not tech-savvy.
• Durability: Select a hearing aid that’s built to withstand daily wear and tear, including water resistance if needed.
• Customer support: Check for reliable customer service and comprehensive warranties. Decide if you prefer ongoing professional assistance or to manage them yourself.

How do Bluetooth hearing aids work?

Bluetooth hearing aids use wireless technology to connect to various devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and televisions. This connectivity means you can stream audio directly from these devices, providing a clear and convenient listening experience. When paired with a smartphone, a Bluetooth hearing aid can receive phone calls, music, and other audio signals directly into the ear, eliminating the need for additional accessories. This direct streaming significantly improves the quality of sound and speech understanding, especially in noisy environments.

Bluetooth hearing aids also offer programmable settings that users can customize via smartphone companion apps. These apps allow for adjustments in volume, sound quality, and other preferences, providing a personalized hearing experience. The integration of Bluetooth technology not only enhances the functionality of hearing aids but also makes them more user-friendly and versatile for everyday use.

FAQs

Our experts

Stephanie Hope, CSSC, CSMC, CLC

Stephanie Hope has over seven years of experience in product and service journalism, with a focus on sleep and well-being. Not only is she a Certified Sleep Science Coach, but she is also a Certified Stress Management Coach, Longevity Coach, and is working on becoming a Wellness Coach through the Spencer Institute.

Krista Manning

Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.