Best Rechargeable Hearing Aids | Fortune Recommends Health (2024)

Rechargeable hearing aids represent a significant advancement in hearing technology, offering users convenience and sustainability compared to their older replaceable battery counterparts.

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries were first incorporated into hearing aids in 2016. (1) These devices have rapidly evolved, incorporating smaller, longer-lasting batteries and features like Bluetooth connectivity and advanced noise filtering.

The shift towards rechargeable models aligns with a growing consumer preference for devices that are both eco-friendly and have lower long-term maintenance costs. (2) Rechargeable devices have surpassed replaceable battery models as the most commonly owned type (52%), according to a recent MarkeTrack survey of 815 respondents. (3) Almost all major hearing aid manufacturers now make rechargeable models and are phasing out disposable battery options. Our survey of 600 hearing aid wearers found that rechargeable batteries were the second most important feature after digital noise reduction. (4)

Our picks for the best rechargeable hearing aids

• Best overall: Jabra Enhance Select 300
• Most affordable: Audien Atom Pro 2
• Longest battery life: Signia Pure Charge&Go 7AX
• Best for tinnitus: Phonak Naida Paradise 90
• Best for seniors: MDHearing Volt
• Best invisible: Eargo 7

Best overall rechargeable hearing aid: Jabra Enhance Select 300

Why we like Jabra Enhance Select 300 as the best overall

The Jabra Enhance Select 300 earns its spot as our top recommendation due to its combination of cutting-edge technology and user-centric design. This is a smaller RIC-style device featuring SoundScape ^™ technology, which excels in delivering clear sound in noisy environments by enhancing speech while reducing background noise.

You can change volume and listening modes with the on-device push button or through the app. The four pre-programmed listening modes are All-around, Restaurant, Music, and Outdoor. The app can also activate streaming to both Android and Apple devices and set up remote adjustments and software updates. Hands-free calling is only available to iPhones.

While battery life can last up to 24 hours, actual operating time depends on active features, the use of wireless accessories, the degree of hearing loss, battery age, and the sound environment. Streaming tends to deplete the battery most quickly.

Our tester noted the availability of a unique “spot lock” mode accessory, which attaches to the devices and wraps around the ear to keep them in place during high-motion activity. They also appreciated that the devices came with seven different dome types so users could find the best fit (most devices come with only three or four types). The fit of this aid was so comfortable that our tester thought they had fallen out but was surprised to find they were still in place.

Jabra Enhance devices are available in two Care and Protection packages: Basic and Premium. Each offers different levels of service and customization tailored to meet varying user needs and budgets.

Basic Package:

• Costs $1,595 per pair
• Pre-programmed for common types of hearing loss, allowing users to select from four preset hearing profiles
• 1-year warranty with 1-year loss and damage protection
• Users have access to customer support and can manage their hearing aid settings themselves
• Best suited for individuals with less complicated hearing needs who prefer a more straightforward, budget-friendly option

Premium Package:

• Costs $1,795 per pair
• Custom-programed based on an online hearing test or an audiogram provided by the user
• Comprehensive 3-year virtual care plan, which allows for setup and ongoing adjustments and fine-tuning by Jabra’s Audiology Team via video calls
• 3-year warranty and loss & damage protection
• More suitable for users seeking custom-tailored hearing solutions and long-term care

The Premium package offers significant additional benefits for a relatively small increase in cost ($200), particularly valuable for users who anticipate their hearing needs might change over time or who wish for more hands-on support and customization​. Buyers will also select from five color options: silver, champagne, gold, bronze, or gray.

What customers are saying

Independent online customer reviews of this particular model are difficult to come by because they are only available for purchase through the Jabra Enhance website. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) gives Jabra Enhance an A+ rating and 3.44 out of 5 stars. Many complaints revolve around the difficulty of getting Jabra Enhance to honor the 100-day trial period. It seems that customer service can be difficult to get a hold of when problems arise.

One Reddit thread discusses a customer’s experience with the Select 300 model.

Another Reddit user, Jasesdad, writes of their positive experience: “So far, I am very happy with my 300 that I received just a couple of days ago. So far I’m using the restaurant mode for watching TV since it will suppress noise behind and sides of me and focus on front audio. With the 200s, I found that the music mode was best for watching TV. The 300s definitely do a much better job at suppressing loud noises.”

Specs

Most affordable rechargeable hearing aid: Audien Atom Pro 2

Why we like Audien Atom Pro 2 as the most affordable

The Audien Atom Pro 2 stands out as an affordable rechargeable hearing aid option, priced at $289. It is designed with several key features that make it a compelling choice for individuals seeking cost-effective hearing solutions.

Features of Audien Atom Pro 2:

• Advanced sound quality comes from the new A2 ^™ sound chip, enhancing audio clarity and providing effective background noise cancellation so you can focus on the sounds that matter most.
• Unique UV cleaning feature within its charging case, which sanitizes the hearing aids as they charge.
• Discreet and ergonomic in-ear design with multiple ear tips to ensure a secure fit, comfortable fit.
• Up to 24 hours of battery life from a single charge.
• Simplicity of use with a single, on-device button for volume and mode changes

The Audien Atom Pro 2 can be purchased over the counter directly from Audien’s website. The process is straightforward—select the model, add it to your cart, and complete the checkout process. The hearing aids are shipped within 3-5 business days, offering a fast and convenient way to access hearing support without a hearing evaluation or professional fitting. Alternatively, they may be purchased through Walmart.

Our tester appreciated the automatic on/off feature when removing or inserting the devices from the charging case. They also noted that the charging case was very high quality for such a low price. It is rare to find UV sterilization integrated into a hearing aid charger. Our tester found the fit very comfortable and appreciated that there is no left/right distinction, which makes insertion simpler.

This model is particularly well-suited for individuals new to hearing aids or those looking for a budget-friendly option. Its simple design and ease of use make it ideal for everyday environments, though it might not meet the needs of those with more complex hearing loss or who require customized hearing profiles. ( 9 )

What customers are saying

Walmart customers give the Atom Pro 2 4.0 out of 5 stars . Verified customer Don said, “My wife purchased these aids for me. I was reluctant, but I’m so glad she got them. They’ve totally changed my ability to hear and be part of the conversation. I can hear birds again! And I don’t have to rely on others to interpret for me. These are great hearing aids and a great value. I’m very happy with my experience and highly recommend it.”

They do not work for everyone, which is to be expected from an OTC, self-fitting device. Walmart verified customer James said, “These did not help in understanding conversation. They simply amplified my own voice in my ears as well as made the background noise louder. No matter what settings were selected, I could understand people talking to me better when I removed the devices from my ears. However, the customer experience, quick delivery, and clear instructions on how to use the product were very good. Perhaps in my case, a professional solution is required.”

Several customers complained of disappointing sound quality and that the devices were too large for their ears, even with the smallest tips. So, if you have tiny ear canals, these may not work for you.

Specs

Longest battery life rechargeable hearing aid: Signia Pure Charge&Go 7AX

Why we like Signia Pure Charge&Go 7AX as the longest battery life

The Signia Pure Charge&Go IX hearing aids represent a significant advancement in hearing technology, with high performance in challenging listening environments like group conversations and an exceptionally long battery life.

Key features include:

• Advanced sound processing with Signia’s Integrated Xperience platform to enhance speech clarity in noisy settings. This technology is designed to dynamically adapt to ongoing conversations, making it easier to follow group interactions​.
• It has a long battery life, with up to 36 hours of usage on a single charge
• Enhanced connectivity with direct audio streaming from both iOS and Android devices. The upcoming Bluetooth LE Audio standard update will make these hearing aids future-proof for tech-savvy users.
• Despite their powerful features, they are designed to be compact and comfortable for all-day wear​.

Signia offers different chargers, including a standard charger, a portable charger that doubles as a power bank, and the Dry&Clean charger that not only charges but also dehumidifies and sanitizes the aids, which is particularly useful in humid environments.

The hearing aids feature a tactile rocker switch for easy manual control over settings, or they can also be controlled via the Signia app, which offers extensive customization options, including remote adjustments by hearing care professionals​​.

The price can vary depending on the supplier, with certain providers, like Yes Hearing, offering competitive rates significantly lower than the average in-person audiology office.

Unlike OTC options, the Signia Pure Charge&Go is suitable for treating severe hearing loss.

What customers are saying

All reviews on Fit Hearing Audiology’s website give the Signia Pure Charge&Go four or five stars.

Another customer, Michael, was slightly less impressed but still gave four stars and said, “Being a high-end hearing instrument, I was initially surprised to sense little improvement over my 7-year-old mid-grade hearing aids. But they have really good feedback prevention, and their operation is just deceptively smooth. In Universal mode, the sound is always natural. Noisy environment mode works very well.”

And finally, a very pleased customer, Debra, said, “Absolutely life-changing! I never realized how much I was missing until I was fitted for my hearing aids!”

Specs

Best rechargeable hearing aid for tinnitus: Phonak Naida Paradise 90

Why we like Phonak Naida Paradise as the best for tinnitus

The Phonak Naida Paradise hearing aid is notable for its advanced features, especially for individuals with tinnitus, a buzzing or ringing in the ears, which can be very disruptive and distressing, negatively affecting the user’s quality of life. (5) (6) For the majority of tinnitus patients, sound therapy offers significant relief from the negative impacts by masking the tinnitus sounds. Sound therapy can consist of a combination of environmental sounds, music, broadband sounds, or amplified sounds (i.e. hearing aid amplification). (7) Sound therapy is customized to the individual patient and controlled through the Phonak app.

Julie Prutsman, AuD , owner of Sound Relief Hearing Centers in Colorado, told us, “It’s important patients use a competent tinnitus specialist because hearing aids can only help around 50% of tinnitus cases. Educational counseling is also an important component of treatment.” She points out that it does not resolve in a couple of days but rather takes significant time, effort, and work from the patient and provider. She said, “Each professional brand offers slightly different tinnitus treatments. Whatever you do, don’t attempt to treat tinnitus with an OTC hearing aid.”

Other key features of the Naida Paradise are:

• Universal Bluetooth connectivity with direct audio streaming from virtually any Bluetooth-enabled device, including smartphones, TVs, and tablets.
• Roger microphone technology boosts hearing performance in loud environments and over distances by wirelessly transmitting the speaker’s voice directly to the hearing aids. This is particularly effective in noisy settings like group conversations.​
• Users can manage calls and streaming with Tap Control, a simple tap gesture on the hearing aids. This allows for easy interaction with devices and access to voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant​.
• The myPhonak App allows users to save custom programs directly from the app to the hearing aids. This enhancement supports personalized settings management, providing a more tailored hearing experience​.

What customers are saying

Online reviews of Phonak do not specifically mention the Naida Paradise model because they are only available through hearing care professionals who do not post customer reviews on their websites.

The brand Phonak is reviewed by the BBB and Trustpilot , where scores are low. They have a 2- out of 5-star rating on BBB but only from 11 reviews, none of which are specific to Naida Paradise. It appears customers have difficulty downloading and using the Phonak app. But not everyone is struggling.

Similarly, Phonak has a 1.9- out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot from 80 reviews. Jenny gave 4 stars and said, “Only had them a few days, but so far, I’m very pleased with them. The people who say that they can’t pair their phones with the app should bear in mind that it’s likely to be the phone that is the problem, not the hearing aids. You do, unfortunately, need a fairly new phone no more than 3-4 years old and a good make such as Pixel or Samsung. I can listen to YouTube through my hearing aids and have hands-free phone calls. Cool.”

Specs

Best rechargeable hearing aid for seniors: MDHearing Volt

Why we like MDHearing Volt as the best for seniors

The MDHearing Volt is a notable option for seniors looking for hearing aids that combine affordability, ease of use, and effective hearing support.

Key Features of MDHearing Volt include:

• Rechargeable batteries that last up to 20 hours on a single charge, making it convenient for all-day use without the need for frequent recharging. This feature is particularly beneficial for seniors who may forget to regularly change batteries or find the small size of traditional hearing aid batteries challenging to handle​.
• Ease of use because It is equipped with clearly marked and easily accessible buttons that allow users to adjust volume and change programs. Unlike the Atom Pro 2, which has only one button to control volume and program changes, the Volt has two separate buttons that avoid any confusion. This simplicity is crucial for seniors who may not be comfortable with more complex technology​ like an app.
• Straightforward charging case that users can simply place their devices in to recharge. The aids automatically turn off when charging. This case eliminates the need to handle small, fiddly parts, which can be a hurdle for those with limited dexterity or vision. It includes charging indicators, which provide clear signals when the devices are fully charged.​
• Multiple preset programs that enhance listening in various environments, such as quiet settings, noisy rooms, or restaurants. This feature helps seniors effortlessly adapt to different sound environments, improving their hearing experience in social settings, which is crucial for maintaining social connections and overall quality of life​. (8)
• VIP Care package is available at an additional cost of $200 that includes an extended two-year warranty, priority customer support, one-on-one fitting and onboarding, and unlimited professional follow-up care. This service is particularly valuable for seniors who may require additional support to optimize their hearing aid settings or troubleshoot issues​.
• With a starting price significantly lower than many competing models, the MDHearing Volt provides an economical solution for hearing enhancement. This cost-effectiveness is especially appealing to seniors who may be on a fixed income but still need quality hearing aids​.

The MDHearing Volt’s combination of affordability, simple operation, and reliable performance aligns well with the needs of many older adults. Its easy-to-use interface reduces the barriers often encountered with more complex devices, while robust customer support ensures users can get help when they need it. Additionally, the hearing aids’ physical design, which prioritizes comfort and ease of maintenance, caters to the practical daily needs of seniors.

Overall, the MDHearing Volt is well-suited for older individuals looking for a no-frills, effective hearing aid solution that respects the limitations they might face with more sophisticated technology.

What customers are saying

Amazon customers give the MDHearing Volt 3.5 out of 5 stars.

While customers are generally happy with the sound quality when the devices are working normally, there are some reports of devices failing after only a few weeks or months of use.

Amazon customer George reported, “I was pleasantly surprised that this set was very good. It masked background noise levels well while allowing me to hear normal conversation. The problem is that the right unit began to rattle after about a week. Since I was on vacation at the time, I decided to just turn the volume down, and that seemed to correct it. By the time I got back from vacation, about 10 days, the left unit began to do the same thing, and the right unit quit working. This was about three weeks after I received them. I have returned the hearing aids and found a more reliable set.”

Specs

Best invisible rechargeable hearing aid: Eargo 7

Why we like Eargo 7 as the best invisible

The Eargo 7 is designed to be an exceptionally discreet and effective hearing aid, particularly well-suited for those with mild to moderate hearing loss who prioritize invisibility and comfort.

Since invisible hearing aids sit deeper in the ear canal, they use the ear’s natural shape to improve the sound quality,” begins Dr. Raj.

Notable features of the Eargo 7 are:

• Their very small size fits completely inside the ear canal, making them almost invisible when worn. They are designed to provide a comfortable fit with open or closed petal tip options.​ Our tester found the open petals more comfortable. They also pointed out that the small size may be difficult for those with dexterity issues to handle.
• They utilize Sound Adjust+ technology which automatically adjusts the hearing aid settings based on the environmental noise levels. This feature enhances speech clarity and reduces background noise, making it easier to hear in various settings without needing manual adjustments​.
• They are both water- and sweat-resistant, making them durable enough to withstand moisture from weather or physical activity​.
• They come with a portable charging case that can recharge the aids multiple times on a single case charge. The hearing aids themselves offer up to 16 hours of battery life, which, although less than some other devices in this review, provides ample usage time for all-day wear​.
• Eargo provides a mobile app that allows users to perform a hearing test and customize their hearing aids accordingly, a feature called SoundMatch. The app also enables adjustments to volume and program settings.
• Eargo offers lifetime support from its team of hearing specialists.

Our tester appreciated the tap control feature, which allows you to change the program by simply tapping the ear, but did find it a bit confusing that volume changes can only be made through the app.

They also felt the sound quality was lacking, with a tinny, echoey sound and too much background noise. This probably could be alleviated, at least some, by changing out the petals (tips). Open petals are designed to enhance natural sound entry, potentially reducing the sensation of echo or occlusion. Closed petals improve sound isolation and reduce feedback, allowing users to tailor their hearing experience based on personal preference.

What customers are saying

Eargo 7 has 4.7 stars on Best Buy.

There are multiple reports of excellent customer service from Eargo. Greg, a verified Best Buy customer, wrote, “I purchased the Eargo 7 aids last month after reviewing the market offers. I liked the fact that these are invisible and rechargeable. Once I started using them, I was amazed at how my hearing improved. These deliver a natural sound without the tinny sound [of] other units I had tried. I’ve been using these for about five weeks and now forget they are even in my ears. Great sounding and comfortable, and the preset programs work well for me. I especially like the fact that loud environments do not blast your ears. These devices have restored my hearing back to what I consider normal. They also provide excellent training with an Eargo rep (via phone) which helps to get you started. Thanks, Eargo!”

Negative reviews are difficult to come by and refer to unsuitability for severe hearing loss (but we knew that) and shorter-than-advertised battery life, which it sounds like can be remedied by a phone call to Eargo.

The majority of reviews are overwhelmingly positive.

Specs

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