A Brief Bluetooth Hearing Aid History
In 1994 Jaap Haartsen and his colleagues set out to connect two nearby devices without a cord. It seems simple now, but they had no idea how to make it work.
Eventually, they devised a plan to send low-power electrical signals through the air using what they initially called "short link" radio.
They later named the technology Bluetooth and published a protocol that turned the invention into a global standard.
Over the next several years, Bluetooth spread to phones, headphones, and radios. In 2004 Starkey released the first Bluetooth hearing aid using a clunky design plugged into the bottom of a hearing device.
Bluetooth hearing aids have come a long way in the 21 years since they were first released.
Today there are dozens of powerful Bluetooth-enabled hearing devices on the market. Bluetooth connection allows for conveniences for hearing aid wearers like:
- Listening to podcasts and music directly through your hearing aids
- Connection to a hearing aid app that can control settings and volume + indicate when your battery is low
- Take phone calls without holding the phone to your ear
- Some hearing aids are using Bluetooth to experiment with fitness tracking, fall detection, and language translation
Someone buy Jaap a drink. 🍺
How did we choose the Bluetooth hearing aids below?
Our team personally tested each of the Bluetooth hearing aids listed below. These are some of the factors we considered.
- Phone and device compatibility. We tested products for phone compatibility. In general, leading Bluetooth phones can stream from both Android and iPhone but they are only enabled for two-way phone calls (picks up your voice) for iPhone.
Sennheiser All Day Clear and Phonak Infinio are two notable exceptions. If you use an Android device you'll want to consider one of those two options. - Consistent connection. We also looked for devices that hold a steady connection with your phone as you move around your home or life.
- We looked for outliers. Starkey Signature is the smallest Bluetooth hearing aid.
- We also looked for variety. Everyone has different needs and preferences. We looked for hearing aids with a variety of price points and form factors.
Prefer to watch?
See our latest video review of the best Bluetooth hearing aids on the market below. 👇
Here are the best Bluetooth hearing aids for 2024. 👇
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Featured in this article
Best Value for iPhone Users - Jabra Enhance Select
Jabra Enhance Select is our pick for the best overall value in the category. They deliver professional-grade hearing aids through the mail and program them using Telehealth. All three technology levels from the brand allow Bluetooth streaming.
Jabra Enhance Select works for Android devices but does not come with hands-free calling. Wearers need to keep their phones close to capture outbound sound.
Jabra Enhance Select
- Bluetooth enabled and rechargeable
- 100-day risk-free trial
- Nearly invisible with a sleek design
- Professionally programmed before shipping to your home
The Jabra Enhance Select 500 offers an impressive blend of clinic-grade technology, affordability, and user convenience. Here’s why it stands out:
- Professional-Grade Technology at a Lower Price: Jabra’s Enhance Select 500 provides the advanced sound quality of clinic-only brands like ReSound but at less than half the price.
- Professional Programmed Hearing Aids From Home: Jabra’s pre-programmed approach ensures a personalized fit without needing in-clinic visits—customers simply take or upload a hearing test, and Jabra's audiologists program the hearing aids before shipment.
- Seamless Bluetooth Streaming: Equipped with LE Audio, the Enhance Select 500 delivers high-quality, direct streaming for calls and media, with excellent sound quality and range.
- Purchase Perks: Jabra offers 100-day returns, unlimited remote adjustments, and seven-day-a-week customer support.
Overall
Users commend the Jabra Enhance Select 500 for its natural sound quality, discreet design, and effective customer support. Many report significant improvements in hearing clarity and comfort.
Positives
- Natural Sound Quality: "The sound quality is excellent, and the ability to adjust settings via the app is a great feature." — Timothy T.
- Discreet Design: "These hearing aids are virtually invisible and very comfortable to wear throughout the day." — Angel M.
- Customer Support: "The customer service team was incredibly helpful and guided me through the setup process with ease." — Damian.
Complaints
While the majority of feedback is positive, some customers have reported issues with device durability and the need for adjustments. However, these concerns are relatively infrequent compared to the overall satisfaction expressed by users.
For a comprehensive view of customer experiences, you can visit Jabra Enhance's review page.
- One of the most affordable and convenient ways to purchase online while maintaining professional care
- Comes with a 100 day free-return period
- Offers rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming
- Remote care requires users to be somewhat tech savvy
- Jabra only offers styles that sit behind the ear
- Jabra Enhance Select is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss and struggle with feedback (squealing) you may need a custom earmold (not available through Jabra Telehealth)
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for a high-powered BTE style hearing aid (note available through Jabra Telehealth)
- Jabra is a remote care brand that programs and delivers your hearing aids through Telehealth
- Take or submit a hearing test and a Jabra professional will program your hearing aids and ship them to your door
- Three years of unlimited support is included with every purchase
- Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids come with the capability for remote adjustments. This feature means you don't need to ship your hearing aids back to get program updates
- Jabra Enhance Select is manufactured by GN Hearing (the makers of ReSound hearing aids)
- Jabra devices come with a strong set of background noise handling features and app controls
- Jabra Enhance Select comes in a small and comfortable receiver-in-canal style that is easy to wear all day
- Sits behind the ear with a receiver (speaker) that reaches into the ear canal
- The form factor of Jabra Enhance Select is comparable to ReSound hearing aids
- Choose between five colors including: Sparkling Silver, Champaign, Gold, Bronze and Warm Grey
- Jabra Enhance Select offers three levels of technology. Select 500 and Select 300 come with rechargeable batteries and as of May 2024, Select 50 also comes with rechargeable batteries
- 30 hours on a full charge
- Comes with a portable charger (does not need to be plugged in)
- All Jabra Enhance Select technology levels allow Bluetooth streaming, music listening, and phone calls.
- Jabra Enhance Select 500 uses Bluetooth LE Audio (Auracast ready) and is handsfree for iPhone (11 and newer) and compatible Android models
- Jabra Enhance Select 300 allows iPhone users to take calls hands-free, while Android users must keep their phones close to pick up outbound audio
- Jabra Enhance Select 300 uses Apple's MFI connection and Android's ASHA connection to stream content through Bluetooth
- Jabra Enhance Select is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- If dexterity is a concern we recommend Select 300, which is larger and easier to grasp than the microRIE (Select 500)
- The Jabra Enhance Select charge case uses induction charging and is fairly easy to handle
- All levels of Jabra Enhance Select have an IP rating of 68
- These hearing aids can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- Customization: Treble/bass, volume, microphone directionality
- Jabra Enhance Select includes Telehealth capabilities through the Jabra app
In-Clinic Leaders - Phonak Infinio & ReSound NEXIA
Nearly all receiver-in-canal hearing aids at local clinics are Bluetooth-enabled. That list includes Signia, Oticon, Widex, and more. As of early 2024, two brands stand out from the pack on the Bluetooth front - Phonak Infinio and ReSound NEXIA.
- Phonak is the only in-clinic brand that uses a universal Bluetooth connection, giving Android and iPhone users hands-free calling.
- NEXIA stands out for including the latest Bluetooth Low Energy protocol, which will help future-proof your hearing aids for new Bluetooth experiences (like Auracast) over the next few years. More on both products is below. 👇
Phonak Infinio Sphere
Phonak’s Infinio and Infinio Sphere models, released in mid-2024, quickly caught industry attention with groundbreaking features:
- Real-Time AI Processing: Phonak leads in AI innovation with its dual-chip architecture, powering real-time adjustments that make listening easier in complex, dynamic environments. This level of AI-driven sound processing sets Infinio Sphere apart as a top choice for clarity and adaptability.
- Extended Bluetooth Range: Enjoy hands-free streaming and calls with 2x the Bluetooth range, making Phonak an ideal pick for both iOS and Android users who value reliable connectivity.
- Waterproof and Durable Design: Built with an IP68 rating, Infinio Sphere withstands water exposure and daily wear, appealing to users with active lifestyles who want durability alongside performance.
Phonak’s Infinio line combines onboard AI with practical, user-focused features, making it an excellent choice for those seeking top-of-the-line performance and versatility in hearing aids.
Phonak Infinio Sphere receives highly positive reviews, with many users noting significant improvements over previous Phonak models and competing brands. Wearers praise its sound quality and robust Bluetooth streaming. The main complaints we found relate to the larger size and occasional automatic mode switching. Some highlights from our partners at ZipHearing.
- "Wearing these new Phonak Sphere Hearing Aids has been very comfortable and an easy adjustment for me. These are my first hearing aids and the sound with them on sounds very natural. I've been able to understand my friends in a crowded restaurant and have been able to turn off the closed captioning on my TV. The Bluetooth feature has worked well for both streaming music and phone calls. I haven't found any drawbacks yet!" - Eileen
- "I have been wearing hearing aids for 6 years. I started my journey with ReSound which lasted nearly 5 years. I then went to Costco and discovered Costco aids are fine for people with modest hearing loss, but I needed more. I then went with Phonak Sphere and have been very happy. I am active and discovered early on the aids I had purchased were being negatively impacted by sweat. Phonak replaced them with water resistant aids for a very small charge. I am very pleased with my new aids." - David
- "Sound quality is excellent. Definitely an improvement over previous HA. Still trying it out in noisy environments but I definitely see an improvement when in noisy situations in understanding speech." - Ken
- "I am currently wearing the Phonak Audio Sphere 90 hearing aids. Had them about two weeks now and the sound quality is very good. I am a bit frustrated with the Automatic program selection as it does not really seem to pick the correct program for the situation. I have not noted the sphere function working as of yet, even though I have been in a few very noisy situations. They are comfortable and only took a few days to adapt to the thicker design of the body. The battery life is exceptional. After wearing them for 15 to 16 hours they still have 45 percent batter life. The only other complaint is the charger case. It is not easy to get they in and almost kink the wires to the domes. I wish they were bigger like my previous Marvels." - Brian
- Top of the line sound processing (thanks in part to onboard AI)
- Best-in-class Bluetooth connection
- Highly water-resistant option available for active lifestyles
- Sphere is a premium product with an average price of $4,598 per pair.
- Shorter than average battery life of 16 hours per charge
- Phonak Sphere is larger than most hearing aids on the market (due to a larger battery and two onboard chips)
- Phonak Infinio is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss, your care provider may fit you with a custom earmold to reduce feedback
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for Phonak's high-powered Naída Paradise
- Phonak Infinio is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- After an initial fitting, you can connect with your care provider remotely through the myPhonak app
- Phonak is one of our top reviewed products for background noise management
- Phonak Sphere Infinio uses a first-to-market onboard AI processing chip which makes up to 7 million adjustments per second
- Phonak Infinio comes in in a comfortable receiver-in-canal style that is easy to wear all day
- Sits behind the ear with a receiver (speaker) that reaches into the ear canal
- Phonak Infinio offers a rounded, modern form factor and a comparable size to other leading devices
- Choose from a variety of colors including: Chestnut, sandalwood, sand beige, silver gray, graphite gray, velvet black, beige, champagne
- Phonak Infinio comes with rechargeable batteries only
- 24 hours on a 3-hour charge (including 80 min of streaming); 30 minute quick charge provides 6 hours battery life
- Standard charger uses inductive charging
- Phonak Infinio is among our top choices for Bluetooth capabilities
- Allows simultaneous connection to up to four devices
- Allows hands-free calling for both iPhone and Android devices
- Users can tap their hearing aid to answer calls
- Telecoil is available
- Infinio uses universal connectivity for all Bluetooth devices (other leaders use MFI and ASHA)
- Infinio offers 2X the Bluetooth range (distance from your device) compared to older models
- Phonak Infinio is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- Infinio devices come with an onboard toggle switch for volume and program changes
- Phonak Infinio is water resistant with an IP rating of 68
- Infinio has even stronger waterproofing than previous models from the brand
- This hearing aid can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- Remote care: Available through the Phonak app in coordination with your provider
- Customization: Volume, treble/bass, adjustable custom programs in the app
- Tinnitus masking: Available through your healthcare provider
- Find my hearing aid: N/A
- Health tracking: Tracks length of wear time and step count
ReSound NEXIA
ReSound Nexia stands out for its legacy of innovation and modern design. Here’s what makes it a top pick:
- Proven Expertise: ReSound has led the hearing aid industry with tech-first developments, from the earliest made-for-iPhone hearing aids to today’s Auracast-enabled models. With millions of users worldwide, ReSound brings trusted experience and reliability.
- Discreet Design: NEXIA is the smallest receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid we’ve reviewed, offering a low-profile option that’s especially helpful if you wear glasses or prefer subtlety.
- Powerful Battery: With 30 hours of life on a single charge and a portable charger, Nexia provides extended wear and convenience, ideal for users who are on the go.
- Superior Background Noise Handling: Nexia’s advanced beam-forming tech and innovative in-ear microphone deliver exceptional clarity in noisy environments, making it one of the best in the market for handling complex soundscapes.
ReSound NEXIA combines sleek design with high-performing technology, ideal for those who want both discretion and power.
ReSound NEXIA receives strong reviews for its crisp sound quality. Some users note issues with Bluetooth connectivity on Android devices and slight discomfort from the in-ear M&RIE receiver. Read more reviews via our partners at ZipHearing.
- "I had gotten so used to diminished hearing, I had no idea what I was missing. I no longer say “can you repeat that” or “what?” And my phone rings in my ear and all I have to do is tap the unit behind my ear. No more fumbling to get me phone out of my pocket in time to answer." - Richard
- "I love my new Resound Nexia 9. They seem to pick up sounds my previous 5-year old hearing aids picked up and they seem to process background noise much better. I am very happy with my purchase." - Mitch
- "My new Nexia “ears “ are very comfortable behind the ears. They seemed very loud at first but I have adjusted and are obviously better than my old “ears” . The sound is clear and less tinny . I can hear a phone conversation very clearly using the Bluetooth ability, although I still need my phone very close for the caller to hear me. After a day of wearing my “ears” the left one hurts, I think from the wire, however I have not had a follow up appointment so that may be fixable. The right side is no problem." - Fiona
- "The rechargeable battery is a HUGE plus—no more keeping batteries on me at all times. The moisture resistance is another plus—no more bulky desiccant case. The charging case is small enough to be easily portable, but might be a bit uncomfortable in a pocket—maybe in a jacket pocket. It took me a few days to figure out a good workflow for getting the hearing aids to connect and stay connected to my Pixel 5 (listed on the manufacturer's website as compatible). The connectivity is good when it works but sometimes one of the hearing aids drops out and has to reconnect. I was not able to get them to connect to my work computer (a MacBook) using MFi." - Matt
- Great for background noise management
- Auracast compatible
- Small form factor and an optional 3rd microphone in the ear
- 30-hours of battery life
- More expensive compared to direct to consumer and OTC options
- NEXIA's in-ear M&RIE microphone is a bit larger and can be uncomfortable for some
- ReSound NEXIA is a fully customizable, prescription hearing aid appropriate for mild-severe hearing loss
- If you have severe hearing loss, your care provider may fit you with a custom earmold to reduce feedback
- If you have profound hearing loss, you may be a better fit for ReSound NEXIA BTE
- ReSound NEXIA is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- After an initial fitting, you can connect with your care provider remotely through the ReSound app
- ReSound NEXIA is an excellent choice for background noise management. The optional M&RIE microphone that sits inside the ear adds additional intelligence and reduces handling noise from your hair or glasses.
- NEXIA hearing aids come with four onboard microphones that anayze and manage background noise in the most complex situations.
- ReSound NEXIA is a discreet and comfortable product, but some users with smaller ear canals find the M&RIE receiver uncomfortable in their ears. M&RIE can be removed by your care provider and replaced with a standard receiver.
- ReSound NEXIA hearing aids sit behind the ear
- NEXIA is 25% smaller than past ReSound products and is one of the smallest behind-the-ear style devices on the market.
- NEXIA comes in 8 colors, including, sparkling silver, champagne, gold, bronze, warm grey, graphite, espresso, deep black
- NEXIA comes with three battery options, including micro RIE rechargeable (30 hours), a larger disposable battery version (size 13), and a second disposable battery option (size 312).
- A rechargeable version of NEXIA is also available with a CROS (for single-sided deafness)
- NEXIA is one of the first hearing aids on the market to release Auracast-compatible hearing aids. Auracast will take a few years to roll out in public spaces. Still, once it is available, it will allow users to stream public announcements, movies, and other shared audio experiences directly to their hearing aids.
- Of course, NEXIA also allows standard Bluetooth streaming from iPhone and Android devices. iPhone users can take calls hands-free, while Android users must keep their phones close to pick up outbound audio.
- NEXIA uses Apple's MFI connection and Android's ASHA connection to stream content through Bluetooth
- NEXIA is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- NEXIA recharging cases use conduction charging, which is easier to handle
- NEXIA has an app feature that uses your phone camera to check that the hearing aids are in the ear properly
- ReSound NEXIA is water resistant with an IP rating of 68
- This hearing aid can withstand dust and water submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- Remote care: After an in-office activation, the remote care option is available on the app
- Customization: Volume control, treble/bass, streaming treble/bass, programs
- Tinnitus masking: Customizable programs with a hearing care professional or use the Resound Relief app to experiment with masking noise
- Find my hearing aid: Yes, feature is included in the app
- Check my fit: An app feature from Resound to check the hearing aids are in the ear properly
Read our full review of the ReSound App here.
Best OTC for Android Users - Sennheiser All Day Clear
Sennheiser All Day Clear is made by the same manufacturers behind Phonak and Unitron - Sonova. This more affordable, self-directed hearing aid is our top choice for the best OTC hearing aid for Android devices. Sennheiser All Day Clear connects to both iPhones and Androids seamlessly via Bluetooth Classic, allowing hands-free calls on either phone type and simplifying connectivity.
Sennheiser All Day Clear
- Our favorite OTC hearing aids for under $1,000
- Manufactured by the largest hearing aid maker in the world
- Compatible with iPhone and Android devices
Here’s why we picked the Sennheiser All-Day Clear:
- Trusted Manufacturer: Developed by Sennheiser, a leader in audio, and backed by Sonova, the world's #1 hearing aid maker, ensuring high-quality sound and technology.
- Comfortable Design: Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear, available in both Slim and standard models to suit different preferences.
- Affordable Price: Offers premium sound quality and features typically found in prescription hearing aids, all for under $1,000.
- Easy App Control: The intuitive smartphone app allows for quick, user-friendly setup and self-programming, ideal for even mildly tech-savvy users.
Sennheiser All Day Clear reviews are about as glowing as you'll find among self-fit devices. Users comment on Sennheiser's lightweight comfort, clear sound and easy to use app. Some users wished that the battery life was longer for 16+ hours of wear. Here are some sample reviews:
- "One of the best over-the-counter hearing aids you'll find.They're extremely lightweight which I really appreciate because usually whenever I use any sort of earbuds I like it to wear I don't even feel like they're on my ear.The clarity of the audio that comes out of these small little hearing aids is very impressive." - Jay
- "The instructions are not complicated and the all day clear app for the phone is easy to use and works well for personal customization. You can use the hearing aids itself to control the volume and connect to other devices. The all day clear hearing aids are comfortable to wear all day. I feel more confident because I feel like I am apart of conversations and not alienated in life. The battery life is good but you will need to recharge if you are wearing them all day." - Kamille
- "I got my 72-year-old dad the Sennheiser hearing aid, and oh boy, it's a total game-changer! Dad's been dealing with some hearing trouble for a while, but this device has turned things around big time.Being far away from him, I sent the aid his way, and he managed to set it up all by himself using YouTube. Easy peasy! Now, he's raving about how it's like night and day. In group chats, he used to miss out on voices, but not anymore. He's hearing everyone loud and clear, even when Mom calls him from another room." - Britto
- Premium Sonova-built technology for less than prescription channels
- Bluetooth streaming and hands-free calls (Android and iPhone)
- Comfortable all-day form factor
- Charger must be plugged in while charging
- Requires a smartphone for programming
- All-Day Clear is an OTC product appropriate for mild-moderate hearing loss levels
- If you have more significant hearing loss you might consider local or Telehealth care. Read more about prescription Vs. OTC hearing aids here
- Available for purchase online via Soundly
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- Customize your hearing aids with the Sennheiser All-Day Clear app
- Soundly customers get a complimentary guided setup session
- Sennheiser offers impressive underlying background noise management technology
- We found this product performed at a similar level to top prescription brands
- Comfortable receiver-in-canal style is great for all day wear
- Sits behind the ear with a receiver (speaker) that reaches into the ear canal
- The form factor of Sennheiser All-Day Clear is comparable to leading prescription hearing aids like Phonak Lumity
- Available in a dual-tone black and silver
- Choose between slim and non-slim versions (we recommend the non-slim option for most people)
- Sennheiser All-Day Clear comes with rechargeable batteries
- 16 hours of wear on a single charge
- Recharge case must be plugged into the wall while in use
- All-Day Clear streams to all devices including iPhone and Android
- All Day Clear allows hands free phone calls on both iPhone and Android
- Streaming quality is similar to the top prescription products on the market
- All-Day Clear is reasonably easy to handle but does require the wearer to place the hearing aid behind their ear and insert the receiver into the ear (consistent across all behind-the-ear styles)
- The All-Day Clear recharge case has ports that must be in contact for charging. This type of charger is more difficult than premium conduction chargers which do not require ports to be touching
- Sennheiser All-Day Clear hearing aids have an IP68 rating
- These devices can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes without damage
- The Sennheiser All-Day Clear app enables setup and customization of your hearing aids
- The smartphone app allows on-the-go volume and sound quality adjustments
- The All-Day Clear app has a music and automatic program but does not offer Tinnitus masking, program creation or other advanced features
Best Earbud-Style - Sony CRE-E10 or Signia Active Pro
Sony entered the hearing health space in 2022 with this earbud-style OTC hearing aid. We love the sound quality of this product. CRE-E10 only streams to iOS devices.
Sony CRE-E10 Hearing Aids
We chose the Sony CRE-E10 for its unique mix of convenience, sound quality, and customization, making it a standout in the in-ear hearing aid category. Here’s why it’s a top pick:
- Bluetooth Streaming: The CRE-E10 stands out as one of the few in-ear hearing aids that provides direct Bluetooth streaming from iPhones, allowing hands-free calls and media playback with clear, high-quality sound.
- Rechargeable & Long-Lasting: With up to 26 hours of battery life, this device supports all-day wear and includes a simple charging case for extra convenience, making it great for active users.
- Self-Programming: Sony’s app guides users through an intuitive hearing test, allowing personalized adjustments to fit individual hearing needs. This feature gives users greater control and convenience right from home.
At Soundly, we’ve seen firsthand how these features resonate with our customers, who appreciate the balance of tech and comfort Sony offers.
Users share excitement that Sony has entered the hearing space. Many reviewers comment on E10's streaming capabilities and comfortable fit. A few complain about the setup process.
- "I knew Sony would come through with these hearing aids and I'm very, very happy with them...my research payed off!...they've already made me a little more confident and willing to interact with people without saying WHAT? or HUH?" - Ben
- "After initial calibration, there is some fine tuning that you can perform in order to customize the hearing aids for specific situations like speech and your own voice. I liked the ability to adjust the sound EQ balance between treble and bass. This made it easier to focus on voices in higher or lower registers on-the-fly, as needed. You can also set directional hearing amplification as well to focus on sounds coming from in front, behind, or to either side rather than omnidirectional." - Phil
- "The Sony E10s are significantly smaller and lighter than what I had, but sound just as good, with the added benefit of being able to go through the app test to customize them in ways that only a doctor can on professional ones." -Fixm
- Rechargeable Modern design
- Self-fit at home
- Bluetooth streaming for iPhone users
- Not compatible with Android
- More visible than smaller options
- Sony CRE-E10 hearing aids are sold over the counter and are appropriate for those with mild-moderate hearing loss
- If you have more significant hearing loss it is recommended that you access professional care through Telehealth or local care
- Available for purchase online or at retail stores Best Buy
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- Customize your hearing aids with an onboard hearing test and app-controls
- Sony CRE-E10 is made in collaboration with hearing leader WSA audiology
- Some people compare this product to Signia Active Pro
- Sony CRE-C10 offers excellent background noise in line with premium prescription hearing aids
- Sony CRE-E10 sits in the ear like an earbud and comes with various ear tip sizes
- The device is larger than other in-the-ear hearing aids but does a good job handling occlusion
- Our team finds all in-the-ear models slightly less comfortable for all-day wear than RIC hearing aids
- Sits inside the ear like an earbud
- Only available in black
- Sony CRE-E10 has built-in rechargeable batteries
- 26 hour runtime on a single charge
- Each pair comes with a sleek, portable charging case that includes additional, on-the-go charges
- CRE-E10 only streams Bluetooth through iPhones at this time
- CRE-E10 offers hands-free calling for iPhone users
- Android users can use the hearing aid app
- Sony CRE-E10 is very easy to handle
- The recharge case includes convenient magnets that pull the product into place
- No battery changes needed
- CRE-E10 has an IP Rating of IP68, which means it can be submerged in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- The Sony Sound Control app allows users to take a test that programs their devices to match their hearing loss
- The rest of the App is very minimal, with features to control directionality, volume, and bass + treble
- The app is required to make changes (no buttons onboard)
Signia Active
Why We Picked It: Signia Active brings a fresh approach to hearing aids with its earbud-style design that prioritizes both style and functionality. Here’s why it stands out:
- Enhanced Audio with Dual Mics: Thanks to its larger design, Signia Active accommodates two onboard microphones, typically found in higher-end behind-the-ear devices, allowing for improved sound directionality and clarity.
- Excellent Streaming Quality: The earbud form factor optimizes acoustics, preventing sound leakage and automatically adjusting streaming volume in noisy settings, ensuring your music and podcasts sound better than traditional hearing aids.
- Advanced App Support: With access to Signia’s comprehensive app, users benefit from features like fitness tracking, remote audiology appointments, and the Signia Assistant for on-the-go support and adjustments.
- Stylish Design
- Professional Programming
- Great smartphone app
- 29 hour battery life
- More expensive than OTC options
- More visible than some alternatives
- Signia Active hearing aids are appropriate for those with mild-moderate hearing loss
- If you have more significant hearing loss it is recommended that you access professional care through Telehealth or local care
- Available for purchase through a hearing care provider
- Signia Active is made in collaboration with hearing leader WSA audiology
- Signia Active includes background noise support features of the X platform from Signia
- Signia Active Pro offers additional background noise support
- Signia Acitve sits in the ear like an earbud and comes with various ear tip sizes
- The device is larger than other in-the-ear hearing aids but does a good job handling occlusion
- Our team finds all in-the-ear models slightly less comfortable for all-day wear than RIC hearing aids
- Sits inside the ear like an earbud
- Available in black, black/silver, and white/rose gold
- Signia Active has built-in rechargeable batteries
- 26 hour runtime on a single charge
- Each pair comes with a sleek, portable charging case that includes additional, on-the-go charges
- Signia Active only streams Bluetooth through iPhones at this time
- Signia Acitve offers hands-free calling for iPhone users
- Android users can use an acessory to stream to their device in addition to using the hearing aid app
- Signia Active is very easy to handle
- The recharge case includes convenient magnets that pull the product into place
- No battery changes needed
- Signia Acitve has an IP Rating of IP68, which means it can be submerged in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes
- The Signia app allows users to select programs and make adjustments
- The includes features to control directionality, volume, and bass + treble and the Signia Assistant feature
- The app is required to make changes (no buttons onboard)
Most hearing aids come with Bluetooth - with two exceptions.
Over the last few years Bluetooth has become ubiquitous in premium level hearing aids.
Every leading behind-the-ear style prescription hearing aid now comes with Bluetooth, but that doesn't mean it's a guarantee. There are two notable exceptions to Bluetooth adoption:
#1. Some OTC hearing aids do not include Bluetooth.
This will change over the next few years, but some OTC devices do not yet include streaming capabilities. See our complete guide to OTC hearing aids here.
#2. Invisible-style hearing aids are less likely to include Bluetooth.
The smaller a device gets and the further it sits inside your ear, the harder it is to sustain a solid audio stream. Starkey currently has the smallest Bluetooth streaming hearing aid. This graphic shows the smallest Bluetooth device in their lineup.
So let’s assume you’ve found a hearing aid that does have Bluetooth streaming. How do you know if that streaming capability is good?
What to Know About Bluetooth Low Energy and Auracast
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Auracast represent the next big leap in how hearing aids will connect to devices like phones, TVs, and even public systems. But what do these terms mean, and why should you care if you're in the market for hearing aids?
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is a new version of Bluetooth that uses less power and provides a more stable connection than what we currently have. If you’ve ever walked too far from your phone and heard crackling in your hearing aids, BLE will help fix that. It can maintain a stronger signal over longer distances—up to four times further without losing connection. This means better sound quality and more reliability in everyday use.
The big advantage of BLE is that it will simplify how hearing aids connect to other devices. Right now, iPhone users go through a system called MFI (Made for iPhone), and Android users have something called ASHA. Both of these systems work, but they can be clunky and require extra steps to set up. With BLE, hearing aids will connect just like any other Bluetooth device—straight through the Bluetooth settings on your phone—making the process much easier, especially for new users.
While BLE is an exciting development, it’s important to note that it’s still rolling out. Over the next few years, more hearing aids and phones will start to support BLE, so if Bluetooth connectivity is important to you, it’s worth considering future-proofing by choosing a hearing aid that’s BLE-enabled today.
Auracast, on the other hand, is a feature that BLE unlocks. Think of Auracast like a "public broadcast" for audio. Imagine walking into a sports bar with several games on different TVs. With Auracast, each TV could send an audio signal that you can pick up directly through your hearing aids, allowing you to listen to the game you care about without disturbing others. This technology could also be used in places like airports, churches, or theaters, where you can tap into a shared audio stream. For hearing aid wearers, this means being able to connect to public audio systems in a way that’s personalized and seamless.
In short, Bluetooth Low Energy and Auracast are game-changers. They will make your hearing aids more powerful, easier to use, and able to connect to a world of new listening experiences. While the full rollout will take a few years, investing in BLE-enabled hearing aids today will set you up for these exciting features in the future.
Here is a list of hearing aids that have BLE built-in today:
- ReSound NEXIA (built-in and turned on)
- Oticon Intent (built-in but requires a firmware update)
- Signia IX (built-in but requires a firmware update)
- Phonak Sphere and Phonak Infinio (built-in but requires a firmware update)
There are no major OTC hearing aids with BLE built-in at the time of this update. Sennheiser All Day Clear will likely age the best since it uses Bluetooth Classic which won't go anywhere for many years to come.
That's all for now, folks.
We hope you enjoyed this guide to the best Bluetooth hearing aids available. We update this page regularly and will be back with new models as they come.
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Frequently asked questions
Auracast is an exciting Bluetooth protocol that will likely replace standard Bluetooth over the next several years. Right now, ReSound NEXIA is the only hearing aid with Auracast. It will take 2-5 years for phones, TVs, and public spaces to build in Auracast broadcast capability. You can read more about Auracast here.
You can read some excellent research here, but the short answer is yes, hearing aids with Bluetooth are very safe. The power the devices emit is around one-thousandth as powerful as we receive when talking on the phone.
Most premium hearing aids allow you to connect to at least two devices (i.e., computer and Phone). Phonak Lumity allows a connection to up to four devices. Many people have trouble switching back and forth between devices, so you might consider a multi-mic accessory if you'll need to seamlessly move between devices throughout the day.
Note that if you have two pairs of hearing aids and use an iPhone, you'll need to "forget" one device under the accessibility settings section before you can pair a new device.
To use the Made for iPhone hearing devices, you need one of these models:
- iPhone 5 or later
- iPad Pro (all models)
- iPad Air (all models)
- iPad (4th generation) or later
- iPad mini (all models)
To use Android for Bluetooth streaming it is recommended that your phone use OS 11 or later. You can find out your version number through the following steps.
- Open your phone's Settings app.
- Near the bottom, tap About phone. Android version.
- Find your "Android version," "Android security update," and "Build number."
Use the pages below to double check your phone compatibility by brand.
This is a great question. Streaming sound quality will rely less on your hearing aids and more on the style of dome or earmold that you wear. Sound is typically richer when your ear is fully sealed. Open-fit hearing aids (with a small rubber dome) typically sound clear but somewhat tinny. Streaming through custom earmolds will sound more like a pair of traditional headphones.
