As an audiologist, I have worked with numerous patients to help them find the right hearing technology to help them hear better. One of the most critical factors for many of my patients is budget.
With the cost of hearing aids ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, it can be challenging to find the right fit without breaking the bank. While I would love to help all patients get top-of-the-line prescription technology, it's not always feasible for every budget. That's why I want to share some of the best hearing aids you can find for less than $500.
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Featured in this article
1. MDHearing Volt ($397/pair)
A solid budget hearing aid with various styles and hundreds of thousands of customers.
MDHearing Volt Max
- Quality hearing aids under $300, accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Simple on-device controls, no Bluetooth or app needed.
- Over 1 million devices sold, backed by reliable customer service.
MDHearing stands out as one of the original direct-to-consumer hearing aid brands, having sold over a million affordable devices even before the FDA established official OTC hearing aid guidelines. Here’s what we like:
- Trusted Brand: MDHearing is backed by a real team, including audiologists, and has sold over a million hearing aids, which provides solid peace of mind for users.
- Simplicity: With straightforward devices that don’t require tech expertise, MDHearing offers an easy-to-use solution for those who prefer minimal setup.
- Range of Styles: MDHearing provides various styles, from in-ear to behind-the-ear options, catering to different comfort and fit preferences.
MDHearing maintains a solid 4.3 rating from over 5,000 customers. Most customers praise MD's affordable prices and easy setup. Some customers complain about feedback, fit and less than desired sound quality.
Supporters
- "These hearing aids are a game changer! I knew I was having trouble hearing low talkers and I'm crowded spaces but once I started wearing these out was like a whole new world opened up. I can hear birds singing, I can hear students in the back of the classroom. Now if I try to take them out, it sounds like I have cotton balls in my ears." - Kim C.
- "I would recommend md hearing aids to anyone having hearing issues, I've been fighting my hearing issues for several years and have even used the more costly aids. Md hearing aids have helped me greatly, give them a chance, it's worth it. Md also gives good support following up on their products. It's nice to be able to hear the TV and people talkiRead more about review stating I would recommend md hearingng." James W
Detractors
- "Have trouble with not losing them they fall out of my ear" - Doug H
- "No matter what setting I have them at, they whistle. Can only use one at a time, which doesn't allow me to hear all around me." - Bruce P
- "I cannot get the adjustment to reduce background enough to be able to hear people speaking to me." Jose M
- Less than $500 for a pair
- Rechargeable
- Multiple styles available
- No Bluetooth streaming
- Slightly larger size
- Only one color available
- Less advanced sound processing
- MDHearing offers OTC products 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
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- MDHearing offers limited options for customization
- MDHearing is less effective than leading prescription devices in background noise (although significantly more affordable)
- Comfortable thin-tube is great for all day wear
- We suggest that you change the eartips on this product for additional comfort
- MDHearing's in-ear devices are slightly less comfortable due to "occlusion" (boominess of your voice)
- MDHearing offers both behind-the-ear and in-the-ear devices
- Devices are slightly larger than other OTC options
- Available in only beige
- MDHearing has built-in rechargeable batteries that last up to 20 hours on a single charge
- MDHearing hearing aids come with a recharge case that carries additional portable charge
- MDHearing devices do not allow Bluetooth streaming or app controls
- MDHearing's behind-the-ear options are reasonably easy to handle but do 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)
- MDHearing devices are rechargeable and do not require battery changes
- MDHearing devices are not advertised as waterproof. Avoid moisture if possible
- MDHearing devices use onboard buttons to change programs and volume
2. Lucid Enrich Pro BTE ($299.99/pair)
A no-frills, sub-$300 product from a trusted national brand.
Engage From Lucid Hearing
- Trusted brand supplying Sam’s Club hearing centers
- Engage model offers strong Bluetooth connectivity and Android/iPhone streaming
- Purchase online, self-program with Lucid app, and access free Sam’s Club adjustments
- Priced competitively at $799 per pair with rechargeable, Bluetooth, and custom-fit features
Lucid Engage may not have the brand recognition of OTC giants like Bose or Sony, but it’s one of the most feature-rich hearing aids on the market. Here’s why it stood out to us:
- Solid Technology: Lucid Engage offers rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming on both iPhone and Android, making it a versatile choice for tech-savvy users.
- Convenient Support: With a long-standing partnership with Sam’s Club, Lucid provides free in-person support at over 500 Sam’s Club clinics, a unique advantage that ensures users have easy access to help if they need it.
- User-Friendly Customization: Lucid’s smartphone app (and Lucid shape feature) allows users to adjust settings for their specific hearing loss, making personalization simple and accessible.
Lucid Engage combines strong features with a reliable support system, making it a solid choice for users with mild-moderate hearing loss.
Improved Hearing Quality: Many users report a noticeable improvement in hearing quality, with better clarity in both everyday situations and noisy environments. They feel more engaged in conversations and social events with enhanced sound.
- "As soon as I took my evening walk with my dog, I could hear the crickets, the water running in the creek, and the leaves rustling in the woods among others nature sounds that I had forgotten about. They also work well when my wife talks, and even in a group setting in a restaurant." - Mark R.
Great Value for Price: Lucid Engage users appreciate the value they get for a fraction of the cost of traditional hearing aids. The affordability, combined with the robust smartphone app, is a strong draw.
- "The lucidshape app enables user to program the hearing aids for your specific hearing frequency deficiency. They are awesome!I was able to set them up better then the past audiologists ever did in the past. Also there customer support is staffed by experts in the U.S. who take the time to LISTEN to customer issues. Louis is a great support person. Thanks Lucid for providing a cost effective solution to my hearing loss." - William S.
Technical Limitations: Some users report issues with connectivity on certain phones, particularly when switching from Android to iOS, or needing to re-pair the device often.
- "I tried to connect them to my iPhone to listen to a podcast, and they couldn’t maintain a connection." - Joy C.
- "These connected for a while... maybe two months. But then they started to lose Bluetooth connectivity. It started with sound dropping out unexpectedly from one ear." - Jax
- Great overall value for the price
- Bluetooth streaming for iPhone and Android
- Rechargeable
- Self-fit
- Packaging and recharge case are less sleek than Sennheiser and Sony
- Some users report issues with the app and streaming
- Lucid Engage 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 or at retail stores like Walgreens, Best Buy and Sam's Club
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- Customize your hearing aids with an onboard hearing test and app-controls \
- Optional upgrade to a prescription device at a local Lucid Hearing center (inside Sam's Club)
- Lucid offers strong underlying technology based on over a decade of manufacturing for Sam's Club
- Lucid Engage is slightly less effective than leading prescription devices in background noise (Engage is also significantly more affordable)
- 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 Lucid Engage is comparable to leading prescription hearing aids
- Available in gray, black and beige
- Lucid Engage comes with rechargeable batteries or non-rechargeable batteries (for a lower cost)
- The rechargeable model comes with a convenient portable, conduction-based recharge case
- 30 hours of wear on a single charge
- Disposable battery options use a size 312 battery (lasts for 7-10 days)
- Lucid Engage lets you choose between Android and iPhone streaming at purchase
- Lucid Engage is our top choice for OTC hearing aids that stream Bluetooth
- Both the rechargeable and non-rechargeable versions come with streaming capabilities
- Lucid Engage 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 suggest you opt for the rechargeable model vs the disposable battery model
- These hearing aids are not waterproof. Avoid moisture if possible
- Take an onboard hearing test to customize your hearing aids
- Manually customize treble/bass, volume and programs
3. AirPods Pro ($249/pair)
AirPods hidden transparency mode feature can operate like a budget hearing aid.
Apple AirPods Pro
Customer Review | “I use them for running and they surprisingly stay in place, although I still need to tighten its fit from time to time.” - Dom & MartyTo start off this list, many folks might be curious about Apple AirPods. Odds are, some people might already own these or are considering a pair for daily use, including fitness usage. With a rich audio experience and a customizable fit, these earbuds might just be a great starting point for runners. With cushy silicone tips for a customizable fit (available in XS, S, M, and L), the tips create an acoustic seal to keep the earbuds in place. And if you’re worried about the AirPods getting loose or falling out on the trail, give these ear hooks a try for a little extra security.
The AirPods (3rd Generation) have won the hearts of many users, praised for their outstanding audio quality, comfortable fit, and seamless integration with Apple devices. Reviewers highlight their impressive sound performance, particularly the spatial audio feature, which enhances the listening experience. While some users note that they may not fit securely for everyone and lack noise-canceling capabilities, many appreciate the open-ear design that allows for awareness of surroundings, making them great for activities like running or working out. Several reviews emphasize the AirPods' light weight, making them easy to wear for long periods, and their impressive battery life, with users often able to extend usage beyond the advertised times. Overall, these AirPods are seen as a fantastic choice for those seeking a balance of comfort and sound quality, with a few minor suggestions for improvement regarding fit options.
Sound quality, noise cancellation
Mixed reviews on earbuds staying secure
Who should consider low-priced hearing aids?
Before we delve into the best budget options, it's crucial to determine if budget hearing devices are suitable for you. Factors such as the severity of your hearing loss, dexterity, independence, and lifestyle play a role.
If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, can handle and insert hearing aids easily, and spend most of your time in quiet environments, these affordable devices can significantly improve your hearing.
They can help you hear in everyday situations like watching TV or having face-to-face conversations.
Who should not consider low-priced hearing aids?
If you have more than a moderate hearing loss, complex listening needs, or already have experience using more advanced hearing devices, these lower-priced hearing devices likely won't provide the benefit you need.
More advanced devices may be required to meet your hearing needs in these cases. Realistic expectations are essential. No one likes to spend money on something that doesn't help.
However, budget may limit your options. If you fall into this category and need help finding affordable hearing aids, check out this article to learn more about low-cost and no-cost options for hearing aids.
Pros of Low-Priced Hearing Aids
- Budget-friendly
- Good situational hearing help
- Most useful for mild to moderate, sloping hearing loss
- Effective in quiet settings
Low-priced hearing aids offer several advantages that make them an attractive choice for many people. Firstly, they are budget-friendly and can provide a hearing enhancement solution without causing financial strain. This democratizes access to hearing aids, particularly for individuals who may be balancing their healthcare needs against other essential expenses.
Secondly, these less expensive devices can be effective for situational use. If you only need a hearing boost for specific settings, such as to hear the television more clearly or to help with one-on-one conversations, these devices can be an affordable and effective solution.
Thirdly, for those experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss, low-priced hearing aids can serve as an excellent first option. They provide an opportunity to assess whether a hearing aid benefits your life with a small investment.
Lastly, despite the lower price tag, some of the products in this category deliver solid quality. They may not have all the high-end features like noise filtering or connectivity, but they do a good job amplifying sound, which is the primary function of a hearing aid. So, if you research carefully, you can find reliable, high-performing hearing devices that suit your needs.
Cons of Low-Priced Hearing Aids
- Typically no audio streaming or Bluetooth
- Less customization
- Weaker performance in background noise
- No in-person support
- Not the best fit for all ears, retention may be challenged
While low-priced hearing aids certainly have their benefits, it's also essential to consider the drawbacks. For starters, these devices often lack streaming capabilities, a feature that's increasingly sought after as more and more people look to connect their hearing aids to their smartphones, TVs, or other devices. This lack of connectivity can limit the usability and accessibility of these cheaper units.
In addition, their performance can falter in environments with a lot of background noise, as they often lack the advanced noise processing features in pricier models. They also offer less customization, which means they might not cater to specific types of hearing loss as effectively as higher-end models.
One of the critical challenges with budget hearing aids is the absence of one-on-one support. Many of these devices require self-setup, which can be difficult for those unfamiliar with the technology. Adjusting settings and managing ongoing maintenance can also be challenging without professional help for some patients.
Finally, not all ear canals are created equal. For those with complicated ear canal geometries or complex hearing loss, lower-priced hearing aids may not provide the correct fit or adequate sound amplification.
Therefore, while these devices can be a cost-effective solution for some, they may not meet the needs of everyone. Before deciding, it's crucial to weigh these considerations against your specific hearing needs and lifestyle.
While low-priced hearing aids may offer excellent value, there are some areas where they lack. These devices often have fewer advanced features, programming options, or customization settings than their more advanced counterparts.
The Best Hearing Aids for Under $500
In curating this list of the best hearing aids for under $500, we considered several factors, such as price, our reviews and product experience, and the benefit-cost ratio, to give you the most bang for your buck.
We thought carefully about what we would recommend for our friends and family if they had only $500 to spend. With that in mind, each model on our list is paired with a detailed description, outlining who the device is most suitable for.
Whether you prefer a hearing aid with connectivity features, something straightforward for situational use, or you have a specific type of hearing loss, we've got you covered. Our goal is to aid you in making an informed decision that aligns with your budget, needs, and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, it's essential to understand that while budget-friendly options may not possess all the features of their high-end counterparts, they still offer viable solutions to those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
From devices designed for those with a quiet lifestyle like EarCentric to versatile options like the Lucid Enrich Pro BTE and the all-rounder AirPods Pro, there are several affordable choices available.
Whether you are searching for your first hearing aid or a situational-use device, these budget-friendly hearing aids blend affordability, functionality, and support. It's crucial to remember that while price is essential, choosing a hearing aid that suits your specific needs and lifestyle should be the primary consideration.
Consult with a hearing professional to ensure you make the best choice for your hearing health journey.
