If you've recently undergone a hearing test and noticed some frequencies dipping into the moderate hearing loss range, it's likely you're missing out on a significant array of sounds in your daily life. The American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) defines moderate hearing loss as the inability to hear sounds between 41 to 55 dB.
This level of hearing loss may make it challenging to hear the TV at normal volumes, comprehend phone conversations, or detect softer sounds like coffee brewing or rain falling. Moderate hearing loss will almost certainly make communicating with family members in another room incredibly challenging.
These are the best hearing aids for those with moderate hearing loss in 2024. 👇
Moderate hearing loss, defined as difficulty hearing sounds between 41 to 55 dB, significantly impacts daily activities like watching TV and having phone conversations.
Choosing the right hearing aid style—whether in-ear or behind-the-ear—is crucial, with RIC aids often being a discreet choice. While OTC aids don’t require a doctor’s visit, consulting an audiologist can offer personalized support. Addressing hearing loss is vital for enhancing quality of life and cognitive health, making timely action important. With advancements in hearing technology, individuals can effectively manage their hearing needs, leading to improved daily interactions and overall well-being.
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Featured in this article
Our Top Choice: Jabra Enhance Select 500
Our top recommendation for individuals with moderate hearing loss is the Jabra Enhance Select 500. Its balance of advanced technology and affordability sets the Jabra Enhance Select 500 apart. While it offers the same level of performance as prescription-grade hearing aids, its price point is more manageable than the industry average for prescription devices.
This makes it an accessible option for those seeking high-quality sound enhancement without breaking the bank. Jabra is unique among direct-to-consumer hearing aids in that one of their staffed hearing professionals will program your hearing aids for you instead of you self-fitting your devices.
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
If you prefer a local clinician's support, two products are especially well suited to those with moderate hearing loss. Widex makes this list for its natural sound (often preferred by those with some good hearing). ReSound makes the list for its intelligent features and easy-to-use app.
Widex SmartRIC
- Full-featured prescription hearing
- Unique L-shaped design
- Strong tinnitus management features
- Lowest-delay sound processing
The Widex SmartRIC is the latest flagship receiver-in-canal device from the brand, released in early 2024. It stands out in several key ways.
- First, the SmartRIC boasts the lowest sound delay on the market—by a significant margin. For years, Widex has prioritized rapid sound delivery from the environment to your ears, creating a natural sound quality that many users praise. Its L-shaped design enhances background noise handling without relying on heavy algorithms that could slow down performance.
- Additionally, the Widex SmartRIC is highly recommended for those prioritizing tinnitus treatment. Its onboard tinnitus programs are well-reviewed and offer audiologists a variety of options for fine-tuning and adjustments.
Overall, the Widex SmartRIC is well-respected among audiologists and hearing experts. To purchase this device, you'll need to consult with a local clinic.
- Focused on sound quality, delivering clear sound with the lowest delay in the industry.
- Includes industry leading tinnitus features.
- Widex SmartRIC hearing aids come with rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming capabilities.
- Only sold through local clinics. Remote adjustments require an additional accessory.
- Widex offers a premium product at a premium price that may be out of budget for some.
- Less advanced smartphone app
- Widex SmartRIC 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 a high-powered BTE style (currently available in Widex's previous generation, Widex Moment)
- Widex SmartRIC is a prescription device fit and programmed by a professional
- Widex RemoteLink neck loop is required for remote follow-up programming (requires registering in the hearing clinic's software)
- Widex has the fastest processing time among all major hearing aid manufacturers
- Widex is a favorite choice of musicians and audiophiles
- The SmartRIC features microphones at a 20-degree, near horizontal placement on its unique L-shape. This placement is especially helpful in background noise for better directional focus.
- Widex SmartRIC 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
- Widex SmartRIC is the shortest slim RIC on the market
- Choose between five color options, including neutral colors (tech black, dark cherry, honey blonde, silver grey) and fun colors (rose gold)
- Widex SmartRIC comes with rechargeable batteries and a rechargeable case that holds 5 days of charge
- Get 37 hours on a 4-hour full charge (no streaming)
- A quick charge of 30 minutes yields 8 hours of battery life
- Widex SmartRIC allows Bluetooth streaming, music listening, and phone calls across all models. iPhone users can take calls hands-free, while Android users must keep their phones close to pick up outbound audio
- Widex SmartRIC uses Apple's MFI connection and Android's ASHA connection to stream content through Bluetooth
- Widex SmartRIC 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)
- Widex SmartRIC includes a push button for on-the-go volume and program changes
- Widex SmartRIC 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: to access remote care, you'll need the RemoteLink neck loop and Widex Remote Care app
- Customization: volume, programs, MySound personalization
- Tinnitus masking: created by your hearing care professional or using the Widex ZEN app
- Find my hearing aid: yes - app feature
- Health tracking: not available
ReSound NEXIA
- ReSound Nexia is one of the smallest RIC hearing aids available
- Auracast-enabled for seamless Bluetooth streaming, developed in collaboration with Bluetooth SIG
- Impressive 30-hour battery life on a single charge, ideal for all-day wear
- Strong performance in background noise, enhancing clarity in busy environments
- Custom prescription programming provided by a local audiologist
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.
Other Over-The-Counter Choices
Those with moderate hearing loss can benefit from the newest group of hearing aids on the market - sold over-the-counter. Over-the-counter devices are typically less expensive than prescription counterparts and have plenty of sound output for most cases of of moderate hearing loss. These are a few products to consider.
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
Lexie B2+ Powered By Bose
- Self-fit with the Lexie app, adjusting treble, bass, and directionality.
- Rechargeable with 18-hour wear time and an on-the-go charging case.
- Bluetooth streaming for calls on both iOS and Android.
- On-demand support from Lexie hearing experts for setup and care.
Lexie leads the OTC hearing market in volume, with wide availability in pharmacies and strategic partnerships that make it highly accessible. Here’s why it stands out:
- User-Friendly App with Extensive Adjustments: Lexie’s app offers near-limitless adjustment options, ideal for users who want full control over their sound quality.
- Top-Notch Customer Service: Lexie excels in customer support, allowing users to connect quickly through the app for any assistance needed.
- Soundly Extras: Purchasing Lexie hearing aids through Soundly includes a complimentary audiology setup call, ensuring you start with a perfectly tailored fit.
Ease of Use and Setup
- Cindy B. – "After a lot of research on OTC hearing aids for my moderate hearing loss, I chose Lexie B2 Plus. I wanted rechargeable hearing aids that would link to my iPhone, and the price was affordable...One of the most exciting experiences I’ve had was hearing the birds in my backyard! It was almost completely quiet without them on."
- William – "These Lexie B-2's were easy to adjust per the app and proved to be superior to the more expensive ones, plus no trips to the doctor every week or so."
Sound Quality and Listening Experience
- Faith Li – "The Lexie B2 hearing aid doesn't get time to charge as I just love wearing them. I am grateful for the gift of hearing and that I no longer miss out on the moments."
- Listener T. – "The sound quality through the aids was fine, once I had them set appropriately. The noisy room filter allowed me to focus on the person in front of me in a restaurant."
Affordability and Value
- Carolyn – "I kept putting off getting hearing aids because they are so expensive and my insurance doesn’t cover them. Once the audiologist mentioned the high quality, I looked into them...What a difference they have made!"
- Kyle, MD – "The Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids are very good introductory hearing aids...The sound quality is excellent and extremely natural."
Challenges
- DJR-NJ – "Customer service and support were excellent! Unfortunately, I was unable to wear the devices because the wires were too short. They did respond quickly to my calls and sent the longest wires they make, but I still couldn't wear them long enough to judge their performance."
- James - "Android App on my phone kept dropping connection with the Lexie hearing aids. The app was more consistent on my iPad"
- Shopper A - "Android phone tries to play audio through hearing aids with No Way To Turn it off unless it's a phone call. Otherwise, you must turn your media volume off. Phone call through hearing aids mutes your microphone so caller can't hear you."
- Strong underlying technology
- Self-fitting using the Lexie app
- Affordable and rechargeable
- Only comes in one color
- Not for those with severe hearing loss
- Lexie B2 Plus - Powered by Bose 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 and Best Buy
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- Customize your hearing aids with an onboard hearing test and app-controls
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose is among our top-rated OTC hearing aids for overall value
- Technology from Bose does a great job managing background noise
- 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 Lexie B2 Plus Powered By Bose is comparable to leading prescription hearing aids
- Only available in grey
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose comes with rechargeable batteries and a portable recharge case
- 18 hours of wear on a single charge
- New recharge case carries an additional 18 hours of portable charge (without being plugged in)
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose added Bluetooth streaming for iPhones in 2023 and now with compatible Android™ devices
- Refer to the FAQs at LexieHearing.com to check if your Android™ device is compatible.
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose uses Apple's MFi protocol for connection
- Streaming functionality is designed for phone calls. While music and media streaming is possible, it is not optimal.
- Lexie B2 Plus Powered by Bose 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)
- Lexie B2 Plus Less waterproof than industry leaders but still sweat and moisture resistant
- Take an onboard hearing test to customize your hearing aids
- Adjust directionality between “Everywhere” and “Front” modes so you can choose between hearing sounds around you or the sound that’s in front of you
- Manually customize treble/bass, volume and programs
Sony CRE-C20
- Soundly's top-selling in-ear OTC hearing aid
- Nearly invisible in most ears
- 28-hour battery life per charge
- Self-fits through Sony's smartphone app
Sony’s CRE-C20 is a big step up for in-ear OTC hearing aids, packing new features that make it our top pick. Here’s why we chose it:
- Sound Quality Boost: Sony borrowed tech from in-clinic product Signia Silk for sound processing, and the difference is clear. The CRE-C20 delivers noticeably better sound than past models.
- Long-Lasting Battery: With 28 hours on a single charge, you can count on the CRE-C20 to get you through a full day.
- Invisible, Comfortable Fit: Designed to be invisible in most ears, the CRE-C20 fits comfortably and stays discreet—even more so than many other IIC models we’ve reviewed. We especially like the slightly curved design that improves in-ear comfort.
If you’re looking for an in-ear OTC hearing aid, the CRE-C20 wins on sound, battery, and comfort.
Sony CRE-C20 is Soundly's top-performing in-ear OTC hearing aid. Our customers love the discretion and sound quality and often comment on how comfortable CRE-C20 is compared to other in-ear options. Some customers do report that the app setup is more involved than simpler products like Lexie or Sennheiser. Some sample review:
- "Over the past few years, I have tried a half-dozen or more OTC hearing aids and none of them were better than the Sony CRE-C20 aids that I have had the opportunity to evaluate. I have tried less costly and more expensive OTC's - doesn't matter - these were the answer to my inability to hear in many situations." - Ern
- "In terms of function, I was very impressed with the overall sound quality once it was dialed in. Initially they sounded a bit tinny, but that was easily adjusted with the Sound Balance control. It took a couple of days of use and adjusting before I really felt they were dialed in. At that point I wore them all day in different environments to put them through their paces. One of my main concerns is the ability to hear clearly and understand what the person I’m speaking with is saying in a louder environment. The CRE-20Es did a fantastic job with toning out the background noise and producing a clear and easy to understand conversation experience. I tend to have to listen and read lips at the same time but quickly realized I could hear the conversation very well, even in a loud restaurant environment." - Stanley
- "These are IP68 Sweat and water resistant - I was able to wear these biking multiple times without any fear of them falling out or being damaged." - James
- "I shut down and restarted the app, turned off my phone, uninstalled and reinstalled the app, and nothing seemed to work. I tried the next day, and then it worked." - Trobadaur
- C20 is Nearly invisible in most ear canals
- High quality sound for a lower price
- Self-fit at home
- Rechargeable with 28 hours of battery life
- Does not allow Bluetooth streaming
- Requires some tech-savvy for setup
- Only for mild-moderate hearing loss
- Sony CRE-C20 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 here Soundly.com with a complimentary guide setup service
- Does not require a prescription from a doctor
- Customize your hearing aids with an onboard hearing test and app-controls
- Sony CRE-C20 is made in collaboration with hearing leader WSA audiology
- Sony CRE-C20 offers good background noise management algorithms and newly re-designed processing chip
- Sony CRE-C20 sits discreetly in the ear and comes with various ear tip sizes
- Sony CRE-C20 is not custom-molded to your ear shape
- Our team finds all in-the-ear models slightly less comfortable for all-day wear than RIC hearing aids
- Sits inside the ear
- Only available in one completely-in-canal size (invisible in many ears)
- Only available in black
- Sony CRE-C20 has rechargeable batteries
- Sony CRE-C20 batteries last 28 hours on a single charge
- The included CRE-C20 carry-case comes with three additional on-the go charges
- Sony CRE-C20 does not come with Bluetooth streaming
- Sony CRE-C20 is a small device which can pose dexterity challenges
- Sony CRE-C20 uses rechargeable batteries and has a convenient charge case with strong magnets that pull the devices into place
- CRE-C20 is water resistant but we recommend you avoid water activities while wearing (i.e. swimming)
- Sony CRE-C20 uses a smartphone app which includes an onboard hearing test and manual controls for bass, treble and volume
- The app is required to make changes (no buttons onboard)
Not all moderate hearing loss is the same.
Understanding that not all moderate hearing losses are alike is crucial. Audiograms plot hearing ability from low to high frequencies, and a dip on the right side of the chart often means missing consonants, which are critical for clear speech. High-frequency hearing loss is especially common in age-related sensorineural hearing impairment. The chart below shows a common hearing loss shape with some frequencies in the mild range and others in the moderate range.
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For those diagnosed with moderate hearing loss, hearing aids are not just a luxury but a necessity for navigating daily conversations, appointments, and noisy environments. Beyond immediate auditory benefits, hearing aids support brain health, potentially averting risks like falls or cognitive decline. Studies like this one from Johns Hopkins University highlight these long-term advantages.
What hearing aid style is best for moderate hearing loss?
Selecting the appropriate hearing aid style is pivotal for those with moderate hearing loss. Initially, I sought an in-ear device, aiming for a less conspicuous option despite my mild to moderate hearing loss. However, the "occlusion" effect—a sensation of ear blockage—complicated my adjustment to hearing aids.
This effect is pronounced if you have better low-frequency hearing, so if your hearing loss is primarily in the higher frequencies, an open-fit hearing aid might be more suitable. These devices allow a more natural flow of sound into and out of the ear, offering a comfortable and realistic listening experience.
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To my surprise, RIC hearing aids are also more invisible in my ear than most in-ear devices because of the small receiver wire.
So, does that mean an in-ear device is wrong for someone with moderate loss? No. Many mild-loss wearers are happy with their in-ear styles after they adjust.
Do you need to see a doctor?
For individuals with moderate hearing loss, visiting a doctor is not a prerequisite for acquiring hearing aids. Following the FDA's 2022 guidelines, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids have become available from major brands like Bose and Sony.
These devices often feature adjustable controls for frequency and volume, providing a level of customization without professional assistance. However, consulting with a local clinic can offer benefits like a comprehensive hearing test and tailored device programming. Both OTC and prescription pathways are viable, catering to those with mild or moderate hearing loss. Those with severe or profound hearing loss, however, should seek professional consultation to find adequately powerful devices.
Just because you don't need to go to a clinic doesn't mean you shouldn't consider it. Working with a local clinician will give you a high-end hearing test, consultation, and advice. Typically, clinics will recommend a prescription product they will program for your hearing loss instead of you handling that piece alone.
Both are legitimate paths, and we've included both groups of products below.
Final Thoughts
Moderate hearing loss should not be underestimated, as it significantly impacts one's quality of life. With the advancements in hearing aid technology and the availability of OTC options, there's never been a better time to address your hearing needs.
Whether you opt for a discreet in-ear device or a more sophisticated behind-the-ear model, the goal is to enhance your hearing in a way that feels natural and supports your lifestyle. Remember, taking action now can not only improve your daily interactions but also protect your cognitive health in the long run.
