As an audiologist, I often receive requests from my patients for hearing aids that come with Bluetooth capability. And it's not surprising given the convenience it offers.
With Bluetooth, you can effortlessly stream audio from your phone, tablet, or even your TV directly to your hearing aids. In today's world where people are more connected than ever before, it's crucial to have devices that meet those needs.
However, not every over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid device comes with Bluetooth capability, so it's essential to know what to look for when selecting the right device for you.
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Featured in this article
Our Top Picks
Behind-the-ear style
Sennheiser All-Day Clear
The Sennheiser all-day clear OTC hearing aid is manufactured by the same group that creates the Phonak hearing aids, which are known for their advanced features and high-quality sound. As such, the Sennheiser hearing aid shares some of the same features and benefits. It also offers customizable settings, allowing users with mild to moderate hearing loss to adjust settings to their individual hearing needs.
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
Telecare Option
Jabra Enhance Select
Are you looking for a telecare option? Jabra Enhance Select OTC hearing aids have Bluetooth functionality, which conveniently also allows the hearing aids to be programmed remotely by an audiologist. Some hearing aid wearers prefer this telecare option over in-person care, as they can schedule their visits from the comfort of their homes. Instead, your audiologist can make the necessary changes directly to your hearing aids via a secure connection. This remote fine-tuning service adds another level of customization and convenience to your hearing aid experience. Jabra Enhance Select OTC hearing aids ensure your hearing care is always optimal and tailored to your individual needs, no matter where you are.
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
Most Flexible App
Lexie B2+
The Lexie B2 by Bose is a rechargeable Over-The-Counter (OTC) hearing aid that boasts Bluetooth ability for iPhone users. The device features a comfortable and discreet design that sits behind the ear, ensuring it's comfortable to wear throughout the day. What we like about the Lexie B2+ is its user-friendly Smartphone app, allowing users to personalize their sound settings to their specific hearing needs. Adjustments in the app include treble, bass, and volume adjustments.
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
Earbud style
Sony CRE-E10
The Sony CRE-E10 OTC hearing aid is an earbud-style device that sits comfortably in the ear and comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, making it the perfect solution for iPhone users who want to stream audio right to their hearing device. The fact that it’s earbud-style means that many users find it comfortable for situational use. Its ergonomic design ensures a secure fit, so you won’t have to worry about it falling out of your ear while you’re on the move.
Sony CRE-E10 Hearing Aids
- Bluetooth streaming for seamless audio connection
- Earbud and hearing aid crossover design
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- 26-hour battery life on a single charge
- Self-fitting via the Sony app for easy customization
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)
Why Choose OTC
People often choose over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for several reasons. Primarily, they are significantly more affordable than prescription hearing aids while still offering a range of features to improve hearing. OTC devices are readily available and can be purchased without the need for a doctor's appointment or fitting, offering convenience for the user. OTC hearing aids also cater to mild to moderate hearing loss, which encompasses a large number of individuals with hearing difficulties. They offer flexibility with adjustable settings, allowing users to adjust the device according to their personal comfort.
Pros
- Affordability: OTC hearing aids are generally less expensive than prescription devices, making them a viable option for many people.
- Accessibility: These devices can be purchased over-the-counter without a doctor's appointment or a fitting session.
- Flexibility: Most OTC hearing aids come with adjustable settings, allowing users to tailor the device to their comfort and hearing needs.
Cons
- Limited Scope: OTC hearing aids are designed to cater to individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. Those with severe hearing loss may not benefit from these devices.
- Lack of Customization: Unlike prescription hearing aids, which are tailored to the specific needs of each patient, OTC aids may not fit perfectly or provide the precise amplification needed.
- Risk of Overamplification: Without proper guidance on how to use and adjust the settings, users might set the sound level too high or not adequately address their hearing loss. Note that the FDA does set reasonable limits on OTC devices.
While OTC devices can help users with mild to moderate hearing loss, there may be other features that users want aside from amplification. Most of us own a pair of headphones and are used to listening to audio through Bluetooth, so it might be easy to assume that an electronic device in the ear can do the same thing, right?
What to Know Before You Choose
Unlike prescription hearing aids, which nearly always come with a host of advanced features including Bluetooth, not all OTC hearing aids offer this functionality. This can be frustrating for those who enjoy the convenience of wirelessly streaming audio from their devices. While these devices offer hearing help, they differ from their prescription counterparts in a few ways. They are less sophisticated in background noise handling, offer fewer fine-tuning controls, and don't always include Bluetooth.
If you're specifically looking for this feature, it's crucial to carefully examine the product before making a purchase. Opt for OTC hearing aids that clearly state they have integrated Bluetooth “streaming” technology to ensure your hearing aid can meet your connectivity needs.
Secondly, consider the battery life of OTC hearing aids with Bluetooth. These devices consume more power since they are continually streaming audio. Therefore, you need to select devices that have extended battery life. Some models available can last up to 20 hours, making them ideal for all-day use.
Thirdly, the comfort of the device is essential. Bluetooth hearing aids available OTC come in different shapes and sizes, and you want to select one that is comfortable to wear for long periods. Some devices come in a behind-the-ear style while others are a more earbud-like style. Consider which style you prefer and if it will fit comfortably in your ear.
Lastly, ensure that the device is compatible with your devices. Different OTC hearing aids come with different connectivity options, so it's essential to check compatibility with your specific phone before purchasing. Some may only connect to iPhone, certain models of phones, or require additional accessories for streaming capabilities. It’s best to do thorough research before you buy to get the best option for you.
Final Thoughts
With so many options, the world of OTC hearing aids can seem overwhelming at first, but there's a perfect fit out there for everyone. It's all about understanding your unique needs and what options there are. While not all OTC hearing aids come with Bluetooth capability, the Sennheiser All-Day Clear, Jabra Enhance Select, Lexie B2, or Sony CRE-E10, can provide you with the connectivity you desire and require in today's digitized world.
It's essential to consider battery life, comfort, and compatibility when selecting the right option. Remember, the goal is not just to improve your hearing but also to enhance your quality of life. With the right OTC hearing aid, you can stay connected with the world around you without sacrificing comfort.
