Date Updated: 08/22/24

Hearing loss is common as people age, and many seniors experience mild to moderate hearing loss in one or both ears. However, due to the high cost of specialty hearing aids, many older Americans cannot purchase high-end models and look for a less expensive solution. Hearing aid technology has come a long way over the past two decades, including the emergence of over-the-counter (OTC) and direct-to-consumer (DTC) hearing devices, intended for users with mild to moderate hearing loss who are not able to visit a hearing specialist. 

A clear benefit of OTC hearing devices is that they are easy to purchase and more affordable than traditional models. OTC devices amplify sounds, allowing users to participate more fully in daily activities and understand conversations more clearly. Beyond the advantage of convenience, OTC sound amplifiers and DTC hearing aids are often less expensive than those obtained through audiologists or otolaryngologists.

In this guide, we look at the benefits of DTC hearing aids and some drawbacks, as well as information about some of the best hearing aids.

What Are OTC Hearing Aids?

OTC hearing aids are designed to be worn by individuals aged 18 and older with mild to moderate hearing loss. Historically, these individuals would need to visit a hearing professional for a prescription before purchasing a hearing aid and could only make hearing aid purchases through licensed sellers. However, in recent years, the FDA approved a new category of OTC hearing aids to improve access to the devices while also reducing costs to customers. OTC hearing aids can be purchased without a medical exam or a prescription, do not require professional fitting, and are widely available at stores or online retailers. 

It is important to note that the FDA still considers over-the-counter hearing aids to be medical devices, as they are marketed for the purpose of helping those with hearing loss. They are not the same as personal sound amplification products, or PSAPs. PSAPs work similarly to both prescription and OTC hearing aids in that they amplify sounds; however, they are intended for users with normal hearing who need sound amplification for improved listening only in certain environments. They are typically not programmed to meet user’s unique listening needs but are more of a pre-programmed, one-size-fits-all model. Because of this, they are classified as electronic products and are not subject to the same FDA regulations as hearing aids, whether purchased from an audiologist or over the counter. 

caring-badge
Best Customer Service & Pricing Plans
  • Starts at $1,450
  • Completely In Canal
  • Bluetooth: No
  • Rechargeable: Yes
Read Our Review
See Packages
caring-badge
Best for Affordable Hearing Aids
  • Starts at $1,195
  • Behind The Ear
  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Rechargeable: Yes
Read Our Review
See Packages
caring-badge
Best for Low-Cost Bluetooth Hearing Aids
  • Starts at $998
  • BTE, RIC, CIC
  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Rechargeable: Yes
Read Our Review
See Packages

Sound Amplifiers versus DTC Hearing Aids

It’s easy to confuse sound amplifier devices with direct-to-consumer hearing aids you buy online. While both can be bought in stores and online and do not require a prescription, the products are quite different and offer different benefits. Below, we demonstrate some of the key differences between the two types of hearing devices.

Sound Amplifiers
DTC Hearing Aids
Approved to Treat Hearing Loss
✗
✔
Advanced Sound Processing to Distinguish Speech From Other Noises
✗
✔
Must Be Registered with the FDA
✗
✔
Considered a Medical Device
✗
✔
Custom Programming from an Audiologist Available
✗
✔
Manufacturers’ Warranty Included in Cost
✗
✔
Low-Cost Options
✔
✔

Who Should Use an OTC Hearing Aid?

Buying an OTC hearing aid online is usually a sufficient solution for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. If you experience one or more of these symptoms, then a DTC/OTC hearing aid may deliver the boost you need without the need for a trip to the audiologist’s office for a hearing exam. Mild to moderate hearing loss is typically characterized by:

  • You hear muffled or indistinguishable speech and sounds
  • You have a hard time discerning different sounds when speaking in a group, in noisy situations or when you cannot see who is talking to you
  • You find yourself frequently having to ask people to repeat themselves or speak up or to speak slowly and enunciate more
  • You’re listening to the TV or radio at a louder volume or need to turn subtitles on

Pros and Cons of OTC Hearing Aids

OTC hearing aids offer some unique benefits compared to prescription hearing aids, but they aren’t right for everyone. Below, we explain some of the pros and cons of these direct-to-consumer hearing devices so you can determine if purchasing one of these hearing aids makes sense for you.

Pros:

  • DTC hearing aids are almost always less expensive than those purchased in an audiologists’ office
  • Easier to research and compare different brands and their products online
  • Better access to professional assistance (when remote care is included)

Cons:

  • Some OTC hearing aids are not custom-programmed by an audiologist, leading to a higher potential for over-amplification or other issues that could lead to hearing damage
  • Higher risk of purchasing a device that isn’t right for you, wasting money and making hearing aids in general less appealing
  • Lack of options for those with severe or profound hearing loss

What Are the Best DTC Hearing Aids?

While there are many brands of hearing aids available, not all offer the same features or are as comfortable as users prefer. Below, we’ve gathered information about the top three DTC hearing aids that you can buy online.

Overview of the Best DTC Hearing Aids
Eargo 7
  • Starts at $2,950 per pair
  • Remote audiologist care
  • Innovative self-fitting feature
See Packages → Read Our Review →
Audicus Spirit 2
  • Starts at $4,790 per pair
  • Direct Bluetooth streaming from Apple and Android devices
  • 10 volume settings
See Packages → Read Our Review →
Jabra Enhance Select 300
  • Starts at $1,795 per pair
  • Custom-programmed by an audiologist
  • Premium Package includes access to mobile app and remote hearing care
See Packages → Read Our Review →

Eargo 7

  • Remote audiologist care
  • Convenient self-fitting feature
  • Advanced noise reduction
  • Starts at $2,950 per pair

Eargo hearing devices are known for being some of the most comfortably fitting, and the company offers both pre-programmed and customized models. The Eargo 7 is its most advanced hearing aid to date, featuring powerful technology in a compact design the size of a thumbnail. This model provides an enhanced hearing experience with Sound Adjust+ technology that can reduce noise and clarify speech in any listening environment. It also has self-fitting capabilities so users can easily personalize their own devices. Built to last, the Eargo 7 features a water-resistant design and powerful rechargeable batteries and can also be remotely adjusted by an audiologist.

Many seniors prefer hearing aids with a discreet design or devices that don’t “look” like traditional over-the-ear hearing aids. Like other prescription hearing aids from the Eargo line, the Eargo 7 is a CIC (concealed in canal) design and is nearly invisible when worn properly. Users can also choose between an assortment of tips with a closed or open fit for optimal listening and all-day comfort.

Audicus Spirit 2

  • Can connect via Bluetooth to 2 devices at once
  • Available with rechargeable batteries (+$200 upcharge)
  • 10 volume settings
  • Starts at $4,790 per pair

Audicus is a stand-out among hearing aid companies for offering affordable models without sacrificing the advanced technology many users with moderate to profound hearing loss prefer. It sells directly to consumers online or over the phone and will custom-program each hearing aid for the individual user. Audicus has a wide selection of hearing aid models; however, the Spirit 2 is the company’s most popular. 

The Spirit 2 is entirely Bluetooth-enabled, allowing users to connect and listen through any supported device and vehicle as if they were listening directly through headphones. It also features rechargeable lithium batteries, advanced digital processing, and two-directional microphones for clear, long-lasting sound with reduced feedback. Its discrete RIC fit and assortment of hypoallergenic domes make the Spirit 2 comfortable to wear and virtually unnoticeable. 

Jabra Enhance Select 300

  • Custom-programmed by an audiologist
  • Highly accurate free online hearing test
  • Includes access to Jabra Enhance mobile app and remote hearing care
  • Starts at $1,795 per pair

Jabra Enhance is a direct-to-consumer hearing aid brand that offers three behind-the-ear devices. The Enhance Select 300 is its most advanced and features SoundScape technology with next-level noise cancellation and advanced sound processing for natural, clarified sound in complex situations. Unlike some other DTC brands, all Jabra Enhance hearing aids can be custom-programmed by an audiologist with the purchase of the company’s Premium Package. Three years of unlimited, remote follow-up care with an audiologist is also included as part of the Premium Package, ensuring a safe and effective experience for wearers.

The Enhance Select 300 hearing aids are rechargeable, and a single 3-hour charge powers all-day use. Bluetooth-enabled, the Enhance Select 300 is also capable of direct streaming and is compatible with both iOS and Android devices.

Who Should Consider Buying a Hearing Aid Online

DTC hearing aids that one can buy online can improve the quality of life for many people with mild to moderate hearing loss. However, OTC hearing devices aren’t intended for individuals with profound hearing loss, and the package labeling cannot substitute for a diagnosis and care from a professional audiologist. For seniors on a budget, however, DTC hearing aids can be a suitable solution for better hearing.

Learn More About Hearing Aids