Independent Hearing Aid Specialists

The smallest custom aid, sitting deep in the canal near the second bend — virtually invisible.

Best for: mild to moderate loss.

PROS

• Invisible when worn
• Natural sound using your ear's own shape
• Nothing sits behind the ear

CONS

• Very small to handle and clean
• Shorter battery life
• Limited Bluetooth and features; not for severe loss

Sits right inside the canal — only a tiny removal cord shows.

Best for: mild to moderate loss.

PROS

• Very discreet
• Comfortable, natural sound
• Custom-made to your ear

CONS

• Small batteries, few manual controls
• Fiddly if dexterity is limited
• Few wireless features

Custom-made to fill part of the canal and outer ear — a little larger than CIC.

Best for: mild to moderate loss.

PROS

• Discreet but easier to handle than CIC
• Room for directional mics and volume control
• Longer battery life than CIC

CONS

• Slightly more visible
• Still small for very limited dexterity
• Not ideal for severe loss

A custom shell that fills the outer ear — larger, so easier to use.

Best for: mild to severe loss.

PROS

• Easy to insert and handle
• Longer battery life
• Room for Bluetooth and bigger controls

CONS

• More visible
• Can pick up wind noise
• May feel 'plugged' for some

A tiny unit behind the ear with a near-invisible wire to a receiver in the canal — today's most popular style.

Best for: nearly all losses, mild to severe. Great for first-time wearers.

PROS

• Discreet and lightweight
• Excellent, natural sound
• Rechargeable and Bluetooth options

CONS

• Receiver/wire may need occasional replacing
• Small parts to handle

All the electronics sit behind the ear, with a tube to an earpiece — the most robust style.

Best for: all losses, including severe to profound.

PROS

• Most powerful
• Durable and easy to handle
• Long battery life — good for limited dexterity

CONS

• The most visible style
• Can catch wind noise
• Earpiece may feel occluding