Quick answer: The four main hearing aid styles are behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), in-the-ear (ITE) and completely-in-canal (CIC). Which one suits you depends on your degree of hearing loss, ear health, how easily you handle small parts and how discreet you want it to be. This finder gives you a shortlist to discuss.
How the hearing aid finder works
Answer 8 quick questions about the hearing loss, ear health, handling, appearance, phone use, batteries and where you need to hear. Each answer adds or removes points for the four styles, and the finder shows the one or two styles that fit best, with notes on rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth and technology level.
The finder never recommends a brand or a price. It is a starting point for a conversation with the audiologist, who will confirm the right style after a hearing test and a trial.
Hearing aid styles compared
| Style | Where it sits | Visibility | Typical hearing loss range | Handling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BTE | Behind the ear, tube to an earmould or dome | Most visible | Mild to profound | Easiest |
| RIC | Behind the ear, speaker in the ear canal | Discreet | Mild to severe | Moderate |
| ITE | Fills the outer ear | Visible in the ear | Mild to severe | Fairly easy |
| CIC | Deep in the ear canal | Almost invisible | Mild to moderate | Hardest (tiny parts) |
For a closer look at the two most common styles, read BTE vs RIC hearing aids.
Why your hearing test comes first
The degree and type of hearing loss decide which styles are powerful enough, and the hearing test results are used to program the hearing aid. That is why a hearing test should come before buying a hearing aid. If you haven't had one, choose “Not sure” in the finder and book a test.
Questions to ask at your hearing aid consultation
- Which styles are powerful enough for my hearing test results?
- Can I try the hearing aid before deciding?
- How do I clean it, and how often does it need servicing?
- Are rechargeable or Bluetooth models available in the styles that suit me?
- What is included in the price: fitting, follow-up visits and warranty?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hearing aid style is best?
No style is best for everyone. The right choice depends on your hearing test results, the shape of your ear, how easily you handle small objects, your lifestyle and what you want from the hearing aid. An audiologist can help you compare suitable options.
Are invisible hearing aids suitable for everyone?
No. Completely-in-canal hearing aids need enough space in the ear canal, usually suit mild to moderate hearing loss, and are not ideal with frequent ear wax or discharge or if handling tiny parts is difficult.
Are rechargeable hearing aids better?
They are more convenient for many people, because you charge them overnight instead of changing tiny batteries. Whether they suit you depends on the model and your daily routine.
Can children use in-the-ear hearing aids?
Children usually wear behind-the-ear hearing aids, because the earmould can be remade cheaply as the ear grows, and BTE models are sturdy and suit all degrees of hearing loss.
How much does a hearing aid cost?
Cost depends on the technology level, style, features, fitting and follow-up support. Read our hearing aid cost guide and ask the clinic for current options.
More free checks
See all free speech and hearing checks.
- Does my child need speech therapy?Speech and language check, ages 1 to 6+
- Do I need a hearing test?Hearing check for adults or a parent
- Can my baby hear?Newborn and infant checklist, 0 to 12 months
Explore hearing aids in Bhubaneswar at Sound Bridge.
This tool is general education and screening only and does not replace a personal clinical assessment.