MDHearing aids, reviewed by audiologists
A look at the different features and styles of MDHearing hearing aids.
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Ever since Chicago-based company MDHearing was founded in 2009, they’ve been championing quality doctor-designed hearing aids at an affordable price. And with Americans paying on average $2,500 for hearing aids, they couldn’t have come at a better time.
Here’s what you should know about MDHearing and their devices:
- They provide an alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar clinics — MDHearing offers direct-to-consumer devices that cut out the middleman and all the overhead costs that come with it.
- They don’t require a hearing test or prescription — This reduces the number of back-and-forth visits to medical clinics for diagnosis, fittings, and maintenance, saving hearing aid customers time and money.
MDHearing aid reviews
Our board of trusted audiologists has looked into MDHearing’s extensive line of hearing devices to offer recommendations on the brand’s products based on price, built-in features, and patient feedback. This review will benefit anyone with mild to moderate hearing loss looking for a hearing device on a tight budget.
Let’s take a look at what the company has to offer and how each hearing aid can assist people with varying degrees of hearing loss.
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MDHearing Air review
MDHearing Air
The virtually invisible MDHearing Air is lightweight and features a telecoil for hearing assistance in live venues.
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If you’re looking for a lightweight hearing aid, look no further than the MDHearing Air. This behind-the-ear (BTE) device weighs just under an ounce and is virtually invisible.
But the Air’s real calling card is that it’s the only MDHearing device to feature a built-in telecoil wire. This wire acts as an antenna, connecting to audio systems at venues like movie theaters or places of worship.
MD Air devices also use digital sound processing technology, which converts sound waves into digital signals. While this may be a drawback for customers looking for a more natural sound, it can reduce background noise in loud settings, putting a focus on human sounds. The device also has adjustable controls for different types of environments, including quieter ones.
Like all MD Hearing devices, the Air has a rechargeable battery that can last 12 to 16 hours off a single charge and a sleek portable charging case for users on the go. There are also comfort molds that conform to the ear canal’s natural shape for increased comfort.
Of course, the MD Hearing Air is not without its flaws, most notably the fact that you can’t connect to the brand’s mobile app or any Bluetooth device for that matter. This requires users to adjust volume and other settings by hand, which can be difficult for those with arthritis or vision loss.
The device also isn’t water-resistant. So, if you’re interested in water activities or live in rainy environments, this device may not be the best option for you.
| Criteria | MDHearing Air |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $297 per pair |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth capabilities? | No |
| App supported | No |
| Styles | BTE |
| Hearing loss | Mild to moderate |
Pros and cons of Air model hearing aids
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Only BTE MDHearing device with telecoil | Incompatible with MDHearing app |
| Lightweight | No Bluetooth |
| Multiple environmental settings | Not water-resistant |
| Advanced noise reduction | Not fit to your specific hearing loss |
| Comfortable | No in-person assistance |
What our audiologists are saying about the Air model
Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD says, “The slim tube options like the Volt and the Air are likely the most comfortable because the earpiece can be adjusted based on the patient’s hearing loss, ear size, and comfort level.”
Dr. Ruth Reisman performs an evaluation of the MD Hearing Air 3 on a Verifit 2 test box.
Who are Air model hearing aids ideal for?
MDHearing hearing aids are designed to benefit users with mild to moderate hearing loss. They’re a good option for anyone looking for a lightweight option at a lower purchase price than most BTE hearing aids.
MDHearing Neo review
MDHearing Neo
Slight water-resistance and a discreet design make the MDHearing Neo a customer favorite.
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Similar to the Air, the MDHearing Neo weighs just under an ounce and is an in-the-canal (IIC) device. Flexible silicone tips make the hearing aids more comfortable than most ITC devices, and the included cleaning tools allow hearing aid users to remove any wax buildup accumulated throughout the day. It even has a tiny pull string for easy removal.
The Neo is also MDHearing’s only water-resistant hearing aid, but users shouldn’t get too excited at the thought of jumping into a pool with this device in their ear. While it can handle a bit of moisture from inclement weather or sweat, the device can’t be fully submerged in water, so swimming or bathing is out of the question.
Another perk of the product is the long-lasting rechargeable battery, which can work up to 18 hours off a single 3-hour charge. It’s rivaled only by the Volt in MDHearing’s product line, which can last 20 hours off a 2-hour charge.
The device also boasts advanced background noise reduction and feedback cancellation. That said, some users have complaints about a reported feedback whistle that can be quite loud while adjusting the volume.
| Criteria | MDHearing Neo |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $297 per pair |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth capabilities? | No |
| App supported | No |
| Styles | ITC |
| Hearing loss | Mild to moderate |
Pros and cons of Neo model hearing aids
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Slightly water-resistant | Incompatible with MDHearing app |
| Lightweight and discreet | No Bluetooth |
| Long-lasting battery | Can’t be fully submerged in water |
| Includes cleaning utensils | Customers report a feedback whistle |
| Advanced noise reduction | Not ideal for those with neuropathy or poor dexterity |
What our audiologists are saying about the Neo model
Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD says, “The Neo is the most discrete of the MD hearing devices as it sits completely in the ear and can be adjusted based on the ear size of the patient.”
Who are Neo model hearing aids ideal for?
MDHearing Neo hearing aids are designed for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. Because they’re the brand’s only in-the-canal (ITC) devices, they’re the best hearing aid by MDHearing for users with glasses. The device is also discreet, which can be appealing to customers looking for a more subtle option.
MDHearing Neo XS review
MDHearing Neo XS
Half the size of MDHearing Neo, the Neo XS is more discreet and comfortable than most ITC hearing aids.
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If the discreet MDHearing Neo isn’t, well, discreet enough for you, then the even smaller Neo XS should satisfy your needs.
Half the size of the Neo, the Neo XS provides a clear sound at a size that will be invisible to others once placed inside your ear. The small size also makes the device more comfortable than most in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids on the market, especially for users with smaller ears.
The device’s portable charging case is equally sleek, which allows for six full charges on the go before the case itself needs to be recharged. Like the Neo, the Neo XS has an 18-hour battery life, allowing for full-day use.
Also, like the Neo, the Neo XS has a small push button on the outside to adjust the volume. Unfortunately, the feedback whistle users reported on the Neo doesn’t seem to have gone away with this latest edition, as reviews still complain about a screeching noise every time you raise the device’s volume.
The device also lacks the environmental settings that other MDHearing products have to adjust to different situations, like noisy ones versus quiet ones. The Neo XS does have enhanced word recognition for focusing on the person speaking to you.
| Criteria | MDHearing Neo XS |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $397 per pair |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth capabilities? | No |
| App supported | No |
| Styles | ITC |
| Hearing loss | Mild to moderate |
Pros and cons of Neo XS model hearing aids
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Smallest MDHearing device | Incompatible with mobile app |
| Enhanced speech recognition | No Bluetooth |
| Advanced noise reduction | No environmental settings |
| Discreet | Not fit to your specific hearing loss or hearing needs |
| Long-lasting battery | Not ideal for those with neuropathy or poor dexterity |
What our audiologists are saying about the Neo XS model
Dr. Jessica Hinson, AuD shares that the Neo Xs may be a good entry solution. However, she notes that those with high-frequency loss may not benefit from this device.
Dr. Ruth Reisman performs an evaluation of the MD Hearing Neo XS on a Verifit 2 test box.
Who are Neo XS model hearing aids ideal for?
The MDHearing Neo XS is designed for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. The tiny size of the product may make it the best option device for users with smaller ears or a desire for subtlety.
MDHearing Volt Max review
MDHearing Volt Max
Bluetooth and mobile app compatibility make up for the steep price of the MDHearing Volt Max.
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At $699 a pair, the Volt Max is the priciest MDHearing device. But it’s still a good value when you consider how much more affordable it is than most of the four-figure products on the market. And it’s especially worth taking into account all of the advanced features packed into the Volt Max that earn its price point.
For starters, the Volt Max is the only MDHearing product equipped with Bluetooth connectivity. It’s also one of only two MDHearing devices (the second being the MDHearing Volt) that is compatible with the company’s mobile app.
The Volt Max also has adaptive sound technology, which means it can automatically adjust its settings when you move from one environment to the next, from a loud one to a quieter one. This, combined with enhanced speech recognition, makes it more innovative than the MDHearing Volt.
However, with more advanced technology comes more battery drainage, which is why the Volt Max lasts 15 hours on a single charge, which is five hours less than the Volt. It’s also a bulkier product, so it can be troublesome for users who wear glasses or prefer a more discreet look.
| Criteria | MXHearing Volt Max |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $699 per pair |
| Warranty | 2 year |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth capabilities? | Yes |
| App supported | Yes |
| Styles | BTE |
| Hearing loss | Mild to moderate |
Pros and cons of Volt Max model hearing aids
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth compatible | Most expensive MDHearing device |
| Compatible with mobile app | Shorter battery life than Volt |
| Automatically adjusts to the environment | Bulkier than other MDHearing devices |
| Customizable sound settings | Difficult for glasses-wearers |
| Advanced noise reduction | Relies on self-reported in-app hearing test to make minor customizations, which tends to be less accurate |
What our audiologists are saying about the Volt Max model
Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD shares “the Volt devices have the option to have automatic adjustments,” which is a helpful feature for users.
Who are Volt Max model hearing aids ideal for?
The MDHearing Volt Max is designed for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. It is a good fit for those looking for advanced settings at a price point that’s still lower than most brick-and-mortar or prescription brands.
MDHearing Volt review
MDHearing Volt
Intelligent microphones and long battery life make the Volt one of the most innovative MDHearing products.
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Battery life is the name of the game when it comes to the MDHearing Volt.
The rechargeable hearing aid lasts a whopping 20 hours off a single charge, making it the longest-lasting MDHearing product. On top of that, it only takes two hours to charge, which is shorter than most other devices offered by the brand.
The Volt doesn’t skimp on features either. It comes with two directional microphones that can distinguish between wanted sounds, like speech and background noise. This puts greater amplification on conversation and media in noisy environments.
The product also seems to address some of the feedback concerns that users have reported on other MDHearing products, with advanced feedback cancellation technology to eliminate whistling.
While the model is slimmer than the Volt Max, users have reported that the small tubes have trouble staying in their ears. The Volt also lacks some of the advanced features of the Volt Max, such as automatic environmental sound profile adjustments. It also won’t work with the MDHearing mobile app, so users will need to adjust their settings and volume manually.
| Criteria | MDHearing Volt |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $397 per pair |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth capabilities? | No |
| App supported | No |
| Styles | BTE |
| Hearing loss | Mild to moderate |
Pros and cons of Volt model hearing aids
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long battery life | Incompatible with mobile app |
| Thinner than Volt Max | No Bluetooth |
| Dual directional microphones | Less advanced features than Volt Max |
| Multiple environmental settings | Users report the tube popping out of the ear |
| Eliminates feedback whistling | Not customized to user’s specific hearing loss |
What our audiologists are saying about the Volt model
Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD shares that, “The Volt option has the most advanced feedback manager of the devices.”
Dr. Ruth Reisman performs an evaluation of the MD Hearing Volt on a Verifit 2 test box.
Who are Volt model hearing aids ideal for?
The MDHearing Volt is designed for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. The long battery life makes it a good fit for those with active lifestyles who may not be able to stop and charge their device on the go.
Comparing MDHearing hearing aid models
| Model | Style | Price | Type of hearing loss | Battery type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air | BTE | $297/pair | Mild to moderate | Rechargeable |
| Neo | ITC | $297/pair | Mild to moderate | Rechargeable |
| Neo XS | ITC | $397/pair | Mild to moderate | Rechargeable |
| Volt Max | BTE | $699/pair | Mild to moderate | Rechargeable |
| Volt | BTE | $397/pair | Mild to moderate | Rechargeable |
Hearing aid vs hearing amplifier
Before finding the right device for your unique condition, it’s important to understand the difference between hearing amplifiers and hearing aids, the latter of which MDHearing offers.
Hearing aids are medical devices you wear in or around your ear to process sound waves. Hearing amplifiers, on the other hand, can boost sounds in certain situations. “Amplifiers make global volume changes up or down without regard to the pitches you need based on your hearing test,” says audiologist Dr. Jessica Hinson.
While most hearing aids require a prescription, hearing amplifiers do not and, therefore, are not as regulated by the FDA. MDHearing’s hearing aids are registered with the FDA.
3 key takeaways
- MDHearing is a leading brand in over-the-counter hearing aids — MDHearing offers high-quality hearing aids without the need for a prescription.
- MDHearing products are far less expensive than most on the market — The average cost of a hearing aid is $2,500 in the United States, while the most expensive MDHearing product is $699.
- MDHearing devices are for people with mild to moderate hearing loss — Those with severe hearing loss may need to consult their audiologist about a prescription brand.
What our audiologists say about MDHearing hearing aids
Dr. Ruth Reisman
“MDHearing aids can be a good entry-level device for those looking to wet their palate with hearing aids. MDHearing aids offer multiple styles to patients.”
Dr. Jessica Hinson
“On the rare occasion that a patient has low-frequency or moderate flat hearing loss, the Neo XS may be a good entry solution; however, those with high-frequency loss may not benefit.”
What real MDHearing customers say about their hearing aids
MDHearing customers say their favorite feature is…
Many customers like that MDHearing sends the devices straight to their homes while emailing helpful videos on how to use new hearing aids. Other customers said that the devices are straightforward and easy to use.
MDHearing customers say their least favorite feature is…
Some customers complained that MDHearing’s 45-day return policy doesn’t apply to their hearing aid accessories. Others noted that the Neo XS has issues with feedback and “squeals” in noisy environments.
Are MDHearing hearing aids for me?
With so many hearing aids on the market, it can be hard to find a brand that meets your individual needs. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of MDHearing products:
Pros
- No prescription required
- Low-cost devices
- Comprehensive information on website
- All devices are rechargeable
Cons
- Only one model has Bluetooth connectivity
- Only one model has mobile app compatibility
- Only treats mild to moderate hearing loss
- No in-person assistance for cleaning, maintenance, or programming
How MDHearing’s online hearing test works
If you aren’t sure if a hearing aid is right for you, consider taking MDHearing’s online hearing test. While online hearing tests do not offer an official diagnosis, they can give you a preliminary look into your degree of hearing loss.
The MDHearing online hearing test can be completed on a computer, smartphone, or tablet, and the entire process takes around 8 minutes. While most online hearing tests require you to fill out survey questions ahead of time, MDHearing’s does not.
For the test, users are played tones at six different frequencies in both their right ear and left ear. You then have to press the plus and minus buttons until you reach the lowest volume where you can hear the tone.
At the end, you’ll immediately get a response in your browser with a simple yet detailed audiogram, along with an option to schedule a free 30-minute virtual consultation with an audiologist to go over your results and discuss the next steps.
MDHearing mobile app
MDHearing’s mobile app is only compatible with the Volt Max, the brand’s priciest model. It is available on Apple and Android, with better reviews on Apple.
Users can personalize their audio settings with a built-in calibration software that has you press a button every time you hear a tone. You can also adjust the volume and set the environment or situation you’re in, like a restaurant or quiet space.
If users need remote assistance, they can request it from an MDHearing specialist in the app, which can take up to 3 business days. Some users have complained about connectivity issues and high-pitched feedback whistling when raising the volume.
Understanding MDHearing’s warranty
MDHearing hearing aids typically come with a one-year warranty, with the option to extend to two years for Volt models. This covers replacements for any potential defects in the product in its original condition. It does not cover wear and tear from sweat or mishandling on the part of the customer.
You’ll have the option to pay an additional $49.95 for the brand’s MDShield Protection Plan, which offers replacements for any and all damage to the product, including accidental incidents.
Customers will also have a 45-day trial period where they can return their device for a full refund. The brand recommends giving each product 21 days (or three weeks) because that is the amount of time it takes for your brain to adjust to a new hearing aid.
MDHearing vs other OTC hearing aid brands
MDHearing is a popular over-the-counter hearing aid brand, but how does it stack up against other companies when it comes to price, style, and accessibility?
Here’s a comparison of MDHearing and other popular OTC hearing aids:
| Brand | Best known for | Types of devices offered | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|
| MDHearing | Variety of devices offered | BTE, ITC | $297 to $699 |
| Jabra Enhance | Quality OTCs | RIC | $1,195 to $$1,999 |
| Lexie Hearing | Simple to use device | BTE, RIC | $799 to $999 |
| Audien | Low costs hearing aids | ITC | $99 to $249 |
| Audicus | Lease options | RIC, ITC | $3,990–$5,990 |
Why trust Audiologists.org
Every review on Audiologists.org is produced by our board of audiologists and a team of health writers. The hearing care market is constantly developing, and our review team is here to make recommendations on products that are in compliance with FDA standards and focus on easing the burden hearing loss impedes on so many.
While evaluating these hearing aids, we looked into overall quality, design, and comprehensiveness for consumers. As always, we recommend consulting your audiologist for advice tailored to your individual health history.
Frequently asked questions
Are MDHearing hearing aids legit?
MDHearing is a legitimate company established in 2009 that sells low-cost hearing aids designed by doctors. They currently have a B+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
How much do MDHearing hearing aids cost?
MDHearing hearing aids range from $297 to $699 per pair, which is considerably lower than the national average cost of $2,500 for a traditional hearing aid.
Where can I buy MDHearing hearing aids?
MDHearing hearing aids are sold over-the-counter (OTC) direct-to-consumer via their website mdhearingaid.com and Amazon.
Is MDHearing FDA approved?
All MDHearing hearing aids are registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
What is the cost of an MDHearing hearing aid?
MDHearing hearing aids cost between $297 to $699 per pair, with the Volt Max being their most expensive model.
