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Phonak hearing aids, reviewed by audiologists

A look at the sound quality, ease of use, and other essential specs for Phonak hearing aids.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Ruth Reisman

Written by

Ethan David

Updated:

September 18, 2024

A pair of Phonak Vitro Paradise hearing aids on a transparent background

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A product testing session performed by Dr. Ruth Reisman. In this particular moment, she was testing the Signa Silk Charge&Go to ensure each device performed according to manufacturer specifications.

Founded in 1947, Zurich-based Sonova is the company behind Phonak hearing aids. As one of the oldest and largest names in the industry, Sonova — which also makes Unitron, Hansaton, and Advanced Bionics — has developed a reputation for creating quality, cutting-edge products that lean into new technology and better people’s lives.

With the vast collection of hearing aids offered by Phonak, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best suited for you. Those purchasing a hearing aid deserve one that meets their unique needs — one that can help them engage in conversations with loved ones, enjoy phone calls (when lip-reading isn’t possible), and hear the TV.

Since Phonak hearing aids are prescription devices, you will need to see a hearing care professional before you purchase them. The good news? You’ll receive customizable, well-fitted devices made just for you.

If you don’t have a local provider, you can use our Audiologist Explorer to find an audiologist or hearing aid specialist capable of helping you find the best hearing aids for your needs.

Phonak hearing aid models

One of Phonak’s most significant calling cards is its vast portfolio. The brand currently offers 12 different hearing aid models.

Our audiologists especially recommend these three: the Audéo Lumity, Vitro Paradise, and the Naída Paradise. Each has its own set of perks and is designed to help individuals with a specific type of hearing loss.

Phonak Audéo Lumity review

Phonak Audeo Lumity
Phonak Audéo Lumity

Recommended by our audiologists as a comfortable hearing aid perfect for all-day wear, the Phonak Audéo Lumity uses Phonak SmartSpeech™ Technology to help you better understand speech when it would otherwise be difficult to do so.

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If Bluetooth compatibility is a big selling point for you, the Audéo Lumity is one to consider. The 90R model, the latest for the brand, is compatible with any Bluetooth device — iPhones, Androids, even your decades-old flip phone.

But it doesn’t stop at phones.

Wearers can pair the newest Audéo Lumity with up to eight devices, including two paired simultaneously. Tablets, TVs, and even Pelotons all make the cut. Phonak Audeo Lumity Life 90R is also an ideal solution for users hoping for a completely waterproof coating to wear in the shower or swimming.

The Audéo Lumity uses Phonak SmartSpeech™ Technology to help you better understand speech when it would otherwise be difficult to do so. The ActiveVent receiver add-on physically reduces background noise, so it’s easier to hear in what would otherwise be challenging situations.

Dr. Ruth Reisman performs an evaluation of the Signia IX on a Verifit 2 test box.

Our team goes hands-on with the Phonak Audéo Lumity | Photo by René Fielder

 

Compared to other Phonak hearing aids, the Audéo Lumity is arguably the company’s best-performing device. This also makes its higher-end L90 technology level one of the priciest by the brand, with just the Audéo Paradise P90 costing more.

Phonak’s Audéo Lumity and Audéo Paradise hearing aids are the only receiver-in-canal (RIC)s offered by the company. Lumity models only come with rechargeable batteries, unlike Paradise devices, which have both rechargeable and disposable options.

Otherwise, the Audéo Lumity has mostly the same features as other Phonak devices in terms of Bluetooth compatibility (which all but the Lyric have), myPhonak app functionality, and water resistance. Of all the Phonak devices, the Audéo Lumity offers the clearest speech recognition in noisy environments.

As for non-Phonak hearing aids, the Audéo Lumity best compares to the Widex Moment and ReSound Omnia in terms of price, sound quality, and the hearing loss level it is suited for. Although the Moment outperforms both devices when it comes to the ability to hear one’s own voice, the Audéo Lumity has better speech intelligibility for processing quiet sounds. The Omnia offers the most models to choose from, with seven different variations compared to the Lumity’s three.

Criteria Phonak Audéo Lumity
Cost $1,000 – $4,000 per ear (see Lyric subscription model pricing below)
Warranty Up to three years for adults, five years for pediatric
Rechargeable batteries? Yes
Bluetooth capabilities? Yes
Customization options Yes
Fitting range Mild to severe

 

Pros and cons of Audéo Lumity hearing aids

Pros Cons
Advanced sound quality technology Poorly-reviewed app
Long battery life Design difficult to wear with glasses or a face mask
Pairs with up to 8 devices at once Reported issues with Android Bluetooth compatibility
Water-resistant No telecoil for L50 or L30 models
Personalized settings Only rechargeable battery options

 

What our audiologists say about the Audéo Lumity

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “Phonak as a company has the widest range of hearing technology to address almost any level of hearing loss at any age. Their newest platform, Phonak Lumity, has been highly successful with my patients, additionally with the option of having a device that is fully waterproof, patients can be on-air and hearing around the clock regardless of their activity.”

Dr. Jessica Hinson, AuD: “As a hearing aid user myself, my Phonak Audéo Lumity 90 has been the most comfortable hearing aid I have worn to date. I chase my 4-year-old around, go hiking, and work in the yard and I never have to worry about it falling out, getting uncomfortable, or being affected by sweat. On top of comfort, they have impressive background noise reduction and speech clarity, with overall great streaming quality compared to its competitors.”

Who are Phonak Audéo Lumity hearing aids ideal for?

Phonak Audéo Lumity hearing aids are designed for patients with mild to severe hearing loss. Individuals with several Bluetooth devices — from phones to Pelotons — or who enjoy swimming and listening to podcasts in the shower will like the waterproof coating. People with difficulty hearing over background noise with a standard hearing aid will want to consider the ActiveVent receiver.

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Phonak Naída Lumity review

Naida Lumity hearing aid
Phonak Naída Lumity

A sleek modern design combined with low listening effort makes the Phonak Naída Lumity a favorite for users with mild to profound hearing loss.

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Versatility is the name of the game when it comes to Phonak’s latest hearing aid, the Naída Lumity.

Available in three models — the L-UP, L-SP, and L-PR — with four technology levels — L30, L50, L70, and L90 — this rounded behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid incorporates Phonak’s signature Bluetooth technology that makes them compatible with any smart device.

The Naída Lumity’s AutoSense OS™ artificial intelligence software reduces listening effort in most environments. The device also uses Speech Enhancer to better process quiet sounds or noises coming from a distance.

But perhaps the product’s biggest offering is its Dynamic Noise Cancellation at the L70 and L90 levels. The device uses beamforming microphones, which are designed to capture sound from specific directions to improve speech recognition. By capturing environmental sound separately, the beamforming mics can remove unwanted noise from the primary mics facing the person speaking.

The Naída Lumity shares many of the software features of other Phonak hearing aids, including echo reduction and feedback suppression. Its L90 level is one of the most expensive Phonak devices, though the Audéo Paradise P90 and Audéo Lumity P90 are both costlier.

Like other Lumitys in the Phonak family, the Naída Lumity has built-in SpeechSensor technology to better process sounds not directly in front of you, a key feature that is notably absent in Phonak’s Paradise models.

As for non-Phonak devices, the Naída Lumity offers tap controls for voice assistance and answering calls that more expensive devices like the Oticon Real do not. There are hearing aids on the market with more tap control functions than the Naída Lumity, like the Starkey Genesis AI, which has a mute function and tinnitus control.

Starkey Genesis AI and Oticon both use a telecoil to connect hearing aids to landline phones and assisted listening devices, which is a feature the Naída Lumity lacks.

Criteria Phonak Naída Paradise
Cost $2,000 – $4,000 per ear
Warranty 2-year, can be extended to 5
Rechargeable batteries? Yes, with disposable battery models as well
Bluetooth capabilities? Yes
Customization options Yes
Fitting range Moderate to profound

 

Pros and cons of Naída Lumity hearing aids

Pros Cons
Reduced listening effort Poorly-reviewed app
Advanced speech enhancement Advanced features require a learning curve
Smooth, round edges with a sleek design Small 675 battery size for disposable models
Customizable sound settings Expensive
Better processes indirect sounds No telecoil

 

What our audiologist says about the Naída Lumity

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “The Naida Lumity is the number one option for individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss. The device has the most power, great battery life, and all the advanced features of a Phonak device. The Niada Lumity device is hands down the first choice for improving quality of life in patients with very significant hearing loss.”

Who are Phonak Naída Lumity hearing aids ideal for?

Phonak Naída Lumity hearing aids are designed for patients with mild to profound hearing loss. Users who often find themselves in situations with multiple sounds coming at them, like a party or sporting event, will benefit from the device’s built-in SpeechSensor technology. People looking for a simple, user-friendly hearing aid may be overwhelmed by all the advanced customization features.

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Phonak Slim review

Phonak Slim hearing aid
Phonak Slim

With a discreet shape that naturally aligns with the contour of the head, the Phonak Slim Lumity proves you don’t have to compromise style for enhanced speech recognition.

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Perhaps one of the biggest pet peeves of hearing aid users is how the devices often become dislodged whenever they put on eyewear, hats, or masks. Those concerns have been addressed in the ergonomically-shaped Phonak Slim hearing aids.

The discreet and stylish look of these hearing aids doesn’t come at the expense of functionality. The Phonak Slim offers SpeechSensor technology to pick up sounds coming from the side and back of you, as well as StereoZoom to focus on specific sounds in noisy environments.

The Slim is a BTE-style device with SmartSpeech technology and Speech Enhancer to boost speech recognition and reduce listening efforts. Like the Audéo Luminity, the Phonak Slim only comes with a rechargeable battery, as opposed to the rechargeable and disposable options offered by the Naída Lumity.

The non-Phonak hearing aid that the Phonak Slim draws the most comparisons to is the Signia Styletto, which came onto the market about four years before the Slim.

The Styletto offers a similar sleek design aimed at reimaging typical hearing aids with a more stylized look. Some customers have reported that the Slims are bigger than Stylettos, making them a little less discreet than their predecessor. The Widex EasyWear also offers an ergonomic style, though it’s thought to be much longer and more cumbersome than other slim models on the market.

In terms of features, the biggest difference is probably the Find My Hearing Aids function in Stylettos, which is not available in Slims.

Criteria Phonak Slim
Cost $2,500 to $4,000
Warranty 3-year on premium model
Rechargeable batteries? Yes
Bluetooth capabilities? Yes
Customization options Yes
Fitting range Mild to severe

 

Pros and cons of Phonak Slim hearing aids

Pros Cons
Stylish design Poorly-reviewed app
Easier to wear with a hat, glasses, or mask No disposable battery option
Quality noise reduction and focus More expensive than similarly-styled Signia Styletto
Reduced listening effort No Find My Hearing Aids function
Custom ear molds No telecoil

 

What our audiologist says about the Phonak Slim

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “The [Phonak Slim] option can be a more secure fit when patients also wear glasses and other ear paraphernalia. Some patients comment on the extended length.”

Who are Phonak Slim hearing aids ideal for?

Phonak Slim hearing aids are designed for patients with mild to severe hearing loss. They’re a great fit for users looking for a discreet device that naturally aligns with their head for comfort and fashion purposes. It may not be a good option for people who are more focused on advanced features than they are on the look of the device.

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Phonak Virto Paradise review

Phonak Virto Paradise
Phonak Virto Paradise

An invisible, custom design paired with premium-level Speech Enhancer technology allows wearers to block background noise without a conversation piece.

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Some hearing aid wearers may prefer a middle ground between premium software and discreet design. For those individuals, the Phonak Virto Paradise is worth considering.

The devices are custom-made using an impression of your ear to fit deep within the ear canal. Black ones typically aren’t visible even in the shadow of a user’s ear canal, with the Titanium model being considered the most hard-to-see. Not all models have Bluetooth compatibility, but the P-312 does.

Looks aside, innovative technology like Speech Enhancer and Roger device compatibility allows wearers to tune out unwanted background noise and pick up quieter sounds without straining to listen. Customers also report that the device offers a crisp, natural sound.

Compared to other Phonak hearing aids, the Virto Paradise is the only device that comes in an in-the-ear (ITE) style and is the smallest in size. Perhaps the biggest drawback of the Virto Paradise is that it only comes with disposable batteries, despite the rest of Phonak’s hearing aids being rechargeable or having an option between the two.

The Virto Paradise is also the only Phonak device that isn’t water-resistant or Bluetooth-compatible in every model. That said, it’s also the only one with a Find My Hearing Aid function in Phonak’s line.

The Virto Paradise is higher-priced than most of its non-Phonak competitors. Some users felt that the in-the-ear style wasn’t as comfortable for all-day wear as BTE devices like the ReSound Nexia or Widex Moment.

Criteria Phonak Virto Paradise
Cost $2,500 to $4,000
Warranty Up to three years for adults, five years for pediatric
Rechargeable batteries? No
Bluetooth capabilities? Some models have them, while others do not.
Customization options Yes
Fitting range Mild to severe

 

Pros and cons of Vitro Paradise hearing aids

Pros Cons
Discreet, barely-visible design Poorly-reviewed app
Blocks unwanted background noises Only comes with a disposable battery
Customize to ear anatomy Bluetooth only in select models
Natural sound Water resistance only in select models
40 color combinations Uncomfortable during all-day wear

 

What our audiologists say about the Vitro Paradise

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “Phonak Virto devices allow for a custom product with the sound quality of a Phonak hearing aid. Their titanium option is the most durable custom product on the market.”

Dr. Jessica Hinson, AuD: “I would recommend the Phonak Virto Paradise or Virto Paradise Titanium for the most discreet option. After an impression of your ear is made, the Virto is custom made to fit deep in your ear canal. They are typically black in color and are not easily visible in the shadows of your ear canal. They also offer a Titanium model that is 15x stronger than acrylic (the typical material used). If your ear canal is large enough for a size 312 battery, you will even have Bluetooth capabilities with such small devices!”

Danielle K. Morgan, AuD: “The Virto Titanium is the most ‘invisible’ option, however it comes without wireless features and Bluetooth technology.”

Who are Phonak Virto Paradise hearing aids ideal for?

Phonak Vitro Paradise hearing aids are designed for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss. The sleek, in-the-ear, and difficult-to-spot models offer a more discreet look, which may help some users feel more comfortable physically and mentally.

Some models of the Phonak Vitro Paradise are not ideal for people who want the Bluetooth compatibility Phonak has built a reputation on — not all of them offer this perk, though the P-312 does.

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Phonak Naída Paradise review

Phonak Naída Paradise hearing aid
Phonak Naída Paradise

The Phonak Naída Paradise is a robust and powerful hearing aid that performs exceptionally well for those with severe to profound hearing loss.

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Available in two models, the Phonak Naída Paradise is a strong hearing aid for users who are always out and about.

The device’s built-in motion sensor hearing (only available in the P70 and P90 levels of the P-PR model) uses an accelerometer to detect if you are stationary or on the move and adjusts accordingly.

The Naída Paradise also uses environmental balancing to differentiate between streamed media and your surroundings. Bluetooth compatibility ensures the Naída Paradise connects to your iPhone, Android, and other media sources, giving someone the freedom to make hands-free calls.

The Naída Paradise offers the most color variations of any Phonak hearing aid. Like the Audéo Paradise (and unlike the Virto Paradise), the Naída Paradise is available with either rechargeable or replaceable batteries.

It’s also the only Paradise model with the BTE style, though it’s worth noting that some users found it to be bulkier than most other BTEs on the market. The tap control function in its P-PR model is also unique, but it’s only one button on a rather small device.

Compared to other BTE hearing aids on the market, like Widex Moment or Oticon Real, the Naída Paradise is more expensive despite those devices also having AI-driven technology to adjust levels as you move to different environments.

Nonetheless, the Naída Paradise does a great job of amplifying quiet sounds like the rest of Phonak’s devices.

Criteria Phonak Naída Paradise
Cost $2,000 to $4,500
Warranty Up to three years for adults, five years for pediatric
Rechargeable batteries? Yes, with disposable battery models as well
Bluetooth capabilities? Yes
Customization options Yes
Fitting range Severe to profound

 

Pros and cons of Naída Paradise hearing aids

Pros Cons
Enhanced ReSound noise quality Poorly-reviewed app
Motion sensor tracks movements Bulkier than most BTE devices on the market
Processes environment and streamed media separately Higher tech levels are expensive
Rechargeable and disposable battery options Motion sensor are only available in P-PR models
Amplifies softer sounds Tap control is difficult to use

 

What our audiologist says about the Naída Paradise

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “The Naida line is the number one option for individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss. The device has the most power, great battery life, and all the advanced features of [a] Phonak device.”

Who are Phonak Naída Paradise hearing aids ideal for?

The Naída P-PR is designed for people with severe to profound hearing loss, while the P-UP is for individuals with severe to profound loss. The numerous functions help wearers feel confident in hearing situations by assisting them in blocking background noise and hearing people and media better. They may not be a great fit for users who want more tap control functionality than the single button available on the Naída Paradise.

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Phonak Audéo Paradise review

Audeo Paradise hearing aid
Phonak Audéo Paradise

Crisp sound, health tracking, and personalized noise canceling all contribute to the high-end Phonak Audéo Paradise being at the top of its class.

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When the Phonak Audéo Paradise came on the scene, it was the world’s first waterproof rechargeable hearing aid. That’s no longer the case, but it’s still a favorite among outdoorsy users with its crisp sound quality that can really capture the full soundscape of the natural world.

The tap control function of the device uses Bluetooth to seamlessly pick up calls, start/pause media, and use voice-activated commands.

As with most Phonak hearing aids, the Audéo Paradise comes equipped with speech enhancement and Dynamic Noise Cancellation for drowning out annoying sounds.

Its P90 model is the most expensive Phonak hearing aid on the market, making it less accessible than other top-tier devices in the brand’s line, like the Audéo Lumity or the Naída Paradise.

Similar to Naída Paradise hearing aids, Audéo Paradise has both rechargeable and disposable battery models. It’s worth noting that the latter isn’t water-resistant like the rechargeable version.

The Audéo Paradise lacks certain features of other RIC hearing aids on the market, like the orientation censors of the Starkey Genesis AI or the environmental adaptation of the Audicus Omni.

But Audéo Paradise’s WhistleBlock technology is unique to the product and adds to the list of reasons why it’s favorable among outdoor enthusiasts.

Criteria Phonak Audéo Paradise
Cost $2,000 – $4,000
Warranty 5-year
Rechargeable batteries? Yes, with disposable models as well
Bluetooth capabilities? Yes
Customization options Yes
Fitting range Mild to profound

 

Pros and cons of Phonak Audéo Paradise hearing aids

Pros Cons
Natural sound Poorly-reviewed app
Drowns out unwanted background noises Expensive for higher technology levels
Wind resistant Tap control is sensitive
Speech enhancement Water resistance only in certain models
Motion sensing technology Reported issues with Android Bluetooth compatibility

 

What our audiologist says about the Audéo Paradise

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “The Phonak Paradise is the platform that precedes the Lumity and was a great hit after its release. These devices offer the same quality and assurance that you  get from any Phonak device!”

Who are Phonak Audéo Paradise hearing aids ideal for?

Phonak Audéo Paradise hearing aids are designed for individuals with mild to profound hearing loss. The crisp sound quality and wind-blocking technology make it a good fit for users who spend a lot of time outdoors.

The higher-end versions of this product are expensive, which probably isn’t favorable for people on a budget.

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Phonak Lyric review

Yellow Phonak Lyric hearing aid
Phonak Lyric

The Phonak Lyric is the only truly invisible hearing aid on the market and can be worn 24/7 for several months.

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The award for most unique hearing aid may just have to go to the Phonak Lyric. This tiny ITC device is placed near your eardrum by a trained audiologist, where it can stay all day, every day for months on end, making it 100% invisible.

Rather than capturing sounds outside the ear with a microphone and relaying them back to you, the Lyric can amplify sounds as you hear them naturally. This makes not only outside noises appear more authentic, but also the sound of your own voice.

Because the device is worn 24/7, it offers a unique ability to relieve conditions like tinnitus at all times, whereas a traditional hearing aid would need to charge for around 3 hours before being placed back in.

This product differs greatly from the rest of Phonak’s line in that it takes an out-of-sight, out-of-mind approach that isn’t possible with BTE or ITE hearing aids. That said, it also lacks some features of other Phonak devices, most notably Bluetooth compatibility.

And while you won’t have to worry about charging or replacing the battery for months, you should be aware that the device itself will need to be professionally removed and discarded at the end of that time.

So does that mean I have to spend thousands of dollars every few months? Not quite. Phonak offers a subscription service for Lyric hearing aids with tiers for one year and two years. During this enrollment period, you can have the device replaced as many times as necessary.

👉For more comparable options, check out our full review of the best invisible hearing aids.

Criteria Phonak Lyric
Cost $3,500 per year subscription
Warranty 1-2 year subscription model
Rechargeable batteries? No
Bluetooth capabilities? No
Customization options Yes
Fitting range Mild hearing loss

 

Pros and cons of Lyric hearing aids

Pros Cons
No need to charge or replace the battery daily No Bluetooth compatibility
100% invisible Needs to be professionally inserted and removed
Captures natural sound of inner ear Only treats mild hearing loss
24/7 usage Discomfort has been reported
Subscription model doesn’t limit the amount of replacements Battery life can be unpredictable

 

What our audiologist says about the Phonak Lyric

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “[The most discreet hearing aid is] the Lyric device because it is an extended wear invisible in-the-ear device that makes the device very easy to manage and cosmetically appealing.”

Who are Phonak Lyric hearing aids ideal for?

Phonak Lyric hearing aids are designed for people with mild hearing loss. It is a good device for users who don’t want to keep up with the daily maintenance of having to charge their hearing aid and would prefer a natural sound to one that is heavily processed. If you have a busy schedule, the semi-regular appointments required for replacing the device may pose a problem.

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Phonak for children

Have a child who is in need of a quality hearing aid?

The Phonak Sky Lumity treats pediatric hearing loss with the same AutoSense OS™ software and SmartSpeech technology as Phonak devices geared toward adults. The Sky Lumity comes in a wide variety of bright colors for kids to choose from. Parents can also pair the devices to Roger remote microphones for classroom assistance.

And that’s not all. Phonak also has a myPhonak Junior app designed to provide an age-appropriate experience for children. Parents can use control settings to limit unsupervised access to certain features and forward data to their child’s audiologist. The app even features a kid-friendly design and character named Leo the Lion!

Comparing Phonak hearing aid models

Model Style Level of hearing loss Price
Phonak Audéo Lumity RIC Mild to profound $1,000 – $4,000 per ear
Phonak Naída Lumity BTE Mild to profound $2,000 – $4,000 per ear
Phonak Slim BTE Mild to profound $2,500 to $4,000
Phonak Virto Paradise ITE Mild to severe $2,500 to $4,000
Phonak Naída Paradise BTE Severe to profound $2,000 to $4,500
Phonak Audéo Paradise RIC Mild to profound $2,000 to $4,000
Phonak Lyric Professionally-inserted in canal Mild $3,500 per year subscription

The 3 key takeaways

  • Phonak hearing aids can improve all types of hearing loss — A diverse portfolio of products makes Phonak devices an ideal solution for people with mild to profound hearing loss.
  • Innovative technology is at the forefront of Phonak devices — Phonak was the first hearing aid brand to provide universal Bluetooth compatibility and utilizes state-of-the-art sound enrichment software.
  • Many audiologists recommend Phonak devices — Our board of audiologists praises Phonak devices for helping with speech understanding and background noise reduction. Comfort and customer service also receive high marks.

What our audiologists say about Phonak hearing aids

Dr. Ruth Reisman

Dr. Ruth Reisman
“Phonak has a long-standing history of successful and unique products, including the CROS device for those with single-sided deafness, the Naída power series for those patients with very significant hearing loss, as well the invisible extended wearing hearing aid of the Lyric. Even their main Paradise family line has a lot to offer patients in the way of hearing tools and flexibility.”

Dr. Danielle Morgan

Dr. Danielle K. Morgan
“Phonak’s Roger system is wireless FM technology that can help patients who need extra help beyond their regular hearing aid amplification. Roger technology is available built-in to the Audéo Lumity, Audéo Paradise, Naída Paradise, and select Virto Paradise hearing aids. I recommend these devices when there is a chance a patient could benefit from the Roger system or might want to purchase a compatible microphone at some point.”

Dr. Jessica Hinson

Dr. Jessica Hinson
“On top of comfort, [the Phonak Audéo Lumity has] impressive background noise reduction and speech clarity, with overall great streaming quality compared to its competitors. For those only looking for in-the-ear devices with no exterior component, do note that Phonak does not have a rechargeable in-the-ear option to date, so you’ll need to learn how to change your hearing aid batteries weekly.”

What customers say about Phonak hearing aids

Phonak customers say their favorite feature is…

50% of the customers we surveyed rated their experience with Phonak as Satisfactory, while 50% rated their experience as Very Satisfactory. Many of them also love that the hearing aids are rechargeable and discreet, and several commented on how easy it is to use the smartphone app.

Phonak customers say their least favorite feature is…

Many of the customers we surveyed complained about the price point, a similar complaint across all prescription devices. Some also claim that the noise suppression could be stronger, meaning that some users struggle with their hearing aids in loud environments.

Are Phonak hearing aids for me?

Phonak has different models that can meet the needs of all types of hearing loss, but are they the ideal solution for you? Let’s explore the brand’s pros and cons to help you figure out if these devices are suited to your individual needs.

 

The pros of Phonak hearing aids

  • It’s a trusted brand. Phonak is one of the industry’s longest-running and largest hearing aid manufacturers. Hearing care professionals recommend it regularly for that reason.
  • Cochlear implant compatibility. Individuals who are profoundly deaf may use cochlear implants. Some models of Phonak hearing devices work with cochlear implants to provide a rich sound experience.
  • Walk and talk at the same time without losing sound quality. When the user walks and talks, the motion sensor in the hearing aid picks up on it. Then, it adjusts the microphone so the wearer can tune into the direction of the speech.

 

The cons of Phonak hearing aids

  • Their hearing aids are expensive. Phonak doesn’t list the prices of its devices, but the average cost ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 per device. That may be cost-prohibitive for some people.
  • Phonak offers a limited international warranty. Warranty varies based on the account. The limited one-year international warranty does not cover accessories like ear molds or batteries, just manufacturing and material defects in the actual hearing aid. Others have a three to five-year warranty.
  • No OTC option means getting a Phonak device takes more effort. People with mild to moderate hearing loss may be able to get a hearing aid over the counter through another brand. Phonak requires in-person consultations with an audiologist or other qualified hearing professionals.

 

Customer service

An audiologist or hearing care provider will have a consultation with you to help you find the ideal solution for your unique hearing needs. If it is a Phonak-brand hearing device, you’ll be in good hands with customer service.

Phonak offers an array of remote support, including an online hearing test. Modern technology is a huge bonus, but you’ll want to know that your device works with Bluetooth, phone calls, streaming, and the myPhonak app so you can make an informed choice on the best hearing aid.

An easy compatibility checker will have you on your way. User guides and a support center can help you troubleshoot issues with your device or accessories. You can also complete a form online to submit a support case if you need additional information and assistance to fix the issue.

Veterans can call a Phonak VA Customer Care Representative at 866-230-0110.

Quick facts about Phonak hearing aids

Phonak is the largest hearing aid brand under Sonova and helps users in more than 100 countries, including the United States. 

  1. 1947 was a big year for breaking sound barriers. In 1947, Chuck Yeager’s rocket aircraft, Bell X-1, broke the sound barrier. AG für Elektroakustik, the brand that would become Sonova, was also founded that year with the goal of aiding individuals with hearing loss in their quest to break their “barriers to sound.”
  2. The company hit an inflection point in 1965. Phonak and its parent company Sonova, as we know them today, began in 1965 when Ernst Rihs became the major shareholder. He renamed the company Phonak AG. 
  3. New name, same devices. In 2007, Phonak AG changed its name to Sonova AG. Phonak hearing devices are still sold under the Phonak name.
  4. Phonak is all-in on tech. Phonak not only created a first-class hearing aid that helps wearers with speech recognition and more. The company used modern technology, such as the myPhonak app, Bluetooth connectivity, and TV connector to enhance users’ daily lives, along with the Roger system, which uses FM technology to assist patients who need more amplification.

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That’s why every one of our articles is vetted by our board of audiologists to guarantee our information is accurate, and our product recommendations are FDA-approved. In assessing these hearing aids, we took into account sound quality, design, software functionality, and the value you’re getting.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cost of a Phonak hearing aid?

The cost varies based on the model and any add-ons, but prices for Phonak hearing aids typically start at $2,100 and can go as high as $8,000.

What is Phonak's best top model of aid?

It depends on a person’s level of hearing loss and personal preference. For example, the Naída Paradise is for people with severe or profound hearing loss, while the Audéo Lumity is for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. The Luminity offers Bluetooth capabilities. Most models of the Vitro Paradise are discreet but often lack Bluetooth capabilities.

Is Phonak a hearing aid or amplifier?

Phonak is a hearing aid manufacturer. Phonak doesn’t make amplifiers because amplifiers merely amplify noise and could damage people’s residual hearing.

How good is a Phonak hearing aid?

Phonak is one of the world’s oldest and largest hearing aid manufacturers. How beneficial a Phonak hearing aid is to someone often depends on personal preferences. However, Phonak hearing aids are known for helping people with all types of hearing loss and offering products that lean into modern technology.

What country is Phonak from?

Phonak was established in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1947. Today, it sells hearing aids in more than 100 countries.