Starkey hearing aids, reviewed by audiologists
Starkey offers hearing aid options for its users to help keep them active and engaged with the world around them.
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3 key takeaways
- Starkey leads the industry with AI technology — They were the first company to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into hearing aids when they launched the Livio AI platform in 2018.
- They have a large portfolio of hearing aids— Starkey has a wide variety of hearing aid styles, with products designed to fit all types and severities of hearing loss.
- Starkey is a brand trusted by audiologists— Audiologists and other hearing care professionals have been fitting Starkey products since they created their first hearing aid in 1971. Read on to learn what our team of audiologists love about Starkey hearing aids.
Hearing loss is a serious medical problem that can lead to poor physical, mental, and emotional health and is one of the top risk factors for dementia. Despite hearing loss being treatable, it is estimated that only 1 in 5 Americans that need hearing aids use them. With so many hearing aids on the market, it can be difficult for consumers to decide what manufacturer and product is best for them.
Starkey Hearing Technologies makes prescription hearing aids that uses advances in AI technology and Bluetooth connectivity to help the user hear better and maintain an active lifestyle. Since Starkey offers a wide variety of products, there is bound to be a product for nearly everyone.
Some quick facts about Starkey hearing aids
Starkey Hearing Technologies began in 1967, founded by Bill Austin. Now a global manufacturer of hearing technology, Starkey had humble beginnings: it started as a small earmold and hearing aid repair lab.
- Starkey is the only American-owned hearing aid manufacturer. The company is headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.
- They help people hear around the globe. The Starkey Hearing Foundation is a charitable organization that provides hearing aids and services to people in need worldwide.
- Starkey is an award-winning company. They have won numerous awards for their hearing aid designs, use of AI, and even workplace satisfaction.
- Founder Bill Austin purchased the company for $13,000. He retained the name Starkey, which was the name of the original lab created by Harold Starkey.
Are Starkey hearing aids for me?
As one of the largest hearing aid manufacturers worldwide, Starkey creates reliable, well-researched hearing aids that benefit nearly all hearing profiles. As audiologists, we highly recommend Starkey hearing aids.
The pros of Starkey hearing aids
- They can be as simple or advanced as you want. Whether you are looking for something no-frills or something with all of the available gadgets, Starkey has a product for you. Starkey hearing aids will help you hear better in various settings, regardless of whether or not you use extra features like Bluetooth connectivity and apps.
- They make excellent custom hearing aids. Starkey began as an earmold lab, and they have remained true to their origins by producing well-fitting custom hearing aids- even for those with very small or narrow ear canals.
- Starkey hearing aids help support a healthier you. Sensors built into the hearing aids can track activity, steps, and even how often you interact with others to give you a snapshot of your overall wellness.
The cons of Starkey hearing aids
- Starkey only makes prescription hearing aids. That means you will need a recent hearing evaluation and a local audiologist to fit them to you.
- Starkey hearing aids can be expensive. As with any prescription hearing aids, they come at a cost which usually includes the devices, plus the professional services involved in fitting and adjusting them.
- The apps can be confusing for some. The My Starkey app for the most recent line of hearing aids is noted to be redesigned and more user-friendly; however, the Thrive App for previous generations is rated to be more difficult to use and glitchy.
Customer service
Starkey has friendly and helpful customer service representatives on staff; however, their job is typically to support the providers, rather than the users themselves. Starkey has helplines available for technical support, and their website has many informational videos, troubleshooting tips, and literature available as well.
Users are encouraged to contact their hearing care provider directly if they need help beyond tech support (such as fit issues, broken devices, etc.).
Models available
Starkey currently offers three different hearing aid platforms, each with multiple styles and performance levels. The actual model and performance level that is best for you will depend on several factors, such as your hearing loss, what you are willing to spend, your communication goals, and even how easily you can use your hands.
Your audiologist will help you narrow down your choices. If you need to find an audiologist, check out our directory.
Genesis AI
The Genesis AI platform is available in 6 different models: two receiver-in-canal (RIC) styles and four in-the-ear (ITE) styles. The Genesis AI platform was launched with a new processor, making it capable of adapting to different environments faster to help users hear better in noise.
The Genesis AI platform also incorporates Bluetooth streaming for iPhone and many Android devices, activity sensors, and the option to use their new My Starkey app. All styles are offered in four performance levels except the IIC NW, which is available in three.
The Genesis AI
The Genesis AI platform is available in 6 different models: two receiver-in-canal (RIC) styles and four in-the-ear (ITE) styles.
Shop now| Criteria | The Starkey Genesis AI |
|---|---|
| Cost | $2500-$6500/pair |
| Warranty | Varies depending on the performance level, usually anywhere from 1-4 years. |
| Rechargeable batteries? | Yes: In the RIC RT, mRIC R, ITE R, and ITC/HS R models. |
| Bluetooth capabilities? | Yes: In the RIC RT, mRIC R, ITE R, and ITC/HS R models. The CIC and IIC NW are not capable of streaming. |
| Customization options | As prescription hearing aids, all parts of the fitting process are customized to the user’s needs. Users can select from many different colors and styles. There are also different chargers offered for rechargeable hearing aids. |
Who are Starkey Genesis AI hearing aids ideal for?
Starkey Genesis AI hearing aids are ideal for anyone with mild to severe hearing loss looking to improve their overall quality of life and make listening easier. They would be most suitable for users interested in taking advantage of better rechargeability, Bluetooth streaming of music and audio calls, and having some control over their experience through the My Starkey app.
The app is a great tool for tech-savvy users that allows them to adjust volume and other sound settings, track health goals, and even translate foreign languages. Even if patients are not tech-driven, they are a good option for users whose family wants to check in on their overall wellbeing.
The app can share health data with selected family or friends and also alert them if the user has fallen.
Evolv AI
The Evolv AI platform also uses AI to help enhance speech and reduce noise. Evolv AI has the largest number of style choices, as it has been around for about 2 years. There are six RIC, three BTE, and five ITE styles, most of which are offered in four or more performance levels.
There is a mix of both rechargeable and disposable battery-operated devices as well.
The Evolv AI
The Evolv AI platform also uses AI to help enhance speech and reduce noise. Evolv AI has the largest number of style choices, as it has been around for about 2 years.
Shop now| Criteria | The Starkey Evolv AI |
|---|---|
| Cost | $2000-$6000/pair |
| Warranty | Varies depending on the performance level, usually anywhere from 1-4 years. |
| Rechargeable batteries? | Yes: In the RIC R, Ric R AP, BTE R, ITE R, and ITC/HS R models. |
| Bluetooth capabilities? | Yes: In all styles except the IIC NW and CIC NW. Some Android phones may not support direct streaming and may require a Remote Microphone. |
| Customization options | Like the Genesis AI, there are different colors and case sizes. Hearing aids are programmed to the user’s hearing test and can be adjusted to their communication needs. |
Who are Starkey Evolv AI hearing aids ideal for?
As with the Genesis AI platform, Evolv AI healing aids are excellent choices for anyone with mild to profound hearing loss with a desire to hear more effortlessly. The Starkey Evolv AI platform has more style options, giving choices to users with more severe hearing losses, those looking for a more discreet option, and those who might prefer disposable batteries. The Evolv AI line also has app connectivity for active users.
The Thrive Hearing Control app allows users to track activity, use it as a remote control, and manage other sound features. It also has fall detection, which can send alerts to family or friends.
Picasso
The Picasso platform is Starkey’s line of custom in-the-ear devices. Picasso hearing aids are available in three styles: Completely-in-the-canal (CIC), in-the-canal (ITC)/half shell (HS), and in-the-ear (ITE). Picasso hearing aids are available in many different performance levels.
The Picasso
Picasso hearing aids are available in three styles: Completely-in-the-canal (CIC), in-the-canal (ITC)/half shell (HS), and in-the-ear (ITE). Picasso hearing aids are available in many different performance levels.
Shop now| Criteria | The Starkey Picasso |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1500-$5000/pair |
| Warranty | Varies depending on the performance level, usually anywhere from 1-4 years. |
| Rechargeable batteries? | No |
| Bluetooth capabilities? | Yes but no direct streaming. |
| Customization options | All Picasso hearing aids are custom-made based on impressions of the user’s ears. |
Who are Starkey Picasso hearing aids ideal for?
Picasso hearing aids are perfect for someone looking for a simple option to hear better. Picasso can fit a range of mild to severe hearing losses. If users would like to add-on Bluetooth streaming of their phone calls, music, or TV, they need to purchase Starkey SurfLink accessories separately.
Picasso is also a good choice for someone with dexterity issues that cannot easily manipulate a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid.
What our audiologists say about Starkey hearing aids
Dr. Danielle Morgan
As an audiologist myself, I consider Starkey to be a tried and true hearing aid manufacturer. The company makes a variety of hearing aids that would suit most hearing aid users. They are especially well-known for producing excellent custom hearing aids, even for ears with more difficult anatomy.
Starkey is always advancing and creating products incorporating the latest technology to make the user’s listening experience easier.
Dr. Jessica Hinson
“Starkey hearing aids focus on clarity of speech, while also maintaining good background noise reduction. For tech-savvy users, the Thrive app allows for so many amazing features such as Fall Alert, Reminders, Activity and Engagement tracking, and even a Translator!
The quality of custom in-the-ear devices is amazing, customer service is incredible, and fun fact: Starkey is the only American-owned hearing aid manufacturer!”
Dr. Ruth Reisman
“If you want the most for your buck, Starkey is definitely the way to go. In addition to improved hearing you get a lot of additional tools including tinnitus management, health tracking, falls alerts, and even language translations.”
What customers say about Starkey hearing aids
Customers say their favorite feature is…
Many customers love how easy it is to adjust the hearing aids on their Android and iPhone devices. Across all Starkey models, customers also claim that the hearing aids are comfortable and easy to wear all day.
Customers say their least favorite feature is…
Some customers claim that the sound quality of Starkey hearing aids is unreliable. They complain the sound can be tinny, making conversations difficult to understand. Across the board, Android customers occasionally have difficulty with connectivity, and those who don’t use smart devices will struggle to adjust the hearing aids to their specific needs.
Frequently asked questions
What type of rechargeable batteries are used for rechargeable models?
Starkey uses lithium-ion batteries, similar to other rechargeable hearing aids on the market. Lithium-ion batteries allow for long-enough battery life to allow you to wear them all day as well as connect to Bluetooth. They last about 30 hours on a single charge.
Can I connect my Android phone to Starkey hearing aids?
Short answer: Yes. Long answer: It depends on the hearing aid and your phone model. Some phones will require an extra device as a go-between and will not allow direct-streaming. However, all Bluetooth-enabled Starkey hearing aids are direct to iPhone.
Can my hearing aids be adjusted remotely?
If you are using a hearing aid that supports Bluetooth and can be connected to one of Starkey’s apps, then yes! But you should always check with your audiologist to see if they offer remote adjustments.
How long will my Starkey hearing aids last?
The industry average lifespan is about 4-6 years. Your hearing aids could last longer, though, especially with routine care and maintenance.
What happens if I move away from my audiologist and need a new provider?
Since Starkey is a major brand used in clinics around the country, it is easy to find a new provider that supports their devices. You can ask your current provider for recommendations, or you can even search Starkey’s website to find a clinic based on location.