The 6 best affordable hearing aids of 2024, according to experts

Jabra Enhance Select 300: Best overall

Why we picked the Jabra Enhance Select 300

Equipped with cutting-edge features like adaptive sound processing that automatically adjusts the volume and directionality depending on the wearer’s environment, the Enhance Select 300 is Jabra Enhance’s most advanced over-the-counter hearing aid yet.

It may be the most expensive OTC on this list, but it’s still an affordable model thanks to monthly financing options starting as low as $58 per month. Users often find that the quality of the Jabra Enhance is well worth the extra cost.

• Price per pair: The Basic package begins at $1,795, and Premium starts at $1,995.
• Style: Behind-the-ear
• Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
• Warranty period: The Basic package includes a 1-year warranty, and the Premium includes a 3-year warranty. Both packages include loss and damage protection.

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Jabra Enhance Select 300 pros

• Smart microphones. Binaural directionality allows the mics built into each Jabra Enhance Select 300 to wirelessly coordinate settings with one another for a clearer, more natural-sounding experience. The mics also implement a feature called impulse noise reduction to reduce the volume of brief, sudden noises and help prevent additional hearing damage.
• Prescription-quality tech. All Jabra Enhance hearing aids are rebranded devices from ReSound, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of prescription-grade hearing aids.
• Professional support. Every Jabra Enhance hearing aid comes with three years of personalized care from a licensed hearing specialist, available online through the Jabra Enhance smartphone app or in person with a nearby audiologist.

Jabra Enhance Select 300 cons

• Not suitable for severe hearing loss. Jabra’s Enhance model has programmable settings that will suit many users. However, this does not include those with higher degrees of hearing loss. Patients who suffer from severe and profound hearing loss are not ideal candidates for this model of hearing aid and should consider other options.
• Cost. With this model’s premium package costing nearly $2,000, it may be hard for some shoppers to justify the price of these hearing aids. This is especially true since many hearing aids are not covered by insurance. However, Jabra Enhance does offer financing plans for those who wish to make monthly payments to cover the cost.
• Must be tech-savvy. The Enhance Select 300s rely heavily on the user’s ability to connect them to their smartphone and the Jabra Enhance app. The app allows users to adjust their hearing aid settings and get live tech support. These features are handy, so long as the user has an updated smartphone and can maneuver the features.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Danielle Morgan notes that Jabra Enhance hearing aids are her favorite brand to recommend to patients seeking an over-the-counter option. This is especially true for patients with mild to moderate hearing loss who do not require in-person support. Dr. Morgan appreciates Jabra Enhance’s warranty along with the trial period for customers who need time to get used to wearing hearing aids.

Dr. Ruth Reisman agrees that Jabra Enhance offers customers reliable products, and she does not hesitate to recommend the brand. She considers this model a medical-grade hearing aid, and the professional support Jabra Enhance offers is a bonus to their quality product. Overall, good candidates for the Jabra Enhance Select 300 hearing aids will be those with mild to moderate hearing loss and are tech-savvy with their smartphone or tablet.

Agreeing with the other audiologists, Dr. Jessica Hinson believes this hearing aid is the best on the market for someone looking for a customized fit without an in-person visit. She also raves about the charger, as it is easy to use and provides a charge that will last all day. She recommends this model for patients with mild hearing loss and good speech understanding.

Lexie Lumen: Easiest to use

Why we picked the Lexie Lumen

The Lumen is Lexie’s most affordable hearing aid, foregoing the bells and whistles of the company’s Lexie B1 and B2 models for an easy-to-use device equipped with just the essential features of a quality hearing aid.

The Lexie Lumen boasts program change and volume control buttons directly on the body, but you can also adjust the hearing aid using the Lexie app on your smartphone.

• Price per pair: $799
• Style: Behind-the-ear
• Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
• Warranty period: 1-year warranty

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Lexie Lumen pros

• Well-suited for active lifestyles. The Lexie Lumen comes equipped with Wind Noise management to help users reduce unwanted sounds outdoors. These hearing aids also have a durable nano coating to prevent damage from sweat or moisture.
• Built-in telecoil. The Lumen’s built-in telecoil allows the device to connect to electromagnetic loops in public areas, transmitting the sounds of other devices directly into the user’s ear. This means more clarity at events like speeches and performances that have the electromagnetic loop system installed, no matter how far away you are from the sound source.
• Ultra-affordable financing plan. Lexie allows customers to pay off their Lumen device in 19 payments of $42, easily making this model one of the most affordable options on this list.
• Outstanding customer service. Lexie Experts™ are available Monday-Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, so you’ll always have access to professionals who can answer your questions, make recommendations, and help you troubleshoot your Lumen hearing aids.

Lexie Lumen cons

• No direct streaming. You can connect the Lexie Lumen to your smartphone via Bluetooth to use the company’s mobile app, but you won’t be able to stream music or other audio on this hearing aid.
• No rechargeable batteries. While the Lumen’s lack of extra features may be ideal for  less tech-savvy users, the device’s disposable batteries pose a major inconvenience — especially for patients with dexterity problems.
• No guarantee of professional support. While Lexie does a good job of offering ample online customer support through their sales team, there’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to speak to an actual audiologist about any problems you might experience with the device.
• No customizable settings. While Lexie’s more expensive hearing aids can automatically adjust to different noise environments, the Lumen can only be programmed to one of six preset environment settings.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Hinson likes that the Lumen comes in numerous colors to match a wide variety of skin and hair types and that adjustments can be made to the device through the Lexie Hearing app. She also notes that the Lumen’s replaceable batteries can be easily purchased in most convenience stores. On the other hand, Dr. Hinson also feels that the Lumen’s background noise support, sound quality, and cost-benefit ratio may be lacking compared to the company’s other OTC hearing aids.

Dr. Reisman also praised the Lumen’s ample color options and the flexibility offered by the company’s smartphone app. She notes that these hearing aids aren’t intended for patients with severe to profound hearing loss or anyone wanting more customization and other advanced features like Bluetooth streaming.

Dr. Morgan likes the Lumen’s affordability, as well as the fact that Lexie offers full refunds for all their OTC offerings. She also highlights the Lumen’s ease of use, especially for patients who are less technologically inclined. Overall, she feels Lexie hearing aids are a decent option for patients with mild to moderate hearing loss looking for a simple assistive device.

Lucid Engage Rechargeable: Best Bluetooth

Why we picked the Lucid Engage Rechargeable

Bluetooth connectivity is among the most important features of hearing aids today. The Lucid Engage Rechargeable is a behind-the-ear hearing aid that allows users to connect seamlessly with their devices, including iPhone and Android phones.

The Lucid app provides users the ability to customize their sound settings with the touch of a button. Lucid also offers patients in-person fittings for those seeking further support.

• Price per pair: $799.99
• Style: Behind-the-ear
• Best for: Mild hearing loss
• Warranty period: 1-year warranty

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Lucid Engage Rechargeable pros

• Award-winning design. Independent sound performance lab HearAdvisor recently awarded the Lucid Engage Rechargeable with an “Expert Choice” badge, an honor intended to distinguish high-quality hearing aids “in a market that is flooded with low-performing imports.”
• Lifetime assistance from licensed professionals. All Lucid hearing aids offer users free adjustments and support through the company’s team of specialists and audiologists.
• Uses both rechargeable and disposable batteries. The Lucid Engage hearing aids come with a rechargeable battery case. However, users can also insert disposable button batteries in a pinch.

Lucid Engage Rechargeable cons

• Few customization options. With just three neutral color options in this behind-the-ear model, users have less customization available than they would with pricier, prescription-grade hearing aids.
• Best suited for mild hearing loss. Most hearing health specialists advise patients with moderate to severe cases of hearing loss to stay away from Lucid Hearing devices in favor of stronger models.
• Limited support. Lucid hearing centers are only located in Sam’s Club stores, which means all support and adjustments are conducted there. Users cannot take Lucid hearing aids to other hearing aid locations, which might be a hindrance to anyone unsatisfied with their service or who does not live close to a Sam’s Club.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Reisman believes that this model of hearing aid is an excellent choice for patients seeking an entry-level device with professional support. She appreciates that these hearing aids can be recharged using the charging case but also take disposable batteries.

Dr. Hinson agrees that this model would work best for patients experiencing mild hearing loss, perhaps for the first time. The Lucid Engage Rechargeables are user-friendly and are a great first hearing aid for qualified candidates.

Furthermore, Dr. Morgan describes this model as straightforward and accessible for most patients. She also points out the fact that these hearing aids provide streaming through Bluetooth on iPhone and Android devices, which is a feature other models are lacking.

Phonak Audéo Lumity 30: Most affordable prescription

Why we picked the Phonak Audéo Lumity 30

Offering dozens of research-driven products, Phonak is at the cutting edge of hearing aid design and development. Audéo Lumity is the second generation of the world’s first waterproof rechargeable hearing aid, meaning they can be worn in the shower or at the pool.

It’s a great choice for those with an active lifestyle who seek comfort and convenience in their hearing aids. Additionally, Phonak has excellent customer service and a very high reputation in the world of audiology.

• Price per pair: $2,000 to $4,000
• Style: Receiver-in-canal
• Best for: Mild to severe hearing loss
• Warranty period: 3-year warranty

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Phonak Audéo Lumity 30 pros

• Waterproof. The Audéo Lumity range is both waterproof (in up to 50 cm of water) and sweatproof, making them a great choice for those leading active lifestyles. Users do not need to remove them to shower or exercise for fear of damage.
• Many color options. With eleven color options to choose from, these headphones boast a customizable look. Besides skin tones, those looking for a bold hearing aid can choose from bright colors like Precious Pink and Electric Green.
• Pairs to many different devices. While some hearing aids only pair to certain operating systems, these Phonak hearing aids are compatible with any device with Bluetooth capabilities. They can even pair to multiple devices at one time, including smartphones, televisions, and a Peloton bike.

Phonak Audéo Lumity 30 cons

• Out-of-pocket price. While Phonak accepts insurance, if your plan does not cover hearing-related expenses, you will be left to cover the cost of these prescription hearing aids out of pocket.
• Not available over-the-counter. Since the Audéo Lumity is a prescription hearing aid, you won’t be able to purchase them without working without a prescription from a licensed audiologist.
• Only available in RIC style. Receiver-in-canal style hearing aids are suitable for many degrees of hearing loss, but users should be aware of potential problems with this style. While moisture shouldn’t be an issue with this waterproof model, wax buildup can cause issues and potential damage to the receiver.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Reisman speaks highly of Phonak as a brand and has recommended their products to her patients. She notes they have a long-standing history of successful and unique products designed to meet the needs of most levels and types of hearing loss.

Dr. Hinson agrees with Dr. Reisman and even uses a Phonak hearing aid herself. She states that the Audéo Lumity 90 is the most comfortable hearing aid she has ever worn. As an on-the-go working mother, she appreciates the waterproof quality of this device and says she never has to worry about it falling out or being damaged due to sweat and moisture. Additionally, the background noise reduction and speech clarity on the Lumity is top quality.

Dr. Morgan also has nothing but positive things to say about Phonak and their products. She has been recommending Phonak to her patients since the beginning of her audiology career. Dr. Morgan appreciates the company’s high level of customer service and believes they indeed have great hearing aid options for nearly every patient.

Sony CRE-E10: Best for comfort

Why we picked the Sony CRE-E10

This hearing aid model was designed in partnership with WS Audiology, a leading hearing aid manufacturer with research facilities around the world. Sony’s self-fitting hearing aids are an in-the-ear model designed to fit similarly to wireless headphones or earbuds.

The CRE-E10s come with rechargeable batteries in a charging case with a battery life of up to 26 hours.

• Price per pair: $1,299.99
• Style: In-the-ear
• Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
• Warranty period: 1-year warranty
• Where to buy: Sony website

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Sony CRE-E10 pros

• Affordable device. This model retails for well below the average cost of a pair of hearing aids, and the Sony website offers shoppers interest-free payment plans starting at just $48 per month.
• Accessible. Like other Sony products, these hearing aids can be purchased in many different settings, including tech stores, hearing clinics, and online.
• Secure fit. Users with an active lifestyle will enjoy the comfortable fit this model provides, as they are designed to stay secure during most physical activities.

Sony CRE-E10 cons

• Only available in an in-the-ear style. Many hearing aid users will be attracted to this sleek, small design. However, those with dexterity problems might opt for a larger style, as inserting them and replacing the batteries could prove challenging.
• Limited Bluetooth options. The Sony CRE-E10s do have Bluetooth available, but it is only compatible with iOS devices. Therefore, dated smartphones or phones that run on different operating systems will not be able to pair with these hearing aids.
• No color options. With black as the only color available, users who prefer a more subtle or discrete shade should consider another option.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Reisman considers Sony hearing aids a discreet, reliable option that works well for individuals who don’t require a lot of support or a highly individualized solution. She also notes that the CRE-E10 has more outstanding features than Sony’s other OTC offering, the CRE-C10.

Dr. Hinson wouldn’t recommend these devices to anyone with moderate to severe hearing loss, but she says they’re a simple option for those who have difficulty hearing in quiet listening situations. Because of their size, she also wouldn’t recommend them for patients with poor dexterity.

Dr. Morgan believes this model to be a good option for patients who suffer from mild to moderate hearing loss and lead an active lifestyle. She points out the ideal candidate would be a self-starter who is tech-savvy and doesn’t need a lot of support. The fact that these hearing aids are quite small may inhibit older users with dexterity issues from purchasing, and she recommends larger, behind-the-ear style hearing aids instead.

GoHearing Go Prime: Most affordable OTC

Why we picked the GoHearing Go Prime

With three levels of hearing aids available, GoHearing seeks to break down barriers that stop people from getting hearing aids — the main one being cost. Their Go Prime model is priced at just $299 and has free delivery and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Designed to be discreet, the small hearing aid is black and fits inside the user’s ear, hardly noticeable from the outside. GoHearing provides affordable options by not including advanced features such as Bluetooth capabilities and a curated app.

• Price per pair: $299
• Style: In-the-ear
• Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss or low-frequency hearing loss
• Warranty period: 1-year warranty

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GoHearing Go Prime pros

• They are very affordable. The least expensive hearing aids on this list, GoHearing offers customers ready-to-wear hearing aids at a fraction of the cost of other brands.
• Discrete style. Designed to fit snugly inside the user’s ears, Go Prime pros are hardly noticeable. In-the-ear style hearing aids are a good choice for those looking for a sleek and barely-there device.
• Accepts HSA/FSA funds. Since most hearing aids are not covered by insurance, shoppers are often forced to finance or pay large sums out of pocket. But GoHearing accepts HSA and FSA funds, which are tax-exempt accounts used to cover medical-related expenses.

GoHearing Go Prime cons

• No customized fit. Designed to be worn out of the box, Go Primes do not provide a personalized fit to each user. Each ear canal is unique, which is why prescription in-the-ear hearing aids often require professional fitting and adjustments not available with Go Prime.
• Small. Their sleek design is a bonus for some users. However, they could prove to be difficult to handle for others. With tiny features and a compact charging case, users with dexterity problems may struggle with this model.
• No Bluetooth. Go Primes have no Bluetooth capabilities, so they cannot pair to a user’s smartphone or tablet. Tech features like this come at a cost, so GoHearing can keep the price of their hearing aids low by skipping these additional features.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Reisman would recommend the Go Primes in-the-ear model to patients with flat or minimally sloping hearing loss. She points out that these would not be a good fit for those who have capable low-frequency hearing due to the fact that they could cause occlusion. Occlusion occurs when the increase in sound pressure at low frequencies creates an echo-like effect. This can happen to patients who wear in-the-ear hearing aids of any brand and should be considered when deciding on the right model for you.

Dr. Hinson also believes this model can be a good pick for a certain demographic. She recommends those with flat, mild to moderate hearing loss as the ideal candidates. Those with more complex and advanced levels of hearing loss should consider other options, as it is unlikely that this model will meet their needs.

On the other hand, Dr. Morgan refrains from giving Go Prime her stamp of approval. She is hesitant to recommend this brand since in-the-ear hearing aids often require a quality and custom fit in order to perform as they should. She believes that users will be disappointed with the low cost and standard, non-custom design.

What affects the price of hearing aids?

Price is perhaps one of the most important factors when shopping for a hearing aid, and your budget will play a big part in which models you may consider. There are multiple factors at play that affect the cost of hearing aids, including retailers, technology, and the customer support available. 

• In-person vs. virtual support. Some of the best hearing aid brands, such as Jabra and ReSound, provide both in-person and online professional support from audiologists. This service has a direct impact on the price of their product. Brands that do not offer this support or only offer an online version are able to offer less expensive products in return.
• Tech available. With advanced technology, such as background noise suppression and speech enhancers, comes a higher price tag. Like other products on the market, the research and development needed to customize the technology in hearing aids is reflected in the price.
• OTC vs. prescription. Over-the-counter hearing aids are designed to keep costs low and offer users a less customized but more affordable option. This is especially true since the FDA passed legislation in 2022 to help keep OTC hearing aids affordable and accessible to those most in need.

How to save money on hearing aids

Check deals, sales & discount sellers

Like with other big purchases, it’s smart to shop around before pulling out your wallet. Compare the prices of brands and models that are available across different retailers.

For example, Sony’s CRE-E10 hearing aids featured on this list are available to purchase from Sony, Best Buy, Amazon, and even eBay, all at varying price points.

Many retailers offer sales during certain times of the year, including around the holidays. After you’ve picked the hearing aid brand and model you’d like to purchase, sign up to be on their mailing list so you’ll be notified when their hearing aids go on sale.

Navigate Medicaid, Medicare & private health insurance

Medicaid coverage surrounding hearing services for adults varies by state. Some states provide no coverage at all, while other states provide hearing exams, hearing aids, fittings, and follow-up care all through Medicaid.

Visit the Hearing Loss Association of America website to find what coverage is available in your state.

Although basic Medicare does not cover hearing aid or hearing exam costs, some Medicare Advantage plans do. Enrollees in this plan have extra coverage for hearing, dental, and eye care. Check your plan details and read the fine print to see if you are enrolled in Medicare Advantage and what your specific plan covers.

If you have private health insurance through your employer, you may have all of your hearing services, including hearing aid costs, covered. But if not, you may also have access to an HSA (health spending account) or FSA (flexible spending account).

The money in these accounts is tax-free and can be used to pay for hearing aids, hearing aid batteries, and other healthcare necessities.

Consider financing and warranties offered by retailers

Many hearing aids have a warranty included in the price, which is often at least one year long and may extend for up to three years. Always check to see what the warranty covers before purchasing new hearing aids.

Some warranties cover damages, maintenance, and repairs. Be sure to find out if you can receive loaner hearing aids if needed during the repair time.

Additionally, many brands offer users a free trial period. If you decide the hearing aids you bought are not right for you, you can return them to the company during the trial period and receive a full refund.

Many states require hearing aid retailers to provide at least a 30-day trial period guarantee — check your state’s consumer protection laws.

Why are there almost no prescription brands on this list?

The reason most hearing aids on this list are OTC models is simply because prescription models almost always cost more. This is generally the case because prescription hearing aids are custom-fitted to your ear shape and degree of hearing loss by a licensed audiologist.

Additionally, prescription hearing aids cover all degrees of hearing loss, from mild to profound, while OTC models are generally only suitable for mild to moderate cases. An in-person hearing test with a licensed audiologist or an online hearing test will help determine the severity of your hearing loss and whether an OTC or prescription hearing aid is best for you.

Many patients find the extra cost of premium offerings from prescription brands like Starkey, Signia, Phonak, and Oticon well worth the cost for the crisp, clear sound quality they deliver and all the hi-tech bells and whistles that come attached.

Need help deciding which affordable hearing aid on this list is best for you? Schedule an in-person appointment with a licensed audiologist near you or read our audiologists’ guide to choosing a hearing aid.