The 4 Best Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids of 2024

Our selections of the best OTC hearing aids according to audiologists

• Best overall:  Jabra Enhance Select 500
• Most user-friendly: Lexie B2 Plus
• Best on a budget: Audien Atom Pro 2
• Most comfortable choice: Sony CRE-E10

Comparing the best OTC hearing aids

Jabra Enhance Select 500: Best overall

Danish brand Jabra has taken its revered Select 300 hearing aid to slightly greater heights with the Enhance Select 500 model. Released just months after its predecessor, the 500 isn’t a huge improvement, but it’s an improvement nonetheless. For starters, its “micro” design makes it Jabra’s smallest, most subtle listening device to date. It also offers low energy Bluetooth streaming, which gives users more versatility in terms of power consumption, bandwidth, and Auracast compatibility.

Small differences aside, one shouldn’t overlook the features it continues to have that made the 300 so favorable among hearing aid wearers. Jabra’s SoundScape technology offers unrivaled speech clarity in the world of over-the-counter aids with spatial sense, hiss-free noise cancellation, and the ability to toggle between four operational modes. The behind-the-ear device also boasts an impressive battery life of 24 hours on a single charge.

At $1,995 a pair ($1,775 for its “basic” model), we’re certainly not making the case that the Jabra 500 is cheap. But its whopping 100-day trial gives you ample time to decide if you want to make the investment, and its customer support network is available 7 days a week for any troubleshooting. Jabra also has a team of audiologists that buyers will be able to receive 3 years of follow-up remote care from.

Jabra Enhance Select 500 Pros

• It has incredible sound quality. The Jabra Enhance Select 500 uses SoundScape technology to make automatic adjustments as users move from one environment to another. The device particularly performs well in noisy environments with smart microphones that improve speech recognition.
• It’s lightweight and subtle. While the device isn’t considered an “invisible,” it is the smallest hearing aid in Jabra’s catalog without being too small to take advantage of the device’s Tap Control feature for adjusting volume, switching operational mode, or answering calls.
• It improves on Bluetooth functionality. While the previous offering from Jabra, the Enhance Select 300, does offer Bluetooth audio streaming, it’s only on iOS devices, whereas the 500 is compatible with Android as well. It also has Bluetooth LE (low energy) for continued usage when batteries are running low.

Jabra Enhance Select 500 Cons

• It’s expensive for an OTC. The Jabra Enhance Select’s nearly $2,000 price tag is pretty high, which may defeat the purpose of going the over-the-counter route. Alternatively, competitors like the high-tech Sony CRE-E10 or the user-friendly Lexie B2 manage to keep their costs below $1,000. If you want a Jabra device and don’t have an Android, we recommend shaving off $300 with the virtually-the-same 300 model.
• Doesn’t treat severe hearing loss. The hearing aid treats mild to moderate degrees of hearing loss. While this is common for over-the-counter devices, the Jabra 500’s high price tag would suggest it could assist users with severe or profound hearing loss.
• Not a huge difference from earlier models. Technology-wise, the Jabra Enhance Select 500 is nearly identical to the previously-released Jabra 300. Aside from Android Bluetooth support and a slightly-smaller size, it doesn’t warrant the price hike from earlier models.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson, AuD: “Jabra Enhance hearing devices are comfortable, lightweight devices that can be adjusted with your smartphone app. Jabra also connects you with a member of their audiology team who can adjust your devices for you from afar. It’s the closest thing you’ll get to an in-person customized fit! However without a smartphone, you’ll be missing out on most of the features available. The charger is reliable, simple to use, and the charge lasts all day. Jabra is a great option for someone with mild hearing loss and good speech understanding.”

Dr. Danielle K. Morgan, AuD: “Out of all of the OTC hearing aid options out there, Jabra is my favorite option. I would not hesitate to recommend them to my patients that have mild to moderate hearing loss that will not need in-person support. Since Jabra is designed by GN Group, who also makes ReSound, they are likely a decent quality product for the cost. They are backed by a good warranty and have a great trial period. I am happy that they offer live remote support care and adjustments with an actual licensed hearing professional.”

Audien Atom Pro 2: Best on a budget

This latest offering from the Arizona-based brand is their most advanced model and comes with four listening modes: Outdoor, Conversation, Noisy Environment, and Road Vehicle. Users can also toggle between five volume levels with a simple tap on the device. But perhaps the biggest selling point of the Audien Atom Pro 2 is the UV light built into the battery charging case for easy sanitization. Since UV cleaners can cost upwards of $200 on their own, it’s kind of a steal that it’s included in the device’s $289 price point.

Of course, the device has its shortcomings. As with all Audien hearing aids, the Atom Pro 2 doesn’t offer Bluetooth streaming, a mobile app, or telecoil. If subtlety is your main priority, it should be noted that while it is an in-the-ear (ITE) aid, it’s not as invisible as a completely-in-the-ear (CIC) device like the comparatively-priced MDHearing NEO XS. And while 24-hour battery life is impressive, users will need to put it back in its charging case to check their battery status as opposed to an audible low energy warning.

Audien Atom Pro 2 Pros

• It’s inexpensive. While the Audien Atom Pro 2 isn’t the most advanced product on the market, its low price point makes it a great starter device for people new to wearing aids. The fact that it’s self-fitting and doesn’t require a hearing test will also save customers money.
• It comes with a UV cleaning case. Standalone UV kits are expensive, so it’s definitely a nice perk that the Atom Pro 2 has a UV light integrated into its charging case. This will help you keep the device clean without potentially damaging liquid chemicals or wipes.
• There are four listening presets. You can choose between four hearing modes — Outdoor, Conversation, Noisy Environment, and Road Vehicle — depending on the setting you’re in. While navigating between these presets is easy, you do have to separately change it on each aid.

Audien Atom Pro 2 Cons

• It’s not completely invisible. The Atom Pro 2 is a in-the-ear hearing aid, making it “nearly invisible.” Though subtle, they’re more noticeable than a completely-in-the-ear device.
• There are no Bluetooth features. If you hope to take calls or stream media through your hearing aid, the Atom Pro 2 (or any Audien device for that matter) isn’t for you.
• You need the case to check the battery life. Perhaps the biggest flaw of the hearing aid is that you have to remove it from your ear and put it inside its charging case in order to check how much battery you have left. This can be tedious for those on the go or with poor dexterity.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson, AuD: “Overall, Audien is a very cost-efficient economy hearing device geared towards those with mild hearing loss. I wouldn’t recommend them for noise reduction or speech clarity functions, considering the devices do not take your hearing test into account; however, they could be a good option for those who simply need a little volume. Unless you have large, straight, ear canals, I would not recommend the Atom, but would steer you towards the BTE model. The charging station is straight forward, which is great for those with poor dexterity who hate to change batteries weekly; however, to make adjustments to your Audien devices, you’ll have to use a small screwdriver or learn the push-and-hold button functionality.”

Dr. Ruth Reisman, AuD: “This can be a good introductory OTC device for patients but I anticipate most patients will not like the sound quality or the feeling of something completely in the ear. Thankfully they have a 45 day trial period with the option to return the device if needed.”

Dr. Danielle K. Morgan, AuD: “Audien markets themselves as hearing aids, however these are really just amplifiers. They have an in the ear and behind the ear model, both of which are rechargeable. Unfortunately, these cannot be programmed to a hearing test and have no way to even apply app-based hearing screening results, like many other OTC models. They lack Bluetooth capabilities that are the standard for most hearing instruments. I would not recommend these to patients. They are also very misleading in how they advertise their instruments are suitable for all types of hearing loss.”

Lexie B2 Plus: Most user-friendly

The Lexie B2 Plus is a rechargeable hearing aid that offers top-of-the-line features, including Bluetooth connectivity, directional microphones, background noise reduction, feedback management, and audio processing technology developed by Bose.

Lexie users cite the company’s user-friendly smartphone app as one of their favorite things about this hearing aid, allowing you to even out the sound between both hearing aids with Balance controls or switch between “Front” and “Everywhere” modes to help you focus on where sounds are coming from.

• Style: Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)
• Price per pair: $999
• Best for:  Mild to moderate hearing loss
• Where to buy:  You can purchase this model directly from Lexie, online from retailers like QVC, and from physical stores like Best Buy, CVS, and Walgreens.
• Customer service: Email contact form or contact support via telephone; Lexie doesn’t offer in-person appointments for customization.

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Lexie B2 pros

• It has excellent sound quality. Powered by audio giant Bose, the Lexie B2 Plus utilizes bi-directional microphones for excellent sound quality and noise reduction in loud environments. Users can shift between several environmental settings, including outdoors, noisy indoors, and music.
• The mobile hearing test allows for precise tuning. Lexie’s mobile app boasts an impressive hearing test that can help you better customize the B2 Plus to your specific case of hearing loss. While many over-the-counter hearing aids are limited to just volume adjustments, the Lexie app settings allow you to make changes to the bass, treble, “world volume”, and balance.
• Outstanding online support. The Lexie app and website offer a wealth of information regarding proper maintenance and use of all their hearing aids, including the B2 Plus. If you can’t find what you’re looking for online, the company also offers 24-hour remote support seven days a week.
• The charging case improves on earlier models. The charging case for past Lexie models bafflingly didn’t carry any charges, meaning you could only charge the hearing aids when they’re plugged in. The B2 Plus improves on this will the ability to store a full extra charge in its case, granting you up to 36 hours of battery without having to plug in. This is obviously a huge help if you’re out and about when your hearing aid dies and you don’t have access to an outlet.

Lexie B2 Plus cons

• No streaming or hands-free calls. While you can connect your Lexie B2 Plus to your smartphone to self-tune the device, it currently doesn’t support direct audio streaming or hands-free phone calls.
• No professional in-person support is available. While Lexie offers extensive customer support online and over the phone through their sales team, there’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to speak to an actual audiologist about your hearing aids or hearing loss needs.
• Relatively short battery life. The Lexie B2 Plus comes with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, but a single three-hour charge only gives you 18 hours of continuous use — substantially less than the battery life of other models on this list.
• Limited color options. The Lexie B2 Plus is only available in light gray, which makes it one of the least discreet OTC offerings on this list.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson praises Lexie as an affordable option for patients with mild hearing loss who struggle in quiet environments or with low noise. She also likes that they are backed by Bose, a reputable audio equipment manufacturer.

Dr. Ruth Reisman says they’re a great option for those looking for an over-the-counter rechargeable option that doesn’t have too many technological bells and whistles. That makes them more accessible for those who don’t want to deal with complicated technology.

Dr. Morgan likes that Lexie hearing aids were originally researched and designed by audiologists and that they offer remote support seven days a week. She still recommends a diagnostic hearing evaluation before purchasing, just to make sure you don’t need something a bit more powerful.

Sony CRE-E10: Most comfortable choice

Sony’s CRE-E10 is a small ITC style hearing aid that offers users a rare combination of advanced audio processing and a high level of discretion.

Directional microphones further enhance conversations and cut down unwanted background noise, while new features like rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth connectivity elevate the device from a simple hearing aid to a full-on lifestyle enhancer.

Best of all, the CRE-E10 comes with four pairs of click sleeves (extra small, small, medium, and large) to ensure a comfortable fit for all users.

• Style: Small in-the-canal (ITC)
• Price per pair: $1,299
• Best for:  Mild to moderate hearing loss
• Where to buy: Purchase directly from the Sony website or retailers like Best Buy, CVS, and Walmart.
• Customer service: Sony offers online chat and text messaging options. You can also get support from an agent via telephone.

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Sony CRE-E10 pros

• Bluetooth streaming for music and phone calls. Unlike the company’s previous OTC hearing aid, the Sony CRE-C10, the CRE-E10 supports Bluetooth connectivity and hands-free phone calls with iOS devices.
• Developed by WS Audiology. All of Sony’s over-the-counter hearing aids are developed in partnership with WS Audiology, which also manufactures prescription hearing aids for premium brands like Signia, Widex, and Rexton.
• Easy-to-use app. Once you’ve created an account on Sony’s Hearing Control app, use the app to adjust the devices’ volume, EQ, and noise reduction settings to your desired levels in any listening environment. Sony Hearing Control also offers environment-specific presets for quick adjustments on the go.
• Long-lasting battery charge. Taking just four hours to fully charge from 0%, the Sony CRE-E10 delivers 26 hours of continuous usage per charge — or 23 hours, including two full hours of streaming.

Sony CRE-E10 cons

• It is not compatible with Android. While the CRE-E10’s ability to wirelessly pair with iOS devices is an improvement over the CRE-C10, the company has yet to release an OTC hearing aid that works with Android devices.
• Poor default settings. Without making adjustments in the accompanying smartphone app, users report that the Sony CRE-E10 is ineffective at treating even mild cases of hearing loss.
• They’re self-fitting. This feature may seem like a perk upfront, but the reality is that most users are unable to fine-tune their Sony CRE-E10 as well as a hearing health professional can. The Sony Hearing Control app allows you to make adjustments when desired, but it doesn’t offer professional support like apps from some competitors.
• It is not recommended for people with dexterity issues. While the CRE-E10’s ultra-small size makes it discrete, the device can be difficult to insert and remove if you have a dexterity impairment.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Ruth Reisman says Sony is a trusted brand that has partnered with WS Audiology — specifically, the beloved brand Signia — to provide discrete, over-the-counter devices to patients with mild to moderate hearing loss. As long as you don’t need much support, these should work well for your needs.

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

Other over-the-counter hearing aids on the market

Audicus hearing aids

Audicus is an online hearing aid manufacturer whose devices can only be obtained with a prescription, but they don’t need to be purchased through an audiologist like offerings from other prescription brands. However, since they aren’t true over-the-counter hearing aids, they didn’t quite qualify for this list.

Produced by Swiss mega-manufacturer Sonova (the same company responsible for products from other premium brands like Phonak and Unitron), Audicus hearing aids are equipped with cutting-edge features like Auto-Adapt technology, which allows the devices to automatically cycle between different presets to maximize the wearer’s hearing ability in different noise environments.

Audicus hearing aids also boast an IP68 rating, which makes them safe around sweat and humidity. They are also water-resistant in fresh water up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) deep for up to 30 minutes.

Audicus offers three hearing aid models designed to accommodate different aesthetics and types of hearing loss: the premium Omni hearing aid, which is packed with smart features and ideal for tech-savvy users; the more affordable Audicus Wave, which retails for $1,398 per pair; and the incognito Mini hearing aid, which fits completely in the ear canal for a near-invisible look.

Eargo hearing aids

Eargo’s over-the-counter hearing aids have become quite popular with consumers since they arrived on the scene in 2015, particularly for their nearly invisible aesthetic, easy setup, and ability to be self-adjusted via an accompanying mobile app.

They offer four different models of completely-in-the-canal style hearing aids, all of which are designed for patients with mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss: the Eargo 5, Eargo Neo HiFi, Eargo 6, and Eargo 7. All models are also rechargeable except for the Eargo 5.

Sontro hearing aids

Sontro only sells one over-the-counter hearing aid, but it’s a quality behind-the-ear (BTE) model best suited for patients with mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss.

Patients particularly like the Sontro’s compact, straightforward design, the simple setup process completed through the accompanying otoTUNE mobile app, and basic Bluetooth functionality, which is a solid deal at the affordable price of $849.

Sontro isn’t our audiologists’ first choice for an OTC hearing aid, but they agree that the device could offer a practical short-term solution for patients while they search for a long-term hearing aid that meets their hearing loss needs.

Since the Sontro hearing aid doesn’t come with rechargeable batteries, it’s not recommended for anyone with dexterity issues — or anyone who simply doesn’t want to go through the trouble of changing out the batteries every few days.

Over-the-counter vs prescription hearing aids

Over-the-counter hearing aids are typically suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and are priced lower, ranging on average from $100 to $900 per device. They don’t require a prescription, but patients may still benefit from a hearing exam.

Prescription hearing aids cater to all levels of hearing loss, including severe and profound cases. The price tag is usually higher, with devices ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 per device. These require a prescription from an audiologist or hearing specialist and are FDA-approved for treating specific levels of hearing loss.

Where you can buy OTC and prescription hearing devices also differs. While OTC options are available at retail stores or online, you must receive a hearing exam from a licensed hearing aid professional to purchase a prescription hearing device.

For more information on prescription requirements and FDA regulations regarding hearing aids, please visit the official government website.

Shopping for OTC hearing aids

Before rushing to buy an over-the-counter hearing aid, there are several considerations to keep in mind to help find the device that’s best suited for your lifestyle and hearing loss condition. Here are the top features to factor into your decision:

• Self-fitting. Unlike prescription hearing aids, which are fitted by your audiologist, over-the-counter aids will need to be fitted entirely on your own. They typically come with different size domes in two different styles: open or closed. Open domes allow more sound to pass through to the receiver for a more natural listening experience, whereas closed domes are intended to block out unwanted sounds that can be overwhelming for those with severe or profound hearing loss.
• Self-customization. Similarly, OTC hearing aid users will need to be customized at home. Look for user friendly features like simple volume control and listening presets you can toggle through for different environments or situations, like being in a noisy restaurant or watching television. Some OTCs may even be compatible with a mobile app where you can conduct a hearing test and adjust settings from your smartphone.
• Battery life. A hearing aid won’t be of much use to you if it has a dead battery. Over-the-counter devices will come with either a rechargeable battery that can be plugged in like a smartphone or tablet overnight, or disposable batteries that need to be discarded and replaced. More often than not, rechargeable hearing aids will come with a case that can hold additional charges as well. This is a strong consideration for users who are active and always on-the-go away from electrical outlets.
• Sound quality. Of course, you want your hearing aid to do its job in helping you manage your hearing loss. While OTCs tend to have less technology than Rx devices, they can still have certain features to improve sound quality like directional microphones that enhance speech recognition or feedback management.
• Cost. Be sure to create a budget and look for hearing aids in your price range. Also keep in mind that it’s hard to know right away if a new device is right for you. When purchasing these aids, take a look at any trial periods or warranties offered by the brand and go with ones that have at least 45 days to test drive the device.

Tips to save money on OTC hearing aids

While over-the-counter hearing aids are definitely more affordable than prescription ones, they can still ring up a hefty bill. On average, these devices range from $500 to $3,000, with some lower-tech devices available for $100. Here are some ways to save money on OTC hearing aids:

• Insurance. Unfortunately, most health insurance plans don’t cover the cost of hearing aids. That said, five states — Connecticut, Illinois, Arkansas, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire — do mandate hearing aid insurance coverage. Insurance companies that offer hearing benefits include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and United Healthcare, as well as some HSA or FSA plans. And although Medicare or Medicaid doesn’t cover the devices, there are Medicare Advantage plans you could look into.
• Promos. One of the advantages of shopping over-the-counter is that you can take advantage of promotional offers by different hearing aid brands throughout the year. Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or the holidays. You can also look for promo codes to bring down costs.
• Financing. Many hearing aid brands offer financing options that allow you to pay off the cost of the device over time instead of a lump sum up front. You can also look into trial periods as a way of “test driving” your hearing aids for a month or so before committing to buying them.
• Price matching. If you see an OTC hearing aid is being offered for a lower cost than a store you’re in, you can ask an employee if they’ll match the price.

Pros and Cons of OTC hearing Aids

Pros:

• Cost. Over-the-counter hearing aids are an affordable alternative to pricey Rx devices that are typically priced at $2,000 to $8,000 on average. While there are also expensive OTCs on the market, like the nearly $3,000 Eargo 7, many are available for under $1,000, with some introductory devices in $100 to $300 range.

• Self-fitting. While it can be helpful to have an audiologist fit a hearing aid for you, OTCs do save you the back and forth of visiting the doctor’s office for diagnosis, fitting, and maintenance. Many of these devices come with a set of different-sized open and closed domes.
• User friendly. Because you’ll need to customize the device on your own, over-the-counter hearing aids tend to have relatively simple settings. This includes volume control and listening presets for different environments.

Cons:

• Less tech. OTCs often have less technology packed into them than prescription devices. While some do boast impressive features like background noise filtering and directional microphones, for the most part they’re limiting. This can be an issue for those who require tinnitus masking or telecoil.

• Limited care. While not having to go back and forth to your audiologist’s office is in some ways a perk, the care options offered by hearing aid brands are virtual and usually limited in scope. You also don’t have the benefit of tailoring your hearing loss treatment to a proper audiogram, which can only be generated in an office as opposed to using an online hearing test.
• Only treats certain cases of hearing loss. The FDA approved over-the-counter hearing aids for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, so those with severe or profound degrees of the condition will still need to rely on Rx devices. OTCs are also only available for adults, so children or anyone below the age of 18 won’t be able to use them.

OTC hearing aids vs Prescription Hearing aids

What about the Apple AirPods Pro?

In 2024, Apple provided a software update to their AirPods Pro 2 that allows the wireless headphones to be used as hearing aids. Using an iPhone or iPad, AirPods wearers can take a hearing test in the Health app that comes programmed in every Apple device. In addition to producing an audiogram based on your ability to interpret tones, the test can determine whether your AirPods fit your ears well. Users can then switch on a hearing aid feature the company claims is “clinical grade.” The settings will be automatically customized to your audiogram, but you can make further adjustments on your own in the Health app.

At $249 a pair, the AirPods Pro 2 are certainly more affordable than OTCs from other well-known tech brands, like the Sony CRE-C10, which costs $799. Because so many people already own AirPods for their media streaming needs, the one-stop-shop appeal is certain to upend the hearing aid market. As AP News reports, this could also be a big step towards normalizing listening devices since the product is so commonplace.

But that’s not to say there aren’t drawbacks to using AirPods as hearing aids, most notably in battery life. While some OTCs on the market can last for 24 hours or longer without needing a recharge, AirPods Pro 2 only allows for 6 hours of listening time before needing juice. Comfort long-term may also be an issue, as AirPods can become irritating on the ear if they’re not a good fit.