The 5 best over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids of 2024

Notice your hearing isn’t what it used to be? If you often find that conversation seems harder to focus on or the volume on your car radio or TV speaker just isn’t as loud as it used to be, you may be one of the millions of people who have hearing loss.

Luckily, with the FDA’s approval of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in 2022, it’s never been easier to purchase a hearing aid — no doctor’s appointment or prescription required.

Today, OTC hearing aids are available online and in retail stores like Walmart, Costco, and Best Buy. But just like prescription hearing aids, not all over-the-counter models are created equally. That’s why we had our team of audiologists compile a list of the best over-the-counter hearing aids.

Whether you’re in the market for a comfortable, discreet OTC hearing aid or an advanced audio processor with cutting-edge tech specs, this list has something for everyone.

🚨 Over-the-counter hearing aids are only recommended for adults suffering from mild-to-moderate hearing loss. However, we recommend that all patients consult a hearing specialist if any ear issues are suspected. 

Our audiologists’ top OTC hearing aid picks, reviewed

• Best overall:  Jabra Enhance Select 300
• Most user-friendly: Lexie B2
• Most comfortable choice: Sony CRE-E10
• Best rechargeable option: Lucid Engage Rechargeable
• Most affordable: GoHearing Go Prime

Jabra Enhance Select 300: Best overall

The Select 300 is Jabra Enhance’s most advanced over-the-counter hearing aid to date, with adaptive sound processing that automatically adjusts the volume and directionality to fit your current environment.

We also love the Select 300’s Impulse Noise Control feature, which reduces the volume of brief, sudden noises to prevent additional hearing damage.

• Style: Behind-the-ear (BTE)
• Price per pair: $1,795 to $1,995
• Best for:  Mild to moderate hearing loss
• Where to buy: This model is conveniently available online from Jabra Enhance and from big-box retailers like Best Buy, CVS, and Costco.
• Customer service: Video appointments, online questionnaires, and virtual hearing tests; phone and email support are also available.

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Jabra Enhance Select 300 pros

• Binaural directionality. This function allows a pair of Jabra Enhance Select 300 hearing aids to wirelessly coordinate microphone adjustments with one another for a more natural-sounding hearing experience. The Enhance Select 300 is Jabra Enhance’s only hearing aid equipped with binaural directionality.
• The charging case facilitates easy charging on the go. The Jabra Enhance Select 300 comes with a compact charging case that holds three full charges (around 90 hours of usage time) to ensure that your hearing aids never run out of juice, no matter where you might be.
• Lots of color options. The Jabra Enhance Select 300 is available in five colors (sparkling silver, champagne, gold, bronze, and warm gray) that blend in with all types of skin tones and hair colors.
• Excellent customer service. 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 through your local audiologist.

Jabra Enhance 300 cons

• There’s a learning curve. The Jabra Enhance Select 300’s high-tech features enable some of the clearest audio on the market, but the extra bells and whistles may be intimidating to less tech-savvy users.
• No in-the-ear styles. While some cases of hearing loss can only be treated by an in-the-ear (ITE) or in-the-canal (ITC) style hearing aid, the Jabra Enhance Select 300 is currently only available in the behind-the-ear (BTE) style, with limited customization options.
• Not compatible with some Android phones. While most Android smartphones are now able to support direct streaming to the Jabra Enhance Select 300, other models (including early iterations of the Samsung Galaxy) require the company’s Phone Clip+ accessory to enable audio streaming. Additionally, hands-free calls with the Enhance Select 300 are currently only available on iPhones.
• Not good for severe hearing loss. As is the case with most over-the-counter hearing aids, the Jabra Enhance Select 300 is only recommended for patients experiencing a mild to moderate degree of hearing loss.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson says she would absolutely recommend these products, given that they’re made by ReSound and give the user the look and feel of prescription brands. Jabra Enhance also partners with audiologists so that patients get adequate, in-person support.

Dr. Danielle Morgan says that of the OTC hearing aid options on the market, Jabra Enhance is her favorite. She really likes their warranty period and the trial period. She also likes that they offer live remote support care and adjustments with a licensed hearing professional.

Dr. Ruth Reisman still encourages medical clearance, but for tech-savvy users, she says the Jabra Enhance Select 300 is a great, affordable option.

Lexie B2: Most user-friendly

The Lexie B2 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

• Backed by Bose. Developed and backed by a team of audiologists, engineers, and Bose scientists, poor sound quality is rarely an issue with the Lexie B2.
• Premium quality at an affordable price. The Lexie B2 is available at a lower cost than OTC offerings by Sony and Jabra, with the added perks of premium Bose audio, an incredibly user-friendly interface and mobile app, and top-notch customer support.
• Environment settings. The Lexie B2 allows users to program preset “Environment Settings” to instantly adjust their hearing aids to several different hearing environments, thereby eliminating the need for constant fine-tuning.
• 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. If you can’t find what you’re looking for online, the company also offers 24-hour remote support seven days a week.

Lexie B2 cons

• No streaming or hands-free calls. While you can connect your Lexie B2 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 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 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.

Lucid Engage Rechargeable: Best rechargeable option

Why we picked Lucid Engage Rechargeable

A rechargeable version of Lucid’s popular Engage hearing aid, the Lucid Engage Rechargeable offers the company’s renowned comfort, durability, and high-quality sound with the added perk of a portable charging case.

The hearing aid runs an estimated 20 hours on a single charge. On top of that, the Engage models are Lucid’s only OTC offerings that allow users to adjust their own hearing aids through an accompanying mobile app.

• Style: Behind-the-ear (BTE)
• Price per pair: Starting at $799.99
• Best for:  Mild to moderate hearing loss
• Where to buy: Purchase at local retailers like Best Buy or online from Lucid Hearing.
• Customer service: Reach customer solutions by telephone. You can also conveniently schedule a free hearing test at over 400 Sam’s Club locations on the Lucid website.

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Lucid Engage Rechargeable pros

• Affordable device. The Lucid Engage Rechargable is the second most affordable hearing aid on this list. When you compare the high quality of the device with its plethora of features, the price point makes it an OTC option that gives you lots of value for your money.
• Comfortable fit. The speaker of the Lucid Engage sits directly in the ear for added comfort and clarity. Additionally, the Lucid Engage comes with an assortment of earbud tips to ensure a snug fit for a wide variety of ear shapes and sizes.
• Easy access to in-person support. With over 500 Lucid Hearing centers located across the US, patients will have no problem getting in-person adjustments if they have any trouble making self-adjustments on the mobile app.
• Bluetooth streaming for Android and iPhone. While some OTC hearing aids are only compatible with iOS devices, Lucid Hearing aids support direct streaming to both Apple and Android products.

Lucid Engage Rechargeable cons

• Mixed customer reviews. Many customers are satisfied with the Engage Rechargeable’s  sound quality and self-tuning features, though there are some complaints of preset malfunctions and unwanted feedback.
• No customization options. Neither version of the Lucid Engage offerings can be custom-fitted to match a diagnostic hearing test. Consider looking into the company’s prescription models if you’re looking for a hearing aid tailored specifically to your hearing loss needs.
• Limited color options. The Engage Rechargeable is only available in three colors (beige, gray, and black), which makes it noticeably less discreet than the Jabra Enhance 300 or GoHearing Go Prime devices.
• Best suited for mild hearing loss. While the Lucid Engage is marketed towards patients suffering from mild to moderate hearing loss, our audiologists say that it’s better suited for individuals with mild hearing impairment who struggle in low-noise situations.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Jessica Hinson says Lucid Hearing provides options for both prescription and OTC hearing aids, with devices capable of treating mild to moderate hearing loss. She says that those with small ear canals may not have success with the fio but those with low-pitch hearing loss may find success with this hearing aid.

Dr. Ruth Reisman says that Lucid offers a variety of hearing aids at an affordable price point, and she really praises the opportunity to go to a partnered audiologist to get in-person support and a complete hearing test.

Dr. Danielle Morgan says that Engage devices specifically could be a decent option for patients with mild hearing loss who are just getting started on their hearing journey. She particularly likes that they offer Bluetooth streaming for iPhone and Android users and that they have a generous return window. However, she doesn’t recommend these devices for people who struggle with technology.

GoHearing Go Prime: Most affordable

Retailing for just $299 per pair, no other over-the-counter hearing aid on this list comes close to the GoHearing Go Prime’s affordability. The sound quality may not rival the likes of Lexie, Sony, or any other premium OTC hearing aid manufacturer, but the Go Prime does a decent job of amplifying foreground sounds like speech and voices.

This hearing aid won’t give you the all-day support most people with hearing loss require, but it’s a solid starter model for the price, especially if you’re just looking to boost TV volume or better understand conversations in quiet settings.

• Style: In-the-ear (ITE)
• Price per pair: $299
• Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
• Where to buy: This model is sold at Best Buy and online retailers like GoHearing and QVC.
• Customer service: Customer support is there to help by email or telephone, seven days a week.

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GoHearing Go Prime pros

• Discreet design. With a small black in-the-ear (ITE) body, the GoHearing Go Prime is noticeably more discreet than some behind-the-ear offerings from other OTC hearing aid manufacturers.
• Convenient push button. While GoHearing’s Go Lite hearing aid requires a tool to adjust the volume, the Go Prime’s volume can be adjusted with a simple tap of the onboard push button. One tap increases the volume of your hearing aids up by one until you reach the maximum level (volume 10), after which the next tap brings it back down to volume 1.
• Multiple listening programs. The GoHearing Go Prime offers three preset listening programs to boost different frequencies. Program 1 is “normal;” Program 2 is “high-frequency,” which amplifies high-pitched sounds; and Program is “low-frequency,” which boosts lower frequencies.  Every time you turn on your Go Prime hearing aid, it will start in the last program you had it in.
• Reliable customer service. Many GoHearing users praise the company’s easy-to-reach customer service department, available Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST by phone or email.

GoHearing Go Prime cons

• No Bluetooth connectivity. Like all GoHearing Go models, the Go Prime doesn’t support direct streaming or hands-free calls. There’s also no accompanying mobile app for users to make adjustments or get online support.
• Not good with background noise. While the GoHearing Go Prime is able to successfully amplify speech, voices, and TV volume, users complain that the hearing aid amplifies less important sounds like footsteps, traffic, and background chatter to almost the same degree.
• No customization options are available. We like that the Go Prime offers three listening programs over the GoHearing Go Lite’s 1, but neither of GoHearing’s OTC offerings can be tailored to a patient’s diagnostic hearing tests. By comparison, competitors like Jabra Enhance and Lexie Hearing offer a wider range of preset programs.
• These devices will not fit all patients. People with small or curved ear canals — or anyone who has trouble with other earbuds like AirPods — will likely have a hard time keeping the ITE Go Prime aids in place.

What our audiologists say

Dr. Hinson says Go Hearing devices might be a decent fit for those with low-frequency (low pitch) hearing loss who want to improve their hearing in quiet listening situations. The Go Prime devices have a push button on the faceplate for the user to toggle between three preset programs. This allows the user to have some control over device function without the need for a smartphone.

Dr. Reisman likes that they’re an easy-to-use, cosmetically appealing device and says they will work well for those with mild to moderate flat hearing loss.

Comparing the top 5 OTC hearing aids

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.

What to look for in OTC hearing aids

Remember to consider your specific hearing needs and preferences when choosing an over-the-counter hearing aid. However, here are some general factors to consider while doing your research.

• Features and technology. Look for options that offer customizable settings and advanced sound processing to adapt to different environments and hearing preferences. Additionally, consider connectivity features like Bluetooth compatibility for seamless integration with iPhones, Androids, and other devices.
• Battery life. Rechargeable batteries add convenience and cost-effectiveness in the long run because you don’t have to constantly pay for batteries. Otherwise, look for hearing devices with long-lasting batteries to minimize the frequency of replacements or recharges, ensuring uninterrupted usage throughout the day.
• Style. Regarding style, explore various hearing aid types such as BTE, ITE,  or RIC designs to find one that suits your comfort, aesthetic preferences, and specific hearing needs. Some individuals may prefer discreet, nearly invisible designs, while others may prioritize comfort and stability.
• Warranty. Seek hearing devices with comprehensive coverage that includes repairs, replacements, and customer support to address any issues or concerns promptly. A longer warranty period provides added assurance of reliability and durability.
• Ease of use. Prioritize hearing devices with intuitive controls and user-friendly features that simplify operation and adjustment. Clear instructions and ergonomic design elements can enhance usability, particularly for seniors or individuals with limited dexterity.
• Customer service. Getting help with OTC hearing aids is important since you aren’t required to speak with an audiologist before purchase. Look for brands with responsive customer support channels, including phone, email, or live chat, to address any inquiries or technical issues promptly and efficiently.
• Return policy. Review the return policy before buying your hearing device to ensure flexibility and satisfaction guarantee. A generous return policy allows you to try and return the hearing aid if it doesn’t meet your expectations or needs, providing peace of mind and confidence in your investment.

If you need help deciding what OTC hearing aid is best for you, find a local licensed audiologist to schedule an in-person appointment. While you’re waiting for your upcoming appointment, read our audiologists’ guide to choosing a hearing aid.