HEARING AID STYLES
From invisible to powerful, there’s a hearing aid style that’s just right for you.
Find the Right Hearing Aid Style For You
Choosing the right hearing aid isn’t just about hearing better—it’s about comfort, lifestyle, and confidence. At Johnson Audiology, we offer a full range of hearing aid styles to fit your unique needs, from nearly invisible models to high-powered devices for severe hearing loss. Below, we break down each style to help you better understand your options.
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
What it is: IIC hearing aids are the smallest, most discreet option available. Custom-molded to sit deep inside the ear canal, they’re nearly invisible and offer a comfortable, snug fit.
Why people love them: They’re perfect for style-conscious wearers who want a solution that stays out of sight. Despite their size, many models still offer excellent sound quality and noise reduction.
Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
Visibility: Virtually invisible
Features: Cosmetic appeal, custom-fit, limited manual controls
Rechargeable options: Limited (but expanding with some brands)
Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
What it is: Slightly larger than IICs, CIC hearing aids also sit in the ear canal but have a small handle visible at the entrance of the ear. They’re custom-fit and still very discreet.
Why people love them: They’re easy to insert and remove, offer solid sound performance, and come in skin-tone colors for low visibility.
Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
Visibility: Mostly invisible
Features: Basic manual control options, custom-molded
Rechargeable options: Limited
In-the-Canal (ITC)
What it is: ITC devices fit partially in the ear canal and are larger than CICs, allowing for more features like Bluetooth or directional microphones.
Why people love them: They strike a balance between discreet appearance and functionality. Ideal for users who want more control and power than smaller models can provide.
Best for: Mild to moderately severe hearing loss
Visibility: Partially visible
Features: Optional manual controls, Bluetooth in some models
Rechargeable options: Some models available
In-the-Ear (ITE)
What it is: ITE hearing aids fill the outer portion of the ear. Their larger design allows for advanced features and easier handling.
Why people love them: They’re easy to manage and maintain, especially for those with dexterity issues, and can support powerful amplification.
Best for: Mild to severe hearing loss
Visibility: More visible than in-canal styles
Features: Directional mics, volume controls, telecoils
Rechargeable options: Available from select manufacturers
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
What it is: One of the most popular styles, RIC hearing aids have a small unit that sits behind the ear and a thin wire that connects to a speaker inside the ear canal.
Why people love them: RICs are sleek, discreet, and lightweight. They offer advanced features like Bluetooth streaming, rechargeable batteries, and excellent sound clarity.
Best for: Mild to moderately severe hearing loss
Visibility: Barely visible
Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth, tinnitus masking, app controls
Rechargeable options: Widely available
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
What it is: BTE hearing aids sit behind the ear and connect to an earmold that fits inside the ear. This classic style is known for power and durability.
Why people love them: BTEs are ideal for those with more severe hearing loss or anyone who wants a robust, easy-to-handle device. Today’s BTEs are slimmer, quieter, and more comfortable than ever.
Best for: Moderate to profound hearing loss
Visibility: Visible behind the ear
Features: High amplification, telecoil, Bluetooth, rechargeable
Rechargeable options: Widely available
How to Choose the Right Hearing Aid Style
Finding the right hearing aid style depends on several factors, including:
- Degree of hearing loss
- Ear shape and anatomy
- Dexterity and vision
- Lifestyle and daily environments
- Cosmetic preferences
- Technology needs (Bluetooth, rechargeability, etc.)
During your hearing aid consultation, your audiologist will help you weigh these factors and guide you to a style that matches your needs and goals.
FAQs for Hearing Aid Styles
Have questions about hearing aid styles, features, or what might be right for you? Find quick answers to common questions to help you feel more confident in your decision.
What is the most discreet hearing aid?
Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) models are the smallest and most discreet style available. They sit deep in the ear canal and are nearly impossible to see when worn.
Which hearing aids are easiest to handle?
In-the-Ear (ITE) and Behind-the-Ear (BTE) styles are easier to insert, remove, and adjust—making them ideal for users with dexterity or vision challenges.
Can I stream calls or music with hearing aids?
Yes! Many RIC, BTE, and some ITE hearing aids come with Bluetooth connectivity so you can stream audio from your phone, TV, or computer directly to your ears.
Are there rechargeable options for all hearing aid styles?
Rechargeable batteries are widely available in RIC and BTE styles, with more manufacturers introducing rechargeable options for in-the-canal devices as well.
Let’s Find the Right Hearing Aid Style for You
Not sure where to start? Our experienced audiologists will walk you through every option and help you choose a hearing aid that fits your hearing needs, lifestyle, and comfort.
