Hearing loss can affect many parts of daily life, from conversations with loved ones to following instructions at work. Fortunately, there are multiple pathways to treatment, whether prescription or over-the-counter. Two really popular brands we see compared online are Lively hearing aids vs Costco.

Lively actually doesn’t exist anymore - it was acquired by one of the biggest hearing aid manufacturers in the world, GN Hearing. That company owns quite a few other brands as well, like Jabra.

On the other hand, Costco hearing aids range from Kirkland models to world-renowned devices from Jabra, Rexton, Philips, and more. Beyond that, Costco’s Hearing Centers also give you more personalized, one-on-one support than shopping with a brand like Lively. Costco’s hearing aids are prescription devices, though typically offered at lower prices than those fit in private practice.

Lively hearing aids are still available on the secondary market, though - so we’ll compare and contrast Costco vs Lively hearing aids below. For adults with straightforward mild to moderate hearing loss, over-the-counter (OTC) devices may be another option. Brands like Audien focus on affordability and accessibility in this category (buy hearing aids online).

From in-ear to behind-ear models, we recognize how individualized hearing support is - and offer something for everyone. We take the stress, delays, and frustration out of hearing aids with options starting at $98. Learn more today and get back to living life to the fullest!

“These hearing aids work great and the insurance plan is very affordable. The atom 2 is the best and with all the features it comes with.” - Ricky

“I believe I have tried every OTC hearing aid ever made and I can say with all honesty that the Audien Ion blows away all of the competition. The Ion bte is by far the clearest and lightest weight aid out there.” - Ron

“Wow, I had no idea loading the dishwasher made so much noise. Banging the plates, clinking the silverware, rinsing the glasses. I had not heard those sounds for quite a while; and I didn't know they were missing until I put Audien ION hearing aids in my ears.” - Mary

Note: If you are unsure about your level of hearing loss, it’s best to consult with a licensed hearing care professional. 

Lively Hearing Aids vs Costco at a Glance

What Are Lively Hearing Aids?

Lively was a direct-to-consumer hearing aid company, born to make high-tech hearing aids more accessible and less intimidating through online sales. Customers were given access to prescription-grade devices with remote audiology support.

The brand became so popular, in fact, that it was purchased by a different manufacturer. That means the company no longer manufactures or sells hearing aids under the Lively name.

Who Owns Lively Today?

GN Hearing is the name behind well-known brands like Jabra and five others, including Lively. It absorbed Lively into its growing portfolio back in 2021, using its infrastructure and digital-first business model to build what is now Jabra Enhance.

So really, if you’re searching for “Lively hearing aids” today, you’ll be better off looking at the Jabra Enhance Select lineup. We have a separate resource comparing Jabra vs Audien Hearing if you’d like to learn more.

At any rate, Lively-branded devices are no longer being updated or supported directly. New users are instead funneled toward Jabra’s offerings. So while you might be able to find Lively devices on the secondary market, you’ll have limited support with no software updates.

A Look at the Available Models

Lively made earned its reputation through three receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids:

• Lively 2 Lite: A lower-cost model with basic functionality, aimed at users new to hearing aids.
• Lively 2 Plus: Offered more sound customization, Bluetooth streaming, and rechargeable batteries.
• Lively 2 Pro: Their premium device, featuring more advanced directional microphones and a more robust noise reduction algorithm.

These were solid mid-range devices, suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. You can still find them today on eBay and other secondary markets, albeit without any sort of customer service, warranty, or assurance that what you’re buying is a real Lively device.

Cost and Customer Experience

Part of what made Lively hearing aids so popular was price. These devices ranged from $1,200 to $2,000 per pair, with remote support from licensed hearing professionals included. That’s pretty expensive, but a fraction of what most prescription devices run.

Customers could complete a hearing test online, select a device, and have it shipped to their door without an in-person visit required. That convenience was another reason Lively became one of the leading brands in this space.

Today, Jabra Enhance Select devices have largely replaced Lively’s original lineup, and while the pricing structure remains similar, some users have noted differences in service structure and platform usability since the rebrand.

That’s to be expected with any major transition. Lively customers from five years ago may have a very different experience from someone entering the Jabra system today.

Does Costco Sell Lively Hearing Aids?

Costco sells a multitude of hearing aid brands through its Hearing Centers, and we see this question asked all the time. Does Costco sell Lively hearing aids today? No - but what you will find at Costco are Jabra Enhance devices. 

This is definitely the most comparable technology to Lively currently on the market. In fact, some believe these two brands feature the same internal components. But Jabra is actually just one of the many brands you’ll have access to at Costco.

What Does Costco’s Hearing Center Entail?

Costco’s Hearing Centers operate much like mini audiology clinics - although not every center employs a licensed Audiologist. Some locations only have hearing aid dispenser staff.

Whatever the case, customers can make an appointment at their local Costco and receive a full hearing evaluation, try devices on-site, and receive personalized fitting support. This is really appealing for anyone with a Costco membership looking for face-to-face support. 

What Brands Are Available at Costco?

Costco devices range from its own private label lineup to well-known brands produced by global manufacturers, including GN Hearing.

• Kirkland Signature (Costco’s house brand, manufactured by Sonova, the parent company of Phonak)
• Jabra Enhance (from GN Hearing, a direct replacement for Lively hearing aids)
• Rexton (a Signia sister brand under WS Audiology)
• Philips HearLink (manufactured by Demant, parent of Oticon)

This is great because you can get really specific in selecting a device that not only fits your hearing profile but also your budget and lifestyle. Each brand has different models and features, and you’ll gain access to Costco’s support services as well.

Pros and Cons of Costco Hearing Centers

You can’t beat the value Costco brings to the hearing support industry. This is an excellent option for anyone with moderate to profound hearing loss who wants in-person support without the $5,000+ price tag.

You get name-brand technology, on-site testing, and affordable batteries and accessories. Warranties and return policies are generous as well, as Costco has come to be known for.

There are tradeoffs that we can’t overlook, though. Appointments can be hard to schedule in some locations. You’re limited to the brands Costco carries with no customization beyond that. The care model varies from one location to the next, too.

So, where does that leave you in choosing between Lively hearing aids vs Costco hearing aids?

Lively Hearing Aids vs Costco: Key Differences to Consider

Now, we need to preface this Costco vs Lively hearing aids conversation by saying that the only Lively devices available today are old, leftover models from prior to the acquisition. We’ve said it already, but we do not recommend purchasing these devices.

You may not receive proper support, warranty coverage, or software updates. You might not even be getting a real Lively device. There is too much uncertainty. 

So for the sake of this Lively hearing aids vs Costco hearing aids comparison, we’ll be focusing mainly on the Jabra Enhance lineup - since that’s what Lively evolved into. 

Online vs In-Person Support

Jabra Enhance, like Lively before it, is fully remote. You complete a hearing test online, choose your device, and receive professional support by phone or video chat. 

This is exactly what a lot of people look for because it’s really convenient and more affordable - especially if you live somewhere rural where a Costco isn’t around the corner. Jabra produces some of the best OTC hearing aids on the market, picking right up where Lively left off.

By contrast, Costco offers in-person support through its Hearing Centers. You get your hearing exam on site, try different models in real time, and work with specialists face-to-face. The entire experience is more personalized and thorough.

This is a better fit if you feel more comfortable going the traditional route with hands-on service, or just aren’t confident in managing devices on your own. It’s still more affordable than working with an audiology clinic, but it’ll cost more (as we’ll explore below).

Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer in this aspect of comparing Lively hearing aids vs Costco. The right model depends on how comfortable you are with technology, how much independence you want, and how accessible your nearest Costco location is.

Technology and Features

This is where you really can’t go wrong with Costco vs Lively hearing aids (Jabra Enhance) - as both offer strong technology for moderate to profound hearing loss.

Costco carries models from several manufacturers, including Jabra, Philips, Rexton, and its own Kirkland Signature line. Some models are equipped with Bluetooth streaming, rechargeable batteries, directional microphones, and app-based controls.

Jabra Enhance (previously Lively) offers a tighter lineup. All models come with Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeability, app-based adjustments, and remote fine-tuning. 

You’ll get fewer choices, but each product is streamlined for ease of use and long-term support. The software interface is user-friendly, and remote care is built into the experience so you don’t have to stress about troubleshooting or updates.

Cost Comparison

There’s also a difference between Costco vs Lively hearing aids (Jabra Enhance) as far as what you’ll pay. Each of these brands sits at mid-range in terms of price.

Jabra Enhance (formerly Lively) typically ranges from $1,195 to $1,995 per pair, but it all depends on the model in question. The service you choose will dictate cost to some degree as well. You get a three-year warranty, ongoing remote support, and loss-and-damage coverage.

On the other hand, Costco hearing aids will run you between $1,399 to $2,500 per pair. That of course depends on the brand you go with, be it more affordable hearing aids in the Kirkland lineup or one of the more sophisticated brand-name models.

You get services bundled with your purchase, like hearing tests, fittings, and basic follow-up visits. The return policy (usually 180 days) is among the strongest in the industry, and extended warranties are available.

So while Costco looks to be more expensive on paper, it could be the better value if you prefer an elevated care model. Really, that’s what choosing between Lively hearing aids vs Costco - or any other hearing aid brands, for that matter, comes down to. What do you REALLY need? 

Suitability for Different Users

Jabra Enhance is convenient and flexible if you're comfortable using a smartphone and managing your devices with help over the phone or video. You can skip the clinic and save some money.

But, Costco may be the better route if you prefer to speak to someone in person, want to try devices before buying, or feel more confident with face-to-face instruction.

The right option depends on your degree of hearing loss, lifestyle, and support preferences. Many adults with mild to moderate hearing loss find OTC devices sufficient, while others benefit from the added support of prescription hearing aids if they have more complex needs. We are all unique! 

Looking for a More Affordable, OTC Hearing Aid?

Not every case of hearing loss requires a prescription or clinic-based device. OTC hearing aids are a smart choice for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. You can get a safe, effective solution without the added cost, delays, or complexity of the traditional medical model.

These devices are straightforward and don’t require a hearing test, doctor’s visit, or custom fitting. The key is knowing your level of hearing loss. For millions of Americans, it's moderate enough that prescription devices may be unnecessary - or in some cases, overkill.

That’s where we come in.

Audien Hearing was built on the idea that hearing support should be simple, accessible, and affordable. Our devices start at just $98 per pair, making them among the most affordable FDA-registered hearing aids on the market. The lineup consists of:

• Atom One: Our most affordable model at $98 per pair, featuring a discreet in-ear design, single hearing mode, and up to 20 hours of battery life on a single charge.
• Atom 2: Priced at $189 per pair, this rechargeable in-ear model includes four hearing modes and better clarity in everyday environments with the advanced A2TM sound chip.
• Atom Pro 2: Our best-selling in-ear device at $289 per pair. You get background noise reduction, built-in UV cleaning, and a rechargeable case.
• Ion: A behind-the-ear model priced at $489 per pair, equipped with Bluetooth streaming, rechargeable batteries, and a mobile app for easy volume and mode adjustments.
• Ion Pro: Our most advanced model at $689 per pair, with 6 customizable hearing profiles, directional microphones, enhanced noise management, and app-based remote support with Bluetooth/streaming capabilities.

Every model is ready to use out of the box, rechargeable, and shipped directly to your door in just a few days. Whether you prefer discreet in-ear styles or behind-the-ear options with app control, our solutions restore clarity without the complications.

You also get lifetime support and a 45-day risk-free trial so you can place your order with peace of mind. Join over 1 million customers who trust Audien Hearing today. 

Wrapping Up Our Costco vs Lively Hearing Aids Comparison

Lively is no longer an active brand, and while some of its DNA lives on through Jabra Enhance, it's important to know what you're actually getting. We hope this Lively hearing aids vs Costco comparison has left you with clarity on this topic.

You can see how Costco stacks up to other solutions in our blog. We’ve written similar comparisons on hearing aids Costco vs Miracle Ear, Costco vs Sam's Club hearing aids, and Costco vs Kaiser hearing aids.

But any of these may be excessive for someone with mild to moderate hearing loss. Consider our stylish hearing aids as a third option at a lower price point. If affordability and simplicity are top priorities, OTC hearing aids like those from Audien may be worth considering! (best hearing aids under $200 and best hearing aid under $100)