You have no shortage of options if you’re looking for an MD Hearing Aids alternative. While the brand has earned a reputation for creating some of the best OTC hearing aids online, there are more affordable options that actually offer more value. Here are some of the top choices: 

• Audien Hearing
• Oticon
• Signia
• Jabra
• Eargo 
• Lexie

As you’ll see in our side-by-side comparison of Audien vs MD Hearing aid, though, the best place to buy hearing aids online is right here. We make the most affordable OTC hearing aids for those struggling with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, starting as low as $98 per pair.

Our devices are true hearing aids (our devices are FDA-registered OTC hearing aids) trusted by over a million customers and counting. We recognize that hearing loss isn’t one-size-fits-all, which is why we have in-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE) devices. Get in touch with our team, and we’ll help you pick the right one!

“My wife purchased my first-ever hearing aids—the Audien Atom Pro 2 for me in April 2025. It has opened up a whole new, wonderful world of sound for me - way cheaper than the $4500 pair my audiologist wanted to sell me.” - Gena

“Over the years, I have tried many brands of OTC hearing aids but the customer service of Audien Hearing consistently stands out from the competition.” - Ron

“I am very satisfied with Audien and would recommend them to anyone looking for a cost-effective solution for hearing issues.” - CB

Disclaimer: OTC hearing aids are intended for mild-to-moderate hearing loss and are not a substitute for prescription devices for more complex medical needs. 

MD Hearing Aids Alternatives 

Are MD Hearing Aids Any Good?

MDHearing is one of the first names that pop up when you search for non-prescription hearing support. The brand was born over 15 years ago in Chicago by an ear, nose, and throat physician. The goal was to create simple, doctor-designed devices for mild to moderate hearing loss at lower prices than traditional audiology clinics. That’s reflected across the lineup:

• VOLT MAX: The newest BTE model with dual microphones, background noise control, and app-based hearing checks for self-fitting. Regularly priced around $699.
• VOLT: A simplified rechargeable BTE with adaptive feedback control and environment programs for everyday use. $397 per pair.
• AIR: Compact BTE with disposable batteries and manual volume control. Older design, but still a solid pick for simplicity and affordability at just $297.
• NEO: Entry-level in-ear model that fits discreetly inside the canal. Rechargeable with a portable case. About $297 per pair.
• NEO XS: Smaller and more advanced than the base NEO, with multiple programs and stronger noise reduction. Priced at $397.
• NEO XS PRO: The most recent CIC release. Features app-guided personalization and an upgraded sound processor. Generally $499-$599.

All devices are backed by a 45-day trial and a simple buying process, especially compared to the traditional prescription route. That being said, you’re here looking for an MD Hearing aid alternative. And you’re not alone.

Why You Might Want an Alternative to MD Hearing Aids

MD Hearing currently holds a 2.5/5 Trustpilot rating, which reflects mixed customer experiences - despite selling over 2 million devices to date. The 2.5/5 star rating speaks to a disconnect between what customers are expecting and the actual experience they receive. Here are some common complaints: 

• Limited customization: Only the VOLT MAX and NEO XS PRO have app-guided personalization. The rest rely on preset programs and manual controls, so you won’t be able to fine-tune to your unique individual hearing profile.
• Mixed durability reports: Short battery lifespans and moisture-related issues, particularly with the VOLT series, can lead to frustrating failures when you need hearing support most.
• Inconsistent sound performance: Amplification is strong, but clarity in background noise can be hit or miss. Some reviews reference a “tinny” sound, while others say they still have trouble keeping up with group conversations.
• Lack of Bluetooth streaming: None of the current MDHearing models support direct audio streaming from phones or TVs. That’s really disappointing for those who want to be able to hear their favorite songs or favorite shows better.
• Average customer service experience: Despite being designed by a doctor, support is fairly limited to basic troubleshooting unless you pay for an upgraded care plan.
• Pricing gap: Even with promotions, most pairs cost between $300 and $700. That’s definitely more affordable than the prescription route, but still higher than comparable OTC options with better technology.

We’re not here to tell you MD Hearing is a bad fit across the board. But we have a feeling you’ve already come to that conclusion if you’re looking for an MD Hearing aids alternative. Whether you’ve tried the devices already and were left disappointed or have just been scared away by the overwhelming number of negative reviews, we’ll help you weigh your options below. 

What’s the Best MD Hearing Aids Alternative?

There are better alternatives today that offer clearer sound and simpler operation if you’ve found MDHearing a bit underwhelming in comfort, control, or cost. But the absolute best MD Hearing aids alternative is just a few clicks away at Audien Hearing. 

Audien Hearing

Audien Hearing was founded to make high-quality hearing aids affordable for everyone. We serve exclusively those struggling with mild-to-moderate hearing loss who don’t necessarily need all the extra functionality that comes with a prescription hearing aid.

That means you can get the support you need to get back to living life to the fullest without complicated hearing tests, doctor's appointments, confusing setup/optimization, and of course, expensive price tags. 

Every device arrives pre-programmed, rechargeable, and ready to use right out of the box. You gain access to a wide range of stylish hearing aids, from ITE to BTE devices. Our most popular include:

• Atom One: Our most affordable option at $98 with a compact in-ear fit, clear sound amplification, and all-day battery life. A good starting point for first-time users or those on a budget with just a single, simple hearing mode.
• Atom Pro 2: The best value in our lineup. You get improved sound processing, 4 hearing profiles, background noise reduction, and a UV sanitizing case that cleans while charging.
• Atom X: The world’s first touchscreen hearing aid - no buttons or app confusion. Four hearing modes and universal Bluetooth streaming are all managed from the case.
• Ion Pro 2: Our most powerful device. You get Bluetooth connectivity, 6 app-based sound profiles, directional microphones, and a BTE fit for all-day wear and comfort.

All Audien hearing aids come with a 45-day risk-free trial, lifetime support, and a 1-year warranty. Our US-based team helps customers through setup, troubleshooting, and fine-tuning. So whether you’re looking for the best hearing aid under $100 or the most sophisticated OTC device, look no further. Get started with the #1 MD Hearing aids alternative today!

Oticon

Maybe you’re looking for an MD Hearing aids alternative because OTC devices don’t suit your level of hearing loss. In that case, Oticon is one of the top choices. 

This prescription hearing aid brand is owned by Demand and all engineered around the “BrainHearing™” philosophy. This supports how the brain naturally processes sound rather than just amplifying it. Popular devices include:

• Oticon Intent: Built on the Sirius™ platform with 4D sensors that adapt to your movement and environment in real time. Rechargeable RITE and BTE styles, starting around $3,000-$3,500 per ear.
• Oticon Real: Uses the Polaris R chip with RealSound Technology for sharper speech and wind noise control. Available in RITE and BTE styles.
• Oticon Own SI: Custom in-ear line using BrainHearing™ tech and DNN processing for natural sound. CIC and IIC fits for discreet wear.

All Oticon models require audiologist fitting, offer Bluetooth connectivity, and rank among the most expensive options on the market. This is to say Oticon is probably not the right choice if you’re not dealing with severe or profound hearing loss. You’re better off with Audien Hearing for mild-to-moderate hearing loss - simpler, more affordable, and still high-performance.

Signia

Signia falls under the WS Audiology umbrella, a really well-established hearing aid manufacturer. The company balances advanced hearing technology with modern, lifestyle-oriented designs for the best of both worlds. Devices include:

• Pure Charge&Go IX: Flagship rechargeable RIC model with RealTime Conversation Enhancement for group settings.
• Silk Charge&Go IX: One of the only rechargeable CICs, pre-sized for instant fitting.
• Styletto IX: Slim RIC with portable charging case; prioritizes comfort and design.
• Motion Charge&Go P X: BTE option for more severe hearing loss, offering strong feedback cancellation.
• Insio Charge&Go AX: Custom ITE model that combines AI speech enhancement with wireless charging.

Like Oticon, Signia is a really strong fit for those needing adaptive hearing in busy environments. We actually have a thorough Oticon vs Signia comparison if you want to learn more!

One of the key differences, though, is that Signia is quite a bit more affordable at just $1,800-$3,000 per ear, depending on the model and audiologist. 

That said, Signia is also impractical for anyone dealing with just mild-to-moderate hearing loss. These devices would be overkill, and you’d be putting yourself through the hassle of clinical fittings/maintenance for no real reason.

Jabra

Jabra bridges the gap between consumer earbuds and hearing aids with its super discreet Enhance lineup. These OTC devices look and feel familiar for everyday headphone users. The brand does have its own lineup of prescription devices as well, but we’ll focus on the Enhance series for the sake of this MD Hearing aids alternative guide:

• Jabra Enhance Select 50R: RIC-style devices with remote audiologist support, Bluetooth connectivity, and rechargeable batteries. $1,195 per pair.
• Jabra Enhance Select 300: Better noise reduction and adaptive directionality. Starting at $1,695 per pair. A good middle ground as far as value goes.
• Jabra Enhance Select 700: The most advanced device in the family with SoundScape™ technology. Also, the smallest/most discreet option. Starting at $1,995.

Despite being labeled as OTC devices, these are really expensive, considering the best hearing aids under $200 are just a few clicks away at Audien Hearing. Battery life can leave a lot to be desired, too. 

That said, you get what you pay for. These are sophisticated devices backed by a 100-day risk-free trial, 3 years of free audiology support, Bluetooth streaming, and more. You can compare Signia vs Jabra hearing aids in our blog if you’d like. 

Eargo 

Eargo specializes in nearly invisible, rechargeable in-ear hearing aids designed with discretion as the main priority. Their featherlight open-fit design minimizes occlusion and keeps speech sounding natural. Here are some of the most popular devices:

• Eargo SE: Virtually invisible device with up to 16 hours of listening time. Personalize your hearing in the Eargo app or use 4 preset listening programs. $1,695 per pair.
• Eargo 8: Smart Sound Adjust automatically adapts to your environment, and you get the same customization capabilities as the SE. Other differences are up to 14 days of on-the-go charging (via case), device scanning, and water resistance. $2,699 per pair.

There are other devices in the Eargo lineup like the 5, 6, and 7, but these two are the most popular as of now. As you can see, these are really expensive for OTC devices - you’re paying 10-20 times as much as you would at Audien Hearing!

Lexie

Last but not least, we have Lexie, the final MD Hearing aids alternative worth looking into. These devices are powered by Bose and are relatively affordable compared to some of the other candidates on this list. Their hearing aids are built for self-fitting. There are two options:

• Lexie B2: Rechargeable RIC with app-based customization, directional microphones, and Bluetooth streaming. $999 per pair.
• Lexie Lumen: Battery-powered BTE device with basic sound programs and volume control. $799 per pair.

Lexie gives you plenty of personalization for an OTC brand, but these devices are really reliant on app navigation and smartphone pairing. It may not be the best choice if you want something controllable either via the device itself or the case it comes with.

Learn more about the common Lexie hearing aids complaints in our blog if you’d like. Otherwise, it’s time for you to choose the best MD Hearing aids alternative, and the answer should be clear - look no further than Audien Hearing for the best value and overall experience. 

Final Words on Choosing an MD Hearing Aids Alternative

There are so many moving pieces when picking hearing aids. Beyond price you have to account for comfort, performance, convenience, and much, much more. MD Hearing just doesn’t check enough boxes for most people. Fortunately, there are plenty of viable alternatives.

Audien Hearing delivers more modern design, better sound performance, and genuine simplicity without the markup. Our mission is to make quality hearing accessible to everyone, with lifetime support to back it up.

Join over a million people who trust Audien for clear, affordable hearing today!