If you’ve been diagnosed with hearing loss and need hearing aids, you may worry about how they look, if they are comfortable, if they can improve your hearing and if you can afford them. These concerns are normal. While hearing aids won’t restore your hearing to a normal level, the truth is affordable hearing aids can help you significantly improve your quality of life. 

There are several types of hearing aids on the market, making it confusing to determine the ones you need. Finding affordable devices can be even more difficult. However, there are options available that are sure to fit your budget.

Types of Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are tiny amplifiers that intensify sounds for people with hearing loss.  They have little microphones that collect sound waves. These sounds are then intensified and sent to your ears through small speakers.

Hearing aids vary by style, model, size, special features and price. The right ones depend on how much hearing loss you are experiencing, as well as your needs and budget.

In-the-Ear Hearing Aids

Though in-the-ear hearing aids are usually custom-made and fit, they are some of the more affordable models. A professional takes an impression of your ear canal to ensure the right fit, and many brands let you order a color that blends with your skin. Some over-the-counter models are even less expensive.

Of these styles, hearing aids termed invisible in the canal or completely in the canal offer the most discreet choices. These are the very smallest hearing aids on the market, and people with mild to moderate hearing loss most often use them.

Hearing aids called in-the-canal models are slightly bigger. Their batteries last longer, and they can work for patients with a more extensive range of hearing loss. Low-profile models are similar but cover parts of the outer ear. They are easier to get in and out, and while they aren’t as inconspicuous, they can connect better with wireless devices.

Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids

The receiver in the ear models are popular and consist of an outer box that fits behind the ear and a tiny receiver that fits into the canal. These have a better sound quality and usually feature rechargeable batteries. 

You can also choose a behind-the-ear model with earmolds that cover part of the outer ear canal. These are ideal for most levels of hearing loss, even severe cases.

The Two Most Affordable Hearing Aids

The best-priced hearing aids available are over-the-counter, in-the-ear devices from Audien.

Audien Atom

The most affordable hearing aid style is usually the in-the-ear style. Audien Atom hearing aids, for example, go for just $99 a pair. This hearing aid was developed as a response to feedback from people using the Audien EV1 and EV3 hearing aids. It is smaller than previous prototypes and has improved battery life.

This device can be wirelessly charged, is designed for comfort, and uses Atom sound technology to deliver crisp, clear sound. Customers have said in feedback that these work just as well as their much more expensive hearing aids. They also mentioned that they were comfortable to wear and use.

Audien Atom Pro

The Audien Atom Pro hearing aid is similar to the Audien Atom but is slightly higher in price. It has been featured in Digital Journal, Business Insider and Fox News. Customers love the long battery life and clear sound. The Atom Pro also comes with a one-year warranty. It is one of the smallest available devices and still one of the most affordable hearing aids.

Factors To Consider When Buying a Hearing Aid

The most important things to think about when choosing a hearing aid include:

• Style and size
• Your lifestyle
• Your budget
• Features

Style and Size

The style and size you buy depend on how discreet you would like your hearing aid to appear. Remember that the smaller and more discreet the device, the fewer features it usually has. A larger style or behind-the-ear hearing aid might be necessary for better volume control or dependable wireless connections.

Lifestyle

What sort of things do you spend your time doing? Do you participate in any sports? Do you live where there is dust or sand in the air? Do you usually stay home, or do you like to travel? Understanding these lifestyle choices helps you choose the best model for your needs.

Budget

You can’t buy what you can’t afford. Thus, you must check your finances and see what you can put toward hearing aids. They can be a significant investment that improves your quality of life. However, models like the Atom and Atom Pro can help you without breaking the bank. Be sure to analyze your options when choosing the best affordable hearing aids.

Features

Hearing aids come with a wide variety of features. Some can connect to wireless devices so you can listen to music, for example. Some devices, like the Atom and Atom Pro, are rechargeable so you don’t have to worry about trying to change tiny batteries. A number of models have buttons or a wheel on the outside to adjust volume, while others have directional microphones to capture sound better. What you need depends entirely on the lifestyle you lead, the occasions when you need hearing assistance, your level of dexterity and your budget.

Over-the-counter hearing aids may be appropriate if you aren’t experiencing severe hearing loss. Custom hearing aids tend to be programmed specifically for each wearer's individual needs. This is one factor that makes them expensive. However, less costly hearing aids may work well for hearing issues that are not as acute. They aren’t specifically programmed for you, but you shouldn’t pay for that feature if you don’t need it.

Purchasing the Best Affordable Hearing Aids         

The most affordable hearing aids you can buy are styles that fit inside the ear and don’t require a medical prescription. Great examples are the Audien Atom and Audien Atom Pro. If you are unsure which hearing aid will work best for you or would like assistance finding one that fits your budget, we’d love to help. Contact us via email, phone or chat on our website. 

Sources:

https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/degree-of-hearing-loss/

https://audienhearing.com/products/audien-atom-pro-pair

https://audienhearing.zendesk.com/hc/en-us