10 Best Affordable Hearing Aids in 2024 – Do These Cheap Hearing Aids Stack Up?

Are you looking for a hearing aid that won’t break the bank? We know how important it is to stay connected with friends and family, and having the right tools makes all the difference. 

This complete guide will give you an overview of some of the best inexpensive hearing aids on the market today. You’ll learn about features, prices, and more so that you can make an informed decision regarding your own needs. So whether you’re just starting out or already have experience with this type of device, let’s get started!

The cost of hearing aids can be a major challenge for many people who need them. While these devices are necessary for improving quality of life, they come at a hefty price tag – one which not everyone can afford. 

Fortunately, plenty of options are available in terms of value-priced products without compromising performance. Below we’ve compiled a list of some of the most popular affordable hearing aids currently available.

Our Picks for Best Affordable Hearing Aids for 2023

If you’re one of the millions with hearing loss, there’s never been a better time to purchase hearing aids. Competition in the industry is robust, and hearing aid manufacturers are trying to outdo each other with high-tech features and lower prices.

At the same time, such a dizzying assortment of hearing aid options can be overwhelming, so here are a few of our stand-out picks of the best hearing aids in the lower price range. 

Best Rechargeable Hearing Aid: Jabra Enhance

Jabra Enhance Select 200: The Jabra Enhance Select is a feature-rich rechargeable device with an impressive 30-hour battery life on a full charge. While it’s priced slightly higher than most affordable hearing aids, it’s a great value with intelligent tech, a smartphone app, and direct audio streaming. If it’s too pricey for you, you can downgrade to the 100 series. 

See our reviews of other Jabra Enhance hearing aids.

Best Budget: Lexie Lumen 

Lexie Lumen: The Lexie Lumen offers a great mixture of sound quality and affordability. If the lack of a rechargeable battery and audio streaming aren’t dealbreakers for you, you might try the Lumen. Alternatively, you can upgrade to the Lexie B2 for a few hundred more.

Read our in-depth review of the best low-cost Lexie hearing aids.

Best Low-Cost: “Invisible” Hearing Aid

Eargo 7: Eargo hearing aids are among the most affordable completely-in-the-ear-canal hearing aid devices on the market. The newly released Eargo 7 ups the ante with advanced features that take the listening experience to a new level. They’re among the most expensive devices on this list, but if you want a high-tech invisible hearing aid, Eargo 7 is worth the price.

See our reviews of other Eargo hearing aids.

Best Overall: MDHearing VOLT MAX 

1. Best Affordable Hearing Aid 2023

$950 Single | $1,900 Pair – SALE: Buy 1 Get 1 Free

Editors Rating: 8.5 /10

Buy 1 Get 1 Free

How We Review

MDHearing VOLT MAX Features

• Behind-the-ear style
• Bluetooth functionality
• Rechargeable hearing aids with 20 hours of use on a full charge
• Advanced technology to eliminate feedback and background noise Automatically adapts to your surroundings
• Smartphone app for remote professional reprogramming and customization
• VIP bonus services, including extended warranty, custom one-on-one fitting, and priority access to customer service.

If you’re looking for the best hearing aid with medical-grade custom-programmed by a professional audiologist, you can’t do much better than the VOLT MAX. It’s one of the best cheap hearing aids on the market right now.

While its list price of $1,900 per pair is slightly higher than some of its competitors with similar features, MDHearing has financing options that make its hearing aids’ cost much more manageable. Buyers who qualify can pay as little as $25 monthly.

What’s more, MDHearing often has buy-one-get-one sales that bring the total price of the VOLT MAX down to an unbeatable $700 per pair. That’s about what you would pay for a lackluster PSAP or a low-end hearing aid with a fraction of the features. 

The VOLT MAX features a rechargeable battery, Bluetooth connectivity, as well as remote expert hearing aid adjustments, and reprogramming via a smartphone app. In addition to leading technology, you get world-class VIP service, including one-on-one custom fitting, extended coverage, and lifetime support. 

The VOLT MAX isn’t just one of the best affordable hearing aids—it’s one of the best hearing aids. Period. 

Audien Atom Pro – Cheap Hearing Amplifier

$249 per pair

Audien founder Arthur Garber says the inspiration came from his grandmother’s struggle to find affordable hearing aids after being diagnosed with hearing loss. He set out to produce a hearing aid for under $100. Audien did succeed in creating cheap hearing amplifiers. Technically the Audien Atom pro is not classified as a hearing aid, according to the FDA and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). 

Strictly speaking, Audien offers Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs), but these devices might still benefit some people with hearing loss who can’t afford medical-grade units.

The BBB advised Audien to stop advertising that their devices used “similar technology to $5,000 hearing aids” and other misleading claims.

Features

• In-the-ear style
• Advanced sound processor
• 24 hours of use on a single charge
• Portable wireless charger with four days of battery life when fully charged
• Integrated noise reduction and feedback cancellation

Pros

• Fully rechargeable, with wireless charging options
• Discreet ITE design
• Among the least expensive hearing amplifier on the market 

Cons

• Not an FDA-registered hearing aid to treat hearing loss and ineligible for insurance reimbursement
• Haven’t been custom-tuned by an audiologist for specific types of hearing loss
• Accessories cost extra
• Noise-canceling features are subpar, which may make the devices less effective in noisy environments 
• Used deceptive advertising practices that violate consumer trust

Eargo 7 – Premium Hearing Aid for a Low Price

$2,950 per pair

Eargo is a California-based hearing aid manufacturer with an online direct-to-consumer business model. Like MDHearing, Eargo was founded by an ENT physician and offers high-quality hearing aids that are FDA-approved to treat hearing loss. 

Eargo’s process is entirely online, including a free online hearing test and follow-up services from a hearing specialist. Silicon Valley company’s low-overhead business model allows it to deliver many of the advanced technological features in high-end hearing aids at a price that won’t break the bank.

Features

• Completely-in-the-canal style
• Rechargeable battery with 16-hour charge
• Self-fitting
• Automatically adjusts to your environment 
• Remote professional tuning via a smartphone app
• More customizability and control over noise reduction and other settings compared to previous Eargo models
• Water and sweat resistance 

Pros

• Priced much lower than other CIC hearing aids with the same features
• 45-day free trial period
• Lifetime online video support with a team of hearing care professionals
• Self-fitting and customization via a smartphone app
• Completely-in-canal design is nearly invisible
• Technology is a cut above most cheap hearing aids 

Cons

• No Bluetooth streaming capability
• More expensive than other direct-to-consumer hearing aids
• Hearing aids get clogged due to in-the-ear design, so they require more cleaning
• Warranties aren’t as extensive as some competitors
• Only suitable for mild-to-moderate hearing loss 

Jabra Enhance Select 200 (formerly Lively 2 Pro)

$1995 per pair

Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids were produced under the brand name Lively until November 2022, when Danish hearing aid manufacturer GN Hearing purchased the company. GN Hearing produces other top brands, including Beltone and ReSound. 

The buyout hasn’t changed the technology in the device, or the customer benefits the company offered, such as a 100-day risk-free trial, three-year warranties, and damage protection. Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids are among the best cheap hearing aids, offering a nice balance between value and cost. 

These hearing aids are also equipped with nice amenities like Bluetooth technology and customization via a smartphone app.

Features

• Receiver-in-canal design
• Directional microphone
• Bluetooth direct audio streaming
• Water-resistant
• Customizable using the Jabra Enhance smartphone app
• Advanced sound processor with improved speech clarity and noise reduction
• Volume automatically adjusts based on the environment
• Rechargeable battery with 30 hours of use on a full charge
• Music Mode for enjoying live music

Pros

• It doesn’t require a professional hearing test
• Cheaper than most other medical-grade hearing aids 
• Bluetooth streaming is standard on all Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids 
• Unlimited online follow-up visits with a hearing care professional, who can adjust your settings via the app if needed
• Three-year warranty plus loss and damage protection 
• A 100-day risk-free trial is more generous than most hearing aid companies 

Cons

• Lively hearing aids are only appropriate for people with moderately severe hearing loss or better. They aren’t suitable for people with severe or profound hearing loss.
• Financing rates may be as high as 29.99% APR for people with bad credit.
• No natural skin-tone color options
• Jabra Enhance devices require hearing aid users to operate a smartphone or tablet, which might be challenging for some people who don’t have or know how to use this technology. 

Otofonix Sona: A No-Frills Over-The-Counter Amplifier

$649 per ear

Texas-based Otofonix Hearing Solutions was founded by retired ENT physician Dr. Luke Ancerewicz after his own hearing loss made him confront the high cost of hearing devices. Otofonix devices are considered Personal Sound Amplification Products, but in terms of functions and features, they’re comparable to older-model hearing aids.

Otofonix can’t match the bells and whistles of other hearing aid manufacturers. Still, they offer a simple, decent alternative for folks with mild or moderate hearing loss who can’t afford medical-grade hearing aids. Many Otofonix models are equipped with standard features of traditional hearing aids, such as Telecoil and directional microphones. 

Features

• Bluetooth streaming connectivity
• Smartphone control
• Directional microphones
• Enhanced digital background noise cancellation
• Powered by size-13 batteries

Pros

• Bargain basement pricing that few traditional hearing aids can match
• Solid build quality and inconspicuous design
• Bluetooth streaming
• Lifetime support
• 45-day risk-free trial

Cons

• Not a medical-grade device
• Not rechargeable
• Can’t be custom-programmed by an audiologist for specific types of hearing loss
• Sound quality isn’t as crisp as more advanced digital hearing aids
• Only available in behind-the-ear style 

Lexie B2 Powered by Bose & Featuring Rechargeable Batteries

$999 per pair

Bose has built a solid reputation in the audio electronics market over the last half-century. Hoping to leverage its brand recognition, Bose made its first foray into hearing aids in 2021 with its SoundControl OTC hearing aids. The devices were discontinued after a year, but Lexie acquired their core technology and integrated it into the Lexie B1 and rechargeable B2.

This direct-to-consumer hearing aid is an FDA-approved Class II medical device for people with perceived mild or moderate hearing loss. Regarding function and price, it occupies a space between traditional hearing aids and PSAPs. You don’t need a hearing test to order one, and you can custom-fit and program it yourself with Lexie’s user-friendly app. 

Features

• Receiver-in-canal style
• Selection of ear tips for self-fitting
• Lexie app with self-tuning, customization, and environmental presets
• Directional microphone with Focus Mode
• Noise reduction
• Rechargeable

Pros

• Small and inconspicuous 
• The easy-to-use smartphone app gives you great flexibility to adjust and customize
• 90-day risk-free trial
• More affordable than most rechargeable hearing aids 
• Better sound quality than comparably priced cheap hearing aids and PSAPs

Cons

• Only available in one color
• No Telecoil or Bluetooth streaming 
• It cannot be custom-programmed by an audiologist to treat severe hearing loss.

Rexton BiCore R-Li – Great for Thrifty Costco Shoppers

$1,599 per pair

Rexton has been around much longer than the average discount hearing aid brand. The company was founded in 1955 and is now owned by WS Audiology (formerly Sivantos). Unlike most hearing aid brands on this list, Rexton doesn’t sell its devices online. Fortunately, you can buy the BiCore and other Rexton brands at your local Costco if you have a membership.

The Rexton BiCore R-Li is a traditional custom-fitted hearing aid, but it’s priced competitively with many direct-to-consumer models you would buy online. BiCore has Rexton’s proprietary Motion Core technology, which detects your movement and enables the devices to better adjust to your environment on the fly. 

Features

• Receiver-in-canal style
• Fast-charging rechargeable lithium-ion battery
• Direct audio streaming via Bluetooth
• Motion Core auto-adapting processor
• Available in 10 colors
• Optional Telecoil model
• Choice of dome, SlimTip, or cShell earpieces

Pros 

• Good build quality and slim design, with a discreet RIC style 
• 28 hours of use on a full charge 
• Intelligent technology separates speech and background noise to delivers an excellent listening experience
• Can be professionally programmed based on hearing test results
• Streaming and handsfree calling
• More color options than most hearing aids
• Can be purchased from Costco with a membership, entitling you to all the benefits of a Costco hearing center

Cons

• Cannot be ordered online and shipped to you
• You need an in-store hearing test 
• Earmold sold separately.

Lexie Lumen

$799 per pair

Lexie Hearing is the hearing aid project of hearX Group, a South African tech company best known for its hearWHO digital hearing test app developed in cooperation with the World Health Organization. 

Selling affordable hearing aids is a natural extension of hearX’s corporate mission to promote “affordable access to healthy hearing for everyone, everywhere.” Lexie Lumen hearing aids largely live up to that goal. They’re high-quality hearing aids for a reasonable price.  

Features

• Behind-the-ear style
• Telecoil
• Replaceable battery
• Bluetooth-enabled
• Noise and feedback reduction
• Directional microphone
• Six-channel digital processing

Pros

• Smartphone control on the Lexie app
• Highly accurate online hearing test
• Option of online or in-person service
• Reasonable price for the technology offered and financing available

Cons

• No rechargeable battery
• No Bluetooth streaming
• Behind-the-ear processor is small but still noticeable 

Audicus Hearing Aids – Worth Buying + Free 45 day Trial before Purchasing

$1,499 per ear

Audicus entered the hearing aid world in 2011, positioning itself as a high-tech disruptor offering all the advantages of expensive hearing aids at a lower cost. Audicus stands out for its wide array of affordable hearing aid options at various price points to suit your needs and budget.

The Omni is Audicus’ latest and most advanced model, with some additional technological enhancements that few low-cost hearing aid brands can’t match. The Omni is equipped with a Speech Finder, an intelligent feature that enables the device to detect and selectively boost the sound of the human voice for clearer conversations in noisy environments.

The downside is that the Omni costs much more than most other hearing aids in the affordable market segment. At the same time, it’s one of the few that truly delivers an audiologist-quality sound. Audicus also offers monthly payment plans with low rates for those who qualify.

Features

• Receiver-in-canal style
• Automatically adapts to your surroundings
• Hearing aid settings can be remotely adjusted by a specialist
• Bluetooth streaming
• 16 channels and six listening environments
• Four color options
• Water-resistant
• Speech Finder
• Rechargeable option available for an additional cost

Pros

• Attractive design
• Bluetooth streaming
• App control and convenient remote adjustment
• Superior sound quality and smart features
• Inexpensive maintenance plan
• 45-day free trial

Cons

• Other affordable hearing aids offer Bluetooth connectivity for less
• Accessories aren’t included
• A full pair with the rechargeable upgrade costs as much as some traditional devices
• No option for in-person consultation and testing 

Nano X2R – A Low Price to Enhance your Hearing

$497 per pair

Similar to Audien, Nano is another company attempting to undercut competitors in the hearing aid market with discount devices. Founded in 2017, Nano markets its devices as OTC hearing aids, which are classified as personal sound amplification products. Nano devices are registered with the FDA, but they are not approved to treat hearing loss. 

While Nano devices have features commonly found in medical-grade hearing aids like noise filtering, they lack a lot of the more sophisticated programming and customization to treat hearing loss effectively. Currently, we are recommending our other top picks if you are looking for more advanced noise reduction and overall quality.

Features

• Behind-the-ear style
• Rechargeable battery
• Noise and feedback reduction
• Directional microphone
• Sound environment presets
• Adaptive technology

Pros

• Cheaper than most direct-to-consumer hearing aids
• It doesn’t require a hearing test or a prescription
• Rechargeable battery
• Have standard hearing aid features like a directional microphone and noise reduction
• 45-day trial

Con

• Negative customer reviews
• Poor sound quality
• Not a medical-grade hearing aid custom-programmed to treat hearing loss
• Deceptive marketing practices

2023 Inexpensive Hearing Aid Reviews Chart

Cost-Effective Solutions for Hearing Aids

Hearing loss can be a difficult condition to manage, and unfortunately, many people cannot afford the best hearing aids. Luckily, cost-effective solutions are available that will still provide excellent sound quality.

The traditional behind-the-ear (BTE) models offer sound amplification with minimal feedback issues and extended battery life,  making it an ideal choice for those on a budget. Additionally, they’re lightweight and comfortable, making them suitable for all-day wear. BTE models also come in various sizes and styles, so you can find one to suit your needs perfectly.

Another great low-cost alternative is receiver-in-canal (RIC). These hearing devices offer superior sound clarity and volume control options without sacrificing comfort or convenience. RICs fit discreetly inside the ear canal and have adjustable settings for different listening environments. 

Alternatives to Traditional Hearing Aids

If you’re in the market for an inexpensive hearing aid, there are plenty of options to consider. From low-cost traditional models to more innovative devices, these new high-tech hearing aids can provide the buyer quality hearing ability at a fraction of the cost. To help make your decision easier, we’ve outlined some popular choices below:

Traditional hearing aids have been around for decades, providing users with reliable sound amplification that is tailored to their individual needs. Still, all the high-end, customizable features come at a cost. 

OTC hearing aids are designed to provide an accessible, affordable solution for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. These hearing aids are easy to purchase without a prescription and are typically more affordable than traditional hearing aids. 

In addition to providing improved sound quality, OTC hearing aids can also be customized to fit a person’s individual needs. 

By increasing competition among OTC hearing aid companies in 2023, the FDA’s final rule is making OTC hearing aids even more accessible and cost-effective, and have rated them highly for sound quality, comfort, and durability. 

The newest designs by Jabra, Lexie, Sony, and Eargo also feature the latest Bluetooth technology to connect hearing devices to cell phones where volume levels can be precisely customized. They also include high-end features like noise reduction technology and advanced directional microphones found in much more expensive prescription models. 

Financing Options for Lower-Priced Hearing Aids

Finding the right hearing aid for you can be daunting, especially when it comes to budgeting. To help make this process easier, let’s discuss some financing options available for those seeking lower-priced hearing aids.

1. Medical credit cards such as CareCredit and United Medical Credit. These provide an interest-free payment plan over six months with no up-front costs or hidden fees – making them attractive solutions for many people. 
2. Some insurance companies may offer reimbursement programs that cover all or part of the cost depending on your policy details. Each company will have different requirements. It’s important to do research before committing to any provider.

Entry Level Prescription Hearings Aids

For those looking for a low-priced hearing aid from a traditional hearing aid company that still offers quality features and performance, entry-level hearing aids may be the perfect option. 

These hearing devices are often smaller in size and design than the OTC models, making them comfortable to wear all day long. It is common that they come with basic sound processing capabilities such as noise reduction and feedback cancellation.

Entry-level hearing aids typically feature digital signal processing (DSP). This technology enables the device to adjust sound levels based on its environment, ensuring that you hear clearly regardless of where you go. 

Many also have directional microphones, which can help reduce background noise so you can concentrate on conversations better. Plus, some feature Bluetooth connectivity to connect to your smartphone or another audio source easily.

Entry-level prescription hearing aids offer good value for money by providing reliable performance at an affordable price point. They won’t give you everything the higher-end models do, but if your budget is tight, this could be the ideal choice for restoring your ability to communicate effectively again.

Value Priced Hearing Hearing Amplifiers –Pros & Cons

Value-priced hearing amplifiers are an excellent option for those on a very tight budget. They offer some features such as more expensive prescription hearing aid models but at a reduced cost. But with any purchase, it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons before making your decision.

Pros:

• Quality & Feature Variety: Value-priced amplifiers come in various styles, colors, shapes, and sizes – but most often are BTE models.
• Adaptability: Many value-priced amplifier options only allow users the most basic volume or frequency controls. This makes them not as adaptable in loader environments.
• Maintenance Costs: The costs associated with maintenance can add up over time when it comes to more expensive hearing aids with more features that can malfunction. A simpler product often requires less upkeep – which means less money out of pocket!

Cons:

• Durability: While value-priced amplifiers provide quality sound, they may not be as durable as pricier models due to potentially lower-grade components.
• Lacking Support: Cheaper hearing aids often have poor warranties against defects and much shorter return policies.
• Technology Limitations: Some value-priced hearing aids don’t have access to top-notch technology like directional microphones or Bluetooth capabilities – meaning certain sounds might not get picked up as easily or clear audio streaming may not be available through compatible devices such as smartphones or tablets.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution without sacrificing too much in terms of audibility and functionality, then value-priced hearing aids could be just what you need.

Compare Prices to Find the Best Deal on a Hearing Aid

It’s important to compare prices when shopping for a new hearing aid. Fortunately, there are many different places to find the best deals on hearing aids. 

Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and eBay often have great deals on lower-end models, while brick-and-mortar stores may offer discounts or bundle packages with other items. It pays to shop around, so take some time to research your options and ensure you’re getting the most value for your money.

Another way of finding a good deal is to look at secondhand devices that are in good condition. Websites like https://goodhearing.com/used-hearing-aids/ specialize in selling used hearing aids at discounted prices. 

Some people also find success purchasing refurbished hearing aids from manufacturers. Refurbished products usually come with warranties and can be just as reliable as brand-new ones – sometimes even better!

Which Traditional Brands Offer Low-Cost Hearings Aids?

When it comes to hearing aids, several brands offer low-cost options that we have not included in our Review of the best affordable hearing aids. 

Big-name manufacturers like Oticon and Phonak, to lesser-known companies such as Widex and ReSound, also sell affordable solutions for your hearing needs. The trick is finding the brand that best suits your individual budget and lifestyle.

What to Consider When Choosing a Cheaper Option Hearing Aid

Choosing a hearing aid that fits your budget can feel like a minefield. There are many questions to consider, and it’s essential to understand the implications of buying an inexpensive hearing aid.

Hearing Aid Tech Features

• Good sound quality
• Long-lasting battery life
• Small size
• Noise cancellation
• Wireless connectivity

The first thing you should consider is what kind of technology is offered for the price point in question. Cheaper hearing aids often have fewer features than their more expensive counterparts, so it pays to know what you’re sacrificing when saving money on one. Features, such as:

• Directional microphones
• Noise reduction software
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Customizable settings through a smartphone
• AI Technology to improve hearing performance
• Rechargeable batteries

It’s also important to keep in mind that some cheaper models have shorter lifespans than pricier alternatives which means you’ll end up replacing them more regularly.

Customer Support & Warranties

Another consideration when selecting a low-cost hearing aid is customer support. Many companies offer online resources and assistance but do check how accessible these services are before purchasing – because if something goes wrong with your device, then having access to reliable customer service can make all the difference.

Size & Fit Matter

Another important factor is size – small devices tend to be more discreet, while** larger ones may offer better performance**. You’ll also want to ensure that your hearing aid fits comfortably in your ear so you can wear it easily. It’s important to find one that feels comfortable on your ears and doesn’t cause any discomfort during long-term use.

Long-Term Effects Of Wearing Budget Hearings Aids

It’s important to consider the long-term effects of wearing budget hearing aids. After all, if you’re investing in a cheaper device than more expensive options, it could be worth considering what risks are involved and how they might affect your overall health and well-being.

The most common risk associated with using low-cost devices is poor sound quality. This can cause discomfort while listening to sounds at home or in public environments such as restaurants and movie theaters. 

Poor sound quality may also lead to increased levels of background noise, making conversations difficult to understand. Additionally, the amplification provided by cheap hearing aids may not provide enough support for users with severe hearing loss.

Final Thoughts on the Best Hearing Aids for 2023

When buying hearing aids, price isn’t the only thing to consider. The cheapest hearing aids aren’t always the best hearing aids. Pick a hearing aid that works for your type of hearing loss and your lifestyle. While direct-to-consumer hearing aids work for people with mild to moderate hearing loss, you’ll likely need an audiologist’s help to address severe or profound hearing loss. 

Also, use caution when purchasing hearing aids. Some hearing aid providers market their technologies as hearing aids when they are, in fact, not FDA-approved to treat hearing loss. Study hearing aid reviews carefully and research the hearing aid company before buying. Most companies offer a risk-free trial, so try before you buy.

Frequently Asked Questions