Have you recently discovered that you are in need of a hearing aid, but don’t know where to begin? When it comes to hearing aids, there is a lot of information out there, and there are many different options to choose from. So much so, it can become overwhelming! Luckily you won’t go through this alone, as your hearing healthcare provider will be there for you to help you determine which type is best. However, it is always a good idea to go into a new situation with some background knowledge.
While not every style will be the right one for you, knowing the differences between the types of hearing aids will make the whole process that much smoother. Continue reading to learn more about the differences between the types of hearing aids.
Invisible-In-the-Canal (IIC)
One of the smallest hearing aids available, this type is nearly invisible. Often used for mild to moderate hearing loss, this type of hearing aid fits deeply into the ear canal.
Pros :
- Small hearing aid
- Becomes invisible in most ears
- Improved sound quality
- Cosmetic appeal
Cons :
- Due to size, hearing aid can be hard to handle
- Uses small batteries, which can pose a problem for those with dexterity issues
- Batteries have to be changed out more due to size
- Controls are not featured on the device
- Susceptible to moisture damage
Completely-In-Canal (CIC)
One of the smallest hearing aids available, this type of hearing aid is contained in a tiny case that completely fits into your ear canal.
Pros :
- One of the smallest hearing aids available
- Hearing aid is one of the least visible types
- Improved sound quality
- Cosmetic appeal
Cons :
- Short battery life due to size
- Small batteries can be hard to handle
- Susceptible to moisture damage
- No controls on device
- Batteries have to be changed out sooner
In-The-Canal (ITC)
Slightly larger than CIC and IIC styles, this hearing aid is contained in a tiny case that fits in the lower portion of the outer ear bowl.
Pros :
- Small enough to be less visible in the ear
- Cosmetic appeal
- Can include controls on device
- Bigger battery than CIC or IIC types
Cons :
- Despite small size, hearing aid is still partially visible
- Controls on device may be difficult to use for those with dexterity issues
- Susceptible to moisture damage
- Can make users feel “plugged up.”
Receiver-In-Canal (RIC)
This particular type of hearing aid looks similar to behind-the-ear hearing aids, but with this style, the speaker is placed inside of the ear canal.
Pros :
- Smaller in size
- More discreet than BTEs
- Comfortable fit
- Natural sound quality
- Long battery life
Cons :
- Speaker is susceptible clogging
- Small size can be hard for those with dexterity issues
- Speaker is susceptible to moisture damage
In-The-Ear (ITE)
Larger than canal aids, this type of hearing aid is easier to handle for some people. With in-the-ear aids, all of the parts are contained within the shell that sits in the outer part of the ear.
Pros :
- Longer battery life due to larger battery size
- Controls can be included on device
- Easy to handle
Cons :
- Visible in the ear
- Can pick up wind noise due to size and location
Behind-The-Ear (BTE)
With this style all of the parts of the aid are contained in a case that stays behind the ear, offering listening and cosmetic advantages.
Pros :
- Good choice for those with dexterity issues
- Large external controls
- Long battery life
- Durable
- Less susceptible to damage from moisture or earwax
Cons :
- Hearing aid is not discreet
- Can make users feel “plugged up.”
- Can interfere with eyeglasses
Frequently Asked Questions
Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aids fit deeper into the ear canal and are nearly invisible, making them very cosmetically appealing but harder to handle due to their small size. Completely-in-canal (CIC) aids also fit fully within the ear canal and are small and discreet, but both types use small batteries that need frequent changing and lack onboard controls.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are generally easier for individuals with dexterity issues because they have larger external controls and larger batteries. In contrast, smaller styles like IIC, CIC, or RIC can be challenging due to their tiny size and small battery compartments.
Yes, some styles like in-the-canal (ITC) and in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids often include controls directly on the device, allowing the user to adjust volume or program settings easily. Smaller styles like IIC and CIC typically do not have onboard controls due to size constraints.
Small hearing aids such as IIC and CIC have drawbacks including short battery life, difficulty handling small batteries, susceptibility to moisture damage, no onboard controls, and challenges for users with dexterity issues. Additionally, batteries must be replaced more frequently because of their smaller size.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids provide long battery life due to larger batteries, are durable, and less susceptible to moisture and earwax damage. They also feature larger controls, which can improve usability and lifespan compared to smaller hearing aid types.
Yes, some hearing aids, particularly in-the-canal (ITC) and behind-the-ear (BTE) styles, can cause a sensation of feeling 'plugged up' in the ear. This is due to their size and how they fit within or behind the ear, which may affect ear ventilation and natural hearing perception.
Moisture can damage hearing aids by affecting their delicate electronic components. Smaller styles like IIC, CIC, and RIC hearing aids are particularly susceptible to moisture damage because of their compact size and placement deep in the ear canal. BTE aids tend to be less vulnerable due to their design.