Given how important hearing aids can be, it should be no surprise that there is a range of different styles to consider. If you’re considering the purchase of a hearing aid for the first time, or are just looking for an upgrade to your existing device, it’s sensible to want to know the options available to you.

There are plenty of different styles to consider, but three device styles in particular tend to be the most popular. Below, you’ll find an overview of the three most popular styles, as well as a look at the potential benefits they can provide.

Behind-the-ear hearing aids

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are arguably the most popular style of all. These devices are known for their simple operation and ease of maintenance, so they’re worth considering if you’re looking for a device that’s going to be as easy to use as possible.

BTE hearing aids sit, as the name suggests, behind your ear. This means they are less likely to encounter issues with earwax buildup, which helps them to maintain their reputation for being easy to care for. BTE hearing aids are suitable for most levels of hearing loss, and most people adjust to them well.

Their main downside is their visibility; onlookers will likely be able to tell you’re wearing a hearing aid, so if aesthetics are important to you, you might want to consider a different option.

In-the-canal hearing aids

ITC hearing aids are the best choice if you’re looking for a hearing aid that won’t be obvious to other people. As these devices sit directly in the ear canal, they are usually very difficult to detect, which many users find reassuring.

There are other benefits to ITC hearing aids. They tend to be custom-made, which helps to ensure that the device you buy is comfortable to use and compatible with your everyday life. They are also known for their ability to provide excellent sound quality, and can reduce instances of wind noise. However, they aren’t suitable for all types of hearing loss. If you have severe hearing loss, it may be best to look at other styles to see if they will work better for you.

In-the-ear hearing aids

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are a good compromise between BTE and ITC hearing aids. Like ITC hearing aids, they are custom-designed for each individual user, so you should be assured of comfortable wear. They are also generally considered to be more discreet than BTE devices.

ITE hearing aids are also a good choice in their own right. They provide excellent sound quality, and are suitable for all kinds of hearing loss, from mild to severe.

The three above styles are the most commonly used types of hearing aids. Now you know a little more about them, you can be confident you have great insight into the options available to you. This, combined with the expertise of your audiologist, should help ensure you find a hearing aid that suits you and your lifestyle.