There are many types of hearing aids and these are the different type of styles.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) aids
Description: BTE hearing aids rest behind the ear, with a tube that connects the device to an earmold or a dome that sits inside the ear canal. The main body of the hearing aid contains the microphone, amplifier, and speaker.
Who it’s for: Suitable for a wide range of hearing loss, from mild to profound. BTEs are often recommended for children because the earmold can be easily replaced as they grow.
Benefits: Durable and powerful, with larger batteries and more features like directional microphones, telecoil, and Bluetooth connectivity. They are also easier to handle due to their size.
Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) aids and mini receiver-in-the-ear (mini RITE)
Description: Similar to BTEs, but with a smaller behind-the-ear component. The speaker (receiver) is placed inside the ear canal and connected to the main body by a thin wire, rather than a tube.
Who it’s for: Suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. Ideal for those who want a discreet option with powerful sound quality.
Benefits: More discreet than traditional BTEs, with a natural sound quality due to the speaker being closer to the eardrum. They are comfortable to wear and less likely to cause feedback (whistling).
In-the-ear (ITE) aids
Description: ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit within the outer ear. They are larger than in-the-canal styles, filling most of the ear’s bowl-shaped area.
Who it’s for: Suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. Good for people who may have difficulty handling smaller devices.
Benefits: Easier to insert and remove due to their size. They often include features like directional microphones and telecoil. The larger size also allows for a longer battery life and more power
In-the-canal (ITC) aids and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) aids
Description: ITC hearing aids are smaller than ITEs and sit partially in the ear canal. They are custom-made to fit the specific shape of the user’s ear canal.
Who it’s for: Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. Ideal for those who want a more discreet hearing aid that is still relatively easy to handle.
Benefits: Less visible than ITEs, but still easy to manage. They provide a more natural listening experience and can include advanced features like directional microphones, though with fewer options than larger models.
Cochlear Implant Styles
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) Type
Description: The BTE cochlear implant sound processor is worn behind the ear, similar to a traditional hearing aid. It contains the microphone, speech processor, and battery in one unit, attached to the external coil that connects to the implant via a magnet.
Who it’s for: Suitable for anyone with a cochlear implant, regardless of scalp thickness. Recommended for both adults and children.
Benefits: Versatile and secure fit for active lifestyles, less likely to dislodge during physical activities, longer battery life-making it ideal for extended use.
Off-The-Ear (OTE) Type
Description: The OTE cochlear implant sound processor is worn off the ear and integrates the processor, battery pack, and coil into a single, compact unit. It is lightweight and can be clipped to clothing or worn on a headband. Examples include Kanso from Cochlear and Rondo from MED-EL.
Who it’s for: Ideal for individuals who prefer a discreet, all-in-one device. Suitable for adults and older adults with thin scalp.
Benefits: Provides a more discreet and lightweight option compared to BTE processors, comfortable for extended wear without placing pressure on the ear, flexible wearing options for added comfort and convenience.