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If you’re experiencing minor hearing issues, opting for an over-the-counter model could solve your problem without much hassle or cash. OTC hearing aids have been available for only a few years in the US. These devices offer a range of features like volume control and app support. To find the best over-the-counter hearing aids, I tested top brands across in-ear, over-the-ear and in-canal styles. With input from my dad and grandfather -- both at different stages of hearing loss -- I evaluated comfort, setup and sound quality.
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What is the best hearing aid overall?
Over-the-counter hearing aids from Audicus currently top our list because they have a great balance of advanced features and accessibility. I reviewed the Omni hearing aid, the premium rechargeable hearing aid option with directional microphones, remote adjustments and Bluetooth. That sounds like a lot, though it looks and functions exactly how you expect from traditional hearing aids.
The Omni is $1,898 for a pair, which is definitely not the most affordable option. However, the customer support and quality make it worth it. Not to mention the fact that you can finance your devices. There are also other models from Audicus that you can choose from. You might sacrifice some of the bells and whistles, though you'll still get excellent support from the company.
Our picks for the best over-the-counter hearing aids
Taylor Leamey/CNET Photo Gallery 1/1 Taylor Leamey/CNET Best overall OTC hearing aid Audicus Omni One of the main concerns people have regarding OTC hearing aids is setting up the devices on their own. Without a doctor, it can feel daunting to solve your communication needs, and that's a primary barrier to the over-the-counter hearing aid market. I was impressed with the Omni hearing aid because of how it performed and the support that Audicus offers its customers. That's why the Omni OTC hearing aid from Audicus is my pick for the best overall OTC hearing aid. When you unpack the Omni OTC hearing aid, you'll notice you get more than other brands offer: a charging case, carrying case, dry capsule, earwax guard disc and a ton of ear domes. An extensive manual details what the products do and how it all works. You'll also have access to Audicus support staff to help you set up your hearing aids and walk you through the process. They were borderline relentless in offering support, which is often what people need. The Omni OTC hearing aid is one of the sleekest over-the-ear devices I tested. It has an updated feel with same-color buttons that are easy to press but blend into the silhouette. The Audicus hearing aids are so comfortable and lightweight that you won't even notice you're wearing them. Pros: Audicus includes features that other brands don't, particularly the dry capsule and earwax guards. The dry capsule is a spongy orange block inside the charging case, which wicks moisture away from the devices while in the case. The earwax guard replacement comes in a wheel that easily allows you to replace the guard under the silicone dome of the earpiece. Neither feature was available in other products.
The app, called Hearing Remote, is easy to use. However, like other brands, the app took a few times to recognize my devices, something the Audicus representative warned me about.
The Hearing Remote has four "environments" that determine how the devices amplify and filter sounds: Automatic, Conversation, Auditorium and Car/Plane.
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