Types of Hearing Aids

Common hearing aid styles include:

In-the-Ear (ITE)
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
In-the-Canal (ITC)
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC/RITE)
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
Completely-in-Canal (CIC)

When choosing a hearing aid style, it is important to consider:

Degree of hearing loss
Lifestyle
Common activities
Listening environments
Cosmetic preferences
Budget
Dexterity
Skin sensitivities
Comfort
Technology needs

In-the-Ear Hearing Aids

In-the-ear hearing aids are custom-fit based on an impression of your ear. These styles sit partially or completely inside the ear and may be a good choice for people who want a discreet, comfortable option.

In-the-ear styles include:

Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
In-the-Canal (ITC) / Half Shell
In-the-Ear (ITE) / Full Shell

Invisible-in-Canal Hearing Aids

Invisible-in-canal hearing aids are the smallest custom hearing aids available. They sit deep in the ear canal and are designed to be nearly invisible when worn. IIC hearing aids are typically best for mild to moderate hearing loss.

Completely-in-Canal Hearing Aids

Completely-in-canal hearing aids also fit deeply inside the ear canal. They are slightly larger than IIC devices but still very discreet. CIC hearing aids are often used for mild to moderate hearing loss.

In-the-Canal / Half Shell Hearing Aids

In-the-canal hearing aids sit in the lower portion of the outer ear. Because they are slightly larger, they may allow for additional features such as directional microphones, volume controls, and longer battery life. ITC hearing aids are commonly used for mild to moderate hearing loss.

In-the-Ear / Full Shell Hearing Aids

Full shell hearing aids fill more of the outer ear. Their larger size can allow for more power, easier handling, larger batteries, and additional features. ITE hearing aids may be appropriate for mild to severe hearing loss.

Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear hearing aids sit behind or on top of the outer ear. A small tube or wire connects the hearing aid to a dome, tip, or custom earmold inside the ear.

BTE styles are versatile and can support a wide range of hearing needs. Today’s designs are smaller, lighter, and more discreet than many people expect.

Behind-the-ear styles include:

Mini BTE
Receiver-in-Canal / Receiver-in-the-Ear
Behind-the-Ear with Earmold

Mini BTE Hearing Aids

Mini BTE hearing aids are designed to sit discreetly behind the ear. They use thin tubing to send sound into the ear canal, often with a soft tip that allows the ear to remain open and comfortable. This open-fit style is often recommended for mild to moderate hearing loss.

Receiver-in-Canal Hearing Aids

Receiver-in-canal hearing aids are one of the most popular modern hearing aid styles. The main device sits behind the ear while the receiver rests inside the ear canal. RIC hearing aids are discreet, comfortable, and powerful enough for many different hearing needs.

Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids with Earmolds

Traditional BTE hearing aids connect to a custom earmold inside the ear. This option is often recommended for people who need more power, have more significant hearing loss, or need a secure and comfortable fit.

Which Hearing Aid Style Is Right for You?

The best hearing aid style depends on your hearing test results, ear shape, lifestyle, dexterity, cosmetic preferences, and listening goals. During your appointment, our audiology team will help you compare your options and choose a hearing aid style that fits your comfort, hearing needs, and daily life.

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