As an audiologist, I would like to provide an overview of the recent advancements in the hearing aid market. A decade ago, individuals with hearing loss were limited to purchasing low-quality PSAPs or investing in professionally programmed hearing aids cost between $3,500-$8,000. Nowadays, there is a greater range of options, thanks to the FDA’s creation of a new class of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. These options include:
- Cheap PSAPs for a few hundred dollars
- Customizable OTC hearing aids $600-$1,200
- Remotely programmed hearing aids through services like Jabra Enhance for $1,200-$2,000
- Purchasing and programming prescription-level hearing aids through a local or in-home audiologist for $3,000-$8,000
- See more about the breakdown of costs over the life of hearing aid devices.
I will focus on Go Hearing OTC hearing aids. Go hearing aids come in two technology levels – Prime for $299/pair and Lite for $199/pair. Purchase them directly from the Go Hearing website (affiliate link).
They sit inside the ear, and are not fully invisible but won’t interfere with masks and glasses. Go Prime offers multiple listening programs and rechargeable batteries, while Lite offers fewer features and requires a tool for volume adjustments.
The sound quality of Go Lite and Go Prime hearing aids won’t compete with traditional hearing aids, but they did better than expected. Prime did well in amplifying voices but struggled with background noise, while Lite had even more difficulty in this area. Overall, I recommend Prime over Lite for those looking for a low-cost alternative to try out hearing aids.
A major downside of these aids is battery life. The devices will only last 3-4 hours before they need to be recharged.
Maximizing Value: What to Expect from a Budget Hearing Aid
Hearing loss can be a challenging experience, but purchasing a hearing aid doesn’t have to break the bank. Budget-friendly options are widely available and offer a range of benefits for those seeking to improve their hearing. Whether you are looking to save money or simply prefer a more affordable option, here are some of the features you can expect from a cheap hearing aid.
Basic Amplification
The primary function of any hearing aid is to amplify sound, and cheap options are no exception. Budget hearing aids are designed to make sounds louder, providing a more comfortable listening experience for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. With basic amplification, you can expect improved hearing in a variety of environments, such as in conversation or while watching TV.
Simplified Design
Cheap hearing aids are often more straightforward in design, making them easier to use and less complex than their more expensive counterparts. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are new to hearing aids or who prefer a more streamlined solution.
With a professionally fit hearing aid, the hearing aid would be crafted to fit perfectly and comfortably in your ear.
Affordable Price Point
One of the most significant benefits of a budget hearing aid is the lower cost compared to more advanced options. For those on a tight budget, a cheap hearing aid can provide improved hearing without the financial strain.
Durability
Budget hearing aids are designed with limited durability in mind, make sure you take care of your device well. If it breaks it may be cheaper to purchase a new one vs trying to get the aid repaired.
Basic Features
While cheap hearing aids may not offer all the bells and whistles of more advanced models, they still come with essential features. For example, some budget options come with volume control, allowing you to adjust the sound levels to your preference. Additionally, some options come with basic noise reduction, which can help reduce background noise in noisy environments.
In conclusion, Go Lite and Go Prime can provide a cost-effective solution for those seeking improved hearing. With basic amplification, a simplified design, an affordable price point, durability, and essential features, budget hearing aids can provide a solid foundation for those seeking to improve their hearing. It’s important to remember that while a cheap hearing aid may not offer all the advanced features of a more expensive option, it can still provide substantial benefits for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
We know you get what you pay for ultimately. If you are interested, check out Go Hearing website (affiliate link). Learn more about the difference between PSAP, OTC hearing aids, and professionally fit devices in this next article.