Check out our comparison of the Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Signia Pure Charge&Go IX. Listen to audio samples and see how the two hearing aids differ in terms of sound performance, features, accessories, and more.
Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are wireless earbuds that offer hearing aid functionality. Our tests show they effectively amplify speech in everyday situations. While background noise can be challenging, proper tuning and reducing ambient noise reduction pushes the AirPods Pro 3 closer to being a truly competitive OTC hearing aid.
Read full reviewI was very impressed with the Signia Pure Charge&Go IX's overall design, sound performance, and app capabilities. These cutting-edge hearing aids offer advanced features such as hands-free calling, iOS and Android streaming, and a robust 39-hour battery life.
Read full reviewApple AirPods Pro 3 achieved a SoundScore of 3.38/5 and a SoundGrade of B in HearAdvisor lab testing. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.
Signia Pure C&G BCT IX achieved a SoundScore of 4.49/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #8 of 35 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.91/5.
The build quality is solid with a pocket-worthy portable case. AirPods 3 also have a slightly improved IP57 rating meaning they should offer better protection from debris and moisture. AirPods commonly last around 2-3 years.
Pure C&G BCT IX have an impressive build quality, featuring a top-of-the-line IP68 ingress rating. They also come with a robust portable charging case.
Airpods Pro 3 offer around 10 hours of use per charge with their Hearing Aid feature. This is an improvement over the previous generation. While this still may not be enough for all-day use, recharge time is fast with several quick-charge options.
Pure C&G BCT IX hearing aids offer around 39 hours of use per charge, which is plenty to get you through the day. Recharging takes 3 to 4 hours, which is longer than some other models, but this isn't a significant drawback given their exceptional battery life.
I have found Bluetooth to work almost flawlessly on iPhones, offering a solid connection every time. I can't speak for Android devices though Apple reports they are fully compatible with other Bluetooth devices.
Pure BCT IX are Bluetooth compatible with both iOS and Android devices, allowing for audio streaming and hands-free calling.
AirPods Pro 3 offer impressive and useful features to aid speech clarity. I particularly like the ability to take an app based hearing test, or directly upload hearing thresholds. While the menu system is not user-friendly, you also have other options for personalizing your experience such as active noise cancellation.
Signia's app stands out with its user-friendly interface and modern, appealing design. It includes practical features like the ability to control the focus of your hearing aids and a mask mode to enhance speech clarity. Additionally, the app offers wellness features, utilizing hearing aid motion sensors for activity tracking.
AirPods Pro 3 are generally comfortable, though my initial impressions favor the fit of the previous Gen 2. With that said, Apple claims to have improved the overall fit with improved ergonomics and new foam-infused ear tips.
I found Pure BCT IX to be very comfortable thanks to their ergonomic shape and earwire design. Your hearing care provider should ensure they are fitted for optimal comfort and hearing benefit.
AirPods Pro are unmistakably Apple with their sleek, bright white, aesthetic. You will want to look elsewhere if you are searching for a discrete hearing solution. Furthermore, earbuds are commonly associated with being distracted or disconnected and people will not know that you are using them as hearing aids to stay present and engaged in conversation.
Pure BCT IX features a modern, sleek design and is available in a variety of colors, from discreet to bold.
Apple AirPods Pro 3 has a value score of 5.0/5 based on lab performance and public display price.
Signia Pure C&G BCT IX has a value score of 3.6/5 based on lab performance and public display price.
I find Bluetooth pairing and general use exceptionally easy. However, navigating the deeper personalization features, and touch controls, could be more user friendly.
I did not run into any issues while using Pure BCT IX hearing aids. They are very easy to use once setup by your hearing care provider. First-time users may need some practice to get accustomed to inserting the receiver-in-ear style properly.
You can receive technical support from Apple, but no audiologic support is offered at this time. You may be able to find a hearing care provider willing to assist with programming your AirPods Pro based on your needs.
You should receive quality hearing care and support from your provider. The Signia App should enhance your experience with AI assistance and user-friendly virtual appointments, given your provider offers telehealth services.
Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.
HearingTracker partners with HearAdvisor to provide recordings and performance data from an acoustic laboratory that follows standard scientific procedures. All hearing aids are fitted and performance-tested for mild sloping to moderate hearing loss. All audio samples cutoff above 10kHz.
Compatible accessories for each hearing aid
This small desktop charger addresses basic needs when it comes to providing power to the hearing aids. 2 LEDs indicate the charging status (one per hearing aid). The Pure Charger can be plugged into the mains via USB to a power adapter.
This charger offers comfort and charging on the go. Its power bank allows for 3 full charges of a pair of hearing aids. A lid protects the hearing aids and prevents dust accumulating in the charger. 2 LEDs indicate the charging status (one per hearing aid) and one for the integrated power bank. All of the chargers are available with the power plug.
The Pure Dry&Clean Charger not only charges the hearing aids but also offers UVC cleaning and drying technology to keep the hearing aids in peak condition. The UVC cleaning starts automatically when the hearing aids are placed inside and is completed in just 15 minutes. 3 LEDs per hearing aid indicate their charging status and an additional LED indicates the cleaning status. The Pure Dry&Clean Charger also has a lid to ensure optimal cleaning and storage of the hearing aids.
Stationary Signia charger compatible with multiple hearing aids.
A wireless clip-on mic that streams audio to hearing aids from any Bluetooth device.
Enables push-button remote control of hearing aid functions.
The Signia App provides a remote control, directional hearing control, telecare access, and access to connectivity and streaming settings.
Streams television sound to hearing aids over a distance of up to 30 feet (10 meters).
The Signia TV Sound is a high-quality stereo audio streaming device designed to deliver clear TV audio directly to Bluetooth-enabled Signia hearing aids. It connects to a TV via an analog or optical cable and requires a USB power source. Pairing is simple—users turn on the device, restart their hearing aids, and place them within 20 cm to establish a connection. Once paired, audio streaming can be controlled via the Signia app, allowing users to start, pause, and adjust the volume effortlessly. This device enhances the TV listening experience for Signia hearing aid users by providing direct, latency-free sound transmission.