Check out our comparison of the Eargo 8 vs hear.com Horizon 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.
Eargo 8 is Eargo's latest flagship OTC hearing aid, featuring automatic sound environment adjustments, enhanced audio fidelity, and patented device-health monitoring. Designed for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss, it emphasizes user convenience, extended battery life, and robust customer support.
Read full reviewHorizon Go IX is a top-tier, Signia-based rechargeable RIC that pairs excellent lab-verified speech performance with standout hands-free Bluetooth and a genuinely useful app suite, though its music streaming is only average for the open-fit form factor and many “unique” perks mirror what you can get from comparable WSA models.
Read full reviewEargo 8 achieved a SoundScore of 2.85/5 and a SoundGrade of C in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #39 of 61 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.
Hear.com Horizon Go IX achieved a SoundScore of 4.16/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #14 of 35 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.91/5.
Eargo 8 hearing aids appear to be well build with an IP68 rating, offering great protection against moisture and debris. The portable charging case is also a nice addition and should protect Eargo well when not in use.
Horizon Go IX have an impressive build quality, featuring a top-of-the-line IP68 ingress rating. They also come with a robust portable charging case.
Eargo are extremely small making their 16 hour rechargeable battery life impressive. The case offers additional on-the-go power and I found the magnetic charging bays a nice easy to use addition.
Horizon hearing aids offer an impressive 28 hours of use per charge, which is plenty to get you through the day. Recharging takes around 3 hours, but you can always get an addition 6 hours of use if needed with Horizon’s 30-minute quick charge feature.
Horizon Go IX are Bluetooth compatible with both iOS and Android devices, allowing for audio streaming and hands-free calling.
I found Eargo's app to be packed full of useful features like the Sound Match hearing assessment and automatic noise reduction controls. You have plenty of options for personalization though adjustments are not always reliable as Eargo relies on phone speaker commands instead of Bluetooth.
The Horizon app has a user-friendly interface and modern, appealing design. It includes practical features like the ability to control the focus of your hearing aids and a tonal balance slider. Additionally, you will find preset modes which can help improve your listening experience depending on the environment you are in.
Comfort will vary by individuals depending on your tolerance to a deeper fitting hearing aid. Overall, I found them moderately comfortable through they can cause a tickling ear sensation due to their fit.
I found Horizon 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.
Eargo's instant-fit, completely-in-the-canal, style is unique discrete. If you are interested in a nearly-invisible OTC hearing aid you will love their design.
Horizon IX features a modern, sleek design and is available in a variety of colors.
Eargo 8 has a value score of 2.0/5 based on lab performance and public display price.
Hear.com Horizon Go IX has a value score of 3.0/5 based on lab performance and public display price.
Handling can be challenging with Eargo 8 due to the small size and reliance on tap controls. Furthermore, Eargo relies on acoustic indicators for wireless communication, which is less reliable than Bluetooth and caused me several problems.
I did not run into any issues while using Horizon Go 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.
Eargo is one of the first direct to consumer hearing aids, but support is unfortunately limited to to their Client Care team and personal hearing professionals. While Eargo claims they work alongside audiologists, it is not the same as direct professional hearing care.
You should receive quality hearing care and support from your Hear.com provider. The Horizon app should further enhance your experience with easier access to useful setting adjustments.
Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.
Compatible accessories for each hearing aid
The Eargo 8 charger is a compact, USB-C and wireless-compatible case that provides up to 14 full charges, with clear LED indicators for device and case battery levels, Bluetooth pairing, and error states. It includes cradles with charging contacts, a reset button, and requires regular cleaning to ensure optimal device performance and hygiene.
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.
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.
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 Signia App provides a remote control, directional hearing control, telecare access, and access to connectivity and streaming settings.
The Eargo app allows users to perform Sound Match personalization, select listening programs, and control volume and tone.
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.
A wireless clip-on mic that streams audio to hearing aids from any Bluetooth device.
The Eargo app allows users to perform Sound Match personalization, select listening programs, and control volume and tone.
The Signia App provides a remote control, directional hearing control, telecare access, and access to connectivity and streaming settings.
A wireless clip-on mic that streams audio to hearing aids from any Bluetooth device.
Streams television sound to hearing aids over a distance of up to 30 feet (10 meters).