Eargo Link vs. hear.com Horizon Go IX

Check out our comparison of the Eargo Link 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.

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0.0
Eargo Link
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Link

$799 per pair
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hear.com Horizon Go IX 7 IX
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Horizon Go IX 7 IX

$4,950 per pair
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Product Overview

Form Factor
EarbudForm FactorNon-custom earbud style device.
Receiver In The EarForm FactorThis type of hearing aid sits behind the ear. A wire runs along the top of the ear and down to a speaker sitting inside the ear canal. An custom-fitted mold may be required.
Expert Rating
Score
0.0
Score
0.0
User Rating
3.7
2 reviews
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Hearing Loss LevelHearing Loss LevelThis represents HearingTracker's best guess on suitability. Please consult a licensed audiologist to confirm your own candidacy for this device.
MildModerateSevereProfound
MildModerateSevereProfound
Product Features
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidTelecoil
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidTelecoilIP68

Expert Ratings

Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.

Link
Horizon Go IX
Link
3.5AVERAGE

The Link by Eargo is an over-the-counter hearing aid designed to offer discreet and user-friendly hearing enhancement. It features advanced sound processing technology, competitive pricing, and has been positively reviewed by independent labs for its performance and reliability.

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Horizon Go IX
4.2ABOVE AVERAGE

Horizon 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.

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Link
4.0ABOVE AVERAGE

The Eargo Link achieved a SoundGrade of B and ranked in the top 23% in the OTC Hearing Aid category. With a SoundScore of 4.00/5, it performs above the category average of 3.43, demonstrating competitive overall sound quality in HearAdvisor's standardized testing protocol.

Horizon Go IX
4.2ABOVE AVERAGE

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.

Link
3.8BELOW AVERAGE

The Eargo Link seem to be a slight regression in build quality and have an IP54 rating, which is lower than other Eargo models. This means they are not water-proof and will require extra care to continue working well long term.

Horizon Go IX
4.9EXCELLENT

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.

Link
2.9BELOW AVERAGE

I liked the portable charging case and magnetic locks. However, the 9 hour rechargeable battery life means they will not last all day and will be better suited for situational use rather than all-day hearing help.

Horizon Go IX
4.4ABOVE AVERAGE

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.

Link
5.0EXCELLENT

I was impressed with Eargo Link's audio quality for both streaming and hands-free calls. The Bluetooth 5.3 compatibility is a significant upgrade from Eargo's other products that don't support streaming.

Horizon Go IX
5.0EXCELLENT

Horizon Go IX are Bluetooth compatible with both iOS and Android devices, allowing for audio streaming and hands-free calling.

Link
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Horizon Go IX
5.0EXCELLENT

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.

Link
4.0AVERAGE

Link were moderately comfortable in my ears and feel like typical wireless earbuds. I was able to switch through the included ear tips to find the right fit for both comfort and sound quality.

Horizon Go IX
5.0EXCELLENT

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.

Link
4.5EXCELLENT

With their modern earbud-like appearance, Link is definitely more bold than other Eargo models. While I like the earbud look, you will have to decide whether you prefer a more discrete hearing aid option.

Horizon Go IX
4.2AVERAGE

Horizon IX features a modern, sleek design and is available in a variety of colors.

Link
3.6AVERAGE

The Eargo Link offers solid performance for its $799 price point, though several competitors in the same price range achieve higher scores.

Horizon Go IX
3.0BELOW AVERAGE

Hear.com Horizon Go IX has a value score of 3.0/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Link
3.5BELOW AVERAGE

Instead of typical multi-function buttons, Link uses touch sensors. These worked well, and more reliably than other products I've tested, though the app would be a nice addition for manual controls.

Horizon Go IX
4.8EXCELLENT

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.

Link
1.0BELOW AVERAGE

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.

Horizon Go IX
5.0EXCELLENT

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.

Lab Recordings

Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.

Busy CafeBusy CafeSpeech intelligibility improvement in loud environments
Quiet OfficeQuiet OfficeSpeech intelligibility improvement in quiet and moderate environments
Streaming MusicStreaming MusicStreaming music provides a full range of bass and treble
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.

Accessories

Compatible accessories for each hearing aid

Battery Charger
Link Charger

Link Charger

Battery Charger

Charges Link by Eargo OTC hearing aids.

Pure Charger

Pure Charger

Battery Charger

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.

Pure Portable Charger

Pure Portable Charger

Battery Charger+1

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.

Pure Dry&Clean Charger

Pure Dry&Clean Charger

Battery Charger+1

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.

Multi-Charger

Multi-Charger

Battery Charger

Stationary Signia charger compatible with multiple hearing aids.

Bluetooth Streamer
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StreamLine Mic

StreamLine Mic

Bluetooth Streamer+2

A wireless clip-on mic that streams audio to hearing aids from any Bluetooth device.

CROS System
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CROS Pure Charge&Go T AX

CROS Pure Charge&Go T AX

CROS System
Hearing Aid Dryer
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Pure Dry&Clean Charger

Pure Dry&Clean Charger

Hearing Aid Dryer+1

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.

Power Pack
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Pure Portable Charger

Pure Portable Charger

Power Pack+1

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.

Remote Adjustments
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Signia App

Signia App

Remote Adjustments+2

The Signia App provides a remote control, directional hearing control, telecare access, and access to connectivity and streaming settings.

Remote Control
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miniPocket

miniPocket

Remote Control

Enables push-button remote control of hearing aid functions.

Signia App

Signia App

Remote Control+2

The Signia App provides a remote control, directional hearing control, telecare access, and access to connectivity and streaming settings.

Remote Microphone
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StreamLine Mic

StreamLine Mic

Remote Microphone+2

A wireless clip-on mic that streams audio to hearing aids from any Bluetooth device.

Smartphone App
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Signia App

Signia App

Smartphone App+2

The Signia App provides a remote control, directional hearing control, telecare access, and access to connectivity and streaming settings.

Smartphone Streamer + Hands Free
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StreamLine Mic

StreamLine Mic

Smartphone Streamer + Hands Free+2

A wireless clip-on mic that streams audio to hearing aids from any Bluetooth device.

TV Streamer
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StreamLine TV

StreamLine TV

TV Streamer

Streams television sound to hearing aids over a distance of up to 30 feet (10 meters).

Hardware

Bluetooth® AudioBluetooth® AudioThis hearing aid is capable of streaming Bluetooth® audio certain phones and/or devices.
  • Bluetooth® (A2DP)
  • Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
  • Made for iPhone (MFi)
  • Android (ASHA)
Hands-Free CallingHands-Free CallingIt is possible to have a hands-free phone call with this hearing aid. You are not required to hold the phone up to your mouth.
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  • Made for iPhone (MFi)
  • Android (ASHA)
IP RatingIP RatingIP Ratings rate sealing effectiveness of hearing aids against intrusion from foreign solid matter (dirt, dust) and moisture.
No
IP68
Rechargeable BatteriesRechargeable BatteriesCharge your batteries overnight in a docking station and get a full day's use (in most cases) of battery life the following day.
Lithium-ion
Lithium-ion
Tap ControlsTap ControlsThe hearing aid may be controlled by physically tapping it with your fingers.
  • Change program
  • Accept/end calls
  • Pause/Resume
  • ANC On/Off
No
Volume RockerVolume RockerA volume rocker or wheel to allows the adjustment of volume with a finger.
No
Yes

Software Features

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)ANC is different than typical hearing aid noise reduction in that it reduces both steady state and dynamic background noise using sound wave inversion.
Yes
No
Adjustment BandsAdjustment BandsThese are frequency-divided sections that can be adjusted in a hearing aid in order to amplify sounds. Although there are rarely more than 10 frequencies measured in a hearing assessment, having more bands that can be adjusted may allow for improved speech understanding and user comfort.
No
16
Adjustment SynchronizationAdjustment SynchronizationThis feature allows for a more pleasant listening experience by ensuring that both hearing aids process sound the same way. If one hearing aid changes its processing in response to noise or speech, it will send a wireless signal to the other hearing aid so both process sound in the same way.
No
Yes
Direction SelectionDirection SelectionAllows the user to select one or more directions to focus their hearing aids on. For example, some hearing aids allow the listener to focus on sounds coming from in front or back, or from the right or left.
No
  • 5/5
DirectionalityDirectionalityDepending on the types and number of microphones a hearing aid has, the hearing aid may be able to boost sounds from specific directions (by reducing sounds from other directions). This can be helpful to focus on a speaker directly in front of the hearing aid user, as well as to give the user information about where different sounds are coming from.
No
Yes
Ear SimulationEar SimulationThe outer ear, or pinna, can have a significant effect on the frequency shape of sound arriving at your inner ear. Some hearing aids mimic the "pinna effect" when producing sound, to deliver more natural sound to the listener.
No
Yes
Echo ReductionEcho ReductionThis feature improves speech audibility by reducing the “blurring” of speech sounds that can occur in the presence of echoes.
No
Yes
Environmental AdaptationEnvironmental AdaptationThe hearing aid can detect different acoustical environments, like speech in noise, and adjust the sound of the hearing aid accordingly to drive comfort or speech understanding, etc.
No
Yes
Extended bandwidthExtended bandwidthHearing aid provides amplification at frequencies (pitches) higher than the typical hearing aid.
No
12kHz
Extended Dynamic RangeExtended Dynamic RangeExtended dynamic range typically makes louder sound clearer. This may help with the reproduction of loud music or loud speech in a very noisy environment.
No
Yes
Feedback SuppressionFeedback SuppressionIf any sound amplified by the hearing aid escapes the ear canal, it may reach the hearing aid’s own microphone and cause a harsh whistling noise. Some hearing aids are able to recognize when this feedback occurs and reduce or eliminate it.
Yes
Yes
Listening ProgramsListening ProgramsNumber of manually accessible listening programs (using push button, remote, app, or other switching method)
No
4
Noise ReductionNoise ReductionThis feature uses modern hearing aids’ processing power to examine the incoming sound signal, determine if noise is present and reduce the volume of the troublesome sound to increase comfort.
Yes
SoundSmoothing™: 3
Own Voice ComfortOwn Voice ComfortAmplification is applied differently to your own voice versus the other voices around you. This allows adequate amplification of people you want to hear and no over-amplification of your own voice.
No
Yes
Processing ChannelsProcessing ChannelsThese are all the frequency-divided sections the hearing aid is able to examine at a single time. The hearing aid uses this information to determine whether the contents of each section are noise, speech, or something else and amplify the sound in each section accordingly.
No
36
Tinnitus ReliefTinnitus ReliefTinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be addressed by hearing aids in several different ways, such as introducing a soft therapeutic signal or targeted notched noise.
No
Yes
Unique Amplification StrategyUnique Amplification StrategyHearing aids all process sounds a little bit differently. Sometimes it varies even within one model.
No
Conversation Booster: 5/5
Wind Noise ReductionWind Noise ReductionAs wind blows against the microphones of hearing aids, unpleasant noise may be generated. Some hearing aids have the ability to recognize this wind noise and reduce its level. Such reductions may also affect the audibility of desired sounds, like speech.
No
Yes