Fortell AI Hearing Aids vs. MDHearingAid Neo XS

Fortell AI Hearing Aids are rechargeable RIC devices that use Spatial AI to separate speech from background noise in real time. The new AI 2.0 software upgrade retrains that system on more real-world sound data to improve speech clarity in noise while maintaining natural-sounding voices.

Neo XS is an instant-fit in-ear OTC hearing aid that offers improvements in MDHearing's product line in terms of rechargeable battery life, audio processing, and size. However, our lab testing found its performance underwhelming.

Fortell AI Hearing Aids achieved a SoundScore of 6.0/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 4.19/5.

MDHearing Neo XS achieved a SoundScore of 2.9/5 and a SoundGrade of C in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #63 of 65 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.68/5.

Fortell AI Hearing Aids feel well built, though their IP54 rating offers less water and debris resistance than many prescription hearing aids, which commonly carry a higher IP68 rating. As with any hearing aid, regular cleaning and proper care will help keep them performing well over time.

Neo XS do not have an ingress rating but they appear to be well built. The charging case feels sturdy and should offer good protection when Neo XS are recharging or otherwise not in use.

Fortell states that its hearing aids last around 24 hours per charge in the default All-day AI mode, so they should easily last a full day even if you rely heavily on the more processing-intensive “All voices” or “Front voices” programs.

Neo XS offers internal rechargeable batteries lasting up to 18 hours. This should be enough to get you through your day without needing a recharge.

While Fortell AI Hearing Aids support hands-free calling and audio streaming on iOS devices, they currently do not support Android, and the company has not announced a timeline for Android compatibility.

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The Fortell app offers useful controls for volume, a 3-band EQ, and several AI listening modes. While I found it easy to use and sufficiently flexible, it is more limited than many competing apps, with no tinnitus features, health tracking, or other extras.

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I found Fortell AI Hearing Aids comfortable and similar in fit to other prescription receiver-in-canal hearing aids. Although the body is slightly larger than many competing devices, it should fit comfortably behind most ears without interfering with glasses or causing retention issues. Your provider can help you fine-tune your fit in office.

Neo XS are relatively comfortable in ear. However, using the button caused minor discomfort as it required some force which pushed the hearing aid deeper into my ear.

Fortell AI Hearing Aids use a familiar receiver-in-canal design with a slightly larger body than many other "micro" prescription devices. However, they remain fairly discreet behind the ear. Several colors are currently available with more to come later in 2026.

Neo XS are smaller than other MDHearing aids and many OTC products. If you are interested in discrete hearing aids Neo XS are nearly invisible in your ears.

Fortell AI Hearing Aids has a value score of 3.2/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

MDHearing Neo XS has a value score of 3.9/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

I found Fortell AI Hearing Aids easy to use and comparable to other receiver-in-canal devices. The app, charging case, and physical buttons all worked well, making day-to-day handling straightforward and giving me easy access to the controls I needed.

Neo XS are relatively small hearing aids which may be difficult for individuals with vision and or dexterity issues. This should not be a problem for most but MDHearing does offer assistance from licensed professionals if needed.

Fortell AI Hearing Aids are professionally fit and supported, but access is currently more limited than with major prescription hearing aid brands. In-person care is available in only a handful of major metropolitan areas, though additional clinics are planned. Fortell also offers fully remote care across 30 states, which expands access considerably for those comfortable with telehealth.

MDHearing does not offer in-person support or remote programming. You do however receive free lifetime phone and online help from their licensed hearing professionals. This is a nice offering especially if you are new to hearing aids.