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hear.com Horizon Go IX vs. Oticon Zeal

Check out our comparison of the hear.com Horizon Go IX vs Oticon Zeal. Listen to audio samples and see how the two hearing aids differ in terms of sound performance, features, accessories, and more.

Score
4.2
hear.com Horizon Go IX 7 IX
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hear.com

Horizon Go IX 7 IX

SoundScore 4.2/5
$4,950 per pair
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Score
4.3
Oticon Zeal 1
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Oticon

Zeal 1

SoundScore 4.3/5
$4,598 per pair
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Horizon Go IX
$4,950 per pair
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Zeal
$4,598 per pair
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Product Overview

Horizon Go IX
Zeal
Form Factor
Form 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.
Form FactorNon-custom device that typically sits completely inside the ear canal. Some of the device may be visible to the naked eye.
Expert Rating
Score
4.2
Score
4.3
User Rating
—
3.71 reviews
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.
MildModerateSevere
MildModerateSevere
Product Features
Hands-freeRechargeableAndroidIP68
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidIP68

Expert Ratings

Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.

Horizon Go IX
Zeal

HearingTracker Score

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.

Read full review
Zeal
4.3ABOVE AVERAGE

Oticon Zeal is an instant-fit, nearly invisible, rechargeable prescription hearing aid with AI-driven processing and modern Bluetooth LE Audio connectivity for Android and Apple iOS.

Read full review

HearAdvisor SoundScore

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.

Zeal
4.3ABOVE AVERAGE

Oticon Zeal achieved a SoundScore of 4.26/5 in HearAdvisor lab testing. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.91/5.

Build Quality

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.

Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT

Zeal offer excellent moisture and dust protection with an ingress rating of IP68. Both the hearing aids and case are well build and ready for daily use.

Battery

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.

Zeal
4.2ABOVE AVERAGE

With a battery life of up to 20 hours, Zeal should last you all day.

Bluetooth

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.

Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT

I found Zeal to offer easy and stable wireless connection. Their audio quality while streaming music, and during hands-free calling, was good and comparable to other prescription hearing aids.

App Features

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.

Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT

I found the Companion app easy to navigate and use. Other prescription hearing aid companies offer more in-depth health features, but there is still plenty of opportunity to customize settings from your mobile device. The HearingFitness component is also a nice feature for those who like to actively track their progress.

Comfort

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.

Zeal
4.8EXCELLENT

Oticon Zeal were extremely comfortable and lightweight in my ears. In general, hearing care providers can make numerous physical changes to prescription hearing aids like Zeal to improve comfort.

Design

Horizon Go IX
4.2AVERAGE

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

Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT

Zeal are sleek, easy to use, in-the-ear prescription hearing aids. They are nearly invisible in the ear which is extremely impressive given their battery life and wireless capabilities.

Value

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.

Zeal
3.2BELOW AVERAGE

Oticon Zeal has a value score of 3.2/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Handling

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.

Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT

Zeal are easy to use and adjust with the Oticon Companion app. I had no issues making adjustments while testing them.

Pro Support

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.

Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT

Prescription hearing aids like Zeal are fit by hearing care providers so you should receive quality care. The Oticon Companion app also opens the possibility for remote programming and virtual follow-up appointments.

Lab Recordings

Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.

Horizon Go IX
Zeal
Busy CafeBusy CafeSpeech intelligibility improvement in loud environments
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Horizon Go IX
Zeal
Quiet OfficeQuiet OfficeSpeech intelligibility improvement in quiet and moderate environments
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Horizon Go IX
Zeal
Streaming MusicStreaming MusicStreaming music provides a full range of bass and treble
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Horizon Go IX
Zeal

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

Horizon Go IX
Zeal
Battery Charger

Pure 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+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+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

Stationary Signia charger compatible with multiple hearing aids.

None
Bluetooth Streamer

StreamLine Mic+2

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

None
CROS System

CROS Pure Charge&Go T AX

None
Remote Control

miniPocket

Enables push-button remote control of hearing aid functions.

Signia App+2

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

None
TV Streamer

StreamLine TV

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

None

Hardware

Horizon Go IX
Zeal
Bluetooth® AudioBluetooth® AudioThis hearing aid is capable of streaming Bluetooth® audio certain phones and/or devices.
  • Made for iPhone (MFi)
  • Android (ASHA)
  • Made for iPhone (MFi)
  • Android (ASHA)
  • Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
  • Bluetooth® Auracast™
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.
  • Made for iPhone (MFi)
  • Android (ASHA)
  • 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.
IP68
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.
No
  • Volume Control
  • Change program
  • Accept/end calls
  • Tinnitus program
Volume RockerVolume RockerA volume rocker or wheel to allows the adjustment of volume with a finger.
Yes
No

Software Features

Horizon Go IX
Zeal
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.
16
24
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.
e2e wireless 4.0e2e wireless 4.0Control coupling, synchronization, binaural directionality, Spatial Speech Focus, CROS/ BiCROS.
No
AI Noise RemovalAI Noise RemovalArtificial Intelligence is utilized to remove or modify background noise from the sound signal to help isolate speech for better speech understanding.
No
Neural Noise Suppression: 12 dB / 6 dBNeural Noise SuppressionThe Deep Neural Network is part of MoreSound Intelligence™, which gives precise analysis and balancing of the full sound scene.
Better Ear FocusBetter Ear FocusSome modern hearing aids can share sound from one ear to the other. In some cases the sound from the less noisy side can be shared to the other ear, enabling the listener to hear a cleaner sound in both ears.
No
Better-Ear PriorityBetter-Ear PrioritySome modern hearing aids can share sound from one ear to the other. In some cases the sound from the less noisy side can be shared to the other ear, enabling the listener to hear a cleaner sound in both ears.
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.
  • 5/5
No
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.
Binaural DirectionalityBinaural DirectionalityDirectionality provides scientifically proven enhanced speech understanding in noise. Available for bilateral fittings with directional microphones and e2e wireless link.Panorama EffectPanorama EffectWearers can effortlessly switch their hearing aid settings from focused speech comprehension to a 360° auditory experience, capturing the full soundscape of their surroundings.Spatial SpeechFocusSpatial SpeechFocusAvailable for bilateral fittings with Ultra HD e2e.Speech FocusSpeech FocusIn the Universal Program, SpeechFocus steers the directional beam either to surround mode for side speech or to the rear. In manual programs, microphone beam to the right/left/rear directions.
No
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.
TruEar 360TruEar 360Reproduces benefits of the natural pinna effect by highlighting the difference between front and back sources of sound.
Virtual Outer Ear: 3 configurationsVirtual Outer EarThree realistic models of the ear pinna to provide better spatial balance.
Echo ReductionEcho ReductionThis feature improves speech audibility by reducing the “blurring” of speech sounds that can occur in the presence of echoes.
Auto EchoShieldAuto EchoShieldAutomatically creates a more comfortable hearing experience in high-reverb environments leading to increased speech clarity and natural room perceptions.
No
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.
Conversation Dynamics AnalyzerConversation Dynamics AnalyzerPrecisely analyzing conversation dynamics 1,000 times per second including turntaking and timing, locations of pure noise without speech, and levels of background noise.Conversation Source AnalyzerConversation Source AnalyzerConstantly scouts the acoustic environment to identify number of talkers and their location, precisely analyzing 1,000 times per second.RealTime Conversation EnhancementRealTime Conversation EnhancementProvides uninterrupted engagement in noisy group conversations by seamlessly tracking the locations of all conversation partners and enhancing their speech.
No
Extended bandwidthExtended bandwidthHearing aid provides amplification at frequencies (pitches) higher than the typical hearing aid.
12kHz
Yes
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.
Yes
Clear DynamicsClear DynamicsClear Dynamics expands the input dynamic range, processing input sounds up to 113 dB SPL, to provide better sound quality without distortion and artifact at loud input levels, while still keeping the sound quality of soft input levels intact. Clear Dynamics has an operating range from 5 to 113 dB SPL. With speech cues preserved at high input levels, users enjoy a better listening experience without distortion even in loud environments. Clear Dynamics is especially valuable for users when listening to music or in conversations in busy, dynamic environments, where peaks can often be louder than the available input dynamic range.
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.
Feedback cancellationFeedback cancellationHigh-speed monitoring and control of feedback risk in individual processing channels.
Feedback ShieldFeedback ShieldEmploys an ultra-fast and effective feedback management system that prevents feedback without compromising sound quality or audibility.MoreSound Optimizer™MoreSound Optimizer™MoreSound Optimizer (MSO) and Feedback shield work together to counteract acoustic feedback from the receiver to the microphone to prevent audible feedback and gain reductions.
Frequency LoweringFrequency LoweringUnderstanding certain speech sounds is dependent on the high frequency parts of these sounds. For individuals with high frequency hearing loss, this feature can take high frequency speech information and move it to lower frequencies where it will be audible.
No
Speech Rescue™Speech Rescue™Makes high frequency sounds more audible
Handling noise reductionHandling noise reductionReduces noises related to hearing aid movement on the ear and noises related to hands or objects touching the hearing aid while worn.
No
Wind & Handling StabilizerWind & Handling StabilizerWind & Handling Stabilizer detects and filters wind and handling noises 500 times per second. It selects the microphone with the cleanest sound input, preventing disruptive sound from entering the system. It then attenuates remaining wind and handling noises from the other microphone efficiently and only in the frequencies affected by the noise. This provides a cleaner sound for further processing in MSI 3.0, helping hearing aid users go about their day in comfort.
Listening ProgramsListening ProgramsNumber of manually accessible listening programs (using push button, remote, app, or other switching method)
4
4
New User AdaptationNew User AdaptationProvider may set the hearing aid to gradually get louder over the first few weeks or months of a new hearing aid fitting. This can be convenient for new users who want to experience maximum benefit without making a lot of trips to the provider for tune ups.
No
Adaptation ManagementAdaptation ManagementAdapts in 3 steps for gradual user acclimatization to a new hearing aid
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.
SoundSmoothing™: 3SoundSmoothing™Reduces the sound of clattering cutlery and rustling newspaper, etc.
No
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.
OVP™ 2.0OVP™ 2.0Processes the wearer's own voice independent from ambient sounds, providing improved speech clarity and a natural perception of their own voice as well as background noise.
No
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.
36
64
Soft Speech BoostSoft Speech BoostMore aggressive amplification for softer speech sounds
No
Soft Speech BoosterSoft Speech BoosterImproves soft speech understanding without turning up the volume.
Spatial AwarenessSpatial AwarenessListening to sound through hearing aids is not a natural experience, and your ability to tell where a sound is coming from may be impacted by the way sounds are amplified with hearing aids. Some hearing aids attempt to fix this problem by preserving cues to sound localization like between-ear level differences, etc.
No
Spatial Sound™: 4 estimatorsSpatial Sound™Improves ability to locate the most interesting sounds.
Spatial Noise CancellationSpatial Noise CancellationThis feature recognizes where sounds are coming from and can reduce noise coming from behind or to the side of the listener. This helps the listener focus on the speaker, usually in front of them.
No
Spatial Balancer: 100%Spatial BalancerSpatial Balancer increases the SNR by suppressing individual noise sources, placing them in the background and thereby creating a balanced sound scene.
Streaming Bass BoostStreaming Bass BoostBoosts bass when streaming audio
No
Power bassPower bassBoosts bass when streaming.
Sudden Loud Noise ReductionSudden Loud Noise ReductionThis feature detects loud sounds and reduces their volume to a comfortable level. Though not a replacement for hearing protection, this technology can greatly improve listener comfort.
No
SuddenSound Stabilizer: 6 ConfigurationsSuddenSound StabilizerSuddenSound Stabilizer monitors the sound environment and instantly adapts amplification to keep both soft and loud sudden sounds available, balanced, and comfortable.
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.
Yes
Tinnitus SoundSupport™Tinnitus SoundSupport™Select from a wide range of customizable tinnitus relief sounds that are dynamic, yet soothing — including broadband sounds (white, pink and red noise) and natural, ocean-like sounds.
Unique Amplification StrategyUnique Amplification StrategyHearing aids all process sounds a little bit differently. Sometimes it varies even within one model.
Conversation Booster: 5/5
Environment classifierEnvironment classifierAllows clinician to determine where you need hearing help in your daily life.MoreSound Amplifier 3.0MoreSound Amplifier 3.0Sound processing occurs in an adaptive path setup that gives priority to resolution or speed, based on the current sound scene. Including SuddenSound Stabilizer that provides instant and balanced amplification of both soft and loud sudden sounds.MoreSound Intelligence 3.0MoreSound Intelligence 3.0Prevents wind and handling noise from entering the processing in the hearing aid for more comfort and better access to speech. Uses 4D Sensor technology to create a clearer and more distinct contrast between sounds, precisely organizing the spatial sound scene, and intelligently suppressing unwanted noise through the second-generation Deep Neural Network 2.0.Sound EnhancerSound EnhancerDynamic gain primarily for speech, given in complex environments.
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.
eWindScreen binauraleWindScreen binauralBinaural processing of the audio signal (using Ultra HD e2e) delivers superb performance in asymmetrical wind environments.
Wind & Handling StabilizerWind & Handling StabilizerWind & Handling Stabilizer detects and filters wind and handling noises 500 times per second. It selects the microphone with the cleanest sound input, preventing disruptive sound from entering the system. It then attenuates remaining wind and handling noises from the other microphone efficiently and only in the frequencies affected by the noise. This provides a cleaner sound for further processing in MSI 3.0, helping hearing aid users go about their day in comfort.