JLab Hear OTC vs. Starkey Omega AI+
Check out our comparison of the JLab Hear OTC vs Starkey Omega AI+. Listen to audio samples and see how the two hearing aids differ in terms of sound performance, features, accessories, and more.
Product Overview
Expert Ratings
Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.
HearingTracker Score
The JLab HEAR OTC Hearing Aid offers an affordable and user-friendly solution for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, featuring customizable sound settings and a sleek design. Extensive testing reveals its effective performance in various environments, making it a reliable choice for everyday use.
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HearAdvisor SoundScore
JLab Hear OTC achieved a SoundScore of 3.5/5 and a SoundGrade of B in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #36 of 65 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.68/5.
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Build Quality
The portable charger is flimsy and HEAR have a lower egress rating of IPX4. However, with some extra care and cleaning they should hold up to regular daily use.
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Battery
HEAR do not offer enough power for all-day use with a battery life of 10 hours (less with streaming). The battery life is however respectable for a wireless earbud.
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Bluetooth
HEAR offer wireless connectivity for both iOS and Android users. I personally experienced stable streaming and phone calls with my iPhone 12.
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App Features
The JLab Hearing Health app offers a nice feature set for personalization. Some elements could be more user friendly, but it makes sense after a little troubleshooting.
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Comfort
HEAR are comfortable and had good retention in my ears. They completely seal your ear when worn properly but feel less “plugging” as they are lightweight.
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Design
This is highly personalized, but HEAR look like modern earbuds and distance themselves from the negative stigma some attribute to hearing aids.
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Value
JLab Hear OTC has a value score of 5.0/5 based on lab performance and public display price.
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Handling
I ran into a few issues with my initial Bluetooth pairing but HEAR and the touch controls work well otherwise.
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Pro Support
JLab falls short on actual hearing care as help is limited to their online Help Center and or standard Customer Support.
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Lab Recordings
Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.
Lab recordings not yet available
Lab recordings not yet available
Lab recordings not yet available
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
StarLink Charger 3.0
Charging station and carrying case for Omega AI+ mRIC R and RIC RT. Includes Turbo Charge.
StarLink Premium Charger 3.0+1
Charging station and carrying case with onboard battery for Omega AI+ mRIC R and RIC RT. Includes Turbo Charge.
StarLink Edge LE Adapter
Wireless accessory listed for Omega AI+; part P00018678. The supplied guide does not explain its operation.
StarLink Remote Control 2.0
The Starkey StarLink Remote Control 2.0 is designed to control compatible 2.4 GHz hearing aids. Users can adjust volume, switch programs, and activate features like Edge Mode or Comfort Boost.
StarLink Edge Remote Microphone
Remote microphone compatible with Omega AI hearing aids using Bluetooth LE Audio.
StarLink Edge Table Microphone
Table microphone compatible with Omega AI hearing aids for group conversations.
My Starkey
Designed with the input of hearing aid wearers, My Starkey pairs with select Starkey hearing aids to help you enjoy greater listening moments, improved well-being, and easier everyday living — all from the palm of your hand.
Hear Share
Works with My Starkey to share hearing aid usage, activity progress, and safety information with people chosen by the wearer.
StarLink Edge TV Streamer
Future-proof and Auracast ready, our Edge TV Streamer is 60% smaller than previous Starkey streamers and uses Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio protocol to stream audio straight from a TV to paired Edge AI hearing aids.
Hardware
- Bluetooth® (A2DP)
- SBC
- AAC
- Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
- Bluetooth® Auracast™
- Bluetooth® (HFP)
- Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
- Change program
- Accept/end calls
Software Features
- Always-on
- Automatic
- User Control
- Personalization
- App Control