MDHearingAid Neo XS vs. Nuance Audio Hearing Glasses

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.

Nuance Audio Glasses seamlessly combine prescription eyewear with discreet over-the-counter hearing enhancement, offering solid performance in speech clarity but with some limitations in battery life and audio streaming.

MDHearing Neo XS achieved a SoundScore of 2.47/5 and a SoundGrade of C in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #47 of 61 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.

Nuance Audio Glasses achieved a SoundScore of 4.13/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #12 of 61 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.47/5.

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.

Nuance Audio Hearing Glasses have an IPX4 rating, which means they can withstand light splashes of water but may require extra care to ensure long-term reliability. Fortunately, their delicate components are less susceptible to moisture damage since they aren't positioned inside the ear like traditional hearing aids.

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.

Nuance Hearing Glasses use internal lithium-ion batteries that provide up to 8 hours of use. To extend battery life throughout the day, Nuance recommends using them situationally and turning them off when not needed. Recharging takes approximately 3 hours.

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The Nuance Audio mobile app is user-friendly and available for both iOS and Android devices. It includes useful features such as volume control, microphone directionality, and noise reduction. Nuance hearing glasses are preset-based and use 4 default programs for adjustment, but they are not customizable based on a hearing test.

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.

Nuance Hearing Glasses are comfortable, lightweight, and fit similarly to other broad-rimmed eyeglasses. If you're accustomed to wearing both glasses and hearing aids, you may feel less encumbered since there's no need to fit both glasses and hearing aids on your ear.

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.

Nuance Audio currently offers two frame styles that may appeal to different aesthetic preferences. However, the frames are larger than traditional eyeglasses to accommodate the internal hearing components.

MDHearing Neo XS has a value score of 3.4/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Nuance Audio Glasses has a value score of 3.0/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

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.

Nuance Audio Hearing Glasses are easy to use, especially if you're already accustomed to wearing glasses. However, care is required when placing them on the charger, as they must be in a specific orientation to magnetically lock and charge properly.

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.

Nuance Audio Hearing Glasses can be ordered and picked up in-store, where a vision professional will provide basic fitting guidance. Remote technical support is also available online and through the Nuance Audio mobile app. However, remote programming and support from a hearing specialist is not currently offered.