MDHearingAid Neo XS vs. Signia Silk Charge&Go IX

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.

The Signia Silk Charge&Go IX is a groundbreaking, rechargeable completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aid designed for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. It offers up to 28 hours of battery life, instant fit with soft silicone ear tips, and wireless control via the Signia app, but lacks Bluetooth streaming and can be challenging to handle due to its small size.

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.

Signia Silk Charge&Go IX achieved a SoundScore of 3.7/5 and a SoundGrade of B in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #32 of 39 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 4.19/5.

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.

Signia Silk C&G IX have an impressive build quality, featuring a top-of-the-line IP68 ingress rating, which is crucial for nearly invisible hearing aids. They also come with a durable portable charging case.

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.

Silk IX provide up to 20 hours of use per charge which is exceptional given their extremely small size. Recharging takes up to 4 hours, which is longer than some other models, but this isn't a significant drawback given their all-day battery life.

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While Silk IX hearing aids are not Bluetooth compatible, they still work with Signia's app using high-frequency coded signals. This is a valuable addition, although the communication is less stable than Bluetooth and the app offers fewer features compared to other Signia models.

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.

I found Silk IX very comfortable for an instant-fit nearly invisible hearing aid. Your hearing care provider should ensure they are fitted for optimal comfort and hearing benefit.

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.

Silk IX is another unique offering from Signia, featuring an instant fit design with silicone ear tips that is nearly invisible. Its extremely small and discreet design may, however, pose challenges for those with limited dexterity and or vision.

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

Signia Silk Charge&Go IX has a value score of 2.8/5 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.

I did not run into any issues while using Silk IX hearing aids. They are very easy to use once setup by your hearing care provider. Silk also have large color indicators making it easy to distinguish the left from the right hearing aids.

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.

You should receive quality hearing care and support from your provider. The Signia App should further enhance your experience with AI help and remote assistance should your provider offer telehealth services.