MDHearingAid Neo XS vs. Sony CRE-C10 Self-Fitting OTC

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 Sony CRE-C10 is a discreet, over-the-counter hearing aid designed for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. It features a self-fitting app-based system, impressive sound quality, and a compact CIC design, but lacks Bluetooth streaming and rechargeability, offering up to 70 hours of use on a single disposable battery.

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.

Sony CRE-C10 achieved a SoundScore of 4.2/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #12 of 65 OTC Hearing Aid devices tested. The OTC Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.68/5.

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.

Sony CRE-C10 aid might not have an official IP rating, but it appears to be built well and should handle everyday use just fine.

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.

Unlike many OTC devices, CRE-C10 uses disposable size 10 batteries. While arguable antiquated, I find disposable batteries convenient though they may be difficult to manage if you have low vision and or dexterity issues.

Not yet rated by our experts

Sony's Hearing Control app includes good features and allows your to further personalize CRE-C10 with their on-ear hearing assessment. One downside though is that the hearing aids and app communicate with sound cues from your phone. I find this method of wireless communication less reliable that Bluetooth, and it overall makes the pairing process more complicated.

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.

CRE-C10 are decently comfortable once you find the best tip for your ears. They are not overly plugging though it can take some time to get used to having a hearing aid so deep in your ear canal.

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.

CRE-C10 are surprisingly small and sit mostly invisible in your ears. The style works well and was originally designed as an "instant-fit" prescription hearing aid from Signia.

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

Sony CRE-C10 has a value score of 3.9/5 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.

CRE-C10's smaller size and method of wireless communication make it more difficult to manage than many other hearing aids. It is a unique offering with many pros but be sure to consider this against your needs and abilities.

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.

Sony does not offer great support with their hearing aids. You are limited to phone and email based technical assistance which is a downside to many OTC products.