Oticon Intent vs. Starkey Genesis AI

Oticon Intent is a top-tier flagship with excellent lab-verified speech performance, strong streaming and connectivity, and smart features like 4D sensors and fast charging, though its slightly bulkier fit, simpler button controls, and the still early LE Audio and Auracast rollout may be drawbacks for some users.

Starkey Genesis AI, launched in February 2023, is the previous generation of advanced hearing aids from American hearing aid manufacturer Starkey. Products in the family feature industry-leading rechargeable battery life, advanced AI-driven sound processing, and a redesigned ergonomic shape. It offers extensive features such as health and fitness tracking, fall detection, and compatibility with both iOS and Android devices for audio streaming and hands-free calling.

Oticon Intent achieved a SoundScore of 4.8/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #4 of 39 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 4.19/5.

Starkey Genesis AI achieved a SoundScore of 3.7/5 and a SoundGrade of B in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #33 of 39 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 4.19/5.

Intent 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.

Starkey has improved the overall build quality with Genesis, as evidenced by the enhanced IP68 ingress rating. However, the portable charging case still feels somewhat less premium compared to those from other prescription hearing aid brands.

With a battery life of up to 20 hours, longer without streaming, Intent should last you all day. This is an improvement over their previous generation Real which offered up to 16 hours.

Genesis AI offers an impressive 51 hour battery life on a single charge, with a quick recharge time of just 3.5 hours. Their rechargeable battery outperforms most products available today.

I found Intent 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.

Genesis AI hearing aids are Bluetooth compatible with both iOS and Android devices, allowing for audio streaming and hands-free calling.

I found the Companion app easy to navigate and use. Other prescription hearing aid companies offer more in-depth apps, 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.

The new My Starkey app features an updated look and retains useful features like sound customization and health tracking. However, user reviews indicate that connection issues persist.

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

Genesis AI RIC are capable of excellent comfort which can be personalized by your hearing care provider.

Intent are sleek modern looking prescription hearing aids offering a smaller overall size than their previous generation Real. They also allow you to customize the look of your hearing aids with an array of color options.

I find Genesis hearing aids to be more modern and sleek compared to Starkey's previous generation. There are various color choices and the fitting can be adjusted to meet your needs and preferences.

Oticon Intent has a value score of 3.4/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Starkey Genesis AI has a value score of 3.1/5 based on lab performance and public display price.

Intent are easy to use and adjust either with the multi-function button or Oticon Companion app. I had no issues making adjustments with either.

Genesis AI and the associated app are very easy to use, though the receiver-in-ear style may require some initial practice.

Prescription hearing aids like Real 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.

You should receive quality hearing care and support from your provider. Starkey also offers technical support and provides a Telehear remote services app, connecting your with your provider for remote care.