We have lab measurements only for the Zeal, which scored 2.9/5 on speech in noise — 1.37 points above our site-wide average, though only mixed in absolute terms. The Virto Infinio hasn't come through our lab yet, so we can't make a measured comparison for that device.
Oticon Zeal vs. Phonak Virto Infinio
Check out our comparison of the Oticon Zeal vs Phonak Virto Infinio. Listen to audio samples and see how the two hearing aids differ in terms of sound performance, features, accessories, and more.
Published Updated
Quick Verdict
AI summarizedSummarized with AI assistance from our human-researched product information, in-lab testing, objective sound measurements, and expert ratings.
Zeal comes with our own lab measurements showing strong speech-in-noise performance in a nearly invisible instant-fit shell, while Virto Infinio's appeal is its lineup — three custom builds, including a telecoil-equipped option — that we haven't yet run through our own testing.
Zeal
Choose the Oticon Zeal if you want an instant-fit, nearly invisible in-ear device with modern wireless features (Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast, rechargeability) and lab-verified strong speech-in-noise performance, and you have mild to moderate (or in some cases moderately severe) hearing loss.
Virto Infinio
Choose the Phonak Virto Infinio if you want a custom in-ear line with more style/battery options — including a rechargeable ITE, a disposable-battery CIC, and a titanium IIC — and you value having a telecoil, which Zeal omits because of its size.
What actually separates them
AI summarizedIndependent lab testing
Lab measuredWe've lab tested the Zeal and measured a 4.3/5 SoundScore with an A SoundGrade, including speech-in-noise performance well above the site-wide average; the Virto Infinio hasn't come through our lab yet, so there's no measured comparison to make between the two.
Form-factor lineup and battery choice
SpecZeal is a single instant-fit, rechargeable NXT-style model, while Virto Infinio spans three distinct builds — a rechargeable Virto R ITE, a disposable-battery CIC, and a titanium IIC — giving buyers who want a non-rechargeable or ultra-discreet option more choice.
Telecoil availability
SpecVirto Infinio includes a telecoil for use with induction loop systems; Zeal's compact NXT design has no room for one, which matters if you rely on looped venues like theaters or places of worship.
Streaming and connectivity depth
Lab measuredZeal streams to both iOS and Android with Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast and tested above average for music streaming (3.3/5) in our lab, though only the Virto R model among the three Virto Infinio builds offers any wireless streaming at all.
Product Overview
Zeal
Virto Infinio
Form Factor
Form FactorNon-custom device that typically sits completely inside the ear canal. Some of the device may be visible to the naked eye.
Form FactorThis type of custom-fitted hearing aid is mostly hidden inside the ear. In people with smaller ear canals this type of hearing aid may not be possible. This type of aid is often fitted without directional microphones or telecoils.
Expert Rating
Score
4.3
N/A
User Rating
3.71 reviews
—
Hearing Loss LevelHearing Loss LevelThis represents HearingTracker's best guess on suitability. Please consult a licensed audiologist to confirm your own candidacy for this device.
MildModerateSevere
MildModerateSevere
Product Features
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidIP68
Telecoil
Expert Ratings
Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.
Zeal
Virto Infinio
HearingTracker Score
Zeal
4.3ABOVE AVERAGE
Oticon Zeal is an instant-fit, nearly invisible, rechargeable prescription hearing aid with AI-driven processing and modern Bluetooth LE Audio connectivity for Android and Apple iOS.
Read full reviewVirto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
HearAdvisor SoundScore
Zeal
4.3ABOVE AVERAGE
Oticon Zeal achieved a SoundScore of 4.26/5 in HearAdvisor lab testing. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.91/5.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
Build Quality
Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT
Zeal 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.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
Battery
Zeal
4.2ABOVE AVERAGE
With a battery life of up to 20 hours, Zeal should last you all day.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
Bluetooth
Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT
I found Zeal 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.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
App Features
Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT
I found the Companion app easy to navigate and use. Other prescription hearing aid companies offer more in-depth health features, 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.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
Comfort
Zeal
4.8EXCELLENT
Oticon Zeal were extremely comfortable and lightweight in my ears. In general, hearing care providers can make numerous physical changes to prescription hearing aids like Zeal to improve comfort.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
Design
Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT
Zeal are sleek, easy to use, in-the-ear prescription hearing aids. They are nearly invisible in the ear which is extremely impressive given their battery life and wireless capabilities.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
Value
Zeal
3.2BELOW AVERAGE
Oticon Zeal has a value score of 3.2/5 based on lab performance and public display price.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
Handling
Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT
Zeal are easy to use and adjust with the Oticon Companion app. I had no issues making adjustments while testing them.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
Pro Support
Zeal
5.0EXCELLENT
Prescription hearing aids like Zeal 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.
Virto Infinio
Not yet rated by our experts
Lab Recordings
Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.
Zeal
Virto Infinio
Busy CafeBusy CafeSpeech intelligibility improvement in loud environments
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Zeal
Virto Infinio
Lab recordings not yet available
Quiet OfficeQuiet OfficeSpeech intelligibility improvement in quiet and moderate environments
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Zeal
Virto Infinio
Lab recordings not yet available
Streaming MusicStreaming MusicStreaming music provides a full range of bass and treble
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
Zeal
Virto Infinio
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
Zeal
Virto Infinio
Remote Control
None
MiniControl
Hardware
Zeal
Virto Infinio
Bluetooth® AudioBluetooth® AudioThis hearing aid is capable of streaming Bluetooth® audio certain phones and/or devices.
- Made for iPhone (MFi)
- Android (ASHA)
- Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
- Bluetooth® Auracast™
- Bluetooth® (A2DP)
- Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
- Auracast™ Ready
Disposable BatteriesDisposable BatteriesCommon disposable batteries last anywhere from a few days to two weeks or more. For more information Google "how long do hearing aid batteries last" and click on the Hearing Tracker link.
No
10
Hands-Free CallingHands-Free CallingIt is possible to have a hands-free phone call with this hearing aid. You are not required to hold the phone up to your mouth.
- Made for iPhone (MFi)
- Android (ASHA)
- Bluetooth® (HFP)
- Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
IP RatingIP RatingIP Ratings rate sealing effectiveness of hearing aids against intrusion from foreign solid matter (dirt, dust) and moisture.
IP68
IP68
Push ButtonPush ButtonThe hearing aid features a push button which allows toggling across different sound processing programs
No
- Program control
- Volume Control
Rechargeable BatteriesRechargeable BatteriesCharge your batteries overnight in a docking station and get a full day's use (in most cases) of battery life the following day.
Lithium-ion
Lithium-ion
Tap ControlsTap ControlsThe hearing aid may be controlled by physically tapping it with your fingers.
- Volume Control
- Change program
- Accept/end calls
- Tinnitus program
- Voice assistant
- Accept/end calls
- Pause/Resume
TelecoilTelecoilThe hearing aid is able to pick up audio from landline telephones or public audio systems without using its acoustic microphones. This minimizes background noise and improves clarity and understanding, even over great distances. At performing arts venues, events, government meetings, etc., look for assistive listening systems (hearing loop, FM, and infrared systems), which must be provided at no cost under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other international regulations.
No
Yes
Voice AssistantVoice AssistantCertain devices will allow you to interact with voice assistants using "Hey Siri", "Hey Google", "Hey Alexa", etc commands.
No
- Siri
Software Features
Zeal
Virto Infinio
Adjustment BandsAdjustment BandsThese are frequency-divided sections that can be adjusted in a hearing aid in order to amplify sounds. Although there are rarely more than 10 frequencies measured in a hearing assessment, having more bands that can be adjusted may allow for improved speech understanding and user comfort.
24
20
Adjustment SynchronizationAdjustment SynchronizationThis feature allows for a more pleasant listening experience by ensuring that both hearing aids process sound the same way. If one hearing aid changes its processing in response to noise or speech, it will send a wireless signal to the other hearing aid so both process sound in the same way.
No
QuickSyncQuickSyncOne touch on the program selection button or volume control results in instant identical change in the other instrument.
AI Noise RemovalAI Noise RemovalArtificial Intelligence is utilized to remove or modify background noise from the sound signal to help isolate speech for better speech understanding.
Neural Noise Suppression: 12 dB / 6 dBNeural Noise SuppressionThe Deep Neural Network is part of MoreSound Intelligence™, which gives precise analysis and balancing of the full sound scene.
No
Audio Stream MixerAudio Stream MixerAllows the user to adjust the volume of the audio stream relative to the microphone input using the push button or volume control on the hearing aid unit.
No
Environmental BalanceEnvironmental BalanceEnvironmental balance is a volume modification capability in Phonak Audéo B-Direct hearing aids that allows clients to adjust the volume of the streamed signal versus the surrounding environmental sounds by the press of the volume control.
Automatic Phone ProgramAutomatic Phone ProgramHearing aids with this feature can detect when a phone is placed near them and automatically switch to a phone program. In this setting, the hearing aids will reduce background noise and increase the volume of the phone.
No
EasyPhoneEasyPhoneAutomatically selects your telephone program when the telephone handset is held close to your ear
Better Ear FocusBetter Ear FocusSome modern hearing aids can share sound from one ear to the other. In some cases the sound from the less noisy side can be shared to the other ear, enabling the listener to hear a cleaner sound in both ears.
Better-Ear PriorityBetter-Ear PrioritySome modern hearing aids can share sound from one ear to the other. In some cases the sound from the less noisy side can be shared to the other ear, enabling the listener to hear a cleaner sound in both ears.
No
DirectionalityDirectionalityDepending on the types and number of microphones a hearing aid has, the hearing aid may be able to boost sounds from specific directions (by reducing sounds from other directions). This can be helpful to focus on a speaker directly in front of the hearing aid user, as well as to give the user information about where different sounds are coming from.
No
SpeechSensorSpeechSensorWith SpeechSensor, clients are enabled to hear from back and the sides. This automatic feature detects the main speech source and adjusts its microphone modes to ensure the client has more access to t speech from side and back.StereoZoom 2.0StereoZoom 2.0Improves signal-to-noise ration in background by focusing a narrow microphone beam.UltraZoomUltraZoomDirectional microphone technology is a proven method of effectively improving speech intelligibility in background noise. UltraZoom is the adaptive multi-channel beamforming technology, automatically available in AutoSense OS or in a manual program.
Ear SimulationEar SimulationThe outer ear, or pinna, can have a significant effect on the frequency shape of sound arriving at your inner ear. Some hearing aids mimic the "pinna effect" when producing sound, to deliver more natural sound to the listener.
Virtual Outer Ear: 3 configurationsVirtual Outer EarThree realistic models of the ear pinna to provide better spatial balance.
No
Environmental AdaptationEnvironmental AdaptationThe hearing aid can detect different acoustical environments, like speech in noise, and adjust the sound of the hearing aid accordingly to drive comfort or speech understanding, etc.
No
AutoSense OS: 6.0AutoSense OSHearing aids with AutoSense OS recognize and automatically adapt to more of your client’s listening situations than ever before. AutoSense OS accurately captures and analyzes the sound environment, then precisely blends feature elements from multiple programs in real time to provide a seamless listening experience.
Extended bandwidthExtended bandwidthHearing aid provides amplification at frequencies (pitches) higher than the typical hearing aid.
Yes
No
Extended Dynamic RangeExtended Dynamic RangeExtended dynamic range typically makes louder sound clearer. This may help with the reproduction of loud music or loud speech in a very noisy environment.
Clear DynamicsClear DynamicsClear Dynamics expands the input dynamic range, processing input sounds up to 113 dB SPL, to provide better sound quality without distortion and artifact at loud input levels, while still keeping the sound quality of soft input levels intact. Clear Dynamics has an operating range from 5 to 113 dB SPL. With speech cues preserved at high input levels, users enjoy a better listening experience without distortion even in loud environments. Clear Dynamics is especially valuable for users when listening to music or in conversations in busy, dynamic environments, where peaks can often be louder than the available input dynamic range.
No
Feedback SuppressionFeedback SuppressionIf any sound amplified by the hearing aid escapes the ear canal, it may reach the hearing aid’s own microphone and cause a harsh whistling noise. Some hearing aids are able to recognize when this feedback occurs and reduce or eliminate it.
Feedback ShieldFeedback ShieldEmploys an ultra-fast and effective feedback management system that prevents feedback without compromising sound quality or audibility.MoreSound Optimizer™MoreSound Optimizer™MoreSound Optimizer (MSO) and Feedback shield work together to counteract acoustic feedback from the receiver to the microphone to prevent audible feedback and gain reductions.
WhistleBlockWhistleBlockWhistleBlock differentiates between naturally occurring feedback-like sounds and true feedback. This means increased audibility and sound quality that is free from annoying feedback.
Frequency LoweringFrequency LoweringUnderstanding certain speech sounds is dependent on the high frequency parts of these sounds. For individuals with high frequency hearing loss, this feature can take high frequency speech information and move it to lower frequencies where it will be audible.
Speech Rescue™Speech Rescue™Makes high frequency sounds more audible
SoundRecover2SoundRecover2The new SoundRecover2 algorithm aims to restore the audibility of relevant high frequency sounds while leaving intact the low frequency structures important for good sound quality. The new frequency lowering scheme retains the essence of the original SoundRecover, utilizes an adaptive algorithm and an additional cut-off frequency in order to successfully extend these benefits to those with more extreme severe-to-profound hearing loss.
Handling noise reductionHandling noise reductionReduces noises related to hearing aid movement on the ear and noises related to hands or objects touching the hearing aid while worn.
Wind & Handling StabilizerWind & Handling StabilizerWind & Handling Stabilizer detects and filters wind and handling noises 500 times per second. It selects the microphone with the cleanest sound input, preventing disruptive sound from entering the system. It then attenuates remaining wind and handling noises from the other microphone efficiently and only in the frequencies affected by the noise. This provides a cleaner sound for further processing in MSI 3.0, helping hearing aid users go about their day in comfort.
No
Listening ProgramsListening ProgramsNumber of manually accessible listening programs (using push button, remote, app, or other switching method)
4
4
New User AdaptationNew User AdaptationProvider may set the hearing aid to gradually get louder over the first few weeks or months of a new hearing aid fitting. This can be convenient for new users who want to experience maximum benefit without making a lot of trips to the provider for tune ups.
Adaptation ManagementAdaptation ManagementAdapts in 3 steps for gradual user acclimatization to a new hearing aid
auto Acclimatizationauto Acclimatizationauto Acclimatization is used to automatically increase the client's amplification, while the client is using the device.
Noise ReductionNoise ReductionThis feature uses modern hearing aids’ processing power to examine the incoming sound signal, determine if noise is present and reduce the volume of the troublesome sound to increase comfort.
No
NoiseBlockNoiseBlockHigh-resolution noise cancellation - NoiseBlock Processing is particularly effective at reducing uncomfortable environmental noises. It can recognize the subtle differences between speech and non-speech sounds, removing noise while maintaining audibility. more
Occlusion ReductionOcclusion ReductionWhen ears are plugged, or occluded, by hearing aids the low frequencies from one’s own voice are amplified and may be uncomfortable. This effect is typically reduced in hearing aids through venting or open-fit models. In some cases the perception of occlusion may also be reduced through software by adjusting the acoustic output of the hearing aid.
No
AOVAOVAcoustically Optimized Venting (AOV) reduces occlusion to the lowest level possible by optimizing the fitting calculation.
Phone in StereoPhone in StereoThis feature allows input from a phone presented to one hearing aid to be transmitted to both hearing aids at the same time, improving speech understanding.
No
DuoPhoneDuoPhoneWith DuoPhone, as soon as the phone is held to the ear the signal is heard in both ears. Background noise is reduced and clarity significantly improved.
Preference AdaptationPreference AdaptationIf a hearing aid user frequently adjusts the volume or program settings of their devices, some hearing aids will recognize when and where these changes are made and begin automatically making these changes in those settings.
No
User Preference TuningUser Preference TuningRemembers adjustments you make with FlexControl and FlexVolume and applies them automatically for a hearing aid more in tune with your preferences.
Processing ChannelsProcessing ChannelsThese are all the frequency-divided sections the hearing aid is able to examine at a single time. The hearing aid uses this information to determine whether the contents of each section are noise, speech, or something else and amplify the sound in each section accordingly.
64
No
Soft Speech BoostSoft Speech BoostMore aggressive amplification for softer speech sounds
Soft Speech BoosterSoft Speech BoosterImproves soft speech understanding without turning up the volume.
No
Spatial AwarenessSpatial AwarenessListening to sound through hearing aids is not a natural experience, and your ability to tell where a sound is coming from may be impacted by the way sounds are amplified with hearing aids. Some hearing aids attempt to fix this problem by preserving cues to sound localization like between-ear level differences, etc.
Spatial Sound™: 4 estimatorsSpatial Sound™Improves ability to locate the most interesting sounds.
No
Spatial Noise CancellationSpatial Noise CancellationThis feature recognizes where sounds are coming from and can reduce noise coming from behind or to the side of the listener. This helps the listener focus on the speaker, usually in front of them.
Spatial Balancer: 100%Spatial BalancerSpatial Balancer increases the SNR by suppressing individual noise sources, placing them in the background and thereby creating a balanced sound scene.
Dynamic Noise CancellationDynamic Noise CancellationAn automated spatial noise cancellation system that works in combination with a directional beam-former microphone system.
Streaming Bass BoostStreaming Bass BoostBoosts bass when streaming audio
Power bassPower bassBoosts bass when streaming.
No
Sudden Loud Noise ReductionSudden Loud Noise ReductionThis feature detects loud sounds and reduces their volume to a comfortable level. Though not a replacement for hearing protection, this technology can greatly improve listener comfort.
SuddenSound Stabilizer: 6 ConfigurationsSuddenSound StabilizerSuddenSound Stabilizer monitors the sound environment and instantly adapts amplification to keep both soft and loud sudden sounds available, balanced, and comfortable.
SoundRelaxSoundRelaxSoundRelax cushions otherwise unpleasant impulse sounds without affecting speech clarity or causing unnatural perception of other sounds.
Tinnitus ReliefTinnitus ReliefTinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be addressed by hearing aids in several different ways, such as introducing a soft therapeutic signal or targeted notched noise.
Tinnitus SoundSupport™Tinnitus SoundSupport™Select from a wide range of customizable tinnitus relief sounds that are dynamic, yet soothing — including broadband sounds (white, pink and red noise) and natural, ocean-like sounds.
Tinnitus BalanceTinnitus BalanceThe Tinnitus Balance noise generator generates a broadband sound for use in tinnitus management therapies.
Unique Amplification StrategyUnique Amplification StrategyHearing aids all process sounds a little bit differently. Sometimes it varies even within one model.
Environment classifierEnvironment classifierAllows clinician to determine where you need hearing help in your daily life.MoreSound Amplifier 3.0MoreSound Amplifier 3.0Sound processing occurs in an adaptive path setup that gives priority to resolution or speed, based on the current sound scene. Including SuddenSound Stabilizer that provides instant and balanced amplification of both soft and loud sudden sounds.MoreSound Intelligence 3.0MoreSound Intelligence 3.0Prevents wind and handling noise from entering the processing in the hearing aid for more comfort and better access to speech. Uses 4D Sensor technology to create a clearer and more distinct contrast between sounds, precisely organizing the spatial sound scene, and intelligently suppressing unwanted noise through the second-generation Deep Neural Network 2.0.Sound EnhancerSound EnhancerDynamic gain primarily for speech, given in complex environments.
Motion Sensor HearingMotion Sensor HearingA new ultra-low power accelerometer detects when you move and adjusts the hearing aid microphones and noise cancellation settings.Speech EnhancerSpeech EnhancerAmplifies the peaks of soft speech to provide clearer speech when you’re in a quiet environment.
Wind Noise ReductionWind Noise ReductionAs wind blows against the microphones of hearing aids, unpleasant noise may be generated. Some hearing aids have the ability to recognize this wind noise and reduce its level. Such reductions may also affect the audibility of desired sounds, like speech.
Wind & Handling StabilizerWind & Handling StabilizerWind & Handling Stabilizer detects and filters wind and handling noises 500 times per second. It selects the microphone with the cleanest sound input, preventing disruptive sound from entering the system. It then attenuates remaining wind and handling noises from the other microphone efficiently and only in the frequencies affected by the noise. This provides a cleaner sound for further processing in MSI 3.0, helping hearing aid users go about their day in comfort.
WindBlockWindBlockWindBlock utilizes a wind identification and classification system. The powerful, adaptive algorithm automatically suppresses wind noise. It allows wearers to enjoy the outdoors without compromise.
Bottom Line
AI summarizedThe Verdict
At the same roughly $4,600 street price, this isn't really about cost — it's about what each brand gives you.
Zeal is the pick if you want a single, modern, instant-fit design with measured lab performance behind it: an A SoundGrade, above-average speech-in-noise scores, and full LE Audio/Auracast streaming, provided your hearing loss falls in its mild-to-moderate-severe sweet spot.
Which is right for you?
Virto Infinio is the pick if you want flexibility in how the aid is built — rechargeable ITE, disposable-battery CIC, or titanium IIC — or if a telecoil for looped venues is a requirement, since Zeal's form factor can't fit one. We simply haven't lab tested the Virto Infinio yet, so if measured proof of performance matters to your decision, that currently favors Zeal by default.
What to ask at your fitting
AI summarizedConfirm your hearing loss range with your provider
Zeal's small NXT form factor is best suited to mild-to-moderate (sometimes moderately severe) loss; ask your provider whether your audiogram fits its gain limits before committing to the instant-fit design.
Ask which Virto Infinio build you're getting
Virto Infinio covers three different products — the rechargeable Virto R, the disposable-battery CIC, and the titanium IIC — and only the Virto R streams audio, so clarify which one is being quoted.
Discuss telecoil and looped-venue needs
If you regularly use induction loop systems, raise this at the fitting — Virto Infinio offers a telecoil option while Zeal's compact design does not.
Frequently Asked Questions
AI summarizedIt depends on the build: only the rechargeable Virto R model in the Virto Infinio line streams audio and connects to the myPhonak app, while the disposable-battery CIC and titanium IIC versions do not stream or pair with an app at all.
Both are designed to sit nearly invisibly in the ear canal. Zeal is a single instant-fit NXT design, while Virto Infinio's titanium IIC is built specifically as an ultra-small custom option, so the most discreet choice depends on which Virto build you compare against Zeal.
The Phonak Virto Infinio includes a telecoil for induction loop systems. The Oticon Zeal does not, because its compact NXT form factor doesn't have room for one.
Both are priced at roughly the same street price for a pair, around $4,600, so this comparison isn't a price decision — it comes down to form-factor options, telecoil needs, and available lab data.