Philips HearLink vs. Starkey Edge AI

Check out our comparison of the Philips HearLink vs Starkey Edge AI. Listen to audio samples and see how the two hearing aids differ in terms of sound performance, features, accessories, and more.

Philips HearLink 40 miniRITE T R 9040
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HearLink 40 miniRITE T R 9040

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Score
0.0
Starkey Edge AI RIC RT 24
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Edge AI RIC RT 24

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Product Overview

Form Factor
Receiver In The EarForm FactorThis type of hearing aid sits behind the ear. A wire runs along the top of the ear and down to a speaker sitting inside the ear canal. An custom-fitted mold may be required.
Receiver In The EarForm FactorThis type of hearing aid sits behind the ear. A wire runs along the top of the ear and down to a speaker sitting inside the ear canal. An custom-fitted mold may be required.
Expert Rating
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Score
0.0
User Rating
3.7
12 reviews
3.7
1 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.
MildModerateSevereProfound
MildModerateSevereProfound
Product Features
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidTelecoilIP68
Hands-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidTelecoilIP68+

Expert Ratings

Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.

HearLink
Edge AI
HearLink
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Edge AI
4.2ABOVE AVERAGE

Edge AI is equipped with Starkey's all-new G2 Neuro Processor with an integrated neural processing unit that classifies complex soundscapes, enhances speech, and reduces noise in real-time using advanced AI.

Read full review
HearLink
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Edge AI
4.0ABOVE AVERAGE

Starkey Edge AI RIC achieved a SoundScore of 4.00/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #18 of 35 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.91/5.

HearLink
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Edge AI
4.8EXCELLENT

Edge AI have excellent build quality as evidenced by their IP68 ingress rating. However, the portable charging case does not feel as robust compared to other prescription hearing aid brands.

HearLink
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Edge AI
4.6EXCELLENT

Edge 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.

HearLink
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Edge AI
5.0EXCELLENT

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

HearLink
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Edge AI
4.6EXCELLENT

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

HearLink
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Edge AI
5.0EXCELLENT

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

HearLink
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Edge AI
5.0EXCELLENT

I find Edge AI hearing aids similar to their previous generation Genesis, and overall more modern and sleek compared to the previous Evolv AI generation. Starkey also offers various color choices and the fitting can be adjusted to meet your needs and preferences.

HearLink
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Edge AI
3.1BELOW AVERAGE

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

HearLink
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Edge AI
4.7EXCELLENT

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

HearLink
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Edge AI
5.0EXCELLENT

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.

Lab Recordings

Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.

Busy CafeBusy CafeSpeech intelligibility improvement in loud environments
Quiet OfficeQuiet OfficeSpeech intelligibility improvement in quiet and moderate environments
Streaming MusicStreaming MusicStreaming music provides a full range of bass and treble
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

Battery Charger
Standard Charger

Standard Charger

Battery Charger

Enjoy a full day of power, including streaming from smart devices, after a short recharging period.

Charger Plus

Charger Plus

Battery Charger
StarLink Charger 2.0

StarLink Charger 2.0

Battery Charger

The StarLink Charger 2.0 is designed to charge non-custom lithium-ion rechargeable hearing aids, such as RIC RT and mRIC R styles. It requires an external power source, such as a wall outlet, for operation as it lacks an on-board battery. With turbo charging, users can get approximately 3 hours of use time from just 10 minutes of charging when the hearing aids' battery is low. Hearing aids are fully charged in 3.5 hours, and LED indicators show the charging status.

StarLink Premium Charger 2.0

StarLink Premium Charger 2.0

Battery Charger+1

The StarLink Premium Charger 2.0 offers the same charging capability for non-custom hearing aids like RIC RT and mRIC R but includes an on-board battery. This feature allows charging without being plugged into an external power source. The Premium charger can fully charge hearing aids up to three times on a single charge and offers turbo charging for quick boosts. It fully charges hearing aids in 3.5 hours, and LED indicators provide information about both the hearing aids' and the charger's battery status.

StarLink Charger 2.0 (RIC RT)

Battery Charger

StarLink Premium Charger 2.0 (RIC RT)

Battery Charger
Bluetooth Streamer
AudioClip

AudioClip

Bluetooth Streamer+3

The Philips AudioClip is a hearing aid accessory that serves as a remote microphone to help you better hear one-to-one conversations in noisy environments or when listening to someone speak from a distance.

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CROS System
CROS MNR T R

CROS MNR T R

CROS System

The Philips HearLink CROS transmitter is a device designed for people with single-sided deafness.

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Power Pack
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StarLink Premium Charger 2.0

StarLink Premium Charger 2.0

Power Pack+1

The StarLink Premium Charger 2.0 offers the same charging capability for non-custom hearing aids like RIC RT and mRIC R but includes an on-board battery. This feature allows charging without being plugged into an external power source. The Premium charger can fully charge hearing aids up to three times on a single charge and offers turbo charging for quick boosts. It fully charges hearing aids in 3.5 hours, and LED indicators provide information about both the hearing aids' and the charger's battery status.

Remote Adjustments
HearLink 2 app

HearLink 2 app

Remote Adjustments+2

App allows you to change programs, adjust the volume, mute your hearing aids, activate streaming options and personalize your sound. You can also use the app to connect with your hearing care specialist if you need to have your hearing aid settings adjusted remotely.

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Remote Control
AudioClip

AudioClip

Remote Control+3

The Philips AudioClip is a hearing aid accessory that serves as a remote microphone to help you better hear one-to-one conversations in noisy environments or when listening to someone speak from a distance.

Remote Control

Remote Control

Remote Control

To turn the volume up and down on your hearing aids you can use the Philips HearLink app. In case you prefer using the Philips Remote Control we have this option as well.

HearLink 2 app

HearLink 2 app

Remote Control+2

App allows you to change programs, adjust the volume, mute your hearing aids, activate streaming options and personalize your sound. You can also use the app to connect with your hearing care specialist if you need to have your hearing aid settings adjusted remotely.

StarLink Remote Control 2.0

StarLink Remote Control 2.0

Remote Control

The Starkey StarLink Remote Control 2.0 is designed to control compatible 2.4 GHz hearing aids. Users can adjust volume, switch programs, and activate features like Edge Mode or Comfort Boost.

Remote Microphone
AudioClip

AudioClip

Remote Microphone+3

The Philips AudioClip is a hearing aid accessory that serves as a remote microphone to help you better hear one-to-one conversations in noisy environments or when listening to someone speak from a distance.

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Smartphone App
HearLink 2 app

HearLink 2 app

Smartphone App+2

App allows you to change programs, adjust the volume, mute your hearing aids, activate streaming options and personalize your sound. You can also use the app to connect with your hearing care specialist if you need to have your hearing aid settings adjusted remotely.

My Starkey

My Starkey

Smartphone App

Designed with the input of hearing aid wearers, My Starkey pairs with select Starkey hearing aids to help you enjoy greater listening moments, improved well-being, and easier everyday living — all from the palm of your hand.

Smartphone Streamer + Hands Free
AudioClip

AudioClip

Smartphone Streamer + Hands Free+3

The Philips AudioClip is a hearing aid accessory that serves as a remote microphone to help you better hear one-to-one conversations in noisy environments or when listening to someone speak from a distance.

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TV Streamer
TV Adapter

TV Adapter

TV Streamer

Connect the Philips TV Adapter to your TV so you hear the sound from the TV directly in your hearing aids. This allows you to watch TV at your preferred volume.

StarLink Edge TV Streamer

StarLink Edge TV Streamer

TV Streamer

Future-proof and Auracast ready, our Edge TV Streamer is 60% smaller than previous Starkey streamers and uses Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio protocol to stream audio straight from a TV to paired Edge AI hearing aids.

Hardware

AccelerometerAccelerometerThis hearing aid is capable of measuring acceleration through an embedded sensor.
No
Yes
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™
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.
312
312
GyroscopeGyroscopeThis hearing aid is able to determine orientation using embedded sensors.
No
Yes
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)
  • 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
  • Program control
  • Volume Control
  • Program control
  • Volume Control
  • Mute control
  • Power on/off
  • Accessory volume
  • Tinnitus volume
  • Edge Mode+
  • Manual Alert
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.
No
  • Play/Pause
  • Voice assistant
  • Edge Mode+
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.
Yes
Yes
Volume RockerVolume RockerA volume rocker or wheel to allows the adjustment of volume with a finger.
Yes
Yes

Software Features

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
16
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.
Yes
Yes
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.
Speech Clarifier: 3 options
  • Personalization
  • User Control
  • App 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
Yes
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.
Yes
  • Adaptive
  • Dynamic
  • Directional
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.
Pinna Mode: 2 options
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
Yes
ExpansionExpansionExpansion reduces audibility for very soft sounds. This can help to remove microphone noise, which is generated by soft environmental sounds.
No
4 levels
Extended bandwidthExtended bandwidthHearing aid provides amplification at frequencies (pitches) higher than the typical hearing aid.
10kHz
Yes
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.
Yes
No
Fall DetectionFall DetectionUsing embedded sensors, this hearing aid may detect falls and alert caregivers. Mobile app may be required.
No
Yes
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.
Yes
Yes
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.
Yes
Yes
Listening ProgramsListening ProgramsNumber of manually accessible listening programs (using push button, remote, app, or other switching method)
4
4
Machine LearningMachine LearningThis hearing aid employs machine learning to bring a higher degree of computer-aided intelligence to decision making.
No
Yes
Machine Noise ReductionMachine Noise ReductionNoise reduction for loud machine noise.
No
E2E Machine Noise Adaptation: Up to 7 dB
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.
No
Yes
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.
Comfort Control: 2 options
Yes
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
Yes
Power On DelayPower On DelayWhen you close the battery door to turn on your hearing aid, the hearing aid won't start producing sound for a certain amount of time. This can alleviate whistling (feedback) sound that sometimes occurs while inserting your hearing aid.
No
Yes
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.
No
60
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.
Yes
No
Streaming Bass BoostStreaming Bass BoostBoosts bass when streaming audio
No
Yes
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.
SoundProtect Transient Noise Reduction: 6 options
Transient Noise Reduction: Up to 9 dB
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.
Yes
Yes
Unique Amplification StrategyUnique Amplification StrategyHearing aids all process sounds a little bit differently. Sometimes it varies even within one model.
No
  • Consonant Enhancement
  • Voice AI
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.
Yes
Wind Reduction: Up to 10 dB