Neither — both are listed at $1,600 for a pair, so price isn't a deciding factor between them. The choice comes down to features like Auracast support and the review track record instead.
Philips HearLink 9050 vs. Rexton Reach
Check out our comparison of the Philips HearLink 9050 vs Rexton Reach. 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.
Both are Costco-exclusive Prescription RICs at the same price point, so the real question is whether Auracast broadcast streaming on the HearLink 9050 is worth choosing over the newer, less-reviewed Rexton Reach.
HearLink 9050
Choose the Philips HearLink 9050 if you want Auracast broadcast-audio support and a longer track record of user reviews (3.6/5 from 19 reviews) to weigh alongside the fitting.
Reach
Choose the Rexton Reach if you're comfortable with a newer model that has a thinner review base so far (3.3/5 from 4 reviews) and don't need Auracast broadcast streaming.
What actually separates them
AI summarizedAuracast broadcast audio
SpecThe HearLink 9050 supports Bluetooth Auracast for streaming from compatible public broadcast sources; the Reach's Bluetooth Audio listing doesn't include it.
User review volume and rating
Expert ratingThe HearLink 9050 carries a 3.6/5 average across 19 reviews versus the Reach's 3.3/5 across just 4, giving buyers more real-world feedback to go on for the Philips.
Product Overview
HearLink 9050
Reach
Form Factor
Form 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.
Form 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
N/A
Score
4.6
User Rating
3.619 reviews
3.34 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-freeRechargeableiPhoneAndroidTelecoilIP68
Hands-freeRechargeableAndroidTelecoilIP68
Expert Ratings
Compare comprehensive test results and expert opinions.
HearLink 9050
Reach
HearingTracker Score
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
4.6EXCELLENT
Given its premium features, outstanding battery life, and strong Bluetooth connectivity, it delivers excellent value for the money.
Read full reviewHearAdvisor SoundScore
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
4.5EXCELLENT
Rexton Reach R-Li T80 at Costco achieved a SoundScore of 4.54/5 and a SoundGrade of A in HearAdvisor lab testing. It ranked #6 of 35 Prescription Hearing Aid devices tested. The Prescription Hearing Aid category average SoundScore was 3.91/5.
Build Quality
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
4.9EXCELLENT
Rexton Reach T80 have an impressive build quality, featuring a top-of-the-line IP68 ingress rating. They also come with a robust portable charging case.
Battery
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
4.4ABOVE AVERAGE
Reach offer an impressive 39 hours of use per charge, which is plenty to get you through the day. Recharging takes 3 to 4 hours, which is longer than some other models, but this isn't a significant drawback given their exceptional battery life.
Bluetooth
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
5.0EXCELLENT
Rexton Reach are Bluetooth compatible with both iOS and Android devices, allowing for audio streaming and hands-free calling.
App Features
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
5.0EXCELLENT
The Rexton app stands out with its user-friendly interface and modern, appealing design. It includes practical features like the ability to control the focus of your hearing aids and a mask mode to enhance speech clarity.
Comfort
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
5.0EXCELLENT
I found Rexton Reach R-Li T80 to be very comfortable thanks to their ergonomic shape and earwire design. Your hearing care provider should ensure they are fitted for optimal comfort and hearing benefit.
Design
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
4.8EXCELLENT
Rexton Reach features a modern, sleek design and are available in a variety of colors, from discreet to bold.
Value
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
4.3ABOVE AVERAGE
Rexton Reach R-Li T80 at Costco has a value score of 4.3/5 based on lab performance and public display price.
Handling
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
4.5EXCELLENT
I did not run into any issues while using these hearing aids. They are very easy to use once set up by your hearing care provider. First-time users may need some practice to get accustomed to inserting the receiver-in-ear style properly.
Pro Support
HearLink 9050
Not yet rated by our experts
Reach
5.0EXCELLENT
You should receive quality hearing care and support from your provider. The Rexton App should also enhance your experience.
Lab Recordings
Listen to direct output recordings from our acoustic test lab.
HearLink 9050
Reach
Busy CafeBusy CafeSpeech intelligibility improvement in loud environments
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
HearLink 9050
Lab recordings not yet available
Reach
Quiet OfficeQuiet OfficeSpeech intelligibility improvement in quiet and moderate environments
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
HearLink 9050
Lab recordings not yet available
Reach
Streaming MusicStreaming MusicStreaming music provides a full range of bass and treble
Hear this scene unaided, for comparison
HearLink 9050
Lab recordings not yet available
Reach
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
HearLink 9050
Reach
Battery Charger
Charger Plus miniRITE+1
A fast, portable charger for traveling light and charging on the go. Charge for a full day's power in 1 hour or get 4 hours of use from a quick 15-minute charge.
HearLink desk charger
A faster contact charger for a full day’s power in one hour, or up to four hours of hearing in only 15 minutes.
Travel Charger+1
This is a compact, portable charger designed for Rexton Reach R-Li T, Bicore C R-Li, and C R-Li T hearing aids. It fits in your pocket and holds enough power for three full charges, so you don’t need to find an outlet while you're out. It fully charges the hearing aids in four hours, but if you're in a hurry, a 30-minute charge gives you five hours of use. It also makes inserting and removing the hearing aids easy and automatically turns them on and off when placed in or taken out of the charger. It uses a USB-C power adapter.
Charging+ Station+1
This charger is designed for Rexton Reach R-Li T, Bicore C R-Li, and C R-Li T hearing aids, offering more than just power. While it fully charges the hearing aids in four hours (or gives five hours of use with a 30-minute charge), it also includes a built-in drying cycle and UV sanitization to keep them clean and moisture-free. It makes inserting and removing the hearing aids easy and automatically turns them on and off when placed in or taken out.
Remote Control
AudioClip+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
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+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.
None
Smartphone App
None
App
The Rexton app is basically a remote control for your hearing aids that runs on your phone. It lets you tweak volume, change listening settings, and even fine-tune sound balance. You can also get real-time help from either your audiologist or an AI assistant called Rexton Assist. If your hearing aids support it, you can adjust directional hearing to focus on specific sounds, stream audio from accessories like a TV transmitter, and even get remote adjustments via TeleCare. The app works with both iPhone and Android, and setup involves a simple Bluetooth pairing process.
Smartphone Streamer + Hands FreeSmartphone Streamer + Hands FreeStreams audio from calls to hearing aids, but also picks up your voice and sends your voice to the caller.
None
Smart Mic
This compact remote microphone is compatible with Rexton Reach, Bicore, Rugged, and M-Core Li hearing aids, offering hands-free phone calls and live conversation streaming directly to your hearing aids. It doubles as a remote control for adjusting settings and can function as a conference microphone for clearer group discussions. It also streams audio from Bluetooth-enabled devices, allowing you to listen to music in stereo quality.
TV Streamer
TV Adapter
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.
Smart Transmitter 2.4+1
This TV and stereo streaming device works with Rexton Reach, Bicore, Rugged, and M-Core Li hearing aids, sending audio directly to your hearing aids without needing extra accessories. It lets you listen at your preferred volume while others adjust the TV to their own liking. Pairing is simple, no separate remote is required, and multiple Rexton hearing aid users can connect at the same time.
Hardware
HearLink 9050
Reach
AccelerometerAccelerometerThis hearing aid is capable of measuring acceleration through an embedded sensor.
Yes
No
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™
- Made for iPhone (MFi)
- Android (ASHA)
- Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
GyroscopeGyroscopeThis hearing aid is able to determine orientation using embedded sensors.
Yes
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)
- Android (ASHA)
- Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE)
- 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
- Mute control
- Power on/off
- Call accept/reject
- Tinnitus volume
- Airplane Mode
No
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.
- Accept/end calls
No
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.
No
Yes
Software Features
HearLink 9050
Reach
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.
Yes
20
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.
AI Noise ReductionAI Noise ReductionHearLink 50 quickly removes background noise with the help of AI-powered technology, so speech is easier to understand in noisy environments.
No
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.
Yes
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
Advanced DirectionalityAdvanced DirectionalityAccording to documentation, Reach also offers iOmni Sound Locator, iFocus 360, and Auto Stereo iLock (narrow). Our editors could not find more information on these features.Automatic AdaptiveAutomatic AdaptiveDepending 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.Multi-Voice FocusMulti-Voice FocusMulti-Voice Focus scans the surrounding environment 1000 times a second with four independent focus beams. This enables it to constantly adapt to the changing dynamics of the conversation and make the experience fluid and comfortable. It will boost the prominence of those in the group who are speaking while keeping track of those who are silent, and all without switching between modes, and with no delays.Speech Preservation TechnologySpeech Preservation TechnologyUses directional analysis to separate speech from noise, allowing independent processing of both signals before they are mixed together.
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.
3 options
No
Echo ReductionEcho ReductionThis feature improves speech audibility by reducing the “blurring” of speech sounds that can occur in the presence of echoes.
No
Yes
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
SoundPro 3.0SoundPro 3.0SoundPro 3.0 automatically steers all sound processing features, including the new Multi-Voice Focus inputs, based on the analysis of the acoustic scene.
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
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
No
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.
Yes
No
Listening ProgramsListening ProgramsNumber of manually accessible listening programs (using push button, remote, app, or other switching method)
4
6
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.
Yes
Smart Automatic AcclimatizationSmart Automatic AcclimatizationProvider 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.
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
Yes
Own Voice ComfortOwn Voice ComfortAmplification is applied differently to your own voice versus the other voices around you. This allows adequate amplification of people you want to hear and no over-amplification of your own voice.
No
My Voice 2.0My Voice 2.0My Voice 2.0 is a hearing aid feature that identifies when the wearer is speaking by analyzing how sound reaches the hearing aids' microphones based on head shape and microphone placement. When the wearer speaks, the hearing aids adjust their processing specifically for the user's voice, making it sound more natural and less amplified.
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
48
Soft Speech BoostSoft Speech BoostMore aggressive amplification for softer speech sounds
Yes
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.
4 options
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.
Yes
No
Streaming Bass BoostStreaming Bass BoostBoosts bass when streaming audio
Yes
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.
SoundProtect Transient Noise Reduction: 6 optionsSoundProtect Transient 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.
No
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 SoundSupportTinnitus SoundSupportTinnitus, 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.
Sound therapy and notchSound therapy and notchTinnitus, 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.
Unique Amplification StrategyUnique Amplification StrategyHearing aids all process sounds a little bit differently. Sometimes it varies even within one model.
SoundGuideSoundGuideBy using motion sensing technology to detect whether they are walking on a noisy street, sitting down with a loved one over coffee, or out and about with a group of friends, speech and other important sounds are now clearer than ever.SoundMap 3SoundMap 3SoundMap 3 uses AI Noise Reduction (AR-NR) and advanced directionality to carefully remove noise and prioritize speech in noisy environments...Speech ClarifierSpeech ClarifierSpeech Clarifier makes speech stand out in noise.
Motion SensorMotion SensorDetects your movements in real-time and, using Rexton’s High Resolution Soundpro technology, automatically adapts its sound settings to your hearing situation.Voice StabilizerVoice StabilizerVoice Stabilizer controls the compression to secure that all voices within the focus beam are amplified in the best linear ways when the sound goes too loud. It keeps the signal-to-noise ratio positive to help users focusing on the signal with most contrast. Benefit: voices remain untouched while surrounding noise is managed.
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.
SoundProtect Wind Noise ManagementSoundProtect Wind Noise ManagementAs 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
Bottom Line
AI summarizedThe Verdict
With pricing a wash between them, this comparison comes down to feature fit and confidence from other buyers.
The Philips HearLink 9050 adds Auracast broadcast-audio support and has a deeper base of user reviews (3.6/5 from 19), giving you more to go on if you value that streaming feature or want reassurance from prior buyers.
Which is right for you?
The Rexton Reach is a newer release still building its review history (3.3/5 from 4 reviews) and skips Auracast, so it makes most sense if you don't need broadcast streaming and are comfortable being an early adopter of this particular model. Either way, since both are sold only at Costco, talk through the fitting and programs with your hearing professional there before deciding.
What to ask at your fitting
AI summarizedAsk about Auracast use cases
If you want to stream from public Auracast broadcasts, confirm with your fitter whether the HearLink 9050's support covers venues near you before paying for that feature.
Review the fitting software with your provider
Since both are Costco-exclusive Prescription devices fitted in-clinic, ask your hearing professional to walk through how each aid's programs and controls are adjusted during your appointment.
Weigh the review track record
With only 4 reviews on the Reach versus 19 on the HearLink 9050, ask your fitter if they have additional patient feedback on the Reach to fill that gap.
Frequently Asked Questions
AI summarizedThe Philips HearLink 9050 lists Bluetooth Auracast broadcast-audio support in its Bluetooth Audio spec, while the Rexton Reach's listing does not include it. Both devices support MFi hands-free calling with iPhone and Android streaming via ASHA.
The Philips HearLink 9050 has a 3.6/5 average from 19 reviews, compared to the Rexton Reach's 3.3/5 from just 4 reviews. The Philips has considerably more feedback to draw on given its larger review count.
Yes, both devices are Costco-exclusive, so you'll be shopping the same storefront either way. The decision between them should be based on features and review history rather than where to buy.
Yes, both devices support Made for iPhone (MFi) hands-free calling, so this is a shared capability rather than a differentiator between them.