The Best OTC Hearing Aids of 2025 and What They Cost

Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are an affordable solution for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. The options have increased considerably since the FDA officially opened this market. HearingTracker has tested and reviewed all of the major models available today.

In addition to reviewing the best products, we'll also help you learn more about OTC hearing aids—how they can help you, what you should look for, what to avoid, price and purchase options, alternatives to consider, and more—at the tail end of this article.

How do we select the best OTC hearing aids?

HearingTracker's review team wears each pair of hearing aids for at least a week and reviews key aspects like build quality, battery performance, Bluetooth connectivity and stability, comfort, and real-world handling. We also rate devices based on value, professional support, and app features.

In addition, we've teamed up with the independent HearAdvisor Lab to objectively assesses hearing aid sound performance in a variety of listening situations, like office environments and noisy cafes.

Because OTC hearing aids are new and there are some shockingly bad products on the market (our HearAdvisor lab has identified about a dozen that do little to help you hear or even make listening more difficult), we tend to lean toward those devices made by reputable hearing healthcare brands or at least companies that have long-standing, reliable track records. Professional in-person or telecare support during the initial onboarding process, as well as long-term product support (including honoring trial periods and warranties), are also very important considerations in our recommendations.

Our Picks for the Best OTC Hearing Aids

Given the above criteria, here is a summary table of our top picks. Please find micro reviews of each product below.

The Jabra Enhance Select 500 is one of the few OTC hearing aids that include professional care, provided you select the premium package, and it offers above-average speech-in-noise performance.

The design and features of the Enhance Select 500 are almost identical to its predecessor, the Jabra Enhance Select 300. Even the lab performance is nearly the same, with only minor advances in speech-in-noise and music streaming. What sets the 500 apart from the 300 is its slightly smaller body and an upgrade to Bluetooth LE Audio, which improves battery life and will let you stream audio at venues that support Auracast.

Whichever Jabra Enhance product you pick, we highly recommend opting for the premium package ($1,995 versus the basic package at $1,795). The custom programming to your unique hearing profile and the three years of professional hearing care—which includes unlimited remote adjustments—can make all the difference. You'll also receive three years of warranty and loss & damage protection, instead of just one year.

At its core, the Audicus Omni 2 is a prescription hearing aid redesigned for the OTC market. It's available in two versions, either with a disposable or a rechargeable battery. Both feature Bluetooth 4.2, which supports streaming and hands-free calling with iOS and Android.

Audicus can program the Omni 2 using either the results of their online hearing screener or an audiogram. The latter will give you better results for hearing speech. The Omni 2's streamed music sound quality is above average among all hearing aids HearAdvisor has tested.

Audicus, a pioneer in online hearing aids, has been working with Sonova and WSA to bring traditional hearing aids and professional hearing care services directly to consumers. The Omni 2 is manufactured by Sonova, the same corporate group that makes Phonak, Sennheiser, and Unitron hearing aids.

You can either purchase Audicus hearing aids outright at the price quoted above. Alternatively, you can opt for Audicus Premier, a monthly subscription that includes an extended warranty and services, free exchanges every 18 months, and accidental damage and device loss coverage.

Lexie B2 Powered by Bose and its predecessor, the Lexie B1, are OTC receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids that offer good sound quality, onboard volume control, directional microphones, noise reduction, feedback and wind-noise suppression, smartphone app controls, plus excellent online remote set-up and professional support from Lexie Hearing.

Like Sennheiser, Jabra offers the option of its Enhance Select Premium Package which includes 3 years of remote follow-up care along with easy adjustments through the app. You can also purchase the device through Jabra certified professionals, most of which are Beltone Hearing Centers (prices for services may vary).

While the B1 and B2 use Bluetooth wireless technology to connect with the Lexie app, only the B2 can stream phone calls from a compatible iPhone (no streaming from Android). Technically, the B2 can also stream music and other audio from iPhones or compatible iOS tablets, computers, etc., but the hearing aid's sound quality was not designed for this. Other than that, the only major difference between the two models is that the B1 is powered by a size 312 battery while the B2 is rechargeable. Sold by the pair, the B1 costs $849, while the rechargeable B2 costs $999, including the charger.

And here's a tip: If you're a Costco member, you can save $20 by ordering the B2 directly from Costco's website. Lexie also sells the Lexie Lumen OTC hearing aid for $799 and you can compare the Lexie B2 and Lumen side by side using HearingTracker's Compare Hearing Aids tool.

Lexie also offers the Lexie Lumen hearing aid for $799, and its parent company, HearX, markets the Go Lite and Go Prime direct-to-consumer (DTC) hearing aids for $199 and $299, respectively.

It's not a big surprise that the Sony CRE-E10, which borrows much of its technology from global hearing aid maker Signia, made our list of OTC hearing aids.

At $1,299.99 a pair, the Sony CRE-E10 is an excellent performing but relatively expensive rechargeable self-fitting earbud with exceptional sound quality, and Bluetooth audio streaming for hands-free phone calls, music, podcasts, and video from iPhones (v13.0 and higher) and compatible iOS devices. In fact, HearAdvisor's lab testing reveals that the CRE-E10 is in the top 5% of all hearing aids we've tested to date.

Note that the CRE-E10 doesn't have a push-button or touch-control. Setup, customization, and everyday controls are all handled through Sony's Hearing Control app.

The Elehear Beyond is HearingTracker's highest-rated OTC hearing aid under $400. Its receiver-in-canal design makes it more comfortable to wear than earbud-style hearing aids. And you can wirelessly stream audio and take calls with iOS and Android devices. The slightly larger behind-the-ear unit will give you up to 18 hours of battery life per charge, which you can top up through the portable charging case.

Setup through the app is easy, but other than choosing between presets or controlling the volume and tone balance, you can't customize the Beyond. Elehear only offers technical support, which is common for OTC devices.

The Sennheiser All Day Clear and the All Day Clear Slim are among the most complete OTC hearing aid packages available: they are self-fitting rechargeable FDA-approved OTC devices that offer an onboard hearing test, hands-free streaming for both Android and iPhones, and have an easy to use control app.

Both Sennheiser ADC models employ technology from the world’s largest hearing aid manufacturer, Sonova, which as noted earlier is also the parent company of Phonak and Unitron brand hearing aids and are offered for $999.95. They provide good sound quality and feature intelligent scene detection that monitors the person’s environment for seamless optimization of conversations. Additional capabilities include a personalized sound profile, wind noise management, and more—all features you'd expect from a tech leader in advanced hearing aids.

Sennheiser All-Day Clear and Slim are OTC hearing aids that offer compatibility with both Android and Apple mobile devices for Bluetooth®. Music and podcast streaming from mobile devices, as well as set-up and customization, can be achieved in about 5 minutes using the All-Day Clear app.

Wearers can expect up to 16 hours of battery life and lightweight comfort from these small rechargeable devices. Each product comes with a set of hearing aids, a charging case, and accessory kit, and the Slim style also includes a compact carrying case. The only thing we don't like is the ADC charger doesn't charge on-the-go; it must be plugged in (i.e., not a deal-breaker but a downside). A 45-day risk-free trial comes with the products.

Like the Jabra Enhance Plus hearing aids described below, you can upgrade your purchase for an In-Clinic Care Package where you’ll receive custom programming and in-person service from a hearing care professional, as well as extend the standard 1-year warranty to 2 years. The cost for this is $250 extra (price may vary).

If you're looking for an inexpensive alternative, the Sennheiser All-Day Clear Plus is a hearable not necessarily designed for hearing loss but was still good enough to make HearAdvisor's 2023 Expert Choice Awards list!

The CRE-C20 is Sony's third set of OTC hearing aids. It's essentially a rechargeable version of the CRE-C10, a completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aid offering up to 28 hours per charge. The improved ear tip can make these almost invisible in-the-ear aids comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. Unlike the CRE-E10, which also made it into this list of best OTC hearing aids (see above), the CRE-C20 doesn't offer wireless audio streaming, but at $999 is about $300 less expensive.

Need a sub-$300 OTC hearing aid option that works?

Are you looking "just to try" a hearing aid by dipping your toes into the waters of OTC hearing devices? Or maybe you're searching for a really inexpensive—but decent-performing—hearing aid that can stand in for your more expensive hearing aid when you engage in sports or other activities that could damage your "regular” hearing aid? If so, consider the following.

Apple AirPods Pro 2

The AirPods Pro 2 may be the best choice if you're looking for earbuds that double as hearing aids at a price that doesn't break the bank.

Like many of the more advanced OTC devices, the AirPods Pro 2 offers an on-ear self-fitting hearing assessment. You can also upload the results of a professional hearing test through the Apple Health app. While the AirPods Pro 2 will connect to an Android device over Bluetooth, you do need an iOS device to set up the hearing aid feature. Apple's Hearing Features software for the AirPods Pro 2 was granted de novo status by the FDA—possibly blazing the trail for other earbud and headphone manufacturers that wish to enter this market.

JLab Hear OTC

The JLab Hear OTC at $99 is the best sub-$100 hearing aid we've tested, achieving a "B” SoundGrade from our HearAdvisor Lab (frankly, most devices in this price range are awful). This hearing aid is an instant-fit OTC hearing aid with four pre-set programs, directional microphones, hands-free calling for Android and iOS, and can be adjusted using the JLab Hearing Health app. It comes in three different colors (graphite, beige, and light gray) and includes a portable charging case that carries 40 hours of extra power. JLab provides a 30-day trial period and a 2-year limited warranty on these devices.

What are OTC hearing aids?

In October 2022, the FDA approved two new classes of OTC hearing aids that, unlike prescription hearing aids, are not required to be purchased from a hearing care professional. If you’re among the 30-million-plus adults in the U.S. with untreated mild-to-moderate hearing loss, they may help you start to hear much better. At prices ranging from $300 to over $1,500, the best of them will put an iPhone-sized dent in your pocketbook. But they are easy to buy and are bringing the average cost of high-quality hearing assistance below the $5,000 average price you may pay for a set of premium prescription hearing aids.

Although you can purchase a set of quality hearing aids fitted by a hearing care professional at Costco or a basic-level hearing aid from a local clinic for $1,500 to $7,000, it will generally take 2-6 office visits to get them matched precisely for your unique hearing needs. And not everyone has a $1,500+ hearing problem or wants to devote several hours to solving it. If that describes you and you have mild-to-moderate hearing loss, then OTC hearing aids may be a good alternative—even if it's a temporary or situational remedy until you're ready to see an audiologist.

However, the FDA's OTC rules also provide only minimal quality assurances—and fewer consumer protections—compared to the state licensing laws that apply to prescription hearing aids dispensed by professionals. Additionally, there are two classes of OTC hearing aids:

1. A better-regulated “self-fitting” class that often utilizes a smartphone app and a hearing test for programming and adjusting the aids for your unique hearing loss, and
2. A less-regulated “pre-set” or "wear-and-go" class that is generally less expensive and uses pre-programmed amplification or no programming at all; in general, these offer more basic amplification, but can be effective if you have a "typical" hearing loss profile.

And it's actually a bit more complicated than that, because OTC hearing aids sold both online and in stores have different FDA regulations (mostly labelling requirements) than those sold online only. For interested readers, HearingTracker has published a full list of FDA-registered OTC hearing aids based on their classifications.

Don't Disregard Hearables!

Finally, it should be noted there are also "hearables" or "personal sound amplification products" (PSAPs). These are essentially smart earbuds and listening devices that are not FDA-registered as OTC hearing aids, meaning the companies can't advertise them as being suitable for people with hearing loss.

But some advanced technology earbuds have "hearing-aid-like" features, making them good, inexpensive listening devices. Three examples include products like the Sennheiser Conversation Clear Plus ($649), Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro ($179), and the older Apple iPods Pro (not Pro 2) configured as hearing aids ($199). HearingTracker covers these and other products in our Hearable Technology Guide.

OTC vs. prescription hearing aids: What’s the difference?

OTC hearing aids work much like traditional prescription hearing aids. The key difference is you're able to get them without a prescription or visit to a hearing care provider. That should help to reduce the costs, but you also may be missing out on important services like hearing testing in a test booth and hearing aid validation and verification, which are offered by hearing care providers who adhere to best practices. These can make a huge difference!

Traditional prescriptive hearing aids also come with important post-purchase services. Some OTC hearing aids may come with telecare or remote support that involves a technician or even a hearing care professional. In general (but not all the time), you'll find that higher-priced OTC hearing aids come with good online or even in-person service support. Many buyers will benefit from these more personalized services.

OTC hearing aids also have important limitations in the amount of volume they can provide to compensate for your hearing loss. That's why they're only suitable for people who have mild to moderate hearing loss. If you're already having trouble understanding normal speech in a quiet one-on-one conversation, the amplification provided by an OTC hearing aid might not be strong enough to help you.

Finally, you should know that hearing aids can break or malfunction. Because they’re small electronic devices worn on the ears and exposed to the elements all day long, it’s not uncommon for prescription hearing aids to require regular (e.g., annual) basic maintenance or repairs from the audiologist. It may be harder to get an OTC hearing aid repaired or replaced. In fact, a recent HearingTracker survey showed that the #1 concern hearing care providers have about OTC hearing aids is “common breakdown problems” like those caused by moisture and earwax. This means it’s imperative for consumers to read and understand the OTC hearing aid company’s trial period and warranty policies, as well as support and costs for repairs.

To learn more about the specifics of OTC hearing aids, please see "The New FDA Rules for OTC Hearing Aids: What Do They Mean for People with Hearing Loss."

Top-10 Do's and Don’ts when buying OTC hearing aids

1. Verify Your Eligibility: Get a hearing screening test from an independent source to be sure you fall into the mild-to-moderate hearing loss category for which OTC hearing aids are designed. There are some good free but less accurate online hearing tests available. You can use CEDRA from Northwestern University and Mayo Clinic to see if you have any medical risks, then take an online hearing test to assess the severity of your hearing loss (we go into more detail on eligibility in the "Who Should Get OTC Hearing Aids" section below).
2. Get a Professional Hearing Test: Even better, visit a hearing care professional for an audiogram. While some are free and others may cost $100-250, a hearing evaluation in a sound-treated booth gives you an accurate picture of your hearing loss, rules out any medical issues, and resolves easy-to-fix problems like earwax. Plus you can use the audiogram to program many self-fit OTC aids and hearables—resulting in a hearing aid more precisely tuned to your hearing loss.
3. Understand Trial and Warranty Policies: Make sure you understand the company’s trial period/return period and product warranty. These are major areas where the FDA's OTC rules depart from those of prescriptive hearing aids; in comparison, OTC hearing devices have far fewer consumer protections and your options for redress are more limited. If you’re planning on using your OTC hearing aid for several years, then anticipate at least some service or repair issues during that time. Clogged and/or malfunctioning receivers, kinked tubing, moisture problems, etc., are not uncommon problems in hearing aids.
4. Self-fitting Hearing Aids Are Often Better But More Expensive: Be aware that the “self-fitting” hearing aids that rely on a hearing test and app-based programming should provide you with better performance. Some even come with telecare from a professional. The “pre-set” type devices that don’t use an app or hearing test might work well for people with milder hearing losses, but they probably won’t correct for your unique hearing loss profile as well as self-fitting devices.
5. Consider Prescription Aid Options: Recognize that many hearing care offices will be able to provide you with basic-level/economy prescription hearing aids with services starting somewhere around $1,000 to $1,500—if you insist on this price and don’t allow them to upsell you. There are also several Direct-to-Consumer companies that provide hearing aids and services at lower prices (see "DTC Hearing Aids and Services" below). As another point of reference, Costco offers prescription hearing aids starting at $1,500 a pair.
6. Test Your Hearing in Quiet: Don’t ignore the warnings about conducting your hearing test in a very quiet place when setting up "self-fitting" OTC hearing aids. In general, the results from the hearing test are crucial for calibrating the device; if the test is inaccurate, the sound settings for the hearing aids will be similarly inaccurate. Get the most value from these hearing aids by conducting your hearing test in a very quiet place where you won't be distracted or interrupted—or by obtaining an audiogram from a professional.
7. Avoid Price-Only Decisions: Don’t buy an OTC hearing aid based on price alone or from a company that doesn't list clear information about itself and its trial periods, warranties, and repair policies. And, if you can’t find their address, phone number, and customer service info, run away!
8. Don't Get Stuck: Don’t let the hearing aid sit in its box without giving it an honest try. Generally, the clock starts ticking on the trial period as soon as you receive the package, and it can take at least a couple of weeks to get accustomed to the new sound and decide if the hearing aids are right for you. Once you’re past the trial period, you probably won’t be able to return them. Don't get stuck paying for something that won't help you!
9. Understand Service Limitations: Don’t assume you can buy an online hearing aid and then get help for it later from a local hearing care provider. In a large city, this may be easy enough to do if you’re willing to pay for the service; in other areas, help could be difficult to find.
10. Persist Despite Challenges: Don't get discouraged if OTC hearing aids don't work for you. If you buy an OTC hearing aid and it’s not helpful, send it back and try another, or seek help from a local reputable hearing care provider. Today, almost all hearing losses can be addressed by a properly fitted and programmed hearing aid or other device. Good hearing is important for your communication, safety, and health. So don’t give up!

Who should get OTC hearing aids?

OTC hearing aids are hearing aids for adults (ages 18+) with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. They’re particularly helpful to people who don’t have access to insurance that covers traditional hearing aids. Potential buyers should be comfortable with self-managing electronic devices, customizing them using apps, and regularly optimizing their settings. A recent study suggests that people who have had experience with conventional hearing aids and who are comfortable with smartphone technology are more likely to benefit from OTC hearing aids.

Prior to investing in OTC hearing aids, it's best to consult with a hearing care professional to confirm the level of hearing loss and rule out underlying and/or treatable conditions, which might be covered by insurance. There is really nothing that can compare to having a trained professional look in your ears and provide a comprehensive hearing evaluation.

If you don't wish to take that route, you might wish to visit Northwestern University's CEDRA webpage to see if you have a risk for conditions and diseases that affect hearing. If you're all clear with CEDRA, then you can move on to an independent hearing test like those mentioned in our Top-10 Free Online Hearing Tests, AARP's phone-based Hearing Test, or HearingTracker's 3-minute hearing test.

Alternatives to OTC hearing aids

Because they're a relatively new product category created in October 2022, OTC hearing aid offerings are still evolving. There should be much more innovation to come, as recently displayed in Apple creating an OTC hearing aid with its Hearing Features software for AirPods Pro 2.

Although HearingTracker is excited about OTC hearing aids, it's hard not to notice that many of the best ones are very similar—and in some cases identical—to previous hearing aids or personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) that have been offered for years.

It's also hard not to notice that many of the best-scoring OTC hearing aids are in a price range where hearing care professionals can compete at the same price level with their lowest-priced hearing aids (i.e., around $1,500). In other words, if you're going to pay that much, you might consider alternate options that include help from an audiologist or hearing aid specialist—either online or in person.

Here are some of your options.

Audiologists and hearing aid specialists

Professionally-fitted (prescription) hearing aids are available for purchase through state-licensed audiologists and hearing aid specialists. In our view, this is where people with moderate and more severe hearing losses will find the most benefit and value, as long as those hearing care providers adhere to best practices. However, the average price for a professionally-fitted hearing aid, including a hearing aid fitting and follow-up care, is $2372 each, according to a recent Hearing Tracker survey.

When seeking professional help, make sure to check if insurance might help pay for the hearing aids and/or associated services. For those who cannot afford professionally-fitted hearing aids, there several alternate routes. You might consider looking into financing, options for financial support, and our affordable hearing aids guide.

Also see HearingTracker's Guide to Paying for Hearing Aids.

DTC hearing aids and services

In addition to OTC hearing aids, several companies offer direct-to-consumer (DTC) hearing aids, often offering hearing aids from the world's largest hearing aid manufacturers along with professional services via remote and/or in-person care options. You'll note that some of these companies now have products in the OTC hearing aid category, as well. We think the OTC and DTC categories will continue to overlap. Note: Be wary of Amazon purchases!

Hear.com

Hear.com chaperones your hearing care journey by matching you with a local care provider for services like hearing tests, fittings, and follow-up care. Per default, the initial steps are in-person, but you can opt for the tele-audiology journey if you prefer remote services. Through the Hear.com app, you can manage your hearing aid, schedule appointments, and keep in touch with your consultant for continued support. Prices range from $795 to $6500 per pair.

Yes Hearing

Yes Hearing is “America’s concierge hearing care solution,” connecting its customers with over 400 licensed hearing specialists nationwide who come to your home to fit and service your hearing aids. The company carries all the leading hearing aid brands and offers them at significant unit price discounts compared to local hearing care providers. Prices range from $1,395 to to $3,995 per pair, including service.

ZipHearing

ZipHearing operates with a straightforward delivery system and provides excellent service by partnering with trusted global manufacturers and local clinics to offer hearing aids complete with in-person care—and substantial upfront savings of about 25%. Unlike some of its competitors, it does not offer remote/virtual services, but instead pairs you with a reliable hearing care provider. Reviews suggest Zip Hearing is a good choice for those who prefer face-to-face care at a local clinic. Prices range from $1,998 to $4,598 per pair.

Audicus

Audicus markets affordable hearing aids and assists customers remotely with professional hearing care services. The company offers four hearing aid models—all manufactured by the world's largest hearing aid company, Sonova—ranging in price from $699 to $1,699 per pair. Audicus does everything in-house, including hearing aid programming, shipping, and remote customer care.

Jabra Enhance

Jabra Enhance was named Lively prior to its purchase by global manufacturer GN—the maker of ReSound and Beltone hearing aids—in late 2021. The Jabra Enhance digital platform enables consumers to explore, purchase, and receive hearing care from U.S. licensed hearing care professionals from the comfort of home. The Enhance product line borrows from ReSound technology. Prices range from $1,195 to $1,995.

Lexie

Lexie is part of the South Africa-based HearX group which makes a wide array of hearing-related telecare products and was cofounded by a respected audiologist. Along with the Lexie Powered by Bose OTC hearing aids and Go Hearing aids, they also offer  Lexie Lumen, a self-fitting hearing aid that features directional microphones, a noise-reduction program, good sound quality, 6 pre-set listening programs, and a telecoil. Buying a product from Lexie includes the help of Lexie technicians (a service called Lexie Care), with real-time communication and hearing aid programming achieved through the app. With Lexie, you have the option of paying for a subscription fee that includes all the company’s services, or paying once ($799) and then selecting service packages as needed.