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Where to Buy Hearing Aids
Hearing aids can be purchased from professional audiology clinics, online, or certain retailers.
Updated:
At a glance:
- In addition to professional audiology clinics, hearing aids can be purchased online and in-person at retail stores, such as Amazon, CVS, Costco, Sam’s Club, and specialized retailers.
- The best hearing aid provider depends on your hearing needs, budget, and technology preferences.
- The cost of hearing aids depends on the provider and type of hearing aid, with prices falling around $6,500 on average for prescription and between $100 and $2,500 for OTC hearing aids.
Traditionally, hearing aids could only be purchased exclusively through audiologists, physician practices, or other specific outlets after a valid prescription was obtained. To get a prescription, patients needed to complete an initial exam and follow-up visits.
However, in 2022, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) made it so individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss could buy hearing aids over the counter (OTC). The FDA lists requirements that OTC hearing aids must meet to ensure safety and effectiveness, thereby increasing competition in the OTC hearing aid market, giving people more options, and reducing costs.
Now, in addition to the traditional routes, hearing aids can be purchased online and in brick-and-mortar retail stores. There are many top hearing aid providers that can provide you with both prescribed and over-the-counter hearing aids, but finding the one that works best for you can be overwhelming.
To get started, take advantage of our matching tool to narrow down the options and identify the best hearing aid for you.
Where is the Best Place to Buy Hearing Aids?
The best place to buy hearing aids depends on the type of hearing aid needed for your level of hearing loss. For individuals aged 18 and older with mild-to-moderate perceived hearing loss, over-the-counter hearing devices may be the best and most affordable option.
These hearing aids can be purchased over the counter (online or in person) from retailers such as Amazon, CVS, Costco, Sam’s Club, and specialized retailers, including Eargo, Jabra Enhance, Lexie Hearing, Phonak, Audien Hearing, and more.
For people with severe hearing loss or complex hearing issues, it’s generally best to consult an audiologist. Receiving a professional hearing test will allow you to identify your specific hearing needs and the proper solutions. The healthcare provider can prescribe a hearing aid with advanced sound processing to ensure a precise fit.
In most cases, your doctor will direct you to a location to buy your prescription hearing aids. Sometimes you can get your prescription hearing aids from the same places that sell OTC hearing aids. However, you will most likely get your prescription from a professional audiology clinic.
Who Sells the Best Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids?
The best OTC hearing aid provider greatly depends on your hearing needs. If you’re unsure where to start, you can take our hearing aid matching tool test to point you in the right direction. Understanding what options are available will also help you determine the best provider.
OTC hearing devices range from simple sound amplifiers to advanced hearing aids with Bluetooth streaming and noise reduction. Some OTC hearing aids are self-fitting, meaning they use smartphone apps and hearing tests to customize sound settings based on the user’s hearing profile. Others come with pre-set, non-customizable programs for different environments or hearing levels.
Common hearing aid styles include behind-the-ear (BTE), completely-in-canal (CIC), in-the-canal (ITC), in-the-ear (ITE), and receiver-in-canal (RIC). Each style offers distinct features and functionality, including different sound-processing options and levels of comfort. The best option depends on your personal preferences.
We highly recommend researching different fits, selecting a few you prefer, and finding providers that offer those styles. You can take advantage of trial periods to determine whether that style and fit work for your needs.
FDA Requirements for OTC Hearing Aids
Ever since making hearing aids available over-the-counter for adults with mild-to-moderate perceived hearing loss, the FDA established some rules that OTC hearing aids must meet to ensure functionality and a risk-free experience for consumers.
Among those regulations are the following:
- A lowered maximum volume.
- A user-friendly volume adjustment.
- In-the-ear hearing aids must sit at least 10 millimeters from the eardrum, reducing the chance of injury.
- Labeling and directions must be simplified and easy to understand so users can operate the device safely and effectively.
When shopping for a hearing aid provider, make sure they follow FDA guidelines for OTC hearing aids and check customer reviews, researching reputation and customer support, before purchasing a device.
How Much Does it Cost to Buy Hearing Aids?
The overall cost of a hearing aid will depend on the level of technology, prescription vs. over-the-counter, provider, warranty, and your hearing needs. Hearing aids are a true investment, ranging anywhere from $1,000 to $12,000; however, they more commonly fall in the $6,500 range. OTC hearing aids are often more affordable, costing between $100 and $2,500 on average.
How advanced your hearing aids are will also increase the price. For instance, rechargeable hearing aids will initially cost more than hearing aids with replaceable batteries, but over time, save you money. Additionally, hearing aids with connectivity features, noise cancellation, tinnitus relief, voice pass-through, and more will increase overall costs.
If you need a device but are unsure how to pay for a hearing aid, then we recommend looking into financing options, local support programs, insurance options, and nonprofits for possible assistance.
Bottom Line on Where to Buy Hearing Aids
With hearing aids now available over the counter, more people can access vital hearing care. However, while OTC hearing aids are more affordable than prescription models, they are typically less customizable and may not fit your ear as well. They are also limited to those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
It’s important to find a provider that can properly support your hearing health and long-term well-being. If you’re unsure where to start, try out the matching tool and see what options may be best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Where to Buy Hearing Aids
Yes, it is possible to buy hearing aids without a prescription or medical exam. However, you’re limited to over-the-counter hearing aids, which are designed for adults over the age of 18 with self-perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. These devices are usually available online, in pharmacies, and at retail stores; however, they may not fit your hearing needs exactly and often lack extensive customization options.
Yes, FDA-approved OTC hearing aids are available for purchase at most pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid, as well as retailers like Walmart and Best Buy.
Yes, OTC hearing aids are generally safe for those with mild to moderate hearing loss because they are FDA-regulated and must meet specific output, safety, and design standards. However, it’s important to note that they aren’t best for those with severe hearing loss.
For over-the-counter hearing aids, it’s not required to have had a hearing test. If you’re an adult over the age of 18, you can purchase hearing aids from pharmacies and retailers if you have mild-to-moderate perceived hearing loss. However, those with severe hearing loss and complex hearing needs would benefit from taking a hearing test and receiving proper healthcare.
To schedule a hearing test, first find a provider and make an appointment with an audiologist, ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist, or retailers like Sam’s Club or Costco. You can either schedule online or by phone to discuss the type of service you need.
Costco also sells they’re own line of hearing aids. Read more on our Costco review.
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