Best Cheap Hearing Aids of 2026

How We Chose the Best Cheap Hearing Aids

The Retirement Living review team evaluated 32 of the best hearing aid companies to identify the brands that offer affordable devices without sacrificing quality. A team member with mild hearing loss personally tested several brands, providing honest, real-time feedback. We also spoke with audiologists to determine the most important factors for consumers to consider when buying hearing aids.

Based on that feedback, we evaluated each brand on price, fit, comfort, and available support. Companies that hid their prices, lacked customer support, and/or had limited options to buy or try hearing aids were eliminated.

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The Best Cheap Hearing Aids Reviews

Eargo manufactures affordable and stylish in the ear canal hearing aids for people with mild to moderate hearing, no prescription needed. While one of the more costly companies on our list, its quality and features make it worth considering. Eargo designs its hearing aids to be virtually invisible, offering up to 16 hours of listening time, sound matching, personalized listening environments, and more.

Eargo currently sells two hearing aid models: the Eargo 8 and Eargo SE. The Eargo 8 ($2,699 or $88/mo) features more advanced technology, including on-the-go charging that lasts up to 14 days, smart sound adjustments, sound matching, personalized listening environments, 4 preset listening programs, in-app hearing device wellness checks, is rain- and shower-resistant to IP68, and is sweat-resistant.

• Price Range: $1,699 – $2,699
• Top Features: 16 hours of listening time, portable charging case, sound matching, preset programs, cleaning tools, and lifetime support.
• Styles: Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
• Warranty: One-time loss or damage coverage for up to 2 years. All other products have a 1-year limited warranty.
• Refund/Returns: Free returns within 45 days for a full refund.

Its devices automatically optimize your soundscape as you move between environments, reducing background and distracting noises. Additionally, with the Sound Match tool, you can personalize your hearing aids for each ear’s unique hearing preferences.

For more information, read our full Eargo review.

ELEHEAR offers FDA-registered, over-the-counter hearing aids, featuring fast setup, in-app control, always-on for calls, music, and TV, and over 20 soothing sounds for tinnitus relief. ELEHEAR sells the Beyond ($399)  and Beyond Pro ($599), both of which feature up to 20 hours of battery life, preset sound modes, tinnitus-masking sounds, and AI-powered language translation for 11 languages.

ELEHEAR’s Beyond provides clear speech, high sound quality, AI noise reduction, basic music mode, Bluetooth connectivity, and an easy-to-use app. It can also pick up frequencies from 125 Hz to 7,000 Hz. The Beyond Pro offers all that with 30% clearer speech, a fully immersive music mode, and an enhanced app experience; it can pick up sounds from 125 Hz to 8,500 Hz.

• Price Range: $399 – $599
• Top Features: Lifetime Support, language translation, tinnitus relief, and free shipping
• Styles: Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
• Warranty: 1-year
• Refund/Returns: Return within 45 days for a full refund.

Additionally, ELEHEAR allows you to pay in full or in installments via Klarna. First responders and military personnel receive discounts.

For more information, read our full ELEHEAR review.

Audien Hearing is one of the most affordable options on our list, with prices as low as $98. All of its Hearing aids are FDA-registered, offering professional-grade sound quality developed by a team of audiologists, using real-world data from over 1 million customers.

Audien Hearing sells four hearing aid models: Atom One, Atom Pro 2, Atom X, and ION Pro 2. The Audien Atom One is the most affordable option, starting at just $98 a pair. It’s designed for balanced performance and comfort, offering one hearing mode and 24-hour battery life. It’s best for those with mild hearing loss.

• Price Range: $98 – $689
• Top Features: UV cleaning, portable charging case, professional sound chip, background noise cancellation, CaseControl™ technology, and Bluetooth
• Styles: In-the-Canal (ITC)
• Warranty: None
• Refund/Returns: 45-day money-back guarantee

The Atom Pro 2 ($289) and Atom X ($389) are designed for slightly higher levels of hearing loss, offering four hearing modes, background noise cancellation, and UV Cleaning. The Atom X also features Bluetooth streaming and 48-hour battery life. Finally, the ION Pro 2 ($689) offers premium sound and full control, with six hearing profiles. It includes all the features of the other models, but adds directional sound technology and a 72-hour battery life.

For more information, read our full Audien Hearing review.

MDHearing provides high-quality hearing aids backed by licensed hearing professionals. Its hearing aids are designed to be small and discreet. They come in two styles that differ in fit, visibility, and sound quality. All models are FDA-registered, offer noise reduction, are customizable, provide four environment settings (except for the NEO), offer feedback cancellation, and more.

• Price Range: $297 – $597
• Top Features: Portable charging case, custom-fitting technology, rechargeable batteries, environmental settings, smartphone capability, and feedback reduction.
• Styles: In-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE)
• Warranty: 1-year (extended 2-year available for NEO XS Pro)
• Refund/Returns: 60-day risk-free trial & 100% money-back guarantee

Currently, MDHearing sells three BTE models and three ITE models. Its most affordable hearing aids are the NEO and NEO XS, which start at $297 and offer 17-18 hours of battery life per charge and simple controls for easy sound adjustments. Its most expensive models (VOLT MAX 2 and NEO XS Pro) start at $597 and offer features such as smart app volume control, intelligent feedback cancellation, improved & intelligent noise reduction, and more.

For more information, read our full MDHearing review.

Lexie makes innovation affordable. To ensure you get the right fit, Lexie has you take a free hearing test to help you identify which model is best for you; you can then customize your fit and settings in the free app. Additionally, Lexie offers a monthly subscription payment plan, making access to hearing aids, parts, and maintenance more affordable.

Lexie’s OTC hearing aids start at just $299 per pair, no prescription necessary. It sells three models: Lexie B1, Lexie H1, and Lexie B2 Plus.

The Lexie H1 is the most affordable option, featuring an ITE earbud style, a rechargeable battery with up to 9 hours of life, a charging case, streaming, four preset programs, and volume + noise controls. The Lexie B1 ($649) features a receiver-in-canal model powered by Bose with a replaceable battery that lasts 4 to 5 days. It provides four preset programs with ten customizable options.

• Price Range: $299 – $999
• Top Features: Advanced personalization, free shipping & support, streaming, replaceable & rechargeable battery options, and in-app hearing tests on some models.
• Styles: In-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE)
• Warranty: 1-year
• Refund/Returns: 45-day, risk-free trial

Lexie’s most expensive model is the Lexie B2 Plus, starting at $999. This BTE-style hearing aid is powered by Bose and features a rechargeable battery lasting up to 18 hours, a charging case, phone call streaming, in-app hearing tests & profiles, and advanced program control.

For more information, read our full Lexie review.

Embrance Hearing provides the personal care of an audiologist with affordable hearing aids. It’s best for customization, both in programs and design. For example, Embrace lets you choose whether to get a hearing aid for both ears or just one. It offers two hearing aid styles: NX-Series and C-Series.

The NX-Series features three Bluetooth hearing aid models in BTE style. Prices range from $899 to $4,398, depending on your choice of model, battery type, color, and one or both ears. You can customize the programs with state-of-the-art technology. Additionally, it offers two-way Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls (iPhone or Android).

• Price Range: $899 – $4,398
• Top Features: Color options, lifetime support, Bluetooth connectivity, 
• Styles: In-the-canal (ITC) and behind-the-ear (BTE) 
• Warranty: 3-year
• Refund/Returns: 45-day free trial

Embrace Hearing’s C-Series features three invisible, or in-the-canal, style hearing aids, with prices ranging from $899 to $3,498. While the C-Series does not offer color customization, you can still choose whether to buy a pair or just one. These hearing aids automatically adjust to your environment, deliver high performance, and offer custom programming.

For more information, read our full Embrace Hearing review.

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Best Cheap Hearing Aids for Seniors: A Guide

Around 48 million Americans have some degree of hearing loss, but fewer than one-third use hearing aids. A major reason so many Americans don’t purchase hearing aids despite the clear benefits is the high cost. But in 2022, the FDA approved the manufacturing of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, no prescription required, making these vital hearing solutions more accessible to the average American.

Now that so many options are available, people must research providers who offer hearing aids that meet their needs, preferences, and budget. Below, we discuss topics to help seniors understand their options.

Cheap Hearing Aids Brand Comparison

Compare the best inexpensive hearing aids side-by-side to get a better understanding of their costs.

Brand	Price Range	Styles Available	Warranty
Eargo	$1,699 – $2,699	Completely-in-Canal (CIC)	1-year limited warranty
ELEHEAR	$399 – $599	Behind-the-Ear (BTE)	1-year
Audien Hearing	$98 – $689	In-the-Canal (ITC)	None
MDHearing	$297 – $699	In-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE)	1-year
Lexie	$299 – $999	In-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE)	1-year
Embrace Hearing	$899 – $4,398	In-the-canal (ITC) and behind-the-ear (BTE)	3-year

If these options don’t seem to work for you, you may consider Jabra Enhance or Oticon, both of which have higher starting costs but offer many customization options and advanced features.

What Consider When Choosing an Affordable Hearing Aid

When looking for affordable hearing aids, consider what you want the hearing aid to accomplish. If you’re simply looking for a way to amplify sounds, you may want to consider hearing amplifiers, which are non-medical, over-the-counter (OTC) devices that make all sounds louder. However, if you find certain frequencies difficult to hear, then hearing aids are a better solution.

The type of hearing aid is also important to consider. Each style will fit and operate differently, so it’s important to find one that’s comfortable and offers decent sound quality.

Most common hearing aid types:

• Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
• Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
• In-the-Ear (ITE)
• In-the-Canal (ITC)
• Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
• Invisible (IIC)

Additionally, you’ll want to consider what features are important to you, such as customizations, noise reduction, feedback suppression, Bluetooth connectivity, and app connectivity. Hearing aids with more advanced and luxury features will cost more than basic models.

Ask yourself these questions when shopping for hearing aids:

• Will they work for your type of hearing loss?
• What features are included?
• What is the battery life?
• What does the warranty include?
• Is there a trial period?
• What is the return policy?
• How important are features like sound streaming, remote adjustments, and noise cancellation to you?

Overall, it’s vital to have hearing aids that fit your needs and the severity of your hearing loss. While hearing aids are expensive, they are often well worth the investment. Luckily, there are many providers that sell high-quality yet affordable hearing aids.

Be sure to research the provider before giving them your money, especially if the deal seems too good to be true. Unfortunately, scams aren’t uncommon. Read online customer reviews for that provider and check whether it appears on third-party review sites. If you can’t find enough reliable information, then look for a different provider.

OTC vs. Prescription Hearing Aids Affordability

Over-the-counter hearing aids are generally more affordable than prescription hearing aids. OTC hearing aids are meant for mild-to-moderate hearing loss, have a preset range, and can be self-fitted, with prices typically ranging anywhere from $100 to $2,500. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not require individuals to get a hearing test to purchase OTC hearing aids, helping people save money.

Prescription hearing aids are meant for people with moderate to severe hearing loss, providing advanced sound amplification through speech isolation, motion tracking, enhanced sound quality, automatic sound adjustments, tinnitus relief tech, background noise reduction, and more. Prescription hearing aids are professionally fitted to your hearing needs and ears and often require multiple follow-up visits to ensure proper functionality.

This advanced technology, in addition to the visits with your healthcare provider, makes prescription devices more expensive, costing between $4,000 to $12,000 on average.

Both types are excellent solutions for those with hearing difficulties. Over-the-counter hearing aids are generally more affordable and can be purchased from chain stores such as Amazon, CVS, and Costco, as well as specialized retailers, such as those on our list. Many users are highly satisfied with the results, stating that the cheaper price point does not reduce quality.

However, for those with more severe hearing loss or unique situations, prescription hearing aids may be best and will save money later by properly caring for your hearing health early on.

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Paying for Cheaper Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are a true investment, ranging from $100 for simple, OTC models to nearly $12,000 for highly advanced prescription models, with the average cost falling somewhere between $6,500 for expensive brands and $2,500 for affordable brands.

However, paying for affordable hearing aids can still be a major investment. Below, we discuss ways to pay for hearing aids and highlight factors that contribute to costs.

Potential ways to offset hearing aid costs:

• Insurance: Depending on your insurance, you may be able to get partial coverage for the hearing aids or associated services.
• Medicare Advantage: While original Medicare doesn’t offer coverage, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer assistance for medically necessary diagnostic hearing and balance tests.
• VA Benefits: If your hearing loss is connected to military service or other qualifying factors, you may be able to get hearing aids through the Veterans Administration.
• Nonprofits: Various nonprofits (e.g., Sertoma & Help America Hear) may offer financial assistance for low-income and disadvantaged individuals.
• Assistance Programs: Programs like Hear Now, the Miracle-Ear Foundation, and local & community-based organizations may offer discounts and financial assistance for hearing aids.
• Financing: Many hearing aid manufacturers and providers offer direct financing, allowing you to pay off your hearing aids over time in manageable payments.
• FSA and HSA Savings Plans: These savings plans can help cover hearing aids and hearing aid batteries, depending on certain requirements.

What influences the cost of hearing aids?

Many factors influence the overall cost of hearing aids. Being aware of these factors will help you find a pair that fits your budget while meeting your needs.

• Size & style: Smaller, more discreet hearing aids, such as in-ear models, tend to be more expensive than standard BTE or RIC models.
• Advanced technology: Features like advanced noise reduction, directionality, and Bluetooth streaming (allowing you to make phone calls, stream music, and use mobile apps to control your hearing aid on both Apple and Android devices) significantly increase prices.
• Battery type: Rechargeable batteries tend to cost more upfront compared to replacement batteries, but save money over time.
• Warranty& maintenance: Longer warranties and included maintenance services tend to increase initial costs.

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Pros and Cons of Affordable Hearing Aids

Affordable over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids offer many benefits for individuals with hearing loss on a budget. However, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind when considering a cheaper hearing solution.

Pros:

• Low upfront cost
• Accessibility
• Basic functionality
• Modern features (some models)
• Suitable for mild-to-moderate loss
• Many available options & styles
• No hearing test required for purchase

Cons:

• Limited customizations / Less personal fit
• Often less durable
• No professional support
• May not include background noise suppression
• Not designed for children (younger than 18)

The best cheap hearing aids for seniors are those that fit comfortably, offer user-friendly volume control, and let you hear the world around you clearly. Each hearing aid manufacturer offers a range of features and styles, allowing you to find a hearing aid that’s perfect for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap Hearing Aids

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Concluding Thoughts on Cheap Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are a vital solution for those with hearing loss. Being able to hear easily reduces mental and listening fatigue, lowers social isolation, and slows cognitive decline. With hearing aids now available over the counter, many individuals who were previously unable to access these life-changing tools can now find a model that suits their needs without breaking the bank.

Cheap hearing aids, when approved by the FDA, offer high-quality sound enhancement and many customization options, allowing seniors to choose the style and technology that suits their needs.