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Phonak Hearing Aids Review

4.3 Overall Rating

4.3 Stars
4.3 Stars
4.5 Stars
4.1 Stars

Bottom Line

Phonak is an award-winning global leader in hearing aid technology. The company offers the broadest line of hearing devices and accessories we found in our research. Phonak hearing aids address any level of hearing loss, from mild to profound, and partial loss. The company consistently develops new technology to offer increasingly improved hearing to customers.

Read Customer Reviews


About Phonak Hearing Aids

Phonak is an award-winning global leader in hearing aid technology. The company offers the broadest line of hearing devices and accessories that we found in our research. Phonak hearing aids address any level of hearing loss, from mild to profound, and partial loss. The company consistently develops new technology to offer increasingly improved hearing to customers.

Phonak is a hearing aid solutions company that has been in business for over 60 years. Company headquarters are in Switzerland with a U.S.-based office in Illinois. The company is owned by Sonova, which also owns the Unitron and Hansaton hearing aid brands and Advanced Bionics cochlear implants. You’ll find Phonak’s extensive network of distributors and subsidiaries represented in over 100 countries around the globe.

Pros

  • Patented sound technology
  • Smart app connects to smartphone and TV
  • Cutting-edge technology, including a hearing aid worn 24/7
  • Free online hearing test

Cons

  • Many models not covered by Medicare
  • Can be expensive

Latest Phonak Hearing Aid Technology

Phonak develops and manufactures hearing aids with some of the most current technology, like rechargeable batteries you never have to change, advances in Bluetooth, and hearing aids that adjust to your surroundings in a split second.

  • Direct Connectivity is compatible with any cellphone using Bluetooth 4.2 wireless technology, which includes many older phones. Your hearing aids double as a hands-free cellphone or wireless TV headset with Direct Connectivity. Studies show that this technology delivers excellent TV sound quality.
  • AutoSense OS is a hearing technology that automatically adapts to the sound environment by performing a fast analysis and blending audio profiles to produce optimal hearing results. AutoSense Sky OS is similar but designed for children and teens to adjust to classroom or playground sounds, or to listening to music or having conversations with friends. The AutoSense Sky OS is more sensitive to loud speech and yelling compared to the regular Phonak AutoSense for adult hearing aids. The latest AutoSense 3.0 identifies even more hearing scenarios with top-rated streaming sound quality.
  • Binaural VoiceStream Technology streams real-time full audio bandwidth bi-directionally in both ears. This feature allows you to put less effort into trying to hear others speak in a noisy environment.
  • Roger Wireless technology encompasses a variety of microphones that transmit sound directly to the Phonak hearing aid wearer. Roger was developed for particularly challenging hearing environments and reduces background noise while enhancing understanding. Roger mics are useful in settings like restaurants or when sitting a distance from someone who is speaking to a roomful of people.
  • Phonak Rechargeable Batteries are self-contained Lithium-ion batteries. Phonak claims the cells last for six years, but we found four to five years is more typical. Field tests indicate these batteries are 15% more reliable than replaceable batteries and a single charge can last around 24 hours.

Phonak Hearing Aid Models

We listed some details for Phonak’s seven latest hearing aid models in the chart below. The company offers 14 other models as well. Your hearing specialist will help you choose the best hearing aids for your needs.

Model Price per EarHearing Loss TreatedTypeFeatures
Audéo Marvel
$1,149 – $2,799
Mild to profoundReceiver in canalRechargeable
Bluetooth – TV and phone
Naída B
$1,049 – $2,299
Mild to profoundReceiver in canal or behind the earRechargeable
Roger mic compatible
Bolero B
$1,149 – $2,299
Mild to profoundBehind the earRechargeable
Autosense OS
Virto B-Titanium
$1,899 – $2,499
Mild to severeIn the earMedical grade titanium
Smallest custom-made aid
Autosense OS
Virto B
$1,199 – $2,399
Mild to profoundIn the earCustom made using biometric calibration
CROS B
Custom, Prices Vary
Single sided deafnessReceiver in canal or behind the earRechargeable
Must use a Phonak aid in the hearing ear
Lyric
$3,000 – $6,000 per pair
Annual plan
Mild, moderate or severeReceiver in canalInvisible when worn
24/7 wear
30-day trial
Phonak Hearing Aid Models

Phonak Hearing Aids Cost

Phonak hearing aids come at all price points set by the hearing aid providers, and you can compare the prices to the average in our Best Hearing Aids Guide. The most affordable devices are about $1,300 per aid or $2,600 for a pair. The most expensive Phonak hearing aids are the Lyric model, which are the size of a pencil eraser and sit entirely in the ear canal, so they are invisible to others. Because a professional must insert Lyric hearing aids and remove them every few months, Phonak sells this model using an annual subscription between $3,000 and $6,000 a pair. There’s no Medicaid or Medicare coverage for Lyric devices.

Where to Buy Phonak Hearing Aids

Phonak sells hearing aids through audiologists; ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists; or designated hearing aid centers. You can check the website for providers near you or call the number on the site. Before getting fitted for Phonak hearing aids, you will need to have a hearing test. The specialist will recommend the best Phonak hearing aid model and style for your particular needs. The specialist orders your new devices after taking a mold of your inner and outer ear, and you will be fitted in a few days to a few weeks, depending on the model.


Phonak Hearing Aids Complaints

Phonak hearing aids receive mixed reviews online. ZipHearing gives the brand 5 out of 5 stars, with many reviewers commenting on impressive sound quality and comfortable fit. ConsumerAffairs reviewers give the company an average of 2.5 out of 5 stars, with many saying Phonak hearing aids work great, but others experienced problems and had to send the hearing aids back for adjustments or repairs. ConsumersAdvocate gives the brand 4 out of 5 stars for high-quality products, after-sale service, and a wide range of accessories. The Better Business Bureau has accredited Phonak and rates the company with an A+.


Phonak Hearing Aids FAQs

Will my insurance cover Phonak hearing aids?

Some insurance providers cover part or all of the cost of hearing aids from Phonak, though many will only cover specific models. Check with your provider or insurance company for details.

Can I buy a warranty to cover Phonak hearing aids?

Phonak provides a one-year international warranty on its hearing aids, but talk to your local provider to see if they offer a separate warranty. You can buy an extended warranty for some Phonak hearing aid models.

Can I buy Phonak hearing aids online?

You can buy some Phonak models online, but only with the assistance of a licensed professional. Phonak’s Internet Sales Policy warns that any direct-to-consumer online sales are from unauthorized sellers, and you will not receive the support you get from a hearing specialist.

Does Phonak have a program for veterans?

Yes, Phonak has a contract with the U.S. Veterans Affairs. Most of the models listed in our chart above are available via VA benefits along with many accessories to enhance the hearing aids.


Conclusion

Phonak sells a hearing aid for any level of hearing loss across all age groups. The company develops technologically-advanced hearing aids with comfort and ease of use in mind, including the convenience of Lyric hearing aids which are worn invisibly for months at a time.


37 Phonak Hearing Aids Reviews

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3 Stars

May 11 2021 4:42PM

I was advised by the seller of my Phonak hearing aids that the aids warranty applied to international locations. My Phonak aids were purchased in the USA and one of my hearing aids broke when I was travelling in Europe.

I contact a local Phonak dealer in Portugal and they advised they could not assist me because I did not purchase the hearing aid from them. I was advised that the hearing aid repair would need to be performed at the Phonak factory.

I also contacted the Phonak website via email and was advised they would not assist me then I needed to send my hearing aid to the store in the USA and they could send in the aid for repair.

I explained my situation to the Phonak representative and was advised 'sorry, we cannot assist, you need to contact the store where the unit was purchased". Wow what a surprise.

So if you purchase a Phonak and plan to travel, make sure you can contact the original seller and return a broken aid to them.

Dan P.
Lisbon, CA
2 Stars

May 03 2021 12:54PM

Mine are about 2 years old. Have been sent back to the factory 4 times. This is my fourth set of hearing aids and the worst. I try to take the best of care for them, and that doesn’t make any difference. I would never recommend this product.

Nicholas H.
Richmond, SELECT A STATE
5 Stars

May 01 2021 3:49PM

I received the Marvel hearing aids a couple weeks ago through VA care. So far I'm very satisfied. You do have to get used to them, as they are pretty tech oriented. I have android system and I found it rather easy to maneuver through the app.

I had Starkey before and they are great as well. Final thought, I like these a lot and hope they continue to satisfy. RevRon.

Ronald L.
Niantic, CT
1 Star

April 22 2021 7:38AM

I have gone through 5 or 6 chargers. And it always the same problem. The right ear hearing aid keeps messing up. Takes at least 10 min to get it to start charging. Can't close the lid because hearing aid will pop out. Thank God for a warranty. But what do I do when the warranty is over? This is garbage.

Reynard W.
Phoenix, AZ
1 Star

April 20 2021 10:45AM

My P90 hearing aids will not stay on the selected program, they automatically return to the base program (AutoSense 4.0) any time I receive an alert, text, or phone call. Very disruptive if the program is set for TV, Restaurant, etc.

Also my provider could not remove all the inherent noise in the hearing aids without affecting my hearing loss range.

James B.
Hewitt, TX
5 Stars

April 05 2021 9:26PM

I guess I am one of the lucky ones as the VA has supplied me with a pair of P90's and they are my first hearing aids. I was very sceptical as previous, off the shelf, cheap amplifier type devices were unwearable after an hour due to the discomfort.

From the day I received these P 90's, I have worn them constantly in absolute comfort. Most of the time I am not even aware I have them in.

Yes, they may need some fine tuning to get the best natural sound and yes, the app has a major flaw in that it returns to the default setting at the slightest interruption from my phone. Hopefully Phonak will fix that soon.

Glasses could be a problem but you just have to be careful. I HAVE SOLVED THE COVID MASK/HEARING AID ISSUE. Sorry to shout but worth shouting about. get some of these ** and attach them to the elastic mask retainers.

Instead of wearing them around your ears you can route them under your ears and connect around the back of your neck.

Lionel S.
Tampa, FL
2 Stars

March 11 2021 5:11PM

I was told I needed these kind to wear. "Audeo" is what is written on them. I wear glasses and they pull them out of my ears. I have to wear a mask and that rips them right off and onto the floor. They keep slipping out of my ears over time and have been fitted 2 time.

Had them in 3 time, once to replace once for reprogramming and once for fitting again. Now they need to go in again. Only a year old. However like the fact they are bluetooth so I can watch tv without leaving the bedroom. Other than that still can't hear very well with them.

The S.
North Bay, FL
1 Star

February 27 2021 2:30PM

Bad bad. For 3-4 months the second aid completely dead. Call the seller do not return the call. Call customers support. No answer. On Saturday. Supposed to be open on Saturday. Will never get another Phonak. Now I have wait maybe week or more for another aid. Is in "warranty."

Venko L.
Riverview, FL
2 Stars

February 26 2021 1:17AM

I bought Phonak, paid $3,200. The aids are in the ear. The battery door is so cheap it's pathetic. They have lasted only 1 year. I have bought 3 sets of hearing aids. This is the first broken door. It has been in for repair now for 2 weeks.

Now I can understand why people are going to places like Walmart buying aids for $299. Very disappointed to say the least. My friends are waiting to see my outcome. By the way I am very careful with my aids. They have never been treated rough I depend on them daily.

Eleanor P.
Crystal River, FL
1 Star

February 16 2021 10:11PM

Received p90rti in December 2020. Right aid lasted about 4 weeks. Stopped working. Sent in. Took over 10 days to return supposed new aid. How is a 10 day turn over acceptable for a $2500.00 hearing aid? I should have been provided a replacement same day.

The left hearing aid lasted to mid February about the 13th then just failed. I have a 3 year guarantee but for $2500.00 an aid and I can get 3/4 of the same technology for $150.00 on any Bluetooth hearing pods or I should be getting a lifetime guarantee or at least a ten year guarantee.

As far as my opinion is stay away from these pieces of garbage. I fell into their hype but don’t you. These are really poorly made and if you spend $5000.00 for a set you are just getting screwed like I did.

Douglas T.
Loudon, NH
2 Stars

February 09 2021 1:10PM

The 2-star is based on bluetooth technology outdoors. I walk my dogs every day and bike ride. I was super excited to use these for streaming sound/phone calls while outdoors.

BUT if the phone is in my pocket or backpack the connection is so intermittent it will cut in/out 10+ times during one song.

I reached out to Phonak customer support and they confirmed "the hearing aid signal is not strong enough to detect the phone so it will cut in and out". Their solution was to hold the phone, which is NOT a solution while walking dogs or on a bike.

I wish I would have known this limitation prior committing to this brand. My sister has 4+ yr old Resound hearing aids from Costco and has no issues with the bluetooth connection with the phone in her pocket during outdoor activities.

April H.
Rochester Hills, MI
4 Stars

February 06 2021 2:28AM

I’m a first-time hearing aid user and, in general, am pleased with my new, rechargeable Phonaks. My only complaint — and I consider it to be major — is in the Bluetooth capability.

The default Phonak setting on my phone App is “AutoSense OS 4.0” and this is good for just about everything. However, if I manually select a different setting (TV, Restaurant, etc.) and a call, text, or I check my Facebook page on my phone, the App instantly reverts back to default.

A HUGE audible difference. I love the TV setting, but it’s almost impossible to hold on to. During any given TV program, I find myself going in to reset the App to TV 10-15 times, depending on my family and Text traffic.

The Phonak representative suggested I turn off Texts and Facebook while I’m watching TV. WHAAT? Why? There needs to be a patch update for the Phonak App... yesterday!

Catherine L.
Pittsburgh, PA
5 Stars

January 19 2021 5:17PM

I bought my Phonak hearing aids at Berks ENT in Womissing, Pa. My audiologists is Leslie ** and she is totally AWESOME! I purchased my Phonak hearing aides November 2013! They still work and perform like new! I am very happy with them! I never thought I could ever hear this good again, wow it’s amazing how I can hear so clear again. Knock on wood I have never had a major problem with either one of them other than having the wires replaced and having them checked every year & keeping them cleaned!

I clean them every 2 weeks and replace the wax traps and the boots, If the boots need changing. If they don’t need the boots changed, I certainly change them at least once a month! Key to your hearing aids lasting for a long time is taking care of them and regular maintenance! I love my Phonak hearing aids and I am soon going to purchase another pair! They are the best!

Paul S.
Blandon, PA
3 Stars

August 31 2020 12:31AM

The tv connection that I bought does not work and I tried 2. I have up and it sits with dust. Sometimes one aid will have such a loud noise that it “screams” in my ear and I pull it off and throw it. Sometimes the left one will just stop and start back in a minute or 2.

My BIGGEST complaint is a small part of the plastic broke off the door but I cannot get it fixed in Anchorage and has to be sent away for a week. It is the worst ear and I CANNOT go without it that long.

The wonderful Johnny at Costco said he could put a door on in 30 sec but the “policy” is they won’t send them to the store and I can’t order one to be sent to he nor I. COME ON!!! That is the craziest thing I ever heard.

That’s the equivalent of saying you don’t care that I can’t hear for a week. Not ok, I’m putting this on social media bc it’s not good customer service.

Deb O.
Anchorage, SELECT A STATE
5 Stars

June 23 2020 2:41PM

I may only be 36 years old but have worn hearing aids ever since I was 2 years of age, so hearing aid life is all I know. I have no basis to compare how my hearing quality is now with hearing aids compared to, say, when I was younger and my hearing had been perfect.

I have used a wide variety of hearing products through the years from Starkey, Oticon, and now Phonak. I honestly feel that Phonak has been the best brand for me thus far in terms of durability, power, and ability to address my hearing loss needs. I have severe, bordering on profound, hearing loss in both ears, so I've always only been able to have a smaller set of hearing aids to choose from through the years because of the power needed for my particular loss.

I grew up with analog hearing aids, meaning no digital capabilities through the 80's and 90's. It wasn't until my prior set of in the ear Phonaks that I made the jump to digital and that was huge 10 years ago That pair had lasted me with minimal issues - only needing to send out for cleaning and maybe one repair - I did have some issues with the wax traps holders popping out after years of wear and that had to be fixed a couple times. I just got my newest pair of hearing aids and I told my audiologist I absolutely wanted to stick with Phonak because of my positive experiences with them. I now have the Phonak Virto Marvel M90-312s in the ear hearing aids.

I have to say is WOW. Even for someone who has worn hearing aids just about their whole life, I am impressed. The technology has stepped up in a huge way in the past decade. The AutoSense 3.0 operating system has been interesting and some time to get used to but it really does a lot of the work on its own for me determining what setting I'm in and adjusting on its own. I will say there have been a few instances where I was in a certain situation that I would've anticipated a different setting for microphone capture and self-adjusted it in the app on my own on my iPhone.

It is something I continue to work with my audiologist on to better understand the set up and how it works. Ultimately, though, I am very happy so far with them almost a month in. I have not had any issues with them in terms of people saying things like they over amplify things like road noise - I just feel for many whom are newer to hearing aids are just finally hearing things they haven't quite been picking up on for years and it is a major adjustment period if you once were full hearing capable.

I always recommend - keep working with your hearing specialist to tweak and adjust them - it does take some time to find that sweet spot for your as we all have different hearing needs. If you aren't happy with how that hearing specialist works with you, find another one who will take the time to do so - you deserve nothing less than the attention necessary so you can enjoy hearing well!

Nicholas A.
South Windsor, CT
2 Stars

June 18 2020 3:51PM

Have Audeo V purchased 2016. In January 2020, the Phonak app stopped supporting my aids. Now a trip to the audiologist is required to make changes, rather than my iPhone. Poor product support for an expensive hearing aid set.

Deb S.
Fort Collins, CO
5 Stars

May 12 2020 9:31PM

Wow when my husband lost his right hearing aid in his shirt while dressing for bed then failed to tell me until I had started washer I thought all was lost. I managed to fish it out at the end of cycle. I returned it to the charging case and the next day it was back working. Now I call that truly beyond the call of duty.

Carol H.
Eugene, OR
5 Stars

April 11 2020 7:06PM

My behind the ear Phonak's for batteries are 12 years old. I wear them every day since I have a high-frequency hearing loss in both ears. Fitted professionally and checked out semi-annually ever since purchase. I am at the top of my range and will be looking at replacing these whenever the time comes. Never had a repair or replacement. Why buy any other brand! Wonder what kind of deal Phonak might offer me?

Janet B.
Roscoe, IL
1 Star

March 27 2020 7:50AM

Do not buy this hearing aid! I was charged $6,500 for the in the ear titanium model. I replaced a 4 year old pair of Starkey aids at my dispensers suggestion. When the aids were 10 months old in October 2019, the tiny white ring that holds the filter fell off the left ear. For some strange reason the dispenser refused to send it in for repair, saying “it’s ok to use without”.

In January, while on a two month overseas holiday, the right one fell off. I came to learn a month later, after I got an ear infection, that the filter had imbedded itself in my right ear. Back in the states in March, the 3rd ear doctor I saw here, finally removed it. He told me he removes the filters from peoples ears often. The lady at Costco told me the same thing. My hearing is further impaired and the dispenser won’t return my emails or calls.

Maggie H.
Oxnard, CA
2 Stars

February 13 2020 12:45PM

I wrote before. I had my rechargeable Phonac hearing aids replaced soon after getting them in July, 2019. They were fine in the operation until now. It is February, 2020 and the hearing aids are 6 months old. I started having trouble with the pairing of my phone and my hearing aids. The lights in the recharging bin are not working. I try to restart them and they are evidently dead.

I am very disappointed in the service I'm getting out of these very expensive devices. I am retired, have a bad heart and do not need this type of stress in my life. I very much so need the hearing aids but feel these are much less than worth the money! I am taking them back to the place I purchased them this morning and hope there is a resolve. I would never recommend these to anyone. Overpriced and under performing!

Marsha E.
Selinsgrove, PA
5 Stars

February 10 2020 9:18PM

I have never worn hearing aids before and am 72. Therefore I may not be the right person to do a review, but I am so happy just to finally be able to hear softspoken people (which sounds like mumbling to me!) I literally have only had them a week, but so far they work very well and since I got them through my audiologist they have a lifetime warranty (actually 4 years which must be the life of the hearing aid, hopefully not me - haha) for anything and I can drop in if I need help with them. Everything is very clear. People can even whisper and I hear them clearly. Of course they pick up the swishing of my hair, the clinking of my keys, etc. But the coolest thing is they also are like having a very expensive pair of bluetooth i-buds ... I can answer my phone, talk, and hear as long as my phone is within 30 feet. I can listen to an audio book on my phone without having to carry the phone around and of course anything else you can listen to with bluetooth - music, You Tube, News, etc. I am really having fun with these! Getting old is not so bad and has its fun side! :) I did not buy the most expensive ones because I mainly need them for talking to family and hearing the TV when its across the room without turning it up to the point where everyone else covers their ears. As my hearing changes I can add software that works in restaurants, or anywhere there are noisy loud crowds of people.

Patricia M.
Greer, SC
5 Stars

November 17 2019 4:23AM

I’m really surprised to see the less-than-stellar reviews. I’m demoing the Phonak Audeo hearing aids and I couldn’t be more impressed. I was told by my audiologist to allow the hearing aids to adjust themselves as I went into quiet and or loud environments. I was very impressed at how the hearing aids automatically adjusted themselves so that I could hear wherever I was.

I was amazed at how well I could hear in noisy environments including small conference rooms with a lot of background noise and busy restaurants. I was also extremely impressed with the round microphone accessory that allowed me to amplify select peoples‘ voices around the conference room table.

This is the first time I’ve ever been able to hear everyone whether they’re looking at me or not. Even better I can have the presenter wear the microphone around his/her neck on a lanyard and everything they say will pipe right into my Phonak hearing aids. Definitely a game changer. I also have a hard time hearing my tennis pro on the tennis court. So now he will wear the microphone around his neck on a lanyard. I am so excited. The only negatives are the microphones in the hearing aids pick up a lot of road noise when driving (which is typical). They are more ideal for quiet environments if you’re going to be speaking to clients on the phone. Otherwise they’re fine for family, friends or internal team members while driving.

I was surprised that the microphones didn’t pick up the wind noise while I was walking outside at all which is a nice benefit. I’m hoping my initial experience continues because as a wearer of hearing aids my entire adult life, the Phonak hearing aids will make my work and leisure life easier and even more enjoyable.

Christy V.
St Petersburg, FL
3 Stars

October 29 2019 10:58AM

I agree with the earlier reviewers. These aids are a waste of money in noisy environments like restaurants, PA systems in halls, dances and windy environments. I only get benefit in situations where one person is speaking in an acoustically quiet room and the speaker is looking at me, which covers about 10% of my active hearing time. Phonak make big claims that dont deliver.

Terry A.
Christchurch, SELECT A STATE
1 Star

October 05 2019 10:54PM

I have had several hearing aids. The Phonak is the worst aid I have ever had. It does not work well in noisy environments and in general is poor in amplification. It amplifies surrounding sound more than speech. I have a regular aid in the left ear and a bicross in the right ear. I still have to turn my head so that people are speaking into my left ear in order to hear them.

I have been to two audiologists for adjustments without success. Although I got a good price on these aids, they are greatly overpriced due to the poor job of properly correcting hearing. I would definitely NOT recommend these hearing aids. Maybe a company representative could make them work satisfactorily, but that doesn't seem to be an option.

Allen W.
Winter Park, FL
2 Stars

September 14 2019 2:05AM

I have had my hearing aids since July and already having them replaced. The aid in my right ear has been going off and on for a long time and finally the light does not light while in the charger. It works intermittently. Both aids are going back for a replacement.

Marsha E.
Selinsgrove, PA
3 Stars

June 25 2019 7:29PM

Rate average to good, but I cannot claim any comparative experience. My issues are: these are terrible in restaurants or other crowded, noisy areas. They pick up all the noise, especially speakers on the ceiling, such that I cannot hear people at my table. In large areas such as a courtroom, I cannot clearly hear individual voices, and when the voices are broadcast through electronic means, the quality suffers. For TV, radio, etc., there is an electronic, static-y sound I find uncomfortable. In these negative hearing situations I'll often remove the devices, which increases the risk of loss or damage.

Jack L.
Marlborough, MA
3 Stars

June 18 2019 10:57PM

1. Hearing Part works great. 2. On phone calls the left ear keeps going off an on every minute. 3. I-tube Videos some times shout off and on. 4.  Music some times turns off and on. I would of purchase Phonak Audio 13 T if I had it to do over.

Gene J.
Sun City Center, FL