Best Hearing Aids of 2025: An In-Depth, Side-by-Side Comparison of the Year’s Top 10 Models

Searching for modern digital hearing aids you can buy online? In this updated 2025 guide we compare today's top-rated hearing aids, from budget to high-end hearing aids, to help you choose the ideal
Avatar Joanna Taylor3 weeks ago
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Jasmine O'Connell, PhD in Health Informatics

Smart, Connected, and Capable

Today’s best hearing aids don’t just amplify sound; they integrate seamlessly into your digital life. For many users, especially those who value personalization, streaming, and hands-free convenience, the top performers in 2025 are Bluetooth-enabled smart hearing aids. These devices are designed to do more than just help you hear; they adapt, learn, and respond to your environment, giving you more control and comfort than ever before.

These hearing aids are ideal for people who want to take full advantage of technology. Whether it’s streaming phone calls and music directly to your ears, adjusting sound profiles on the fly with a smartphone app, or having your hearing aid automatically shift modes when the environment changes, the new generation of smart devices focuses on enhancing hearing through intelligent, user-driven tools.

Whether you’re buying for yourself or a tech-comfortable loved one, this guide highlights the most feature-rich, high-performance hearing aids that offer connectivity without complication.

Our Hands-On Testing Approach

Every hearing aid in this guide was personally purchased and tested by our internal team of product analysts and real-world users with mild to moderate hearing loss. Our goal was to understand how each smart hearing aid performs in everyday life, not just in a lab.

Each device was evaluated in a variety of real-life scenarios, including:

  • Quiet home conversations
  • Streaming TV, phone calls, and music
  • Outdoor walks in wind and traffic
  • Group settings and noisy restaurants
  • Transitions between quiet and loud environments

We focused on key performance areas specific to Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids:

  • App setup and customization: How easy is it to pair, personalize, and update the device?
  • Streaming quality: Is audio clear and well-synced across calls, music, and media?
  • Environmental adaptability: Do the automatic modes respond intelligently to changing soundscapes?
  • Manual controls and app responsiveness: Are volume, modes, and settings intuitive to adjust on the go?
  • Battery performance: How long do they last on a single charge, especially with streaming in use?
  • Comfort and wearability: Are they comfortable for extended use across daily activities?
  • Build quality and discretion: Do they feel premium, durable, and subtle enough for everyday wear?

Our emphasis was on connected functionality that actually improves hearing, not just adds tech for the sake of it.

What Makes a Great Smart Hearing Aid?

With so many devices now featuring Bluetooth and app integration, not all smart hearing aids are created equal. Here’s how we defined standout performance in this increasingly competitive category:

1. Clear, Natural Sound with Intelligent Processing

The best hearing aids deliver crisp, focused sound, even while streaming audio or switching environments. We looked for devices that prioritize speech clarity, reduce feedback and ambient noise, and adapt in real time using directional microphones and digital signal processing.

2. Seamless Bluetooth Streaming

A great smart hearing aid should offer lag-free, reliable Bluetooth for both iOS and Android. Whether you’re taking a call, watching a video, or listening to music, the audio should be direct, clear, and stable, without noticeable delay or loss of fidelity.

3. App-Driven Customization

Personalization is a cornerstone of smart hearing. The top devices feature intuitive companion apps that allow users to adjust sound profiles, switch programs, and even take remote hearing tests to fine-tune performance. We gave preference to apps that are easy to navigate and offer meaningful adjustments without a learning curve.

4. Rechargeable Batteries with All-Day Use

Bluetooth-enabled devices tend to demand more power. We prioritized hearing aids that last at least a full day, between 12 and 24 hours, with active streaming and come with reliable charging cases that are portable, fast-charging, and easy to use.

5. Comfort and Style

Smart features should not come at the cost of comfort. We favored devices that offer secure, ergonomic fits, whether behind-the-ear or in-the-ear, and remain comfortable for all-day wear. Sleek, discreet design was also a key factor.

6. Smart Scene Recognition

Advanced hearing aids now adapt automatically to your surroundings, switching between programs like “restaurant”, “conversation”, or “outdoors”. We looked for devices that transitioned smoothly and intuitively, without needing manual intervention.

If you’re looking for hearing aids that offer the best of modern tech, connectivity, adaptability, and customization, without overwhelming complexity, the next five models stand out as the strongest options in 2025.

 

Best Hearing Aids of 2025

BEST OVERALL

DocExperts Rating

★★★★★ 5.0

Oxiline Hear XS Pro

DocExperts Rating

★★★★★ 5.0

Pros

  • Best Overall Sound Clarity
  • Low Background Noise
  • 24-Hour Battery Life
  • UV Sanitizing Charging Case
  • Lightweight and Discrete
  • Lifetime Warranty

Cons

  • Manual Volume Control

Buy Now

View at Oxiline

Customer Reviews ★★★★★ 5,185

Introduction

After trying out 20 hearing aids on the market this year, the Oxiline Hear XS Pro left a strong impression. It’s a compact, smart hearing aid with a modern look and a refreshingly straightforward setup process. From the outset, what stood out was how easy it was to get started—just place them in, follow the calibration via the app, and you’re ready to go; the device is adjusted to your own hearing needs. Or, the app allows you to upload your own audiogram for even quicker setup.The build feels durable, and the sound out of the box was surprisingly clear for a device in this price range. Switching between modes (Normal, Noisy, Music) is done via a single button, which takes a bit of learning but works smoothly once you get the hang of it. the device is IP68 resistance, meaning it handles dust, sweat, and splashes fairly well. The case, which charges the devices wirelessly and includes a UV cleaning light, is a nice bonus—though not a feature most users may have been asking for, but one that may prevent ear infections.

Our Review

What ultimately made the Hear XS Pro our top choice wasn’t any single standout feature, but rather the overall balance of performance, usability, and thoughtful extras. The sound quality is genuinely good—not just louder, but more refined. Voices come through clearly, and background noise is handled well, particularly in café and street environments where other hearing aids struggled.

Battery life is solid: we consistently got a full day of use, and the fast charging (around 45 minutes in our tests) meant they were ready to go again before we even realized they were low. The lifetime warranty is a strong trust signal, and the app’s automatic calibration to your hearing profile saves time and hassle. While other devices might offer more advanced tuning for audiophiles, the Hear XS Pro hits the sweet spot for everyday users looking for reliability and simplicity.

That said, there’s still room for improvement. There aren’t many aesthetic options, and the one-button interface—while simple—might feel limiting for users who want more manual control over their settings.

Product Specs

Hearing Aid Type: Behind-Ear
Battery life: Rechargeable Battery – 24-Hour Use
Charger type: Wireless Charging Case
Calibration App: Yes, free of charge
Other Functions: Streams music and takes phone calls.

#2 Top Hearing Aids

DocExperts Rating

★★★★☆ 4.0

Eargo 7

DocExperts Rating

★★★★☆ 4.0

Pros

  • Incredibly discreet
  • Good Sound Clarity
  • Automatic scene-switching

Cons

  • Most Expensive OTC
  • No Bluetooth streaming
  • Subpar Customer service

Buy Now

View at Eargo

Customer Reviews ★★★★ 487

Introduction

Designed to be self-fitting and adjusted via an app, the Eargo 7 does not require in-person visits, which is a plus for accessibility. It includes a charging case with three full charges (around 16 hours each), touch controls to switch between listening programs, and IP68 resistance, meaning it handles dust, sweat, and splashes fairly well. The app itself is intuitive, offering noise filter options and clearly named listening modes like “Mask,” “Restaurant,” and “Meeting.”
From a hardware and software standpoint, the Eargo 7 feels modern and well-tailored for everyday users who want an “invisible” hearing experience.

Our Review

Despite the device’s impressive engineering, our overall experience with Eargo 7 was marred by frustrating customer service and logistical delays. While testing, we reached out to Eargo’s support team with a few questions about device settings and performance in specific environments. Surprisingly, the team seemed undertrained and unfamiliar with the product’s details, providing vague or inconsistent responses that didn’t address our concerns.
The lack of Bluetooth streaming is expected due to the device’s small size, but still worth noting for users who want to take calls or listen to music through their hearing aids. And while the automatic program switching generally works well, we occasionally found it to be a bit too sensitive, changing modes mid-conversation.

The Eargo 7 is a strong step forward in invisible OTC hearing aid design. It’s compact, discreet, and technologically advanced in many of the right areas—particularly noise filtering and automatic adjustments. However, the high price tag becomes harder to justify when you factor in unreliable customer support and shipping delays. For users who value independence and form factor above all else, this may still be a good choice. But those looking for comprehensive support or streaming capabilities may want to explore other options.

Product Specs

Hearing Aid Type: In-Ear
Battery life: Rechargeable Battery – 24-Hour Use
Charger type: Wireless Charging Case
Calibration App: Yes, free of charge
Other Functions: Does not stream music or take phone calls.

#3 Top Hearing Aids

DocExperts Rating

★★★☆☆ 3.8

Audicus Spirit 2

DocExperts Rating

★★★☆☆ 3.8

Pros

  • Automatic sound adjustments
  • Good Sound Clarity in Loud Places
  • Streams Music or Calls
  • Remote programming

Cons

  • High Noise in Quiet Settings
  • Unstable Amplification
  • High Price for OTC

Buy Now

View at Audicus

Customer Reviews ★★★ 9,300

Why we picked it

With the Spirit 2, Audicus delivers its most advanced hearing aid to date, combining Bluetooth connectivity, remote fitting, and automatic environmental adjustments.
What really sets Audicus apart from many over-the-counter options like Eargo or Lexie is that you don’t have to program the device yourself. You can take an online hearing test or upload your own audiogram, and the Audicus team handles the programming before shipping your hearing aids directly to your door. This model offers a more personalized experience and can save users a significant amount compared to traditional audiology services—typically around 50–70% less.
The device itself supports Bluetooth streaming from both iOS and Android devices and can be paired with an additional Bluetooth device like a TV or laptop. A rechargeable battery option is available for an extra $100 per pair, although this adds to an already higher price compared to OTC alternatives. Users can also choose a monthly subscription starting at $99/month, which makes the product more accessible without the upfront commitment.

Our Review

While the convenience and pricing model are strong, sound performance is a mixed bag. In everyday listening, Spirit 2 performed well in moderately noisy environments, and the automatic adjustments between different soundscapes were generally smooth. However, we noticed issues in quieter settings, where the device introduced noticeable background noise and excessive gain.
This was especially distracting during one-on-one conversations in quiet rooms or while reading in low-noise environments. The amplification at times felt too aggressive, elevating not just voices but also faint room sounds, fans, or distant hums—creating an unnatural listening experience. Feedback suppression worked adequately in most conditions, but didn’t eliminate the occasional high-pitched squeal when placing or removing the device.
Additionally, while the remote setup process is convenient, the lack of in-person clinic support might not suit users who need regular in-ear adjustments or more personalized fitting guidance.
The Audicus Spirit 2 is a compelling choice for users looking for remote service, Bluetooth functionality, and a step up from basic OTC hearing aids. Its hybrid model of professional programming and direct-to-door delivery offers both personalization and affordability. However, its sound inconsistencies in quieter settings and lack of in-person support may be dealbreakers for those seeking a more refined or hands-on experience. For the right user—especially tech-comfortable buyers who prioritize convenience—it’s still a very respectable option in the mid-to-premium hearing aid space.

Product Specs

Hearing Aid Type: Behind-Ear
Battery life: Rechargeable Battery (paid option)
Charger type: Wireless Charging Case (paid option)
Calibration App: No
Other Functions: Streams music and takes phone calls.

#4 Top Hearing Aids

DocExperts Rating

★★★☆☆ 3.5

Jabra Enhance Select 500

DocExperts Rating

★★★☆☆ 3.5

Pros

  • Hands-free calling and TapControl
  • Good app-based control
  • 24-Hour Battery Life
  • Future-ready connectivity

Cons

  • Subpar sound clarity
  • Spatial sound feels unfocused
  • Steep Price for OTC

Buy Now

View at Jabra

Customer Reviews ★★★ 4113

Introduction

The Jabra Enhance Select 500 arrives with an impressive spec sheet and a sleek, ultra-compact design. Marketed as Jabra’s smallest hearing aid yet, it features a minimalist “micro” form factor that’s easy to wear and nearly invisible. The device promises hands-free calling, Bluetooth streaming, smart noise handling, and future-ready Bluetooth LE Audio support—on paper, it feels like the kind of modern, tech-forward hearing aid that should stand out in 2025.
Setup is straightforward, and the companion app offers users a fair amount of control, including customizable settings and a dedicated Music Mode to enhance the quality of live music. The charging case is lightweight and efficient, offering a full 24 hours of use on a single charge. TapControl—allowing users to answer calls by tapping their ear—was a nice touch during phone conversations, and it worked consistently with compatible phones.

Our review

Despite the promising features, the biggest surprise—and disappointment—was the sound clarity. In quiet environments, the sound was serviceable, but in real-world, mixed-sound scenarios (cafés, parks, busy streets), the audio lacked sharpness and detail. Conversations felt muffled at times, especially when background noise was present. This was unexpected given the device’s marketing around SoundScape™ technology and its “next-level listening.”
We also found the spatial sound enhancement to be inconsistent. While the device did amplify ambient noise from the sides and back, it often came at the expense of clarity in front-facing conversations. Even Music Mode, while slightly better, failed to make a strong impression in live performance settings.
Additionally, the price point is on the high end—and for a product in this premium tier, we expected significantly better sound performance. There’s no question that this is a sleek and well-supported device with solid software and tech support, but sound quality should always be the priority in a hearing aid—and here, it simply doesn’t deliver as promised.
The Jabra Enhance Select 500 tries to blend style, connectivity, and compact design into a premium hearing aid, and in some areas, it succeeds. However, for a product at this price point, the most important element—clear, reliable sound—misses the mark. For users prioritizing aesthetics and phone features over pure audio performance, it may still appeal. But if sound quality is your main concern, there are stronger options available.

Product Specs

Hearing Aid Type: Behind-Ear
Battery life: Rechargeable Battery
Charger type: Wireless Charging Case
Calibration App: No
Other Functions: Streams music and takes phone calls.

#5 Top Hearing Aids

DocExperts Rating

★★★☆☆ 3.0

Lucid Engage

DocExperts Rating

★★★ 3.0

Pros

  • Bluetooth streaming
  • Affordable pricing
  • Sam’s Club in-person support

Cons

  • Only 8-hour battery life
  • Sound quality is average
  • Charging case feels cheap

Customer Reviews ★★★★★ 49

Introduction

The Lucid Engage might not generate as much buzz as bigger-name OTC competitors, but after hands-on testing, we found it to be one of the most feature-rich devices in the category—particularly considering its price. While the behind-the-ear (BTE) form factor is a bit bulkier than others on the market, it still manages to be low-profile and discreet, especially under hair or a mask.
Lucid Engage supports Bluetooth streaming on both iOS and Android devices—a major advantage at this price point. Like many modern OTC hearing aids, it connects to a smartphone app for setup and tuning, allowing users to calibrate their hearing profile without a clinic visit. While the app interface is on the simpler side, it offers enough customization to get a reasonably accurate sound fit for most users.

Our Review

Where Lucid Engage starts to show its limitations is in the hardware execution. The charging case feels noticeably lower in quality compared to competitors at similar or slightly higher prices. The build is functional but lacks the polish of premium products like the Eargo 7 or Oxiline Hear XS Pro. More importantly, the battery life caps at about 8 hours per charge, which is less than half the runtime of many other rechargeable hearing aids on our list. This means most users will need to recharge midday if wearing them full time.
In terms of sound quality, Lucid Engage performs reasonably well in typical environments, but doesn’t rise above its peers. It handles amplification and basic noise balancing competently, but doesn’t offer the same level of clarity or natural sound found in more refined models. It’s good enough for casual conversations, phone calls, and watching TV—but for users with more advanced hearing loss or those needing crisp performance in noisy environments, there are better options.
The Lucid Engage is a solid, practical hearing aid that flies under the radar but checks a lot of important boxes—especially when it comes to connectivity, price, and support infrastructure. While its sound quality and hardware feel won’t impress audiophiles, it’s still a compelling option for value-focused users, especially those who want the assurance of local, in-person help through Sam’s Club. For these reasons, Lucid Engage earns a respectable #5 spot on our list of best hearing aids in 2025.

Product Specs

Hearing Aid Type: Behind-Ear
Battery life: Rechargeable Battery
Charger type: Wireless Charging Case
Calibration App: Yes
Other Functions: Streams music and takes phone calls.

Additional Devices Reviewed

These smart hearing aids did not make it to the top 5 list based on sound quality issues and other negative patient reports.

  1. Senheisser All Day Clear
  2. Linner Mercury
  3. Sony CRE-C10
  4. RCA Hearing Aids
  5. Sontro hearing Aids

 

Evaluation Process

To ensure a fair and in-depth review, we personally purchased and tested every hearing aid featured on this list. Each device was evaluated over multiple days in a range of real-world environments—quiet rooms, crowded restaurants, outdoor walks, and phone/video calls—to assess sound clarity, background noise handling, comfort, battery performance, and ease of use. We also tested companion apps, setup experiences, customer support responsiveness, and any value-added features like Bluetooth streaming or sanitation cases. Our goal was to approach these products from the perspective of a typical user, not just as tech reviewers—looking closely at what truly adds value and what gets in the way. This hands-on, scenario-based testing helps us cut through the marketing claims and focus on what matters most: everyday performance and reliability.

 

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right hearing aid is about more than just specs—it’s about how the device fits into your daily life, supports your hearing needs, and holds up over time. After extensive hands-on testing, we found that no single model is perfect for everyone. The Oxiline Hear XS Pro stood out as our top pick for its balanced combination of sound quality, ease of use, battery life, and smart features, all backed by a strong lifetime warranty. For those prioritizing discretion and automatic scene management, Eargo 7 delivers in form factor, though it’s held back by weak customer support and shipping delays. Jabra Enhance Select 500 brought high expectations but underwhelmed with clarity issues, especially in complex sound environments.

Audicus Spirit 2 offers a compelling hybrid model for those who want remote personalization and Bluetooth functionality, though it has room to improve in low-noise audio performance. And finally, while Lucid Engage doesn’t lead in sound or design, its partnership with Sam’s Club and extensive feature set make it a sleeper pick for those who want in-person support without a high price tag.

Ultimately, your ideal choice will depend on your hearing profile, tech comfort level, lifestyle, and whether you value hands-on care or total independence. What’s clear from our experience is that hearing aid technology has never been more accessible or more personalized—2025 is a great time to find a solution that fits you.

 

Choosing the Right Hearing Aid for Your Needs

Even the best hearing aids aren’t one-size-fits-all. Use the mini-guide below to match our top picks to your lifestyle, then confidently shop hearing aids online or in-store.

1. Tinnitus Relief

Seeking a tinnitus hearing aid? Adaptive masking tones make Oxiline Hear XS Pro and Audicus Spirit 2 the best options for tinnitus in our tests. A correctly fitted device often helps with tinnitus rather than aggravate it.

2. Severe or Sensorineural Loss

Those needing hearing aids for severe hearing loss should prioritize output power and feedback control. Jabra Enhance Select 500 ranks among today’s most powerful options and is well-suited to sensorineural hearing loss or deaf adults who prefer OTC convenience.

3. Seniors & Ease of Use

The best hearing aids for seniors keep things simple. Lucid Engage offers local Sam’s Club support, making it a standout for senior hearing aids, elderly wearers, and anyone who values easy-to-use hearing aids.

4. Form Factor: BTE vs RIC

Classic behind the ear hearing aid (BTE) styles deliver durability and room for batteries—look for waterproof BTE hearing aids if you’re active. A receiver in canal hearing aid (RIC) feels lighter; Oxiline’s rechargeable model is one of the best RIC hearing aids on the market. Shoppers wanting discretion can explore small BTE hearing aids or small RIC hearing aids.

5. Buying Online

You can now buy hearing aid devices direct from the manufacturer. Brands like Oxiline and Audicus list their hearing aids for sale on secure sites so you can order hearing aids and receive doorstep delivery. Prefer a click-and-collect option? Lucid lets you purchase hearing aids online and pick them up locally—perfect for shoppers who want both digital convenience and in-person service.

Not ready for a full device? Entry-level assistive listening devices—including hearing amplifiers, personal sound amplification devices, and dedicated TV hearing devices—offer a cost-effective stepping stone while you evaluate full-featured solutions.

FAQ

Q: What’s the difference between OTC and prescription hearing aids?

OTC (over-the-counter) hearing aids can be purchased directly online or in-store without a medical exam. They’re designed for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. Prescription hearing aids require testing, fitting, and tuning by an audiologist, and are typically more expensive.

Q: Can I program OTC hearing aids myself?

Many OTC hearing aids include an app that lets you run a hearing test and adjust settings on your own. However, brands like Audicus pre-program the devices for you based on your audiogram or an online test, offering a more hands-off experience.

Q: Do all hearing aids support Bluetooth streaming?

No. Some of the smallest, most discreet models—like the Eargo 7—do not support Bluetooth due to size limitations. Others, like the Oxiline Hear XS Pro, Jabra Enhance Select 500, and Lucid Engage, offer full Bluetooth streaming for calls and media.

Q: What’s a realistic battery life for rechargeable hearing aids?

Most modern rechargeable hearing aids offer between 8 to 24 hours of use per charge. Devices like Oxiline Hear XS Pro and Jabra Enhance Select 500 last a full day, while others like Lucid Engage need midday charging due to their 8-hour battery life.

Q: Do I need to visit a clinic to get support?

Not necessarily. Most OTC brands offer remote support via phone or app. Lucid Engage is unique in offering free in-person support through over 500 Sam’s Club locations, making it ideal for those who prefer hands-on help.

Q: Are invisible hearing aids less powerful than larger models?

Not necessarily, but they often have limited battery life and fewer features, like Bluetooth streaming, due to their compact size. For example, the Eargo 7 is ultra-discreet but does not support media streaming. Larger devices may offer more advanced sound processing and longer battery life.

Q: How long do hearing aids typically last?

With proper care, most hearing aids last between 3 to 5 years. Durability depends on how well you maintain them, whether they’re exposed to moisture, and the overall build quality. Brands that offer warranties (like Oxiline’s lifetime warranty) offer added peace of mind.

Q: Can hearing aids help in noisy environments?

Yes—but performance varies. Some hearing aids, like the Eargo 7 and Oxiline Hear XS Pro, offer automatic scene-switching or noise filtering to enhance speech clarity in complex environments. Others may amplify all sounds equally, which can make noisy places overwhelming.

Q: What kind of support should I expect after buying?

Support varies widely. Some brands offer only app-based or phone help like Oxiline’s hearing aid support phone number, while others—like Lucid Engage—stand out for their in-person assistance through Sam’s Club clinics. Brands like Audicus provide remote audiologist support but no physical locations.
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Joanna Taylor

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