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
Oxiline Hear XS Pro
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
View at Oxiline
Customer Reviews ★★★★★ 5,185
Introduction
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.
Eargo 7
Pros
- Incredibly discreet
- Good Sound Clarity
- Automatic scene-switching
Cons
- Most Expensive OTC
- No Bluetooth streaming
- Subpar Customer service
View at Eargo
Customer Reviews ★★★★ 487
Introduction
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.
Audicus Spirit 2
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
View at Audicus
Customer Reviews ★★★ 9,300
Why we picked it
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
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.
Jabra Enhance Select 500
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
View at Jabra
Customer Reviews ★★★ 4113
Introduction
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
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.
Lucid Engage
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
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.
- Senheisser All Day Clear
- Linner Mercury
- Sony CRE-C10
- RCA Hearing Aids
- 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?
Q: Can I program OTC hearing aids myself?
Q: Do all hearing aids support Bluetooth streaming?
Q: What’s a realistic battery life for rechargeable hearing aids?
Q: Do I need to visit a clinic to get support?
Q: Are invisible hearing aids less powerful than larger models?
Q: How long do hearing aids typically last?
Q: Can hearing aids help in noisy environments?
Q: What kind of support should I expect after buying?
