Different Styles for Unique
Hearing Needs and Preferences
From hearing needs to aesthetic appeal, there are many factors your hearing care professional considers before recommending a specific device. Understanding the differences between hearing aid styles will help you and your hearing professional choose the instrument that's right for you.
Behind-The-Ear (BTE)
BTE instruments have a plastic casing that rests behind the ear and houses the device's technology. A clear plastic tube then directs amplified sound into an earmold inside the ear canal.
On-The-Ear (OTE)
With soft, flexible earbuds and an extra-small casing, our on-the-ear model is light and comfortable.
Receiver-In-The-Canal (RIC)
The receiver-in-the-canal device is small, discreet, and incredibly quick to fit; perfect for many first-time wearers.
In-The-Ear (ITE)
Smaller, in-the-ear instruments house their technology components in a custom-formed earmold that fits within the outer portion of the ear.
In-The-Canal (ITC)
In-the-canal instruments are smaller still, featuring an earmold that fits down into the ear canal and a smaller portion that faces out into the outer ear.
Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC)
These devices fit completely in the canal. Only the head of a tiny plastic line—with which you insert or remove the instrument—shows above the canal.
