Hearing Aid Types UK: Types and styles of hearing aids and how they work

Hearing Aid Types UK

Understanding the different types of hearing aids and how they work

Researching hearing aid types?

If you are on the lookout for a hearing aid, the right one for you depends on a few factors, such as your level of hearing loss, your lifestyle, dexterity and other concerns.  The main thing to remember is that modern hearing aids come in two types and many different styles.  These types are Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aids and In the Ear hearing aids (ITE).

One of the questions that we get asked most often is: ‘What type of hearing aid should I choose?’  There is no single answer to this question, as every hearing aid user is different.  Below we go through the different types of hearing aids available and how they work.

We hope this page goes in some way to finding out which hearing aid style might suit you best, as we go through the types of hearing aids pros and cons.

Hearing Aid Types UK

A quick breakdown of the different types of hearing aids

Common hearing aid types and styles

There are several types of hearing aids available today, each designed to address specific hearing needs and preferences. Here are some common types:

• Behind-the-Ear (BTE): BTE hearing aids consist of a small plastic case worn behind the ear. The case houses the electronic components, while a clear plastic tube connects the case to an earmold or a dome that sits inside the ear canal.
• In-the-Ear (ITE): ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit within the outer portion of the ear. They fill the bowl-shaped area of the outer ear and are generally larger than the devices worn completely inside the ear canal.
• In-the-Canal (ITC): ITC hearing aids are smaller than ITE models and fit partly or completely within the ear canal. They are less visible than ITE hearing aids but may not be suitable for individuals with severe hearing loss.
• Completely-in-Canal (CIC): CIC hearing aids are the smallest custom-made hearing aids available. They fit completely within the ear canal and are nearly invisible when worn. Due to their size, they may not have certain advanced features or controls.
• Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) or Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE): RIC or RITE hearing aids are similar to BTE devices, but instead of a plastic tube, they use a thin wire to connect the case behind the ear to a speaker or receiver inside the ear canal.  This design allows for a more natural sound and reduces the occlusion effect.

• Invisible-in-Canal (IIC): IIC hearing aids are the smallest and most discreet type available. They fit deep within the ear canal and are practically invisible when worn. Due to their size, they may not be suitable for individuals with severe hearing loss or certain ear canal shapes.

Types of earmoulds for hearing aids

Earmoulds for hearing aids come in various types, each catering to different hearing needs and preferences.  Choosing the right earmold is crucial for both comfort and optimal hearing aid performance.  Such as:

• Standard earmoulds:  These are the most common and versatile, fitting securely in the ear canal and connecting to the hearing aid. They suit many hearing loss levels.
• Skeleton earmoulds:  With a thinner and less noticeable design, they offer comfort and discretion while still accommodating moderate to severe hearing loss.
• Canal earmoulds:  These are smaller and fit deeper in the ear canal, making them nearly invisible. They are ideal for mild to moderate hearing loss and offer discreetness.
• Power earmoulds:  Designed for severe to profound hearing loss, they provide ample amplification and comfort.

Types of domes for hearing aids

Hearing aid domes, the small attachments at the tip of hearing aid receivers or tubing, are available in several types to suit various hearing needs and comfort preferences.  Such as:

• Open domes:  These allow natural sound to enter the ear canal, making them suitable for mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss.
• Closed domes:  Closed off the ear canal, providing more amplification and better low-frequency sound control, making them ideal for moderate to severe hearing loss.
• Tulip domes:  A hybrid design that combines open and closed features, offering a balance between natural sound and amplification control.
• Double domes:  Featuring an additional layer for improved feedback control, they work well for high-frequency loss.
• Power domes:  Designed for severe hearing loss, these provide maximum amplification and retention.

Other useful information about hearing aid types

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