There are many different types of hearing aid to suit varying degrees of hearing loss and differing lifestyle needs.

Here is a brief summary of some of the styles and features, but remember, things change all the time. Hearing aids are always being refined and improved.

New technology is introduced regularly,  so you should always speak to your Hearbase audiologist to get the most up-to-date information. Call 0800 028 6179 or email admin@hearbase.com to book a free, no obligation, consultation and help us find the right hearing aid for you.

Receiver in the canal hearing aid

RIC (Receiver in the canal)/ RIE (receiver in the ear)

  • The most flexible style of hearing aids, suitable for mild to severe hearing loss
  • Scope to easily cope with deteriorating hearing by using a more powerful receiver
  • Most models have Bluetooth to allow communication with TV, mobile phone etc
  • Rechargeable or replaceable battery options available
  • Mobile phone apps available for remote control and streaming
  • Easy to handle for most users

Invisible in the canal hearing aid

IIC (invisible in the canal)

  • The smallest custom-made hearing aid
  • Uses battery size 10. Some brands have Bluetooth available but consider an alternative style if you are a regular Bluetooth user
  • Not suitable for very small ears – not enough space for the components
  • Replaceable battery option only
  • Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss
  • Apps on phone. No streaming (unless models with Bluetooth antenna)
  • Requires good dexterity

Completely in the canal hearing aid

CIC (completely in the canal)

  • Custom-made
  • Slightly larger than the IIC – practically invisible in most ears
  • Replaceable battery option only
  • Some brands have Bluetooth available but it requires an antenna
  • Not suitable for very small ears as not enough space for the components
  • Mobile phone apps available
  • Requires good dexterity

In the canal hearing aid

ITC (in the canal)

  • Custom-made
  • Suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss
  • Some models have Bluetooth to allow communication with TV, mobile phone etc
  • Option to have volume control and/or push button
  • Rechargeable or replaceable battery options available
  • Apps on phone and streaming
  • Requires good dexterity

In the ear hearing aid

ITE (in the ear)

  • Custom-made
  • Bluetooth
  • Option to have volume control and/or push button
  • Mobile phone apps available for remote control and streaming
  • Batteries 13 or rechargeable in some brands
  • Suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss
  • Ideal for patients that wish to use hearing aids inside the ear but who might have dexterity issues

Behind the ear hearing aid

BTE (behind the ear)

  • Can be fitted with open fit tubes (for mild to moderate loss) or with custom moulds depending on the hearing loss
  • Suitable for mild to profound loss
  • Most models have Bluetooth to allow communication with TV, mobile phones etc
  • Rechargeable or replaceable battery options available
  • Good option for those with dexterity issues
  • May be suitable for individuals with chronic ear infections or high wax production

Call 0800 028 6179 or email admin@hearbase.com to book a free, no obligation, consultation and let us help you find the right hearing aid for your needs.