Standard hearing aids are a thing of the past. With new technology emerging every other day, new styles for different needs have been introduced.

1. Behind The Ear (BTE): A BTE hearing aid goes over the top of your ear and rests behind the ear. A BTE has directional microphones and can amplify sounds more than other styles. This hearing aid is appropriate for people of all ages and those with any type of hearing loss. It is also the largest type of hearing aid, although new versions of mini designs that are barely visible have also been designed.

2. In The Ear (ITE): An ITE hearing aid is custom-made and available in two styles:

1. Full shell – this fills most of the bowl-shaped area of your outer ear
2. Half shelf – this fills only the lower part of your ear

Both styles are helpful for people with mild to severe hearing loss. They come with two microphones for better noise hearing. An ITE is easier to handle and also has a volume control feature. The only disadvantage is that your earwax can possibly clog the speaker and can pick up more wind noises compared to other devices.

3. In The Canal (ITC): Generally, an ITC is custom-molded and fits partly in your ear canal. This style of hearing aids can improve mild to moderate hearing loss in adults. Also, it Is less visible in the ear compared to other hearing aids styles. Like ITE, this too has the possibility of clogging your speaker with the earwax.

4. Completely In The Canal (CIC)/Mini CIC: A CIC is molded to fit in your ear canal and has the capacity to improve mild to moderate hearing loss in adults. It is also the least visible style and is super comfortable to wear as it doesn’t pick up wind noise. There are some extra features like direct microphones and volume control, but the battery life is short.

5. Receiver In Canal (RIC)/Receiver In The Ear (RITE): The RIC/RITE styles are similar to a BTE hearing aid with the speaker/receiver sitting in the ear canal. It has a less visible behind-the-ear portion and comes with easy manual control options. Battery-wise, rechargeable ones can be possible.

Tips on how to decide which style is right for you:

1. Visit an Audiologist – An Audiologist is the best person to assess your hearing, help you choose the most appropriate hearing aid, and adjust the device to meet your needs.
2.  Ask for a trial before buying- It is better to try on the device and see for yourself which one works best for your needs.
3. Check for a warranty – Make sure the hearing aid includes a warranty that covers parts and labor. Some dispensers may include office visits or professional services in the warranty.