The Best Hearing Amplifiers of 2024

• According to a study by the NIDCD Epidemiology and Statistics Program, over 28 million people could benefit from a hearing aid or amplifier.
• Hearing amplifiers are an affordable option for those who need assistance with their hearing.
• A hearing amplifier raises the volume of every sound around the wearer, as opposed to a hearing aid that can zone in on frequencies and specific types of audio.
• A hearing aid can be very expensive, while hearing amplifiers can cost significantly less.
• Some Medicare Part C plans and some state Medicaid plans can cover the cost of hearing amplifiers.

According to a 2016 study by the NIDCD Epidemiology and Statistics Program, about 28.8 million people in the United States could benefit from a hearing aid. While hearing amplifiers aren’t as powerful as a hearing aid, they can still significantly improve a person’s hearing.

Hearing amplifiers are small audio devices that anyone can purchase without needing a prescription from an audiologist. They increase the volume of sounds from the surrounding environment as well as digitally clarify sounds so that they are clear and focused. Hearing amplifiers aren’t customized to users’ specific hearing needs, but most models provide a variety of settings that users can select from when trying to improve their hearing. As a result, these devices can greatly improve the quality of sound for someone who struggles to hear in certain environments.

Many companies sell hearing amplifiers, and each one is unique. Some devices simply raise the volume of nearby sounds while others work to reduce background noise, focus on specific frequencies, or control bass and treble levels. Depending on your exact hearing issue, certain hearing amplifiers may be more beneficial than others, regardless of price or popularity. We created this guide to help you understand the different hearing amplifiers on the market and how to choose the best one for you.

While hearing aids and amplifiers both amplify sound, there are some clear differences between the two devices. Hearing aids are FDA-regulated medical devices designed to treat hearing loss. In the United States, hearing aids could only be prescribed, fitted, and programmed by licensed healthcare professionals up until October of 2022, when more affordable over-the-counter versions were approved and became available. These OTC hearing aids may feature basic volume control and program presets or be fitted with technology that allows advanced customization and adjustment. However, all hearing aids, prescribed or not, are intended to assist individuals with impaired hearing and must meet certain FDA requirements.

Hearing amplifiers, also known as personal sound amplifiers or PSAs, are considered a type of consumer electronic device. Amplifiers function by raising the volume and improving the clarity of surrounding sounds. They are not medical devices and are typically used by those without significant hearing impairment but who have situational hearing challenges, such as struggling to hear while watching the TV or in a noisy restaurant. Amplifiers are not professionally customized to meet the specific needs of their intended user and typically feature different volume and preset programming options.

Because of these differences, it is recommended that you discuss your hearing needs with an audiologist before you make a purchase. No matter how high quality an amplifier may be, it may not be a good fit if you truly need a hearing aid. A doctor can explain your specific hearing issues so that you can find a hearing aid or a specific hearing amplifier that improves your hearing.

Note that, somewhat confusingly, some websites may call their hearing amplifiers hearing ‘aids.’ This may be because it is a more recognized term among the general population.

A lot of factors go into defining the best hearing amplifiers on the market. We wanted to focus on vital aspects of each hearing amplifier to ensure that the product delivers a high-quality hearing experience. We also wanted to consider various preferences and options that would appeal to a variety of customers.

• Product Price: Costs of hearing amplifiers can vary by a lot, with some models costing $50 and others costing $1000. To keep costs low for our readers, we only included hearing amplifiers that cost under $1,000 on this list.
• Ratings and Reviews: Researching a company’s Trustpilot and Google ratings can show what real customers think of the business. For our list, we prioritized companies with a Trustpilot rating of 4 or higher, as well as a Google rating of 3 or higher wherever possible..
• Battery Strength: Rechargeable batteries can be vital for some owners of a hearing amplifier. Battery life can also be very important for users who plan to be out and about for long periods. We only considered hearing amplifiers that featured batteries that could last a full 10 hours or longer, regardless of rechargeability.

Smallest Hearing Amplifier

Audien has recently unveiled the Atom 2, an updated version of its Atom hearing aids. The Atom 2 is 28% smaller than the original model but does not compromise on its core features – comfort, power and discreteness. These hearing aids are designed to enable users with mild-to-moderate hearing loss to hear clearly in different environments without drawing attention to the fact that they are using them.

The Atom 2 features a range of hearing modes specifically designed for different environments, such as conversations, road vehicles or noisy streets. Thanks to its advanced noise-cancellation technology powered by the new A2 chip, the device can block out undesirable background noise while improving speech clarity. This cutting-edge technology drastically enhances sound quality and improves your ability to comprehend speech even in challenging environments. With its impressive features and 24-hour battery life, the Atom 2 can be your reliable companion.

The Atom 2 features multiple hearing modes designed for different environments, including Conversation, Noise, Road and Outdoor models. The new A2 chip improves on the original Atom chip in sound quality, speech clarity and noise cancellation. Another main selling point of the Atom 2 is that it’s 28% smaller than its predecessor for an invisible fit. Plus, it boasts a substantial 24-hour battery life with a convenient portable charging case.

· Invisible design and 28% smaller than original Atom hearing aids

· Rechargeable batteries with 24 hours capacity

· Very simple setup and app-free operation

· Portable charging case with UV-cleaning features

· Superior speech clarity and advanced noise cancellation

Most Comfortable In-The-Ear Device

The NEO XS is the smallest device among MDHearing’s product offerings and is designed to be discrete as well as comfortable. Not only does it fit within the ear canal where it is virtually invisible, but its flexible silicone tip is so comfortable that users may forget that the NEO XS is in their ear.

The NEO XS provides crystal clear hearing in a range of environments due to innovative feedback cancellation and noise reduction technology paired with precise speech amplification. A simple push-button allows quick adjustment of the NEO XS’s volume and program settings and a pull string ensures it can be easily removed after each use. The NEO XS does not require batteries and comes with a portable charging case that provides 18+ hours of power per charge. A cleaning tool, wax guards, and additional domes of various sizes are included with each NEO XS purchase.

The NEO XS is fitted with background noise reduction and feedback cancellation technology in a compact design that measures as small as a dime. Designed for comfort and style, the device has a flexible silicone tip and rests discreetly within the ear canal. It is easy to use with a simple sound and program adjusting control, pull string to assist removal, and portable charging case that can power the device for 18 or more hours. The included wax guards, cleaning tool, and additional domes ensure the device stays well-maintained and fits correctly in ears of all shapes and sizes.

· Noise reduction and feedback cancellation provide clear, high-quality sound.

· Portable charging case gives 18+ hours of power per charge.

· Use within the ear canal makes the Neo XS virtually invisible.

· Free lifetime support provided by MDHearing professionals.

· Comes with a 45-day risk-free trial and 100% money-back guarantee

Most Customization Options for a Hearing Amplifier

The Groove from Otofonix is highly customizable and easy to set up. Users can use the app or physical rocker switch to change volume or choose between one of four environmental modes. The app even features a hearing test so users can make adjustments as their hearing changes over time. Four different ear domes also make the Groove physically customizable to fit different ear shapes and sizes.

The Groove has a rechargeable battery with a 15 to 18-hour battery life. The company touts the hearing amplifier’s small size (nearly invisible) and comfortable design (lightweight with a variety of ear domes). For those who struggle to find a hearing amplifier that feels comfortable, the Groove may be the perfect fit.

The Groove from Otofonix comes with 6 open domes, 6 closed domes, and 2 large and medium ‘magic’ domes, as well as #1 and #2 sound tubes of different lengths, making it remarkably customizable. A physical rocker switch and mobile app allow for customization of the sound amplifier itself, with four environmental modes to choose from, noise cancellation, and more. The Groove offers a 42-53 dB gain, higher than most hearing amplifiers on the market.

· Ultra-customizable, with many ear domes and app settings.

· Includes a cleaning kit to help preserve the amplifier.

· 42-53 dB gain provides great volume.

· Integrated hearing test makes it simple to adjust the settings as the user ages.

· Free lifetime support is available Monday through Friday during business hours, and callback requests are answered within 24 hous.

Best Smartphone App for a Hearing Amplifier

The CS50+ from Sound World Solutions is the go-to hearing amplifier for the tech-savvy customer. The company went all out with its smartphone app, providing users with presets, environment settings, an equalizer, and voice-prompt control in four languages. The CS50+ can even stream audio from the user’s smartphone, allowing them to listen to music, audiobooks, videos, or phone calls.

The CS50+ hearing amplifier is the only ‘amplifier’ available from Sound World Solutions, although it offers three other hearing ‘aids’ of differing quality. The company’s website doesn’t quite explain the difference between ‘amplifier’ and ‘aid’, but the CS50+ looks to be the best quality for the money. Amplifiers come with a warranty of 90 days that is extendable to 15 months for an additional fee of $60.

The CS50+ from Sound World Solutions offers a high-tech smartphone app for those who want to make specific adjustments or integrate with their smartphone. For added convenience, voice prompts can be set up to control volume and environmental settings. These prompts can be set in any of four languages—English, French, Spanish, or Hindi.

· Phone audio streaming for music, videos, or phone calls.

· Three ear tips (small, medium, large) for adjustable comfort.

· 16-channel compressor for high-quality sound and clarity.

· Phone and email support available, along with FAQs and tutorials.

· Highly reviewed company on BBB and Google.

Best Headphone Hearing Amplifier

The Pocketalker Ultra from Williams Sound is a very different hearing amplifier. Instead of the classic behind-the-ear amplifying earbud, the Pocketalker looks more like a cassette player with headphones. Users wear an over-the-head pair of headphones or a single earbud, then use the microphone on the main cassette-player-shaped device to pick up the sound they want to hear. This microphone can be detached and extended from the main device for extra clarity.

A 12-foot extension cord and a microphone clip come with the Pocketalker so users can attach the microphone near the loudspeaker of a TV for enhanced listening. The amplifier can also be used with a belt clip or lanyard for easy carrying throughout the day. The device uses 2 AAA batteries to function and can last up to 200 hours on a single set of batteries.

The Pocketalker Ultra from Williams Sound can be purchased from Amazon or the company’s website in addition to other online retailers. The parent company, Williams AV, is known for making a variety of audio and video equipment, so the Pocketalker can be expected to conform to the highest standards. The Pocketalker is a different kind of hearing amplifier that may suit certain customers more than other models.

12-foot extension cable for extending the microphone for TV listening or other purposes.

· 2 AAA batteries can power the device for up to 200 hours.

· Unique design for a hearing amplifier with no small, losable parts.

· Very generous 5-year warranty (does not apply to accessories).

· Highly rated by BBB

Best Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier

The BLJ-109 from Banglijian is a small but powerful hearing amplifier that can be charged quickly to provide an incredible battery life. According to the company, this model can be recharged in full in just two hours. A full charge can last anywhere from 45 – 60 hours total, ensuring that users will never lose power when they are out and about.

The BLJ-109 comes with a wide variety of domes and tubes, making it easy for users to find the perfect fit for them. As many as 6 domes can be used with the thick sound tubes while 10 domes can be used for the slim sound tubes. Physical controls on the hearing amplifier itself can be preferable for those who don’t want to figure out a smartphone app.

The BLJ-109 from Banglijian features three environmental modes to help clarify audio in common scenarios. The device also sports a noise reduction setting that makes it easier to decipher important sounds. If that’s not enough, the customizable tubes and domes can also help make sound as clear as possible. The company does not seem to have much of a presence online, however, so tech support may be limited to contacting the company through its Amazon store.

· Incredibly fast charging that provides days of usage.

· A wide range of tubes and domes to ensure the most comfortable fit possible.

· A low-cost hearing amplifier option for those on a budget.

· Rechargeable battery for ease of use.

· 2 and 3-year warranty options available.

Best Color Options

The Enjoyee brand hearing amplifier features three mode frequencies, four volume levels, and upgraded noise reducing technology, providing clear sound to users in different settings. Designed with a waterproof and sweat-proof shell and compatible with five dome sizes, each earpiece fits comfortably in different sized ears and can be worn safely even while exercising. After a 2 to 4 hour charge, the Enjoyee amplifier remains powered for as long as 80 hours.

Each earpiece features an attractive finish and is available in blue, black, and tan colors. In contrast, many other amplifiers have a more limited color selection. Further, Enjoyee earpieces are conveniently interchangeable with hooks that rotate a full 360 degrees so they can be worn in either ear. Though the Enjoyee brand lacks its own website, its products are available on Amazon. The company strives to respond to customer inquiries it receives through the platform within a short 24-hour timeframe.

Enjoyee hearing amplifiers are fitted with an upgraded smart chip that improves noise reduction by 30%. Each is customizable with several volume and mode settings and earplug angles can be adjusted to work in either the left or right ear. Not only waterproof and sweat-proof, the amplifier comes with a portable case for easy carrying and protection. Chargeable using USB chargers or wall adapters and accompanied by different sized hearing domes, the Enjoyee hearing amplifier is a practical and comfortable option. Multiple color choices and a high-end finish also make the amplifier as attractive as it is functional.

· Multiple color choices to choose from.

· Rechargeable battery with extended power for multi-day use.

· Upgraded smart chip for improved sound clarity and noise reduction.

· 2 and 3-year extended warranties are available for a low additional cost.

· Questions submitted via Amazon are answered within 24 hours.

Best Neckband Amplifier

The NW10 Neckband by Neosonic has a unique design. It features a lightweight, flexible neckband with a built-in microphone that is attached to a pair of earphones. This functions like a conventional hearing amplifier, increasing the volume and clarity of nearby surroundings. It also comes with a separate remote wireless microphone. This allows users to hear sounds from a distance of up to 60 feet by placing the remote microphone close to the source of sound, which is transmitted into the earphones. Users can switch between using the built-in microphone or the remote microphone simply by pressing the mode button on the neckband.

The NW10 Neckband comes with a storage case and a variety of accessories. These include a dual wall charger, three earpiece dome sizes, bands for adjusting the earphone wires, and a sticker for securing the remote microphone in place. After a three hour charge, the built-in microphone on the neckband is powered for 20 hours. The remote microphone battery lasts for 10 hours.

The NW10 Neckband allows users to hear their direct surroundings clearly through its built-in microphone and from a distance of up to 60 feet using a 2.4G wireless remote microphone. It provides such clear sound that you can use the remote microphone up to 10 feet away without needing to increase the volume. The remote microphone also eliminates the need for long extension wires and its battery lasts up to 10 hours per charge. The neckband’s built-in battery lasts 20 hours per charge. The neckband has a comfortable fit and comes with adjustable bands to stabilize its earphone wires. An included audio cable also allows audio streaming from smart devices, music players, or recorders.

· Amplifies and clarifies sound up to a range of 60 feet.

· Rechargeable batteries on the built-in and remote microphones allow extended use.

· A strong 2.4G wireless connection delivers smooth continuous sound

· Comfortable design with adjustable wires and three different earphone dome sizes.

· Customer service is provided by telephone, email, or online chat.

There are many different ways to pay for a hearing amplifier. Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs, and other sources can help reduce or eliminate the costs associated with a hearing amplifier. Below, we’ll discuss the many options so you can decide which one(s) work best for your situation.

Medicare Part A and Part B do not cover the costs related to any hearing aids or amplifiers. These free tiers of Medicare are designed to cover things like hospital stays, nursing home care, durable medical equipment, and preventive services.

Medicare Part C plans work differently than Part A and Part B. Private insurance companies offer Part C plans that provide a variety of benefits, including hearing-related services and product coverage. Depending on the plan, a Medicare Part C plan could cover some or all of the cost of a hearing amplifier. Every Part C plan has different benefits, so be sure to check for hearing aids and amplifiers if coverage is important to you.

Some states offer coverage for hearing aids and amplifiers, while others don’t provide coverage for these devices.

Below is the current status of adult (age 21+) Medicaid coverage for hearing aids and amplifiers. As Medicaid program benefits change from time to time, be sure to contact your state’s Medicaid office to confirm exactly what type of hearing aids, amplifiers, accessories, and testing are covered.

Veterans Affairs will cover the cost of hearing aids, testing, and batteries for those enrolled in VA healthcare. Veterans must schedule an appointment with a VA audiologist to take a hearing test first. If the doctor certifies that you need a hearing aid, the VA will cover the costs.

Step 1: Check your eligibility

The VA has very specific eligibility requirements for obtaining VA healthcare. Some requirements include continuous months of active duty, receiving VA pension benefits, no dishonorable discharge, and others. Check the VA healthcare eligibility page to make sure you are eligible or have an exception.

Step 2: Gather pertinent information

When applying, the VA will want to see social security numbers, previous-year tax returns, and other insurance coverage information for yourself, your spouse, and any dependents. They will also want to see official discharge papers to verify service. Having all of these papers ready will make the application process much easier.

Step 3: Apply for benefits

VA Healthcare applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at a VA office. Veterans can also receive help filing an application.

While hearing tests and hearing aids are covered, hearing amplifiers fall into a gray area. If the doctor determines that some type of hearing device is needed, a veteran can choose to have a hearing amplifier. However, they should confirm that their hearing amplifier and related costs will be covered.

Many insurance policies offer coverage for hearing-related health issues. Whether you have private insurance, are covered by a loved one, or have coverage through your work, insurance may cover part or all of your hearing needs. Coverage could include hearing tests, hearing aids or amplifiers, batteries, accessories, and new models every few years.

Another option for hearing amplifier coverage is a healthcare credit card. Many doctors and audiologists offer programs like CareCredit, which allow you to make interest-free payments for 6 to 24 months. This grants you the ability to spread out the cost of your hearing amplifier without having to pay extra.

Hearing amplifiers are available at a variety of price points. For those on a tight budget, you can find single-bud hearing amplifiers for less than $50. For those with money to spend, high-tech, sophisticated amplifiers can cost up to $1000 or more.

Each amplifier will have its own specific features and, not surprisingly, the costlier models offer more customization and higher quality amplification. While budget is very important to consider when shopping for a hearing amplifier, you must also consider your specific hearing issues.

Some people can get by with a hearing amplifier while others need a hearing aid. Hearing amplifiers ‘amplify’ the sound and do their best to clarify it for the wearer, and are not customized for your specific hearing loss. Hearing aids, on the other hand, are designed specifically for the patient. Typically, you need a doctor’s prescription to get a hearing aid.

Although they are not custom-programmed, there is still a lot of variation between different hearing amplifiers. Hearing amplifiers can come with a variety of features. Most models offer feedback cancellation and noise reduction to help the user hear more clearly. Some work with audio companies to integrate high-grade audio chips that are designed to make hearing much easier. Most models will also feature a series of environment settings such as ‘restaurant’, ‘outdoors’, and ‘quiet’. These settings are tailored to the common sounds and stresses of the specific environment.

So, while you can wear any hearing amplifier, when choosing a device it’s important to think about the various features you may enjoy or benefit from most and specifically look for devices that can meet these needs.

If you’re in the market for a hearing amplifier, you probably have a few preferences in mind. Each hearing amplifier will have a variety of features, such as noise reduction, feedback cancellation, or environment settings. Plus, there are different options for size, fit, and battery type. Think about situations where you struggle with your hearing and look for features that could help in those scenarios.

Before making a purchase, some questions to ask yourself include:

• Do you want a discreet hearing amplifier or are you okay with others noticing it? Some amplifiers are very small while others are easier to see.
• Do you want to control your hearing amplifier with an app? Do you prefer physical adjustments on the amplifier itself? Some models have both options while others only have one.
• Do you plan to wear your hearing amplifier all day? If so, a variety of domes and tubes may be important. Some models come with one or two domes and tubes while others come with a whole set.
• Does the hearing amplifier come with rechargeable batteries? How long do the batteries last? These could be vital questions to think about based on your expected daily needs.

As with shopping for any product online, it’s important to consider the company’s reputation. Are they accredited by the Better Business Bureau? Do they have a high Google rating? What have other customers said about their purchase?

Look at ratings around the web for the specific hearing amplifier you’re considering. Also, ask friends and family members if they have a hearing amplifier and how they like theirs. A company’s age can also be a good indicator that they’ve been around for a while and produce high-quality products.

There’s always a chance that you’ll need to contact the hearing amplifier company for help with your product. Be sure to buy from a company that makes it easy to contact them.

Some companies only offer a phone number for assistance while others offer email, contact forms, or online chats. Determine your preferred mode of contact when you need to reach out to customer service.

Many hearing amplifier companies also provide videos and articles that can help you troubleshoot their products. These can help you skip the customer service line and find answers to your problems quickly.

Off-site help may also be available for popular companies. If the company has been in business for many years and has sold many hearing amplifiers, chances are that other customers have shared their solutions to problems around the web.