Are Small Hearing Aids The Next Big Thing?

Small hearing aids are becoming a more popular device of choice. Discretion is key. Smaller, less visible models help make wearers feel more comfortable and relaxed about requiring a hearing aid. We guide you through a selection of essential small hearing aids and how they could be of great benefit to your hearing and lifestyle.

Size Matters

Larger, chunkier hearing instruments are thankfully being replaced by sleeker, small hearing aids. Invisible hearing aids have become a mainstream device. Once upon a time, these models came with a hefty price tag. Since then, technology has greatly improved and the cost of a smaller device is more in-line with other types of hearing aids. Of course, the price will vary between manufacturers, but at Hearing Direct, we are focused on providing an affordable alternative when purchasing a device privately.

The Popularity Of Small Hearing Aids

Digital hearing aid design has changed a lot over the last decades. Advancements in design, engineering, and electronics mean we can wear hidden devices that go unnoticed. Many people with hearing loss feel uncomfortable and uneasy when having to choose a hearing aid, mainly because they fear how it will look.

However, manufacturers know about those apprehensions and are producing ever smaller and more discreet models. In the canal (ITC) and completely in the canal (CIC) models are now very commonplace in today's market, and so they should be. Don't let their size fool you. They still contain the features you'd expect from any hearing aid and deliver that same, sharp, clear sound quality you seek. The only real difference is the fact that they are smaller.

Our website is full of small hearing aids that fit snug in the ear. We have a wide range to choose from, whether you are after an ITE, BTE, CIC or any other model.

Which Types Of Device Are Available?

There are many different styles, and you can choose one depending on age, the severity of the hearing loss and personal taste. The most popular small hearing aids include behind the ear and more recent models - receiver in the ear and open fit and in the ear hearing devices.

Behind The Ear

Behind the ear or BTE hearing aids come in various designs. They are small but very durable and powerful. Thus, they are suitable for mild to severe impairments. All the electronic parts are discreetly hidden in a case situated behind the ear that connects to the ear either with an ear mould or a dome. In this way, the device is protected from moisture and earwax. As the microphone is away from the ear canal, feedback is less likely. A great advantage of behind the ear hearing aids is that they come in a variety of colours and sizes and are suitable for all ages due to their different power levels and lack of need for customisation.

Receiver In Canal

Receiver in the canal (RIC) or "mini" BTE and open fit hearing aids are another type of small behind the ear devices. For the RIC model, the speaker is located in a small dome inside the ear canal. As a result, the case behind the ear is smaller and it offers a more comfortable fit.

In The Ear

In-the-ear or ITE hearing aids are another type of small hearing devices. They are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss and may be considered more cosmetically appealing, although they are visible in a face-to-face interaction. In the ear hearing aids are custom made to fit in the concha (the bowl-shaped area of the outer ear). However, we don't recommend them for children. They will need replacing frequently as the child's ear grows, resulting in high costs.

Completely In Canal

Completely-in-the-canal or CIC devices, as their name suggests, sit inside the ear. Due to where they are worn, the design, weight, and shape of these models are one of the smallest on the market. As technology advances, more can be crammed inside the casing so you can experience the same features as larger more powerful devices. Our website is home to a number of small hearing aids, including some of the key types outlined above.

Small Hearing Aids at Affordable Prices

At Hearing Direct, you will find a collection of digital hearing aids designed for mild to moderate hearing loss. Whether wearing a hearing device is new to you or you are looking to upgrade an older model, we've got you covered.

The HD 91 is our entry-level model and includes the core features you need to effectively manage hearing impairments at a very affordable price.

If you seek more features, the Signia Silk 1Nx and Signia Silk 3Nx (pictured in the ear above) are more advanced and include some of the latest features on the contemporary market. Programmed to match your hearing test results, these are very small, almost invisible, and comfortable to wear. As an ITE device, it is worn inside the ear, making people concerned about visibility feel more at ease. Sound will be amplified and background noise reduced, ensuring a high-quality sound enters the ear for a crisp and enjoyable listening experience.

Test Your Hearing For Free

Should you have any concern about your hearing health, take our online hearing test.

This should not replace audiometric testing from a hearing professional or medical practitioner.

About Hearing Direct

We are one of the world's leading hearing aid specialists. HearingDirect offers a wide range of affordable products, as well as information resources to help improve the quality of life for the hard of hearing. We sell:

• Hearing aids,
• Batteries,
• Accessories such as earplugs,
• and amplified devices such as super loud alarm clocks and amplified phones.

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Author: Gary Hill

Gary comes from 16 years’ experience in the hearing aid industry in both manufacturing and retail. Before co-founding HearingDirect, Gary was Marketing Director for a leading global hearing aid brand; GN ReSound where he worked for the UK sales division and latterly in their global headquarters in Copenhagen. He was responsible for developing and launching major global hearing aid models, conducting extensive research into the needs of the hearing impaired community and their performance demands of hearing aids and other devices.