Styles and Form Factors of Hearing Instruments
Hearing aids come in several physical styles depending on your hearing loss severity, cosmetic preference, ear canal anatomy, and manual dexterity.
BTE (Behind-The-Ear)
The electronics sit in a casing comfortably behind the ear, connected to an acoustic tube and custom earmould. Best for severe to profound losses and young children.
RIC (Receiver-In-Canal)
The world’s most popular style. The speaker sits directly inside the ear canal connected by an ultra-thin wire. Barely noticeable and provides very natural sound quality.
ITE (In-The-Ear)
Custom made to fit in the outer ear bowl. Easy to handle with larger controls and longer battery life for elderly patients.
CIC & IIC (Invisible-In-Canal)
Fits deep into the ear canal. Virtually invisible from the outside for maximum cosmetic discretion.