Sit behind-the-ear with a sound tube or wire going in to the ear.
There may be a thin tube and dome, an earphone (receiver in the ear, RITE) or a custom made ear mould.
Available in a range of sizes, some are very small (with small battery).
Suit most levels of hearing loss.
Easier to physically manage than In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids.
“Open fittings” are often possible which are comfortable and sound natural.
miniBTE hearing aids are slightly smaller in size.
ITE/ITC (In-the-Ear/In-the-Canal)
Fit completely in the ear.
Available in a range of sizes and are custom made to fit individual ear shape.
May not be suitable for people with a significant hearing loss.
Are generally more prone to moisture and wax issues/damage which may result in more repairs.
May be more difficult to physically manage than Behind-the-Ear models.
May create occlusion, so less suitable for mild or high tone hearing loss.
CIC
Completely in the canal aids are invisible or virtually invisible.
They are very small and are custom made to fit inside the ear canal.
They are not suitable for more severe hearing losses, and can block the ear too much for mild or high tone losses.
Are generally more prone to moisture and wax issues/damage therefore prone to more repairs.
May be more difficult to physically manage.
May be difficult to make a comfortable fit especially in small ear canals.
Water Resistant
Many manufacturers hearing aids have a degree of water resistance. Resistance can vary from a plastic nano-coating to a completely waterproof coating.
Moisture and wax are the main reasons hearing aids need repair.
Water resistant hearing aids are good for people who sweat a lot, spend time outdoors, or worry they might walk into the shower with their hearing aids on.
