Types and categories of hearing aids

Q: Which hearing aid is best for severe hearing loss?

For severe or profound hearing loss, BTE or powerful RIC devices are usually recommended due to their strong amplification and advanced sound processing.

Q: Are smaller hearing aids less effective?

Not necessarily. Smaller devices like CIC or IIC hearing aids are discreet and comfortable, but may have shorter battery life or fewer manual controls than larger models. A specialist will guide you to the right balance between size and performance.

Q: Can the hearing aid be different for each ear?

Yes. Some people may benefit from using different types of hearing aids in each ear depending on the degree of hearing loss, ear anatomy, and listening needs.

Q: Are digital hearing aids better than analog?

Digital hearing aids are generally preferred because they can focus on speech, reduce background noise, and offer advanced features. Analog devices amplify all sounds equally and may be less effective in noisy environments.

We bring you the most sophisticated technology in a range of hearing solutions with price options to fit your budget.

In the ear canal (ITC/CIC)

Comfortable and discreet.

In the ear (ITC) hearing aids have the latest digital technology contained in a custom-moulded casing that fits in the ear. Although this type of hearing can be visible within the ear, ITC hearing aids have easy-access controls.

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Receiver in the ear (RIC)

Sleeker and slimmer.

The Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) is our most popular hearing aid style. This open-fit hearing aid uses a small tube that extends from the main part of the hearing aid which sits behind the ear.

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Behind the ear (BTE)

Perfect fit with ease.

The Behind the ear (BTE) is a versatile style of hearing aid available for all types of hearing loss. Depending on the severity of hearing loss, most BTE hearing aid styles can come with custom ear moulds or with a dome that fits in the ear canal.

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Hearing aid categories and styles

There are many types of hearing aids available for individuals experiencing variations of hearing loss. This allows us to provide you with a hearing aid that is customisable to your hearing needs and individual preferences.

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Difference between analog and digital hearing aids

Analog and digital hearing aids work in different ways. As hearing aid technology evolves, more hearing aids are becoming digital.

Analog hearing aids gather all sound from your environment, like conversation and background noise, and amplifies the volume of this sound equally. These devices are unable to isolate and reduce background noise.

Digital hearing aids transform natural sound into digital codes, allowing the device to amplify important sounds and reduce background noise. Using advanced technology, these hearing aids are highly customisable and offer a variety of features including bluetooth connectivity and rechargeability.

At Amplifon, our digital hearing aids will help you make sense of the sounds around you, so that you can experience and enjoy hearing to your fullest potential.

Hearing technology is always evolving

We're here to be your guide, making the most advanced hearing aid technology simple and perfectly suited to your personal needs. Our purpose is to combine our expertise with ongoing care, so you can step into each day with confidence and joy.

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The best hearing aid for you

Your Amplifon hearing care professional will work with you to find the right hearing aid solution. Below is a general guide for different types of hearing loss, but in the end what's suitable for each individual should be discussed with a qualified audiologist. The current hearing aid models and prices are also explained to you in person.

Best type of hearing aid for specific hearing conditions

The best type of hearing aid depends largely on the type and severity of hearing loss.

Best type of hearing aid for sensorineural hearing loss

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common form of hearing impairment and often benefits from advanced digital hearing aids.

Popular options include:

Receiver-in-canal (RIC)
Behind-the-ear (BTE)

These devices provide powerful sound processing and clear speech amplification.

Best type of hearing aid for conductive hearing loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound cannot efficiently travel through the outer or middle ear. BTE or powerful RIC hearing aids are usually ideal, as they offer strong amplification to overcome the conductive barrier.

Best type of hearing aid for mild to moderate hearing loss

For mild or moderate hearing loss, smaller ITC, CIC, or IIC hearing aids may be suitable. These devices are discreet and comfortable, providing natural sound while remaining unobtrusive.

Choosing the right device requires a professional hearing assessment, as factors such as ear anatomy, lifestyle and personal preferences also influence which hearing aid will work best for you.

Best type of hearing aid for otosclerosis

Otosclerosis affects the middle ear and can lead to conductive hearing loss. In many cases, powerful BTE or RIC hearing aids can provide effective amplification.

A hearing professional can recommend the most appropriate solution based on hearing test results.

Hearing aids to suit your needs

At Amplifon, you'll find hearing solutions that range from almost invisible styles that fit discreetly inside the ear, to those that sit snugly behind the ear. You can even select devices that connect wirelessly to your smartphone.

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Hearing aid types and costs in Australia

The hearing aid types and costs can vary depending on several factors:

Device style and size
Technology level
Connectivity features
Rechargeable vs disposable batteries

In Australia, hearing aids typically range from basic models to advanced devices with artificial intelligence and noise reduction systems.

A hearing assessment is the best way to determine which of the types of hearing aids available in Australia suits your needs and budget.

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Check your hearing from the comfort of home – take our free online hearing test today. It only takes a few minutes, and you’ll get an initial insight into your hearing health.

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What type of hearing aid is best?

What type of hearing aid is best depends on personal factors such as:

Degree of hearing loss
Ear anatomy
Lifestyle and listening environments
Manual dexterity
Cosmetic preferences

A hearing specialist will assess your hearing and recommend the most suitable device among the different types of hearing aids.

Explore all types of hearing aids

Today’s technology offers all types of hearing aids, from discreet in-ear models to powerful behind-the-ear solutions with smart features.

If you are unsure which device is right for you, a professional hearing test can help identify the most suitable option among the many kinds of hearing aids available.

FAQs – What type of hearing aid is best?

How do I know what type of hearing aid is best for me?

A hearing specialist can assess your hearing loss, ear shape, lifestyle, and personal preferences to recommend the most suitable type of hearing aid for your needs.

Which type of hearing aids use artificial intelligence (AI)?

Most modern digital hearing aids, especially Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) and Behind-the-Ear (BTE) styles, use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve hearing performance. AI-enabled devices can automatically adjust to different sound environments, reduce background noise, and enhance speech clarity. These smart hearing aids learn your listening preferences over time, offering a highly personalised hearing experience.

What is ampli‑mini AI and how does its artificial intelligence work?

Ampli‑mini AI is an ultra‑discreet hearing aid powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that automatically adapts your listening experience to different sound environments. It uses advanced AI algorithms to recognise speech, reduce background noise and adjust sound settings in real time, so conversations are clearer and easier to follow even in noisy places. The device is small, rechargeable and includes features like Bluetooth connectivity and adaptive noise management, offering a personalised and effortless hearing experience

What are the main types of hearing aids available?

The main types include Behind-the-Ear (BTE), Receiver-in-Canal (RIC), In-the-Ear (ITE), In-the-Canal (ITC), Completely-in-Canal (CIC), and Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) devices. Each style offers different features, sizes, and levels of visibility.

Which hearing aid is best for severe hearing loss?

For severe or profound hearing loss, BTE or powerful RIC devices are usually recommended due to their strong amplification and advanced sound processing.

Are smaller hearing aids less effective?

Not necessarily. Smaller devices like CIC or IIC hearing aids are discreet and comfortable, but may have shorter battery life or fewer manual controls than larger models. A specialist will guide you to the right balance between size and performance.

Can the hearing aid be different for each ear?

Yes. Some people may benefit from using different types of hearing aids in each ear depending on the degree of hearing loss, ear anatomy, and listening needs.

How do I choose the best hearing aid for my lifestyle?

Consider your typical listening environments, activity level, and technology preferences. Digital devices with Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and adaptive sound settings can be ideal for active lifestyles or frequent social situations.

Are digital hearing aids better than analog?

Digital hearing aids are generally preferred because they can focus on speech, reduce background noise, and offer advanced features. Analog devices amplify all sounds equally and may be less effective in noisy environments.