What are the best headphones to use with hearing aids?

Headphones for people with hearing aids
Last update on Sep 09th, 2025

Can you wear headphones with hearing aids​?

For all hearing-impaired people who use a hearing aid, finding the most suitable model of amplified headphones can be difficult and a time-consuming process. But there are special headphone systems for wireless hearing aid users that allow you to increase the volume of the TV, radio or smartphone so that the sound wraps around the ear and gets enhanced, allowing the wearer to enjoy all forms of entertainment in a clear and understandable way. 

The best headphones to use with hearing aids

Choosing the right headphones when you wear hearing aids can be challenging, but with the right features and design, you can enjoy clear, comfortable listening, whether you're streaming music, taking calls, or watching TV. Below, we explore the best headphone types and models that work seamlessly with hearing aids.

Bone conduction headphones for hearing aid users​

One of the most effective options for people who wear BTE or RIC hearing aids is bone conduction headphones. These headphones don’t go inside or over your ears but instead sit on your cheekbones and transmit sound vibrations directly to the inner ear. This leaves the ear canal completely open, allowing your hearing aids to work without obstruction or interference.

Over ear headphones for hearing aid wearers​

For those who wear ITE or completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids, over-ear headphones are often a good fit. These headphones cover the ear entirely, creating a sealed environment that reduces external noise and helps your hearing aids pick up sound more clearly. It's important to look for models with large, soft ear cups and a comfortable fit to minimise pressure on the ears and reduce the risk of feedback.

On-Ear Headphones

On-ear headphones, which rest directly on the outer ear, may also be an option for users of ITE hearing aids, particularly for short-term or casual use. They tend to be lighter and more compact than over-ear models, though they may not offer the same level of sound isolation. 

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How to choose the right headphones for your hearing aids

Not all solutions are suitable for you: depending on the way you use them and the type of hearing loss you have, different models of headphones are available for you to choose from. 

Headphones for in the ear (ITE) hearing aids​

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are small, light and almost invisible and have the receiver positioned inside the ear canal.  Under-chin radio headsets may be the ideal solution for those who use ITE hearing aid. They can be connected via Bluetooth to your computer, TV, radio or smartphone without wires, so you can move around freely. Also, there are under-chin headphone models where sound is transmitted directly to the hearing aids. 

Headphones for behind the ear (BTE) hearing aids​

The behind-the-ear hearing aids are indicated for medium to severe hearing sensitivity and are placed behind the ear conveying the sound inside the ear canal via a transparent tube connected to an earphone. For this type of hearing aid, the best solution is over-the-ear headphones which cover the ears completely: they enhance the sounds of the TV or hi-fi system, are wireless and easy to use. 

Headphones for receiver in ear (RIC) hearing aids​

The RIC hearing aid is positioned inside the ear canal and has the receiver covered with a silicone dome.  It is best to transform the RIC hearing aids into headphones: to do this, an additional device is used which provides a wireless connection to the TV or smartphone via radio or Bluetooth to the hearing aids. In addition, TV hearing amplifiers or induction straps are specially made for hearing aid wearers and can prove to be easy alternatives. 

Do I need different headphones to listen to music, watch TV or make calls?

Listening to TV with a hearing aid is a different requirement than having to manage calls every day from your smartphone. To be able to choose from a wide range of different headphones will allow you to benefit even more from your hearing aid. 

Which is better, wireless or Bluetooth headphones?

Bluetooth headphones use wireless technology to connect to a device near you, such as a TV, PC or smartphone. They work best if you stay within 10 meters from the device you are connected to and are very convenient for making calls, listening to music and using them while outdoors. 

Wireless headphones are of two different types: infrared, not used nowadays, and radio frequency (RF). In both cases, this type of headset needs a receiver connected to the receiving device to be used. They are the ideal solution if you want to use them at home, perhaps to watch a movie on TV or play video games. 

How to fix echo problems?

Interference in the headphones can be caused by other electrical appliances that are in close proximity, such as computers and smartphones. The best solution is to remove them or to keep the headphones away from other electronic devices or, if you are wearing a hearing aid, get them checked to verify that they work properly with the headphones. 

Hearing aids, headphones and music: tips and solutions

Using an equaliser

Connecting an equalizer to the headphones to listen to music allows you to adjust the sound level at different frequencies, increasing its quality and clarity.

Hearing aids with "music" function

Hearing aids do not prevent you from listening to music at all. In the contrary, some come with specific music programs and can be adjusted to bring out different aspects of the sound. 

Can I use headphones as a hearing aid?

No, it is not possible. However, with amplified headphones you can block out external noise, enhance sound quality, and enjoy music, TV, and calls clearly and independently.

Alternatives to headphones for hearing aid users

For many hearing aid users, especially those with moderate to severe hearing loss, traditional headphones may not deliver the clarity or comfort needed. Fortunately, there are purpose-built solutions that connect directly to hearing aids for a better listening experience:

Tv streamer for hearing aids​

TV streamers wirelessly transmit audio from your television directly to your hearing aids. This eliminates background noise and allows you to enjoy clear, personalised sound at your preferred volume, without affecting others in the room.

Loop sistems for hearing aids

Loop systems use electromagnetic fields to send sound directly to hearing aids equipped with a telecoil (T-coil). Common in public venues like theatres, banks, and churches, they help users hear speech more clearly in noisy environments.

FAQs about headphones and hearing aids

Can bone conduction headphones be used as HAs​?

Bone conduction headphones are not a replacement for hearing aids. While they transmit sound through the bones of the skull, bypassing the outer and middle ear, they are designed for general audio use, not for treating hearing loss. They may offer some benefit for people with specific types of hearing loss, such as single-sided deafness or conductive hearing loss, but they lack the personalised amplification, noise reduction, and speech clarity features of medically prescribed hearing aids. For proper hearing support, always consult a hearing care professional.

Can you use noise cancelling headphones with HAs​?

Bone conduction headphones are not designed to replace hearing aids. While they transmit sound through the bones of the skull, they do not offer the personalised amplification or advanced features needed to support hearing loss. For effective hearing care, it's important to use professionally fitted hearing aids tailored to your needs.

What devices interfere with hearing aids?

To ensure optimal performance, keep your hearing aids away from smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, and other devices that emit strong electromagnetic signals. Interference can cause buzzing or reduced sound quality. Make sure your Bluetooth settings are correctly configured and updated for seamless connectivity.
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