The most popular
Most suitable for mild to profound hearing loss.
The main unit of a BTE hearing aids contains all the electronic components. It sits behind your ear with a tube that runs into your ear canal and connects with a custom-fit earmold or dome.
Advantages
- Suitable for all levels of hearing loss, from mild to profound
- Because it is placed behind the ear there is less pressure inside the ear canal, making it comfortable for long-term wear.
- Good for people who are prone to have ear infections, too much ear wax, and small or narrow ear canals
- Easy to handle for people with dexterity issues with such features as larger program selection buttons that are easy to operate
- Can fit more advanced features and functionality than smaller types
- Able to fit larger and more powerful batteries for longer battery life
- Available in models with wireless and Bluetooth connectivity to devices
- Custom-fit earmolds and domes can be replaced separately
- Less susceptible to moisture damage or earwax blockage
Disadvantages
- More visible and less discreet than other, smaller hearing aid types
- May pick up more wind noise than other styles
- May not be suitable for people who wear eyeglasses
- Blocks up more of your ear, which can make wearers feel plugged up
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids: FAQ
What are BTE hearing aids?
How do behind-the-ear hearing aids work?
How much do BTE hearing aids cost?
What is the difference between BTE and RIC hearing aids?
What is the difference between BTE and ITE hearing aids?
What is the difference between BTE and IIC hearing aids?
What are the types of BTE hearing aids?
How good are behind-the-ear hearing aids?
How do I insert behind-the-ear hearings aids?
How do behind-the-ear hearing aids stay in place?
How do you wear BTE hearing aids with glasses?
Which type of hearing aid is right for you?
Choosing hearing aids involves considering various factors, including your level of hearing loss, ear size and shape, budget, preferred features, and stylistic preferences.
Your ideal choice may not align with your initial preferences, as factors like profound hearing loss or small ear canals may limit certain options.
Consulting with a hearing care expert during a store visit, where a full hearing test and consultation are conducted, will help you identify suitable types based on your needs and preferences. From there, you can explore different brands and models to find the right fit within your budget with the desired features.
