The invisible in canal hearing aids are the smallest hearing aids available. They offer the ultimate discretion because they are custom-made to fit inside your ear canal. This makes them almost, if not completely, invisible. Tiny cords are fit to this type of hearing aid so you can remove them easily.

There is no need to adjust the settings on these hearing aids throughout the day as they adapt automatically to the sound environment. Due to their small size, they do not have directional microphones (which are used in other hearing aid styles to enhance some sounds and simultaneously reduce background noise.)

While this style is popular with people who prefer a more discreet type of hearing aid, the small size means that those with limited dexterity may find these types of hearing aids slightly more difficult to adjust and remove.

Due to the positioning of this hearing aid type, they can be susceptible to earwax and moisture build-up, so it is important to ensure that there is adequate ventilation when they are used. However, their small size means that these types of hearing aids are better for minimizing wind noise.

The IIC hearing aid type is helpful for people with mild to severe hearing loss.

Speak with your hearing care professional for further guidance on IIC hearing aids.

Types of hearing aids

This completely-in-the-canal hearing aid was the smallest hearing aid available prior to the introduction of the invisible-in-the-canal hearing aid.

These hearing aid styles are custom-fitted discreetly inside the ear canal. Most CIC hearing aid types are invisible to people you encounter throughout the day. The slightly larger size can accommodate an optional button that allows you to control the settings manually, based on your environment. The only thing visible to the eye is normally the battery drawer and face plate.

Due to the positioning of this hearing aid type, they can also be vulnerable to earwax buildup and moisture, so it is important to ensure that there is adequate ventilation.

Speak with your hearing care professional for further guidance on CIC hearing aid types.

Types of hearing aids

In-the-canal hearing aids are slightly larger than completely-in-the-canal hearing aids.

The in-the-ear half shell hearing aid type is designed to fit half of your external ear. The shell of the hearing aid is custom-made to fit the shape of your ear. Depending on the size of your ear, these hearing aid types can be relatively discreet.

Half shell hearing aids have a longer battery life than in-the-canal hearing aids because they are slightly larger. They are suitable for anyone with profound hearing loss and are a good option if you want an easy-to-handle hearing aid. 

Due to their slightly larger size, ITE half shell hearing aids can have more features when compared to in-the- canal, completely-in-the canal and invisible-in-the-canal hearing aids.

Speak with your hearing care professional for further guidance on in-the-ear half shell hearing aid types.

Types of hearing aids

In-the-ear full shell hearing aids are designed to fit all of your external ear. These types of hearing aids are the largest of the custom hearing aids. The shell of the hearing aid is made to custom fit the shape of your ear. Depending on the size of your ear, these hearing aid types can still be relatively discreet.

In-the-ear full shell hearing aids have a longer battery life than in-the-canal hearing aids because they are slightly larger. They are suitable for anyone with profound hearing loss and are a good option if you want an easy-to-handle hearing aid. 

Due to their slightly larger size, ITE full shell hearing aids can have more features than the in-the-canal, completely-in-the canal and invisible-in-the-canal hearing aids. 

Speak with your hearing care professional for further guidance on full shell hearing aid types.

Types of hearing aids