Choosing the Right Hearing Aid: Understanding the Different Styles
How to Choose the Best Style for You
Discovering that you have hearing loss can bring a mix of emotions — and understandably, a lot of questions. One of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing the right hearing aid. With today’s advanced technology and thoughtfully designed styles, that choice doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
At Webster Street Hearing Boutique, we believe selecting a hearing device should feel thoughtful, seamless, and empowering. Modern hearing aids come in a range of elegant styles — each tailored to different levels of hearing loss, lifestyle preferences, and comfort.
Below, you’ll find a simple overview of the most common styles, thoughtfully outlined to make the decision feel easier.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aids rest comfortably behind the ear, with a small tube and earmold that directs sound into the ear canal.
Best for: Mild to profound hearing loss
Benefits: Easy to handle, very reliable, and often have strong amplification. Rechargeable options available
Look: Visible but sleek, often in discreet colors to match hair or skin.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
Similar to BTE, but with the speaker placed inside the ear canal for a more natural sound.
Best for: Mild to severe hearing loss
Benefits: Clear sound, comfortable, and rechargeable
Look: Very discreet, with a thin wire nearly invisible on most ears.
In-the-Ear (ITE)
These fill part or all of the outer ear and are custom-made to fit your ear shape.
Best for: Mild to severe hearing loss
Benefits: Easy to insert and remove, simple controls. Rechargeable options available
Look: More visible than smaller styles, but no parts behind the ear.
In-the-Canal (ITC)
& Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
These fit partly or fully inside the ear canal for a nearly invisible look.
Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
Benefits: Very discreet, natural sound quality.
Look: Hardly noticeable, but may be trickier to handle for some.
The right hearing aid depends on your degree of hearing loss, ear shape, dexterity, and personal preferences. Our audiologists will thoughtfully guide you through each option, provide a personalized fitting, and ensure you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.