Patient Resources
Tips and news to support your hearing health.
There are so many different types of hearing aids available today from a wide range of manufacturers, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. That’s why it’s important to work closely with a dedicated and qualified hearing care professional, like Neil here at Beckenham Hearing.
You may have heard of invisible hearing aids or more discreet options but might not be sure what those terms mean for you and your lifestyle. We’ve outlined a few of the main types below so that when you come in to see us, you already have a little background knowledge. But don’t worry - our role is to guide you through the process and help you find the best hearing solution for your hearing loss, budget, and daily life. You don’t need to know anything before you visit us.
Understanding The Different Hearing Aid Types
The hearing aid industry uses a lot of terminology, so here’s a quick guide to help you understand the main options.
Implantable Device (Lyric by Phonak)
Lyric by Phonak is a small, implantable hearing device that must be precisely fitted by a qualified professional, such as our team at Beckenham Hearing. It requires specialist training and sits deep within the ear canal, which is why accurate placement is so important. Lyric can be worn 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for two to three months at a time — even while showering. The only activity we wouldn’t recommend doing while wearing it is skydiving!
IIC (Invisible-In-Canal)
These are some of the smallest hearing aids available and are designed to sit deep inside your ear canal, making them virtually invisible. Despite their small size, they include impressive features to enhance your hearing. However, because of their compact design, the batteries are also smaller, meaning they need to be replaced more often and may be trickier to handle.
CIC (Completely-In-Canal)
This type of hearing aid is slightly larger than the IIC but still sits comfortably inside the ear canal, with nothing visible behind the ear. CIC devices are custom-made for your ear canal and are a popular choice for those who prefer a discreet style combined with high performance.
ITE (In-The-Ear)
ITE hearing aids fill part of the outer ear’s “bowl” (known as the concha). They are more visible than CIC models but offer benefits such as multiple microphones, larger batteries, and more advanced features.
OTE (On-The-Ear)
These devices are currently very popular. They have a small unit that sits behind your ear and can be colour-matched to your hair or skin for a subtle appearance. Originally recognised for their reduced whistling (due to receiver placement inside the ear canal), OTE hearing aids continue to be a top choice for both comfort and clarity.
BTE (Behind-The-Ear)
This is the traditional hearing aid style that sits behind the ear, with a tube connecting it to an earpiece. BTE models have larger batteries, which means longer battery life and easier handling. Your audiologist will help you balance this option with your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and budget to find the most suitable solution.
Choosing The Right Technology For You
When selecting your hearing aids, it’s important to remember that the price differences are usually based on the technology inside, not the size or shape of the device. All styles can be fitted with various levels of technology depending on your hearing needs and daily environments.
You also don’t need to worry about choosing between manufacturers — we’ll recommend the most suitable options based on your hearing test results, budget, and what features will best support your hearing goals.
Book Your Personalised Hearing Assessment
There’s no need to feel overwhelmed by all the modern hearing aid information available online. At Beckenham Hearing, we’re here to simplify the process and give you unbiased, expert advice every step of the way.
Book your comprehensive hearing assessment with the team at Beckenham Hearing today to find the perfect hearing solution for you. We’ll take care of everything, from explaining your options clearly to fitting your chosen device with precision, so you can enjoy clearer, more confident hearing every day.
Neil grew up in Crystal Palace, exploring its hidden tunnels and treasures long before the area became trendy. Originally trained in micro-electronics engineering, he began his career designing stereo equipment and mixing decks before transitioning into hearing aid technology — a move that sparked a lifelong passion. Over the past 30 years, Neil has worked with leading global hearing aid manufacturers, supporting audiologists with complex fittings and technical challenges.
