Oticon vs. Eargo

Key Findings

• Oticon hearing aids offer superior performance for those with moderate to profound hearing loss, with advanced BrainHearing technology that helps process sounds more naturally.
• Eargo hearing aids are incredibly small, making them nearly invisible when worn.
• Oticon requires professional fitting and purchase through an audiologist, while Eargo devices can be purchased directly online.

Oticon Hearing Aids Overview

With over 100 years in the hearing aid industry, Oticon is an established leader in prescription hearing aid technology. Their most notable innovation is their BrainHearing technology, which approaches hearing assistance from the perspective of how the brain processes sound. This technology is designed to provide the brain with the clearest, most complete sound information possible, helping users understand speech better, even in noisy environments.

Oticon offers a range of hearing aid styles and models to address varying degrees of hearing loss, from mild to profound. Their newest model, the Oticon Intent 2, features Deep Neural Network technology for improved sound processing. Other popular models include the Oticon Real, Zircon, Xceed (for severe-to-profound hearing loss), and CROS (for single-sided hearing loss).

While more visible than completely in-canal options, Oticon's behind-the-ear hearing aids and receiver-in-canal models provide robust functionality and powerful sound processing capabilities. Many of Oticon's devices offer Bluetooth connectivity for streaming audio directly from smartphones, microphones, and other devices, though compatibility may vary by model.

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Available only by prescription, Oticon hearing aids require a proper hearing evaluation and professional fitting by licensed hearing health care professionals. This approach ensures that users receive personalized care and adjustments tailored to their specific hearing needs. It also means, however, that the devices cost more than over-the-counter hearing aids.

To learn more about our hands-on experience with this provider, read our full Oticon review.

Eargo Hearing Aids Overview

Eargo’s “invisible” hearing aids are ideal for those seeking discretion and comfort. Their unique fiberglass design incorporating proprietary Flexi Fibers allows for natural airflow and exceptional comfort during extended wear. Users can easily adjust their settings through a companion mobile app, providing convenient control over their hearing experience. Each pair of Eargo hearing aids comes with a portable rechargeable case (similar to Apple’s AirPods), which streamlines the charging process and ensures users always have power when they need it.

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Eargo's current models (Link, SE, and 7) showcase the company's commitment to improving technology while maintaining their signature discreet design. While most don't offer Bluetooth streaming (save for the Link), they provide a natural listening experience that focuses on clarity and comfort for everyday conversations and activities. The in-canal placement not only ensures near-invisibility but also takes advantage of the ear's natural anatomy to deliver more natural sound quality.

As an over-the-counter option, Eargo hearing aids can be purchased directly without a visit to an audiologist. This approach makes them more accessible and often more affordable than prescription alternatives. One caveat of all OTC hearing aids is that the FDA only approves them for users with mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

To learn more about our hands-on experience with these hearing aids, read our full Eargo hearing aids review.

Performance Comparison

In terms of day-to-day performance, both Eargo and Oticon hearing aids perform comparably. Keep in mind, however, that Eargo sells three models, and Oticon offers six, each of which has different levels of customization.

In quiet home environments, Oticon's advanced models, such as the Intent 2 and Real, deliver exceptional clarity and natural sound reproduction for everyday conversations and media consumption. Their BrainHearing technology provides a comprehensive soundscape that closely mimics natural hearing. Eargo's devices, particularly the Eargo 7, create an organic listening experience with remarkably natural voice reproduction considering their small size.

Another feature we appreciated about the Eargo 7 was its Sound Adjust+ technology. With this feature, the hearing aids would automatically adapt to our surroundings, working to dull background noise in loud environments. In quiet environments, it allows background noises to be heard more clearly.

Oticon's prescription models demonstrate their technical advantage for complex listening environments like restaurants. The Intent 2 and Real models excel with sophisticated noise reduction and directional microphone systems that effectively isolate conversation from background noise. Eargo's performance in these environments varies by model, with the Eargo 7 performing admirably for an OTC device. The Link model, however, had more difficulty distinguishing speech in noisy settings.

In outdoor settings, Eargo's completely in-canal design proves particularly effective in windy conditions, with minimal wind interference across all models. Oticon's behind-the-ear models are more susceptible to wind noise, though their premium models feature advanced wind reduction technology that helps mitigate this issue.

Battery life testing reveals a significant advantage for Oticon's rechargeable models, which can deliver 24 to 30-plus hours of use per charge, depending on the model and streaming usage. Eargo devices average 16 to 18 hours per charge, although their portable charging case adds convenience for on-the-go power replenishment. Keep in mind that Oticon also offers devices with disposable batteries, which can power the hearing aids for over a week before needing replacement.

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For users with more severe hearing loss, Oticon is a clear choice, as Eargo's devices are designed for mild-to-moderate hearing loss only. Oticon's Xceed model, in particular, is designed to address severe-to-profound hearing loss with powerful sound amplification.

Features Comparison

Both Oticon and Eargo provide sophisticated sound processing capabilities, smartphone app controls, noise-reduction programs, and automatic adjustments between environments. However, Oticon hearing aids will generally have a wider variety of features overall.

Oticon's feature set is more comprehensive, with options varying across their model range. Their Deep Neural Network technology (available on the Intent 2) delivers sound in a way that works with the brain's natural processing. Many Oticon models offer direct Bluetooth streaming for phone calls, music, and other audio content. Additionally, their Oticon ON app provides programming control, “find my hearing aid” functionality, and even integration with the “If This Then That” (IFTTT) network for smart home connectivity.

Eargo's features prioritize simplicity, discretion, and user-friendly operation. Their Sound Match technology allows for personalized tuning through a smartphone, and Sound Adjust+ (Sound Adjust on the Eargo SE) allows the devices to automatically switch settings. While most Eargo models don't offer Bluetooth streaming, their newest model, Eargo Link, does incorporate this feature.

Oticon also offers a broader range of accessories, including the ConnectClip, which turns hearing aids into wireless headsets, a phone adapter for landline integration, and Tinnitus SoundSupport, which relieves tinnitus. Eargo's accessory options are more limited, focusing primarily on the charging case and different Flexi Fiber attachments.

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Both brands offer solutions for those with tinnitus, a condition experienced by over a quarter of American adults. Oticon provides Tinnitus SoundSupport on compatible models, while Eargo's design and sound processing can help many users manage tinnitus symptoms. To learn more about how hearing aids can help manage this condition, read our guide to hearing aids for tinnitus.

Pricing Comparison

Unless you plan to buy the most basic Oticon model, Eargo hearing aids are almost always more affordable.

Eargo prices range from $799 per pair for the Eargo Link to $2,699 per pair for the flagship Eargo 7. This all-inclusive pricing includes the devices, charging case, and their standard support package with remote assistance.

Oticon hearing aids are prescription devices that must be purchased through hearing health care professionals. Because of this, their pricing is not standardized and can vary significantly depending on the provider, location, included services, and the specific model chosen.

Generally, Oticon hearing aids range from approximately $2,400 to $8,000 per pair, with their most advanced models at the higher end of this range. This pricing typically includes professional fitting, initial adjustments, and some follow-up care, though policies vary by provider.

It's important to note that while Oticon's per-ear pricing may appear higher at first glance, the comparison isn't straightforward. Oticon's pricing often includes professional services and more advanced technology for a broader range of hearing loss, while Eargo's devices are specifically designed for mild-to-moderate hearing loss only.

For those with comprehensive insurance coverage for hearing aids, Oticon is more likely to be partially covered since they're prescription devices. However, Eargo's lower overall cost may be advantageous for those paying out-of-pocket, even without insurance coverage.

>> Read More: The Best Affordable Hearing Aids

Warranties Comparison

While Eargo has a standard warranty of one-to-two years, Oticon's warranty terms vary depending on the hearing health care provider through which you purchase their devices. Typically, Oticon hearing aids come with a manufacturer's warranty of one-to-three years, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Some providers may offer extended warranty options for an additional cost. Because Oticon hearing aids are fitted and sold through audiologists, warranty service typically requires returning to your provider, who then handles the warranty claim process with Oticon.

Eargo offers more standardized warranty coverage since they sell hearing aids directly to consumers. The Eargo Link and SE come with a one-year warranty, and the Eargo 7 comes with a two-year warranty. This warranty covers repairs at no extra charge and one-time loss coverage for the Eargo SE ($295 per device) and Eargo 7 ($395 per device). Since Eargo manages their customer relationships directly, warranty claims can be initiated through their customer care team without an intermediary.

Oticon warranties generally do not cover the loss of the hearing aids themselves; however, once again, this varies by the provider.

Customer Support Comparison

The customer support experiences for Oticon and Eargo users differ significantly based on their business models.

Oticon's customer support is primarily delivered through the hearing health care professional who fits your devices. This approach provides personalized, often face-to-face, support from a professional who is familiar with your specific hearing profile. Most audiologists offer lifetime support for the devices they sell, including regular in-person appointments for cleaning, maintenance, and programming adjustments. This hands-on professional support is particularly valuable for users with complex hearing needs or those less comfortable with technology.

Eargo offers a direct-to-consumer support model centered around their free lifetime remote support. Their hearing professionals are available via phone, video chat, or email to help with setup, adjustments, and troubleshooting. Unlike Jabra Enhance hearing aids, this remote support is included at no additional cost for the lifetime of your devices, regardless of which model you purchase. For users comfortable with technology, Eargo's combination of their smartphone app and remote support provides a convenient way to manage hearing aids without office visits. However, it lacks the hands-on assistance that some users, particularly those with dexterity issues, might prefer.

The ideal support model for you largely depends on your comfort with technology, preference for in-person assistance, and specific hearing needs.

Bottom Line

Both Oticon and Eargo offer quality hearing aid solutions, but they serve different user needs:

Choose Oticon if you:

• Have moderate-to-profound hearing loss that requires comprehensive treatment
• Want the most advanced sound processing technology
• Prefer in-person professional fitting and ongoing audiologist support
• Need features for severe hearing loss or specific conditions such as single-sided deafness
• Have insurance or VA benefits that cover prescription hearing aids

Choose Eargo if you:

• Have mild-to-moderate hearing loss
• Prioritize discretion and a nearly invisible solution
• Prefer a direct-to-consumer purchase without audiologist visits
• Own and operate a smartphone for self-administered adjustments
• Value an all-in-one package with included remote support