Hearing Aid Styles Explained – Find the Right Hearing Aid
Types of Hearing Aids
Modern hearing aids come in a variety of discreet and powerful designs. Each style
offers different benefits depending on your level of hearing loss, comfort preferences,
and daily activities. Most modern hearing aid options come in rechargeable and
battery-operated options.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids
RIC hearing aids are similar to BTE but smaller and more discreet. The speaker sits
inside the ear canal rather than in the main body.
Best for: Mild to severe hearing loss
Benefits:
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Natural sound quality
• Less visible than traditional BTE devices
RIC is one of the most popular hearing aid styles among adults.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Behind-the-ear hearing aids sit comfortably behind your ear and connect to a custom
earpiece via a thin tube.
Best for: Mild to profound hearing loss
Benefits:
• Strong amplification power
• Easy to handle and maintain
• Suitable for all ages
• Longer battery life
BTE hearing aids are one of the most powerful and robust options for Ears to You
patients
In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
ITE hearing aids fit entirely within the outer ear. They are completely custom-made to
suit your outer ear canal offering a discreet and comfortable solution.
Best for: Mild to severe hearing loss
Benefits:
• Custom-moulded for comfort
• Easier to insert than smaller styles
• Can include features like volume control and rechargeability
If you’re looking for a balance between visibility and
usability, ITE devices are a great option.
In-the-Canal (ITC) & Completely-in-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids
These smaller hearing aids fit partly or completely inside the ear canal, making them
very discreet.
Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
Benefits:
• Nearly invisible appearance
• Comfortable for everyday wear
• Less wind noise
Many patients searching for invisible hearing aids choose these styles.
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aids
IIC devices sit deep inside the ear canal and are virtually undetectable.
Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
Benefits:
• Maximum discretion
• Natural sound direction
• No visible external components
These are ideal if appearance is a top priority.
Phonak Lyric (Extended Wear Hearing Aids)
Phonak Lyric is a unique, extended-wear hearing aid that sits deep inside the ear
canal and can be worn 24/7 for months at a time. It is professionally fitted by a
qualified audiologist and does not require daily removal.
Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss
Benefits:
• 100% invisible when worn
• No daily insertion or removal
• Can be worn while sleeping, exercising, and showering
• Natural sound quality using the ear’s anatomy
Phonak Lyric is ideal for patients looking for a truly
invisible, low-maintenance hearing solution. It’s a
popular choice for professionals and active individuals
across who want seamless hearing without the hassle of< traditional devices.
Ears to You are one of the few clinics in Australia that certified and highly trained to fit Lyric. As us about a free trial of Lyric by calling 02 7900 5551
How to Choose the Right Hearing Aid
01
Your Level of Hearing Loss
A professional hearing test will determine whether you need a powerful device (like BTE) or a smaller, discreet option (like CIC or IIC).
02
Lifestyle & Daily Activities
Active lifestyles, work environments, and social habits all influence the right choice. For example: • Busy social life → advanced noise reduction • Outdoor activities → durability and wind resistance
03
Comfort & Ease of Use
If dexterity is a concern, larger hearing aids (BTE or ITE) may be easier to handle.
04
Cosmetic Preferences
Some patients prefer invisible hearing aids, while others prioritise performance over appearance.
05
Technology Features
Modern hearing aids may include:
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Rechargeable batteries
• Smartphone control
• Tinnitus masking
Our experienced audiologists provide comprehensive diagnostic hearing tests, personalised fittings, expert advice, and ongoing support.
We take the time to understand your hearing goals and recommend the most suitable hearing aid style for your needs.
Book a Hearing Aid Consultation Today
Choosing the right hearing aid starts with the right advice. Call us on 02 7900 5551 for a comprehensive hearing assessment and personalised recommendations.
Take the first step toward better hearing today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearing Aids
What is the best type of hearing aid?
What is the most invisible hearing aid available?
Are invisible hearing aids as good as larger ones?
Invisible hearing aids can provide excellent sound quality for mild to moderate hearing loss. However, larger devices like BTE or RIC hearing aids may offer more power, longer battery life, and additional features for more complex hearing needs.
How do I choose the right hearing aid?
- Your level of hearing loss
- Your lifestyle and daily activities
- Comfort and ease of handling
- Cosmetic preferences (visible vs invisible)
How much do hearing aids cost in Sydney?
Hearing aid costs can vary depending on the style, technology level, and individual hearing needs. As a general guide, prices typically range from around $750 to $3,500 per device.
A generous trial period is provided, allowing individuals the time to fully experience the benefits and ensure complete satisfaction before making a long-term commitment. This extended approach sets Ears To You apart, offering greater confidence and peace of mind throughout the decision-making process.
Pricing may also be reduced through government programs, with eligible pensioners and Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) clients able to access fully or partially subsidised devices.
Understanding these options can make hearing care more accessible, with solutions available to suit a wide range of budgets and lifestyles
Can I get hearing aids near me?
Yes— We Come to You – hearing aids can be accessed conveniently without the need to travel to a clinic. Mobile hearing services allow qualified clinicians to come directly to your home, providing comprehensive hearing assessments, personalised recommendations, and ongoing support in a familiar environment.
This approach is ideal for those with busy schedules, limited mobility, or anyone who prefers a more comfortable, one-on-one experience. From initial testing through to fitting and fine-tuning, care is delivered at a pace that suits the individual.
With flexible appointment options and continued follow-up, accessing hearing care near you has never been easier.
Do I need a hearing test before getting hearing aids?
Yes. A comprehensive hearing test is essential to understand the type and degree of hearing loss and to ensure any hearing technology is accurately fitted and fine-tuned for your individual needs.
At Ears To You, the assessment goes further than simply measuring how loud sounds are heard. We focus on how the brain processes and understands speech in real-world situations. This provides a more complete picture of your hearing ability—particularly in challenging environments such as background noise or group conversations.
By prioritising speech understanding rather than volume alone, we are able to gain deeper insight into communication challenges and set realistic, personalised expectations and goals. This approach helps ensure hearing solutions are tailored not just for better hearing, but for better understanding in everyday life.
Are hearing aids uncomfortable to wear?
Modern hearing aids are designed to be comfortable and discreet. Custom-fitted options like ITE, ITC, are tailored to your ear shape, while lightweight RIC devices are barely noticeable after a short adjustment period.
How long do hearing aids last?
All our devices fitted include a 3 year warranty. Our goal is to support the devices for as long as they are clinically beneficial.
Can I wear hearing aids all day?
Yes, most hearing aids are designed for all-day use. Some options, are even designed to be worn continuously for months at a time, including
while sleeping and showering.
Do hearing aids connect to smartphones?
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Independent Care Without the Limitations
Many residents already have hearing aids when they enter aged care—but not all devices are easy to support.
Some large retail providers supply hearing aids that are restricted to their own systems. This can limit how easily those devices can be adjusted or serviced by independent clinicians, particularly within an aged care setting.
The result? Residents may be left with hearing aids that aren’t performing as well as they could—simply because access to timely, on-site care is limited.
Ears to You is different.
As an independent provider, we work across a wide range of manufacturers and technologies. Wherever possible, we optimise and service existing devices on-site. And when that’s not possible, we provide clear, practical guidance on the best next steps—without locking residents into a single brand or provider.
It’s about giving residents flexibility, continuity of care, and hearing solutions that actually work in the real world.
Product Range
Want To Speak To A Hearing Aid Specialist?
If you are concerned about your hearing or unsure of which hearing aid would suit you best, speak to one of our expert clinicians. We are dedicated to providing you with the best hearing care solutions.