What size and style do they work better for you? Most of the hearing aids on the market are classified as behind-ear (BTE) or in-the-ear (ite). BTE acoustic devices are probably what you think when you imagine an acoustic device, consisting of a plastic case that contains electronics, a thin cable that passes over the ear and inside the canal and a small speaker known as a “receiver”, which sends audio enhanced by the environment of a person in the ear. On the contrary, the ITE models are autonomous units that look like a standard pair of wireless earphones. The in-the-ear acoustic devices are popular for their unknown aesthetic and tend to be much easier to enter and exit compared to their counterparties behind their ears. However, contemporary BTE acoustic devices are significantly smaller than those “during the day”. It only depends on what adapts to you comfortably.
Replaceable or rechargeable batteries? Just like wireless earphones, most OTC hearing aids are equipped with rechargeable batteries and (usually) a portable charging case for easy transport. If you take into account the duration of the case battery, you will find most of the OTC models lasts about a week before you need to connect to a power source. Without case, the rechargeable hearing aids offer everywhere from 10 to 24 hours of battery life per charge (but this descends by a few hours if you are using them for streaming via Bluetooth). The replaceable batteries, such as those found on the Sony Creat, can last for 70 hours or more before the battery die. It seems fantastic, but it means having spare parts at hand and fighting with small cells, which can be difficult for people with problems of dexterity.
Do you feel comfortable to make changes? While the prescription hearing aids are mounted in the office by an authorized specialist in the hearing, the OTC devices are self-adapted. In most cases, Users of OTC hearing aids should be able to tune the devices to the ears, usually with the help of a smartphone app. It is certainly nice to make your adjustments on the fly, but it could cost you in terms of personalized care.
How is the customer support of the company? If only I could count on the quality support from each manufacturer of hearing aids! Unfortunately, the companies of OTC hearing aids are precisely this: the companies. There is no “standard” for customer service in the sector. Companies like Jabra offer complete support to patients, but other brands may leave you alone.
Is there a test? If you are not satisfied with your hearing aids, you will probably want to have the opportunity to return it without writing all that money as a submerged cost. Most states require manufacturers to provide patients a Minimum trial periodBut I advise you to play it safe looking for this information before buying.
What about the guarantees? Equally important for a reasonable trial period is the inclusion of the guarantee of a complete producer. Most brands covered production defects for a maximum of one year, but it is obvious that the longer the coverage period, the better the agreement. Regardless of the OTC acoustic device, make sure that the warranty covers losses, damage and wear.