When most people think of hearing aids, they tend to think of bulky behind-the-ear contraptions worn by elderly citizens. Truthfully, hearing aids are available in all shapes, colors, and sizes! If you are looking for a discreet type of hearing aid, an in-the-ear hearing aid is an option worth considering.
What Is an In-The-Ear Hearing Aid?
An in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid is a type of custom hearing aid that fits completely in your outer ear, specifically in the concha. The ITE hearing aid is built from a custom mold that is made of your own ear. ITE hearing aids are less bulky than behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids since they do not include the hard plastic case or tube that rest outside the ear.
Although ITE hearing aids are less bulky than BTE hearing aids, they are not completely hidden from view. If you’re looking for nearly invisible hearing aids, the in-the-canal (ITC), completely-in-canal (CIC), or invisible-in-canal (IIC) hearing aids are more appropriate. These smaller hearing aids fit further into the ear canal, making them harder to see by others.
In-the-ear hearing aids can be either half shell or full shell. A half shell hearing aid does not fill the upper portion of the ear like the full shell does. They usually contain all the same features. The half shell is a little smaller and therefore may be a little more difficult to handle for those with poor dexterity.
Best In-The-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
#1 Phonak Virto P-312
Phonak’s Virto P-312 hearing aids offer the most wireless connections you can find in an in-the-ear style hearing aid. They have universal Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music, phone calls, and other audio from a smartphone. They are also compatible with Phonak’s Roger system for more help in difficult listening environments, and can be remotely adjusted by your hearing professional via the myPhonak app.
Pros:
- Universal Bluetooth compatible
- Compatible with Phonak’s Roger Assistive Listening Device Roger
- Remote programming adjustments available
- Includes tinnitus balance program
Cons:
- Not rechargeable
#2 ReSound Custom
ReSound’s Custom hearing aids are one of the few custom-built rechargeable ITE hearing aids available. They have a unique design that makes them look like you’re wearing an earbud with all the hearing benefits and comfort of a custom hearing aid.
Pros:
- Rechargeable
- Looks like an earbud design with a custom fit
- Comes in black or skin tone colors
Cons:
- Is not hands-free calling on Android phones, only iPhone.
Who Can Wear an ITE Hearing Aid?
Typically, the smaller the hearing aid, the lesser the power, controls, and battery life available. The three smallest type of hearing aids (in-the-canal, completely-in-canal, and invisible-in-canal hearing aids) are generally not advised for those with severe hearing loss. Fortunately, ITE hearing aids are discreet yet still large enough to house larger batteries for longer battery life, directional microphones, and volume control. These characteristics make ITE hearing aids suitable for those with mild to severe hearing loss.