Top 5 Best Hearing Aids of 2024 by Our Audiologists
What are the best hearing aids in the UK for 2024?
Looking for a hearing aid to buy?
You might have looked at some hearing aids in store locally and now thinking if it is worth upgrading your hearing aids yet, but it all depends on what you buy.
2023 brought some significant advances in digital hearing aid technology, such as new Bluetooth ITE options, the world's first waterproof rechargeable aid, and a heart rate sensor. Other hearing aid makes have barely improved in years.
2024 is bringing even more to the industry, particularly in design. As technology advances, so does aesthetics. The newest hearing aids have shown a slimmer and more discreet casing. However, the best hearing aids available in the UK are subjective.
If you are looking for the best hearing aids money can buy or not - either way, we hope this guide will help you in your search to find the right hearing aid for you - whether that be the upgrade you need or if you are wearing new hearing aids for the first time.
Choosing the best hearing aids in the UK
To label the industry's best hearing aids of 2024 in numerous categories, we asked our audiologists to score each hearing aid on the market using such criteria as hearing aid prices, hearing aid features, technology advancements, and other priorities that are generally considered important to consumers regarding hearing aid comparisons.
What are the top five rated hearing aids? Find out with our review of the best hearing aids available in the UK for hearing aid users in 2024 below.
Best Hearing Aids 2024, Reviews and Hearing Aids Comparison
Including the best hearing aids and prices in the UK
The Best Hearing Aids of 2024 Winner
Oticon Intent 1 hearing aids
Are Oticon the best hearing aids? In March 2023, the predecessor of this aid, the Oticon Real 1 hearing aid was considered by many to be the best hearing aid on the market.
In February 2024 they launched the new generation - the Oticon Intent 1. It's even better and is the reason why we have voted Oticon Intent as the best overall hearing aid.
In fact, it is arguably going to be one of the most popular hearing aids in the world, just like Real was. The top performance level, Oticon Intent 1 hearing aid, gives you the most precision in sound processing, more customisation in your background noise, and premium noise reduction.
Plus, Intent also introduced the new 4D sensor technology which allows these hearing aids to learn from your head and body movements and adapt your soundscape accordingly so you can gain from even better speech understanding in noise.
Any improvements since Real?
- There is a new Sirius processing chip and Deep Neural Network 2.0 (DNN) that all contribute to Oticon Intent's better sound quality, speech clarity, and efficiency in noise suppression.
- There's been an improvement in frequency response from 80 Hz to 10 kHz. Theoretically, this should mean you'll benefit from a richer sound experience than you would with Oticon Real.
- The new MoreSound intelligence technology and next-generation MoreSound Amplifier 3.0 offer reduced base noise along with better high-frequency response and dynamic range. This could potentially rival the likes of Starkey Genesis AI.
- Oticon Real introduced one of the best feedback suppression algorithms, however, Intent takes this further with an even smarter algorithm to control feedback. This is all made possible without compromising on speech understanding or sound quality.
- The new style of miniRITE is smaller than Real and the sized 13 battery means there is around 33% more charge on the go. Plus, the Intent is future-proof with Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast.
Why buy Oticon Intent?
What makes the Oticon Intent one of our best hearing aids? It's the way these hearing aids simply handle sounds. Instead of doing what other hearing aids do - suppressing background noise and focusing on speech, Intent offers a more natural and full soundscape to the brain.
The 4D sensor technology means these hearing aids learn from your head and body movements and adapt your soundscape accordingly so you can benefit from better speech understanding in noise.
Oticon states that premium hearing is more than just sound. Understanding the wearer is also an important part of someone's listening experience.
Different hearing loss levels need unique support and even though two people with hearing loss can be in the same listening environment, they both need their hearing aids to work differently.
In theory, Intent understands your listening intention, therefore you will enjoy truly personalised hearing that deals with your distinct requirements.
In our opinion
- Oticon Intent 1 hearing aids give you one of the most powerful platforms on the market (Sirius). It has pretty much closed a lot of gaps in Oticon Real and is going to make a real difference when hearing in challenging environments.
- With technologies such as 4D supporting you better in communication and engagement and MoreSound giving you access to a more accurate interpretation of sound in the brain, a richer representation of your environment, and a bigger scope of all sounds – we predict this digital hearing aid will be hard to beat.
- Oticon Intent is a small hearing aid, so it will sit comfortably on the ear.
- At launch, like the Real, Intent includes the only artificial intelligence that greatly improves speech understanding with their Deep Neural Network technology. Giving you the most advanced and best hearing aids for artificial intelligence.
- If you are drawn to the idea of hearing more of the sounds around you instead of just focusing on speech - this hearing aid is a great choice.
- For those who suffer from Tinnitus, Intent's Tinnitus SoundSupport is a really good sound generator that is easy to use. You can set it to play sounds, such as white noise, to reduce the effect of tinnitus symptoms.
Why not buy Oticon Intent?
- Oticon Intent hearing aids were launched without In-Ear products. If you are looking for this type of hearing aid, and you like Oticon's open sound, check out the custom Oticon Own which includes the older More technology.
- These hearing aids are rechargeable and carry a premium price tag. If budget is a priority or your hearing loss is milder, you might want to look at other hearing aid brands or consider Zircon, Oticon's essential line.
#1 Best hearing aids features at a glance
Styles available: Receiver in Canal (RIC).
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes.
Rechargeable options: Yes.
Smartphone compatibility: Android and iPhone.
Technology levels: 1, 2, 3 and 4.
The Best Hearing Aids of 2024 Second Place
Starkey Genesis AI 24 hearing aids
What makes Genesis AI one of our best hearing aids? Starkey Genesis AI 24 wins second place for pure innovation, possibly the best custom hearing aids range, and for providing great product support and improvements since the Livio was introduced.
Launching in October 2023, Genesis AI is their third-generation rechargeable custom-made hearing aid with a variety of other sensors and functions from foreign language translators to heart rate monitors.
However, the main goal for Starkey Genesis AI hearing aids was to create an entirely new platform, featuring a complete redesign, inside and out. Including all-new hardware and Starkey Neuro Processor chip.
The new processing chip marks Starkey's embrace of Deep Neural Network (DNN) technology, offering advanced learning capabilities for enhanced sound processing built into the hearing aid.
Starkey is also a really good health-tracking hearing aid, but it's not just about health though - these devices also include some of the industry's most powerful AI sound algorithms.
Why buy the Starkey Genesis AI 24?
Genesis AI is simply a big improvement over the previous Starkey Evolv AI. As with the winner, the Oticon Intent 1, the sound quality and background noise reduction are excellent, if not quite as good as the Oticon.
The new ITE model is both stylish and rechargeable and all models offer successful 'healthable' hearing aid features. This means it is a hearing aid and health tracker in one solution.
This hearing aid is jam-packed with great features. In fact, some would say that the Genesis AI hearing aids are the most feature-rich aids out there. The AI can detect if you fall and then automatically send a notification of the fall to your friend or loved one. They can then get help as soon as possible.
Starkey is perhaps a step ahead when it comes to their mobile app offering. Providing unique features such as peronsalisation, activity monitoring, translation in real time, fall alerts, and notifications to loved ones if you should fall.
In our opinion
The new Neuro Processor, in Genesis AI, is the industry’s most advanced processor with speeds four times faster than previous processors and features six times more transistors allowing it to adapt to more situations than ever before.
What really sets the Starkey Genesis AI hearing aids apart is their ability to execute these sophisticated processes up to 80 million times per hour, effortlessly and automatically, instinctively adapting to your needs, restoring richness of sound no matter what challenges your surroundings present.
Starkey's Neuro Sound technology allows wearers to hear soft sounds, distinguish speech more clearly, and significantly reduce listening effort.
- Improvements have also been made to both the battery life, with rechargeable options boasting 51 hours on a single charge, and the functionality of the accompanying MyStarkey phone app.
- If you can justify the price, lead an active lifestyle, regularly travel, or spend time in groups then this top-end level will probably be worth the additional cost.
Why not buy the Starkey Genesis AI 24?
- This hearing aid has more tech than other brand offerings, but that's only if you think you'll use all these features. You might want all the bells and whistles that this Starkey hearing aid range has to offer, but then again don't pay for what you don't need.
- The Genesis AI model is more expensive than other hearing aids of its ilk, so make sure you will get good use out of the extra features.
#2 Best hearing aids features at a glance
Styles available: Receiver-in-Canal (RIC), Behind-the-Ear (BTE), and custom.
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes.
Rechargeable options: Yes.
Smartphone compatibility: Android and iPhone.
Technology levels: 24, 20 and 16.
Behind the Ear & In the Ear
Fitting Styles: RIC, ITE, ITC, CIC, IIC
5 Year Warranty Included. Rechargeable models are an additional £100 per aid.
Starkey Genesis AI Full Range
The Best Hearing Aids of 2024 Third Place
Signia Silk 7IX Charge&Go hearing aids
Why is Silk one of our best hearing aids? The Signia Silk 7IX Charge&Go model is a "modular CIC", which means it is a Completely in the Canal (CIC) hearing aid. Very hard to see on most people and includes the new Integrated Xperience platform.
It does not need to be custom-made to the shape of the ear and does not block the ear canal in the same way either.
The Silk was sadly missed in the AX hearing aid platform so this new generation model was long overdue. Plus, at launch in Septemeber 2023, the world's first CIC rechargeable hearing aid with Binaural OneMic Directionality for focus in noise.
Best small hearing aids
The beauty of this hearing aid is down to the great design which allows those who require an open fitting to still wear a CIC. You might have been told that you can't wear an in-ear hearing aid. The good news here is that you might be able to wear this one.
Why buy the Signia Silk 7IX Charge&Go?
- Has the same great quality processing as you get in the Behind-the-Ear Signia 7IX hearing aids - giving you a clear and natural sound.
- You can use the user-friendly Signia app to fine-tune your hearing aids with your audiologist remotely.
- They have a CROS system in both BTE and ITE, which is unusual, as people with this type of hearing loss cannot usually get discreet in-ear aids.
- Comfortable and open-fitting rechargeable IIC with a pocket power bank offering four extra charges wirelessly.
- If you’re looking for a completely programmable, high-end, and invisible hearing aid option but don’t want to go down the custom mould path, Signia Silk IX is worth considering.
- If you travel often or spend time socialising, then this performance level will probably be worth the extra.
Why not buy the Signia 7IX Charge&Go?
In regards to loss, Signia Silk is great for people with mild-to-moderate hearing and will not be for those with a more profound hearing loss.
On another note, this hearing aid isn't suitable for everybody's ear shape. Therefore, please contact us as we would need to check your ear canal shape.
#3 Best hearing aids features at a glance
Styles available: Instant fit CIC hearing aid.
Bluetooth connectivity: No.
Rechargeable options: Yes.
Smartphone compatibility: Android and iPhone.
Technology levels: 7, 5 and 3.
In the Ear
Fitting Styles: CIC
5 Year Warranty Included. These are rechargeable and price includes charging station.
Signia IX Full Range
The Best Hearing Aids of 2024 Runner Up
Widex Moment Sheer 440 hearing aids
Nobody wants style over substance, but style over features that you don't need? That seems like a fair trade. The Widex Moment Sheer is a great hearing aid that replaces the popular mRIC R D or Fusion2 model of the original Moment range.
The only current form factor, the sRIC R D model, has all of the new features that trump the Moment 440 "Fusion2" model. Such as better Bluetooth and rechargeability, a more advanced machine learning process, and a new SoundRelax feature.
However, the Moment Sheer is only available in one rechargeable RIC style for now, so if you don't need the extras then the much smaller "Passion" or "RIC 10" shape from the original Widex Moment range is a good pick.
The top performance level offers the full set of sound processing features from the range such as speech enhancement and noise reduction. Providing 15 bands to adjust and personalise your listening experience.
Why buy the Widex Moment Sheer 440?
- Smallest RIC and most realistic hearing experience on the market and probably the most attractive RIC on the market.
- Can stream audio directly to iPhone.
- Handy single-button program switching.
- If you enjoy spending time in groups or travel regularly, then we think this product will be worth considering.
Why is Moment Sheer one of our best hearing aids? The Widex Moment was a really good tinnitus hearing aid, now with the new SoundRelax technology, Sheer is even better.
In fact, it's arguably the best hearing aid for tinnitus. This feature uses fractal musical tones to manage tinnitus, which is good because they are played at random and, therefore, there is no pattern for your brain to habituate.
The Moment Sheer also uses the amplification of natural sounds of nature to relieve the symptoms of tinnitus. Even if you don't have tinnitus, you'll find this feature will give you focus and a sense of relaxation that will reduce any forms of listening fatigue.
Why not buy the Widex Moment Sheer 440?
Don't buy this hearing aid because Widex has claimed it "doesn't sound like a hearing aid" and is not 'tinny' or artificial like other hearing aids. The ‘tinny’ sound Widex is referring to is a generalisation. In reality, people can rarely detect digital echo in aids.
Most of our customers who have worn Moment aids can’t detect the difference in speed from their previous devices. However, they have enjoyed the natural sound quality - so they must be doing something right! If you are looking for the smartest hearing aid tech or longest-lasting battery out there, then you might consider other alternatives.
The RIC 10 hearing aid model uses disposable size 10 batteries, but this model doesn’t include Bluetooth. If this is important to you, opt for the RIC 312 - which also uses disposable batteries but does come with Bluetooth.
#4 Best hearing aids features at a glance
Styles available: Receiver in Canal (RIC).
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes.
Rechargeable options: Yes.
Smartphone compatibility: Android and iPhone.
Technology levels: 440, 330, 220 and 110.
Behind the Ear
Fitting Styles: RIC
5 Year Warranty Included. These are rechargeable aids so the charger is included in the price.
Moment Sheer Full Range
The Best Hearing Aids of 2024 Runner Up
Phonak Audeo Lumity L90 hearing aids
Why is Lumity one of our best hearing aids? Phonak Paradise has been a popular aid since it launched back in August 2020.
This new model, the Phonak Audeo Lumity hearing aids continues to improve on the previous missing features of the original Marvel (first seen in Paradise), benefits from a lot of the same features as the Paradise, and adds some new advantageous features too.
Like Paradise, the Lumity also includes a convenient tap control feature to answer/end calls, start/stop streaming, and tap into other digital devices and assistants like Siri.
Any improvements since Paradise?
- Comparing the StereoZoom 2.0 upgrade to the original, it is better at reacting to your listening environment, which ultimately gives you greater environmental awareness and clarity of the person who is talking in front of you.
- This hearing aid includes Phonak's new AutoSense OS 5.0 Technology. This means that these modern hearing aids can adjust automatically to your environment. For instance, if you're in a restaurant and it suddenly becomes busier - Lumity will detect the increase in background noise and adjust to reflect that. Limiting audible background noise and improving your quality of hearing.
In comparison to the Paradise hearing aids, this upgraded AutoSense now scans the listening environment 700 times per second. It then selects from 200 various settings to personsalise the sound you hear depending on your environment. In a nutshell, Lumity offers improved speech understanding and how it handles background noise.
Why buy the Phonak Audeo Lumity L90?
- From a Bluetooth connectivity perspective, it works very well at receiving and now you can pair up to eight devices and have two active at the same time. Answer and reject calls with a simple tap of your ear!
- The Phonak Audeo Lumity is compatible with Phonak's Roger Bluetooth accessories. Roger is a system of accessories mainly aimed at those with severe losses.
Why not buy?
The sound quality experienced by people on the other end of the phone is less successful than we have found with people using an external clip-on mic type device, or just speaking into the phone as they would do normally.
The wax filters can also be a little challenging to change, so bear this in mind if dexterity is an issue.
Phonak Audeo Lumity highlights
- Improvements in background noise-handling.
- Includes new AutoSense 5.0, StereoZoom 2.0, and SpeechSensor.
- Options include telecoil compatibility and waterproof variants.
- Enhanced background noise management for clearer hearing.
#5 Best hearing aids features at a glance
Styles available: Receiver in Canal (RIC) and Behind the Ear (BTE).
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes.
Rechargeable options: Yes.
Smartphone compatibility: Android and iPhone.
Technology levels: L90, L70, L50 and L30.
Behind the Ear
Fitting Styles: RIC, BTE
5 Year Warranty Included. Rechargeable an additional £50 per aid.
Phonak Audeo Lumity Full RangeWhat's included in our hearing aid prices?
Compare the best hearing aids for the money
The best hearing aids reviews UK
You may be wondering how to find the best rated hearing aids for you or which hearing aids are the most beneficial for you and your hearing loss - either way, it can become an overwhelming experience for some.
When you compare hearing aids online, it can all get rather confusing, especially when some hearing aid providers aren't transparent with their pricing. That being said, hearing aid comparisons are a great place to start.
If you are on the hunt for a hearing aid, finding the right hearing aid type and style depends on your level of hearing loss, lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and other priorities.
However, investing in hearing aid devices doesn't necessarily mean you have to purchase the best hearing aids you can buy.
What about hearing aids in the UK and where to buy the best hearing aids locally
Where you purchase your hearing aids is important too. For instance, whether you opt for private hearing healthcare and hearing aids or choose to go with the NHS is entirely down to personal choice.
However, seeing a private audiologist will give you access to a wider range of hearing aid brands, types, and styles as well as a more personalised hearing experience.
If you decide to go with the NHS or buy Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids online - you will find yourself with limitations in device, type, style, connectivity, and customisation.
This is why researching hearing aid companies, brands, and prices is a valuable first step.
Private hearing healthcare offers the latest hearing aid technology and advanced hearing aids
What are the best hearing aids locally? When researching hearing aids shops near you and where you'll get the best hearing aids to buy, the best service, and the best aftercare - you only have to look at the Which? Report.
This report states, year after year, that independent companies, like us, come out on top for hearing aid providers in the UK and the best place to get your devices from.
Hearing aid suppliers and independent audiologists like Hearing Aid UK can advise on the best hearing aid for your hearing loss from the best hearing aid brands in the industry. We can also provide the best digital hearing aid accessories from all of the brands if needed.
However, unlike most other hearing aid companies, our range is not limited. This is because we are not owned or affiliated with any of the manufacturers, so we are able to offer the full range of hearing aids without prejudice.
What are the best hearing aid styles for me?
How to get started finding the right style for you
Do you already wear hearing aids?
If you are already wearing hearing aids and looking to upgrade them, most of our customers start with a similar style to what they are used to and have already. This means you are more aware of the device and you can adjust quickly but now benefit from the new and more modern features.
You must always have your hearing tested again before upgrading your hearing aids, as over time your hearing can change and you may have different priorities and hearing needs.
However, priority should always be the best product for better hearing and if you have had your hearing aids for around 3-4 years - there will almost definitely be advanced hearing technology that will serve your hearing loss better.
What are your hearing needs and cosmetic preferences?
It is best to understand your specific hearing requirements. Do you struggle with conversations in noisy environments, or do you need help primarily in quiet settings? Different hearing aids excel in different situations.
Consult with an audiologist or hearing healthcare professional for a thorough hearing evaluation. This test will reveal the extent and type of your hearing loss, which is crucial in choosing the best hearing aid.
Some people prioritise discreetness, while others may not mind a more noticeable device. Modern hearing aids come in various styles, including Behind-the-Ear (BTE), In-the-Ear (ITE), and Invisible-in-Canal (IIC), among others.
Do you have dexterity concerns?
If you have dexterity problems, smaller hearing aids might be a challenge for you. Low-profile In the Ear hearing aids or Behind the Ear (BTE) options might be easier to handle. The batteries are also bigger, so these will be easier to change too.
You might even want to consider rechargeable hearing aids - which require no battery changes at all. Hearing aids with automation might be beneficial as there are no tiny buttons you have to press on the device to adjust such settings as volume.
Do you lead an active lifestyle?
If your activities are limited, you are homebound, or require care support - Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aids might be more practical. This is because they can include earmolds that are easier to fit comfortably in the ear and can easily be managed by a care support worker. In such lifestyle situations, you might want to consider assistive listening devices for some extra amplification for TV programs or door bells.
On the other hand, if you lead an active lifestyle - there are now plenty of 'healthable' hearing aids on the market providing additional features, such as fitness tracking or heart monitoring designed to enhance and keep up with your lifestyle.
What is your hearing loss level?
For your hearing aids to be successful - the actual fit and acoustic compatibility, done at your programming and fitting appointment, is the most important. This is often called the best first-fit experience by audiologists.
In short, your actual fit is how the hearing aid fits in your ear which can ultimately affect the way you hear and whether you are comfortable wearing it or not. The acoustic fit is how your device settings are catered for your individual hearing needs by your audiologist.
For example, if you have low-frequency hearing loss, a comfortable and snug fit of a Completely in the Canal or In the Canal hearing aid style would help process sound while remaining discreet. The occlusion will also help stop unwanted background noise.
What is your budget?
There are also hearing aid technology levels to consider. These are generally basic, standard, and premium - and like with all technology the more sophisticated the technology the more you will pay for your devices.
A good audiologist will show you the latest hearing aids that are available, talk through the hearing aid's new features of the industry, and discuss the features versus benefits with you with your hearing loss level in mind.
An audiologist will also advise on the best technology level for your hearing loss, as you shouldn't have to pay for more than you need and for features you won't use. Hearing aids vary in cost, and insurance coverage may be a factor. Discuss your budget with your audiologist to explore options within your price range.
Best Hearing Aids of 2024
Other information about the best hearing aid devices you might find useful
What would you like to know more about?
Below are some quick links to information that can answer a few common questions we often get from patients. Such as the disadvantages of buying a hearing aid online, what is a hearing aid, what are the most powerful hearing aids, what are the most discreet hearing aids, or which type of hearing aid is the least expensive.
The best private hearing aids and healthcare for 2024
Researching the best hearing aids for 2024 and need more support? This report replaces our last review, "best hearing aids 2023". We endeavour to edit this content accordingly as and when there are more advanced models available.
If you are researching the best place for hearing aids or the best hearing aids in the UK and want impartial, independent advice then you’ve come to the right place.
To compare our prices and services or for other hearing healthcare support - call us free on 0800 567 7621 to speak with one of our audiologists.
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Discover the best digital hearing aids in 2024
Common FAQs about the best hearing aids for 2024
If you have dexterity problems, smaller hearing aids might be a challenge for you. Low-profile In the Ear hearing aids or Behind the Ear options might be easier to handle and the batteries are bigger, so these will be easier to change too.
What is the best hearing aid style for low-frequency hearing loss?
If you have low-frequency hearing loss, a comfortable and snug fit of a Completely in the Canal or In the Canal hearing aid style would help process sound while remaining discreet. The occlusion will also help stop unwanted background noise.
What hearing aid technology level is best for me?
There are basic, standard and premium technology levels - and like with all technology the more sophisticated the technology the more you will pay for your devices. Your audiologist will advise on the best level for your hearing loss. You shouldn't have to pay for more than you need and for features you won't use.
Are expensive hearing aids worth the money?
Expensive hearing aids may not, in reality, meet your needs or expectations. Just because a hearing aid is more expensive does not necessarily mean that you will be more satisfied or that it is a better hearing aid. Your audiologist will go through all the hearing aids that are a good fit for your level of loss, lifestyle and preferences.
What are the best hearing aid companies?
The main eight hearing aid manufacturers that have a strong and reliable reputation for producing quality hearing aids are: Bernafon, Unitron, Phonak, Resound, Oticon, Signia, Widex and Starkey.
What are the easiest hearing aids to use?
The easiest hearing aid to use all depends on what level of hearing loss you have, your communication needs, dexterity, lifestyle, personal preferences and more.
By talking with your audiologist about such specifics and hearing health history, you can both determine the right hearing solution for you.
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Latest Launch
When we refer to a product as 'Latest Launch', we mean it is the latest to be released on the market.
New
When we refer to a product as 'New', we mean that the product is the newest hearing aid model on the market.
When we refer to a product as 'Superseded', we mean that there is a newer range available which replaces and improves on this product.
Older Model
When we refer to a product as an 'Older Model', we mean that it is has been superseded by at least two more recent hearing aid ranges.