Behind the Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Are BTE solutions right for you?
Hearing Aid UK 21/01/2026 Update
What are Behind the Ear hearing aids?
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are a style of hearing aid that rests behind the ear and linked to a component in the ear canal through a tube using an earmould or a dome, through a slender tube.
They are the most popular hearing aid types due to their power and being suitable for a wide range of hearing loss.
Behind-the-Ear hearing aids are far from the big brown banana of the past, and, yes, there are now small models available today. Due to this, BTE hearing aids have grown in popularity. What are they, what are the benefits, and what are the disadvantages? Let's find out...
Common BTE Features
Seamless Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility
They can easily connect to smart devices, boosting accessibility and convenience. Behind-the-ear hearing aids are suitable for addressing a wide range of hearing loss levels.
Adjustable for different ear sizes
They comfortably fit ears of various sizes and ear canals.
Advanced Features
Their larger size mean they can include high-tech features, which improve hearing aid performance.
User-friendly
Behind-the-Ear hearing aids have easy to use controls, such as telecoil, volume, and program settings.
Upgraded battery power
With larger batteries, they provide extended usage on a single charge.
Behind the Ear Hearing Aid's Pros and Cons
What are the advantages of BTE hearing aids?
Behind the Ear hearing aid benefits
Are Behind-the-Ear hearing aids better? Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are among the more conspicuous types; however, many designs can be much smaller than you think, and their larger size allows for the incorporation of more technological features and often better battery life.
This hearing aid style also offers Bluetooth connectivity and can easily connect to smart devices wirelessly, which is essential for better supporting your hearing needs.
Powerful amplification and advanced technologies
Because Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aids are slightly larger than some other hearing aid types and have a separate casing, they can deliver higher power and more advanced features than smaller hearing aids.
They can accommodate larger batteries and support higher levels of amplification, providing the power needed to include some really advanced technology.
Super power options
The above means that Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are suitable not only for those with more severe hearing loss but also for those who want their hearing aids to perform really well. View BTE hearing aids for severe hearing loss here
There’s a BTE for everyone
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are among the most versatile hearing aid types due to their outside-the-ear design. This means they can provide enough power to support even quite severe hearing loss and include enough technology to meet the requirements of even the most active and dynamic lifestyles.
Whatever your lifestyle or hearing loss type, there is likely to be a Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aid to suit you.
Great battery life
Due to the Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aid’s design with the casing that houses the battery sitting externally behind the ear, it means that if necessary, they can hold the larger size 3 batteries.
Rechargeable hearing aid choices
The above means that Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids can offer some of the best battery life of all hearing aid types. BTE hearing aids are available in both disposable and rechargeable battery models.
Simple to use
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids can be controlled either via a series of buttons or switches on the casing itself, or via a variety of external controllers, such as smartphone apps or dedicated remote controls.
This variety of the design means that there is likely to be a Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aid to suit almost everybody.
There are affordable options available
Due to their classic design and slightly larger size, Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aids can often be some of the easiest to manufacture and so can be one of the most affordable varieties of hearing aids – obviously, this depends on the exact model that you choose.
However, if you choose to buy your hearing aid from us, then you will only pay one price regardless of the design of the hearing aid that you choose.
Easier to clean and are comfortable
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are slightly larger and sit largely outside the ear, which means they are much easier to clean (and change the batteries) than some of the much smaller types of hearing aids. Most users find the BTE hearing aid style more comfortable because it doesn’t sit far inside the ear canal.
Offer fewer feedback issues
The microphone and receiver are farther apart than in ITE hearing aids, which ultimately reduces the risk of feedback. There are also open-fit BTE hearing aids available, which means the thin tube sits in the ear canal, providing better air ventilation.
Cons of Behind the Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
What are the disadvantages of Behind the Ear hearing aids?
Reduced sound quality
When you compare this style to that of the ITE or ITC hearing aids, BTEs sometimes do not have the capacity to deliver high sound levels.
Wind noise
BTE hearing aid devices are more likely to experience wind noise in open spaces.
Less discreet
If discreet options are important to you, the BTE style might not be right. They sit directly outside the ear; therefore, they are more likely to be noticed by others. That being said, modern BTE hearing aids are much smaller than those of the past.
RIC vs BTE Hearing Aids
RIC and BTE hearing aids offer different benefits. RIC hearing aids feature a tiny device behind the ear, connected to the ear canal by a discreet wire and receiver.
They offer a more natural sound perception caused by their placement closer to the eardrum. RICs are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and are less visible than BTEs.
BTE hearing aids are larger and have a tube or earmould sending sound into the ear canal.
BTEs are versatile and are ideal for a wide range of hearing loss levels, from mild to severe.
They are also generally easier to handle, making them suitable for users with dexterity problems.
Summary
BTE hearing aids are powerful devices and cater to varying degrees of hearing loss.
With their strong amplification capabilities, durability, versatile features, connectivity, and comfortable design, they have become a popular choice for users and hearing care experts alike.
By addressing the specific needs of people with mild to severe hearing loss, together with your audiologist, you can regain your ability to communicate effectively and participate fully in daily life.
Need more support?
Book your free hearing test now and discover what Behind-the-Ear hearing aids we offer.
With local audiologists across the UK, free aftercare for life, and expert assistance at every stage of the way, there’s never been a better time to hear more of what matters.
Join over 700 happy customers – rated excellent on Reviews.io!
Discover Other Hearing Aid Styles Below
Watch the Signia Behind the Ear hearing aid video below
Our specialist service includes:
Do not spend hundreds of pounds without getting a second opinion from us.
Please call us on 0800 567 7621
Not only are the prices great, but the service is fantastic! Many thanks to your team.
What's included in our hearing aid prices?
Other pages you might find useful
Common FAQs about Behind the Ear (BTE) hearing aids
Behind-the-ear hearing aids, similar to other hearing aid types, consist of three essential components: a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker. These devices capture incoming sounds through the microphone, where they are subsequently transformed into electrical signals. The amplifier then boosts the strength of these signals, directing them into the ear via the hearing aid's speaker.
Click here to find out how other hearing aid styles, including how BTE hearing aids work.
What is the average cost of Behind the Ear hearing aids?
How much do BTE hearing aids cost? The price of BTE hearing aids is influenced by individual preferences and financial considerations, making it a variable factor unique to each person. Hence, it is important to consult with one of our hearing care professionals to identify the ideal hearing aid tailored to your needs.
It's worth noting that our hearing aid costs encompass more than just the device's price; they also encompass valuable benefits like lifetime aftercare at no additional charge. One of the main reasons why our customers buy BTE hearing aids from us is that we offer home visits and prices that are up to 40% off the high street.
Click here to compare and discover hearing aid prices in the UK.
What affordable Behind the Ear hearing aids are available?
There are plenty of BTE hearing aid options available for all different kinds of budgets. Click here to read more about affordable hearing aids in the UK.
What are the types of BTE hearing aids? What is the smallest BTE hearing aid?
The miniRITE is the most inconspicuous behind-the-ear hearing aid, positioned discreetly behind the ear and linked by a slim wire instead of a tube. These devices are incredibly compact, making them virtually imperceptible, and are available in a diverse array of colours to suit personal preferences.
The mini BTE hearing aids are compact and inconspicuous hearing devices that rest discreetly behind the ear. They are designed for enhanced comfort and aesthetics, offering a smaller and more streamlined profile compared to traditional BTE models. Despite its reduced size, the mini BTE retains powerful sound amplification capabilities and is available in various styles and colours to cater to individual preferences.
Can you wear Behind-the-Ear hearing aids with glasses?
Indeed, you can comfortably wear your BTE hearing aids and glasses together. To ensure a comfortable fit, simply put on your glasses first and then position your hearing aids around the temples of your glasses. If needed, consider reaching out to your optometrist to have your glasses and hearing aids adjusted for optimal comfort and wearability.
How to insert BTE hearing aids
Indeed, you can comfortably wear your behind-the-ear hearing aids alongside your glasses. To ensure a comfortable fit, simply put on your glasses first and then position your hearing aids around the temples of your glasses. If needed, consider reaching out to your optometrist to have your glasses and hearing aids adjusted for optimal comfort and wearability.
What is the difference between ITE and BTE hearing aids
Here's a comparison of the key differences between ITE and BTE hearing aids:
1. Placement:
ITE: They are typically more discreet and less visible.
BTE: They are more visible but offer advantages in terms of power and versatility.
2. Size and Visibility:
ITE: ITE hearing aids are smaller and fit discreetly inside the ear, making them less noticeable.
BTE: BTE hearing aids are larger and more visible because they sit behind the ear.
3. Hearing Loss Severity:
ITE: ITE hearing aids are suitable for a wide range of hearing loss levels, from mild to moderately severe.
BTE: BTE hearing aids can accommodate a broader spectrum of hearing loss, due to their larger size and more powerful amplification capabilities.
4. Customisation:
ITE: ITE hearing aids are custom-molded to fit the individual's ear, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit.
BTE: BTE hearing aids use standard earmolds or earpieces, which can be customised.
5. Features and Battery Life:
ITE: Smaller ITE hearing aids may have limited space for features and smaller batteries, which can result in shorter battery life.
BTE: BTE hearing aids can accommodate more advanced features, including directional microphones, Bluetooth connectivity, and larger batteries, which often provide longer battery life.
6. Feedback and Occlusion:
ITE: ITE hearing aids may be prone to feedback (whistling) and may cause a sense of occlusion (feeling "plugged up" in the ear) due to their placement in the ear canal.
BTE: BTE hearing aids are less likely to cause feedback and occlusion because the sound is directed from behind the ear.
8. Durability:
ITE: ITE hearing aids may be more susceptible to damage from moisture, wax, and ear canal shape changes.
BTE: BTE hearing aids are often more robust and durable, making them suitable for active lifestyles.
Are Behind the Ear hearing aids waterproof?
While most hearing aids, including Behind-the-Ear (BTE) models, aren’t fully waterproof, many now offer varying degrees of water resistance thanks to advanced nano-coating and sealing technologies. This means they can handle moisture, sweat, and rain, but long-term submersion is generally not advised unless the model is specifically designed for it.
For those needing hearing aids for activities like swimming, look for models specifically rated as "waterproof" or highly water-resistant, such as those with an IP68 rating.
Are Behind the Ear hearing aids uncomfortable?
Many users find Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids comfortable, as the main part rests behind the ear, with only a small dome or tube in the ear canal. This design reduces the feeling of a "blocked" ear.
BTE hearing aids are easy to handle, making them ideal for those with dexterity issues or arthritis. They’re also a good fit for people who wear glasses, as they sit comfortably behind the ear without interfering with the frames. These aids are also better for those with severe hearing loss, offering larger batteries and more power while remaining comfortable.
While more visible than In-the-Ear models, BTE hearing aids are a practical and comfortable choice for many users.
Behind the Ear hearing aid battery size
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aid styles historically use size 13 and 312 batteries. Whereas, In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids usually use size 312 or 10 batteries. To make it easier, each size has an industry-standard colour code. You can learn more about hearing aid batteries here
Behind the Ear hearing aid brands
All hearing aid brands offer BTE hearing aids. Here are a few examples of our customers' popular choices below:
►Phonak Behind the Ear hearing aids
Ask the Experts
Get free independent impartial advice from the experts you can trust. We offer nationwide coverage and huge savings on all our hearing aids.
6 Morton Lane
Walkwood
Redditch
Worcestershire
B97 5QA
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.