Hearing Aid Styles

BTE: Behind the Ear
The electrical components of the instrument (microphone, amplifier, receiver) are housed in a compact case that tucks behind the ear. Sound is delivered to the ear canal through a clear tube over the top of the ear and into a custom-made acrylic/silicone earmold.

• Available in a variety of colors to blend with skin or hair
• Provides the best performance for severe hearing losses
• Extremely sturdy and reliable; also highly recommended for children
• Typically uses a larger battery (size 675 or 13) for longer battery life and easier manipulation
• Larger controls that are easier for some people to adjust

ITE: In the Ear
Electrical components of this instrument (microphone, amplifier, receiver) fit into a shell custom made to fit inside the ear. An ITE device may be more visible in the ear, though there are several types of ITE hearing aids, such as a Completely in the Canal (CIC), and In the Canal (ITC).

• More space for venting to reduce the occasional sensation of occlusion so your own voice will sound better
• Somewhat larger and can be easier to handle.
• Powered by larger batteries that last longer
• Able to accommodate accessories and special programming

ITC: In the Canal
The canal style provides a very cosmetic solution that can be hidden in most ears.

• Uses a slightly larger battery than the CIC for battery economy
• Optional telecoil switch

CIC: Completely in the Canal
The completely-in-canal hearing aid is a small hearing aid that fits entirely within your ear canal. These digital hearing aids are popular because it is the one of the smallest styles available.

• Excellent cosmetics almost invisible in the ear
• Comfortable and convenient telephone usage
• Takes advantage of the ear's own natural sound-collecting design
• Less wind noise

RIC: Receiver in Canal
RIC (receiver-in-canal) hearing aids have thin tubing that makes it very cosmetically appealing. The receiver is housed within a small tip that goes in to your ear and the computer sits behind the ear.

• Great comfort
• Excellent cosmetics
• Some models are water resistant