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About 28.8 million adults in the U.S. could benefit from using hearing aids, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. But for adults 70 and older with hearing loss, fewer than one in three (30%) have ever used them, and even fewer adults in the 20–69 year age group have. One of the top reasons researchers cite for adults with hearing loss not wearing hearing aids is stigma and “looking old.” While many adults choose not to wear hearing aids out of embarrassment, companies like Eargo are creating nearly invisible hearing aids to help make it easier for those who are hesitant to wear them. Invisible Hearing Aids

Eargo offers four rechargeable, completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids designed for mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss. In this review, we break down the pros and cons of each device, discuss the customer service and payment options and explain Eargo’s online hearing test and mobile apps. We hope this will help you to determine whether Eargo hearing aids are right for you in your search for the best hearing aids.

Our experts independently research and recommend products we believe provide value in the lives of our readers. We’ve spent collectively more than 5,100 hours conducting in-depth research on hearing aids. Throughout this process, we did the following:

The Health Media product reviews team performs a deep dive into any product we research and recommend, including the ever-growing hearing aids market. We only recommend hearing devices we believe will make a difference for our readers.

Collectively, we’ve researched well-known brands through the experiences of real customers via trusted third parties such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot and through two surveys we deployed to better understand the needs of hearing aid users and the challenges they have with their devices. We’ve also consulted with independent audiologists and geriatric care experts to acquire deep knowledge of the space.

When analyzing and testing individual brands, we look at the types of hearing loss they can help treat, from mild to severe, the special features that they include, like Bluetooth connectivity and digital noise reduction, and the user experience — for example, how easy they are to clean and if remote adjustments are available. Price is also an essential factor to consider, and we always try to recommend a range for all budgets. Once we completed our research and testing, we scored each brand on a weighted scale of 1–5.

After our expert writers have made their selections, an audiologist medically reviews our picks to vet each company as a whole, find the best device to feature and ensure every hearing aid we recommend is appropriate for the users we identify.

Our Health Media reviews team chose to review Eargo because in our hands-on testing, Eargo earned 3.72 out of 5 stars, and it won “Best Invisible OTC Hearing Aids” in our best hearing aids review.

In the testing, we also concluded that Eargo has good customer service for the life of your Eargo hearing aids, a lower cost compared to many over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids and unique silicone tips that resemble petals, palm trees or fishing flies that help ensure a comfortable fit.

In our proprietary survey of 600 hearing aid users, 12% of respondents had purchased hearing aids from Eargo. More than 63% of those Eargo users were either extremely or moderately satisfied with the comfort and fit of Eargo, with only 3% saying they were extremely dissatisfied.

The Eargo Max is the entry-level and least expensive hearing aid Eargo offers. With financing as low as $67 per month and four listening settings, it is an affordable basic hearing aid.

The Eargo Max has Flexi Fibers, which are soft silicone fibers that go into the ear canal and hold the hearing aid in place while allowing air to circulate. This helps the hearing aid fit more snugly and comfortably. The Max comes with one pair each of regular tips, large tips and large dome tips. If you want to purchase additional tips, it costs $25 for a tray of three pairs.

The Max has speech amplification with background noise reduction and four preset listening options: normal, TV, restaurant and phone. With a double tap of your finger on the hearing aid, you can switch between these settings to find the one that works best for your situation, and the device will remember your selection. This simple feature makes it easy to adjust your hearing aids discreetly and quickly. A downside to the Eargo Max is that it isn’t compatible with the Eargo mobile app, unlike all of the other models the company offers.

If you want a simple, inexpensive hearing aid model, the Eargo Max might be for you. If you prefer one that connects to an app for hearing adjustments, you might consider one of the other Eargo models.

With its improved sound quality, the Eargo Neo HiFi is a step up from the Eargo Max. This upgraded hearing aid has added wind noise reduction to the standard noise reduction found in the Eargo Max, making for a better listening experience when you’re outdoors.

The Neo HiFi is designed with Flexi TetraPalms, which are similar to the Flexi Fibers but provide a better fit and improved listening experience. Similar to the Eargo Max, if you want to purchase additional tips, it’ll cost $25 for a tray of three pairs.

A plus for the Neo HiFi is that it connects to the Eargo Neo HiFi app, allowing you or an Eargo hearing professional to make adjustments to your hearing aids. A downside is that this model doesn’t have Sound Adjust or Sounds Match technology, which help you customize your hearing aid profile, and which only come in the more advanced Eargo 5 and Eargo 6 models.

If you’re looking for a completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aid that can connect to an app and has some advanced features, the Eargo Neo HiFi might be a good choice. If you want a hearing aid that automatically adjusts to whatever environment you’re in, the Eargo 5 or Eargo 6 could be a better selection.

The completely-in-canal, nearly invisible Eargo 5 hearing aids are smaller but more expensive than the Eargo Max and Eargo Neo HiFi — $1,000 and $500 more, respectively. The Eargo 5 has Sound Match technology that allows you to conduct an 8-10 minute at-home screening through your phone, allowing you to personalize your hearing aids to your specific sound environment and listening preferences.

The Eargo 5 also comes with different silicone tips: Closed petal tips for users with low and high-frequency hearing loss and open petal tips for users with near-normal low frequency hearing. This gives you the ability to personalize your hearing aids to what feels comfortable and suits your hearing needs. You can also test out whether you’ll be comfortable wearing Eargo 5 by requesting a nonfunctional pair to try on at home before purchasing.

Similar to all of the other devices listed here, the Eargo 5 has four preprogrammed listening settings: normal, TV, restaurant and phone. It is also rechargeable and comes with a one-year warranty, like the Eargo Max and Neo HiFi.

If you’re looking for a hearing aid with similar technology but a longer warranty, you might consider the Eargo 6. But if you don’t want the price tag of a more expensive hearing aid, the Eargo 5 could be your best selection.

The Eargo 6 is the company’s most advanced and expensive model. It’s the only water-resistant device the company offers, with an IPX7 rating, meaning it can be submerged for up to 30 minutes in less than one meter of water without damage. In other words, The Eargo 6 can be worn in the shower, bath and for swimming that does not include long periods of time under water (such as underwater diving or floating on your back).

Like the Eargo 5, the Eargo 6 has Sound Match and Sound Adjust technology. The Sound Adjust feature automatically changes the listening environment of the hearing aids, whether you’re in a noisy restaurant or a quiet library. This convenient feature saves you the time of having to tap through hearing settings until you find the right one.

Similar to the Eargo Neo HiFi and Eargo 5, the Eargo 6 connects to the mobile app, where you can adjust your hearing aids, get assistance from a hearing aid specialist or take an at-home screening, creating a more personalized hearing experience.

If you don’t want the hassle of manually changing your hearing settings and prefer advanced technology to automatically do this for you, the Eargo 6 might be the right hearing aid for you. If you’re looking for a simple hearing aid or one that doesn’t connect to an app, you might be more comfortable with another device, such as the Eargo Max.

You can contact Eargo customer service by phone at 855-205-5599, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CT, and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT.

The website also has an FAQ section and a watch and learn video library to help with your devices and with using the Eargo mobile app.

You can purchase a pair of Eargo hearing aids with PayPal or any major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover). On the payment screen, you’ll have the option to split your payment between two cards. The company also offers financing through a third-party lender called Bread.

Eargo offers a free online hearing screening to give you general information about your hearing. An important thing to note is that it cannot diagnose the cause of your hearing loss, it can only tell you what your current level of hearing is and whether you might be a candidate for hearing aids.

To take the test, you’ll be prompted with a few setup questions and tips, such as the type of earbuds or headphones you’ll be using, the best location to take the test — Eargo suggests a quiet area or room for best results — and making sure that your left and right earbuds are in the correct ears, since each ear is tested individually.

Then, you’ll test the level of sound each ear is able to pick up by clicking the “I hear that” button when you hear a tone (see Figure 1 below).

Figure 1 A Member of Our Reviews Team Taking the Eargo Online Hearing Screening

After testing both ears, the screening program will ask you additional questions, such as your birth year, whether you find it challenging to understand someone who talks softly and whether your hearing prevents you from socializing as much as you would like.

Finally, you can choose to either listen to a hearing simulator of different listening environments (busy restaurants, outdoor noise or watching TV) to get an idea of how life would sound with improved hearing, or you can go straight to your results page. To see your results, you’ll need to enter your first and last name, email and phone number.

In our reviews team member’s experience, the test results were received in their inbox immediately after submitting their information, along with a link to schedule a free consultation with an Eargo hearing professional. A second email informed them that one of Eargo’s “personal hearing guides” would be following up by phone, which took place about an hour later. The hearing guide was pleasant and didn’t use any sales tactics during the conversation.

When our reviews team asked Sarah Lundstrom, AuD,, to explain the pros and cons of an in-person versus online hearing test, she said that “other than the time and potential expense of getting to the office for an in-person hearing test, there are not many downsides. An in-person exam will check for hearing loss as well as other hearing health concerns. Then the professional can discuss the results with you and recommend potential treatments.”

On the other hand, if you need or prefer to take an online hearing test, Lundstrom said to “make sure you follow the instructions, including using headphones/earbuds and setting your computer volume as indicated in order to make [the test results] as accurate as possible.”

Brian Murray, a hearing instrument specialist, added that the benefit of an in-person test is the comprehensive treatment patients receive. “In-person testing uses regularly calibrated equipment to provide a much more thorough assessment, including speech discrimination, bone conduction and usually tympanometry, which is crucial to determining if a patient needs a medical referral and if they’re a hearing aid candidate.”

There is also the issue of proper fit, since a loose or improperly fitted hearing aid can cause physical discomfort as well as feedback or whistling noises in the user’s ear. “Real ear measurements are crucial to verifying that amplification is meeting prescriptive targets,” said Murray.

Eargo has two mobile apps: Eargo Neo HiFi and Eargo. The Neo HiFi app works with Eargo Neo HiFi hearing aids, and you can use it to change between the four listening settings, adjust bass and treble settings and create your own listening profile.

The Eargo app works with Eargo 5 and Eargo 6, but not Eargo Max. In addition to using the app to change between listening settings, you can also use it to access user guides, help videos, and tutorials, as well as schedule cleaning and replacement reminders. The app also gives you access to telecare so that you can speak to an Eargo hearing care specialist by phone, chat, email or video call.

Eargo is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), with an A- rating and 3.68 out of 5 stars, based on 136 customer reviews. And on TrustPilot, Eargo has an “excellent” rating with 4.5 out of 5 stars, based on 48 reviews.

“This is my second set of Eargos. I recently purchased Eargo 6 because of the better technology. I really enjoy the ability to change programs and alter existing programs if necessary because of changing environments. Service from the entire staff is always professional, friendly and fast. Easier than making an appointment and going to the audiologist’s office.”

— GORDON, VERIFIED CUSTOMER (REVIEW FROM TRUSTPILOT)

“Innovative design and high quality sound. Impossible to detect when in the ear. Very comfortable to wear. Only small problems related to the app not always being easy to use and that the microphone caps tend to fall off and disappear.”

— ROBERT, VERIFIED CUSTOMER (REVIEW FROM BBB.COM)

“I have two versions of Eargo’s hearing aids. I ordered the Eargo Neos a few years ago and they were great. I recently replaced them with the Eargo Six and they are even better. Great product, customer service and support.”

— RONALD, VERIFIED CUSTOMER (REVIEW FROM TRUSTPILOT)

When shopping for the best hearing aids, there are a few things you should consider before purchasing.

When considering the functionality of a hearing aid, you’ll want to take into account battery life and whether they are water resistant.

When considering the cost and value of a hearing aid, you’ll need to factor in the price, warranty and trial period.

From hearing aid styles like in-the-canal (ITC) and behind-the-ear (BTE) models to advanced technology like fall detection, language translation, frequency lowering and tinnitus therapy, different factors can drive up the cost of hearing aids.

Murray explained that traditional hearing aid manufacturers like Oticon, Signia and Widex have a significant edge when it comes to sound quality and performance due to features such as frequency response and the number of channels in their hearing aids. He also noted that traditional hearing aids are programmed specifically for a patient’s diagnosed hearing loss as well as feedback from the patient during the fitting. Depending on what you’re searching for in a hearing device, all of these factors can impact the cost.

Eargo is able to keep its costs lower because it is not providing in-person care. While the company doesn’t program its devices prior to delivery, the Eargo hearing care team is available to instruct hearing aid users on how to adjust their devices through the Eargo app.

One way to potentially save some money and time is by requesting a nonfunctioning pair to try on at home before making your decision. Here are a few more ways you can save money on hearing aids or find reduced cost or free hearing aids.

If you do go for an in-person exam, there is a chance that you can get a discount from the provider. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, speech and hearing centers may provide hearing aids at a reduced rate for clients who have used their services for audiological assessment. Call around to your local hearing centers to ask if they have any current specials or client discounts.

You can also check out national and state resources from the Hearing Aid Project, a charity organization that addresses the increased demand for hearing aids by providing hearing aids to low-income individuals.

If you are an active duty veteran, look into your veterans benefits. Depending on your individual insurance plan, Medicare Advantage plans may cover hearing aids, exams, and hearing services. Also, be sure to check with your individual private insurance to see if you’re eligible for any discounts.

Based on the October 2022 FDA’s over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids ruling, you can now purchase hearing aids without a medical exam, prescription or professional hearing. Those factors also increase the cost of hearing aids.

And finally, keep your eye out for sales at hearing aid companies. Many offer discounted prices during specific times throughout the year, like holidays, so it’s important to check back often.

Hearing amplifiers or personal sound amplification products, also known as PSAPs, are alternatives to hearing aids, but experts don’t recommend them. Lindsey Jorgensen, AuD, PhD, and associate professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of South Dakota, cautioned that PSAPs “are not personalized to a user’s hearing ability — they are meant for people with normal hearing who have difficulty in specific listening situations.”

The FDA states that hearing amplifiers are “intended for people with normal hearing to amplify sounds in certain situations, such as recreational activities like birdwatching or hunting.”

Jorgenson compared the way a hearing amplifier works to using the volume control on a TV; both increase sound equally, rather than filtering out background noises or increasing specific types of sound the way a personalized hearing aid would.

These devices are cheaper because they have less advanced technology and capabilities than standard hearing aids. PSAPs may be a good option for some people, if PSAPs are the only devices that fit in their budget, but they are not recommended for people with moderate to profound hearing loss and could potentially cause more damage to the ears. It’s important to take a hearing test before purchasing any type of assistive listening device. An audiologist or hearing aid professional can assist you in determining the best next steps based on your hearing loss.

Eargo offers four completely-in-canal hearing aids that are virtually invisible. Ranging from $1,450–$2,950, all Eargo hearing aids are rechargeable and have a 45-day risk-free trial. If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, these devices might be right for you.

From the low-tech Eargo Max with its four listening settings to the Eargo 6 with Sound Adjust technology and the ability to adjust via mobile app, you should be able to find an Eargo model with a technology level that suits your needs.

Eargo hearing aids last around three years. Due to the rechargeable design of these devices, you cannot change the batteries once they have lost their ability to hold a charge and will have to purchase a new pair of hearing aids.

Eargo devices are FDA-registered hearing aids; they are not hearing amplifiers. These devices are also not personal sound amplification products (PSAP), which are intended for use by people with normal hearing to amplify sounds in certain conditions, according to the FDA.

Depending on your individual plan, Eargo hearing aids might be covered by your insurance. For example, Medicare Advantage plans may cover hearing aids, exams and hearing services. Active duty veterans might also be eligible for hearing benefits. Something to note though is that “typically Medicare Advantage plans partner with third party vendors to offer a ‘discounted rate,’ which can restrict model choices and services,” said Brian Murray, a hearing instrument specialist based in North Carolina. Check your insurance coverage to see if you’re eligible and what types of hearing aids it may cover.

Yes, Eargo hearing aids are a good product according to our reviews team’s research and testing. These devices are rechargeable, are nearly invisible, and most of the devices connect to the Eargo app, where you can make hearing aid adjustments. When we tested durability, the Eargo 6 had no damage or visible scratches after being dropped 10 times.

Yes, three of the four Eargo hearing aids are Bluetooth compatible. The Eargo 5 and Eargo 6 connect with the Eargo app, and the Eargo Neo HiFi connects with the Neo HiFi app. These apps allow you to adjust your hearing aid settings and volume. The hearing aids do not have Bluetooth streaming, however, and cannot connect to devices such as TV or music players, and cannot be used to stream phone calls.

You can clean Eargo Neo HiFi hearing aids in four simple steps: Polish the stainless steel battery with a soft cloth. Next, brush around the microphone with the small cleaning brush that’s included with each device. Then, brush the speakers on the tips of the hearing aids. Finally, wash your brush bristles with warm water and mild soap. For the other models, such as the Eargo 5 and Eargo 6, check the company’s support articles, where the instructions are slightly different and include GIFs to help guide you.

National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, Quick Statistics About Hearing | NIDCD

University of Alberta, Why most people with hearing loss don’t use hearing aids

Cleveland Clinic, Unilateral Hearing Loss (Single-Sided Deafness)

Journal of Neurological Surgery (2019), Nonsurgical Management of Single-Sided Deafness: Contralateral Routing of Signal

International Electrotechnical Commission, IP ratings | IEC

Whitehouse.gov, FDA Takes Action to Deliver Lower-Cost, Innovative Hearing Aids to Millions More Americans

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Local Funding Agencies/Programs for Audiology Services and Hearing Aids

VA.gov, Medical Benefits Package – Health Benefits

Medicare.gov, Medicare Advantage Plans cover all Medicare services

Whitehouse.gov, FACT SHEET: Cheaper Hearing Aids Now in Stores Thanks to Biden-Harris Administration Competition Agenda | The White House

FDA.gov, Hearing Aids and Personal Sound Amplification Products: What to Know | FDA

Chrissy Holm is a writer and content editor with experience in health and wellness, weight loss, and hypertension. With her degree in Public Health Education and Promotion, she has designed promotional items, helped clients reach their health goals, and has written about sustainable agriculture and healthy food access for a local Minnesota nonprofit. Chrissy has written on older adult topics for online publications, such as Everyday Health, National Council on Aging, and Gizmodo. When she’s not juggling her many creative endeavors, such as podcasting, book coaching, and book writing, Chrissy loves to stay active, travel, and spend time with her family.

Brian Murray is a Hearing Instrument Specialist with a BS in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology. Located in Raleigh, NC, Brian has been working with hearing aids and the patients who depend on them for over 10 years.

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