Choosing a hearing aid is about more than finding a device that makes sounds louder. The right hearing aid should suit your hearing loss, lifestyle, comfort preferences and budget.
With different styles, features, brands and price points available, it can be difficult to know where to start. This guide explains what to consider when choosing a hearing aid in South Africa, including the main types, useful features, costs and potential medical aid benefits.
1. Start with a Hearing Test
Before choosing a hearing aid, arrange a hearing assessment with a qualified audiologist. A hearing test helps determine the type and degree of hearing loss and whether one or both ears need assistance.
Your results will help guide the choice of hearing aid, including the style, level of amplification and features you may need.
An audiologist can also check whether your hearing difficulties may have a treatable cause. Sudden hearing loss, in particular, requires urgent medical assessment rather than simply purchasing a hearing aid.
Tip: If you already wear hearing aids but still struggle to hear conversations, you may need an adjustment, a new hearing test or a different device rather than simply increasing the volume.
2. Understand the Different Types of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids come in several styles. The best option depends on your hearing needs, ear anatomy, dexterity, comfort and personal preferences.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC or RITE)
RIC hearing aids have a small unit behind the ear, connected by a thin wire to a receiver positioned inside the ear canal.
Best for: Many people with mild to severe hearing loss, depending on the model.
Advantages:
- Small and discreet
- Often comfortable and lightweight
- Available with rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth
- A wide range of models and features
Things to consider: The receiver and wire require care, and the device may not be suitable for every hearing profile.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aids sit behind the ear and deliver sound through tubing or a connection to an earmould.
Best for: People who need more amplification, including some with severe or profound hearing loss, depending on the device.
Advantages:
- Often easier to handle than very small hearing aids
- Can provide substantial amplification
- Available in a range of sizes and power levels
- May be suitable for people who find small in-ear devices difficult to manage
Things to consider: BTE models are generally more visible than some smaller styles.
In-the-Ear (ITE)
ITE hearing aids fit inside the outer part of the ear. They are custom-made to fit the wearer’s ear.
Best for: People who prefer an all-in-one device without a separate unit behind the ear.
Advantages:
- No external wire running into the ear
- Custom fit
- May be easier to insert and remove than smaller in-canal devices
Things to consider: The size and features available depend on the model and your ear anatomy.
In-the-Canal (ITC), Completely-in-Canal (CIC) and Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
These hearing aids fit partly or mostly inside the ear canal. ITC devices sit near the canal entrance, while CIC and IIC models fit deeper inside and can be less visible.
Best for: People who prioritise discretion and whose hearing needs and ear anatomy are suitable for these styles.
Advantages:
- Less visible than many behind-the-ear styles
- No separate unit behind the ear
- Custom-made for the wearer
Things to consider:
- Small devices can be harder to handle
- Small batteries, where used, may require more frequent replacement
- Some models offer fewer features than larger devices
- Earwax and moisture can affect performance
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for an in-canal hearing aid. An audiologist can help determine whether one is appropriate.
CROS and BiCROS Hearing Systems
CROS systems are designed for people who have little or no usable hearing in one ear but better hearing in the other. They transmit sound from the poorer-hearing side to the better-hearing ear.
BiCROS systems are used when the poorer-hearing ear has little or no usable hearing and the better-hearing ear also has hearing loss requiring amplification.
These systems can help make sounds from the poorer-hearing side more accessible, but they do not restore normal hearing or provide the same benefits as hearing with two functioning ears.
3. Choose Features That Suit Your Lifestyle
Modern hearing aids can offer a variety of features. However, more features do not automatically mean a better hearing aid for you. Focus on the ones that address your everyday challenges.
Background Noise Reduction
If you struggle to follow conversations in restaurants, shopping centres or busy environments, ask about directional microphones and noise-reduction features.
These technologies can improve listening comfort and help make speech easier to follow in some situations, although no hearing aid can eliminate all background noise.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids can connect to compatible smartphones and other devices. Depending on the model, you may be able to stream phone calls, music and other audio directly to your hearing aids.
Check compatibility with your phone before purchasing.
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable hearing aids can be convenient if you do not want to replace small disposable batteries. Check the expected battery life, charging time and whether the charger is included.
Smartphone Apps
Some hearing aids work with smartphone apps that let you adjust settings, change listening programmes or control volume. Certain models also allow remote adjustments by an audiologist.
Comfort and Fit
A hearing aid should fit comfortably and remain secure during normal activities. The physical fit, sound quality and ease of use are all important.
Ask about a trial period, where available, and clarify the return conditions before committing to a purchase.
Tinnitus Support
Some hearing aids offer features intended to help people manage tinnitus, commonly described as ringing or other sounds in the ears. These features are not available on every model, and their suitability depends on your circumstances.
If you experience persistent tinnitus, seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
4. Compare Hearing Aid Brands
Several hearing aid manufacturers offer different device styles, technology levels and price points. Availability and specific models can vary between South African suppliers.
Brands to research include:
- Phonak South Africa – offers hearing solutions across a range of hearing needs.
- Oticon South Africa – offers hearing aids with different technology levels and connectivity options.
- Signia – offers a range of hearing aids, including rechargeable and connected models.
- Widex South Africa – offers hearing aids with a range of sound-processing options.
- Bernafon South Africa – offers hearing aids across different styles and technology levels.
- Unitron – offers hearing aids and related hearing solutions; check with a local audiologist or authorised supplier for current South African availability.
When comparing brands, look beyond the name. Consider the specific model, the features included, the quality of the fitting service, warranty terms and the support available after purchase.
A well-fitted hearing aid that meets your needs may be a better choice than a more expensive model with features you will rarely use.
5. How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost in South Africa?
Hearing aid prices vary considerably depending on the brand, technology level, style and services included.
As a broad guide, entry-level hearing aids may start at around R10,000 per device, while premium models can cost R50,000 or more per device. These figures are indicative rather than confirmed current quotations; actual prices vary between suppliers and models.
Why do prices differ?
More expensive hearing aids may offer features such as:
- More advanced sound processing
- Improved options for managing challenging listening environments
- Bluetooth streaming and additional connectivity
- Rechargeable batteries
- More listening programmes or customisation options
However, a higher price does not guarantee a better outcome for every wearer.
Should you buy one hearing aid or a pair?
If hearing loss affects both ears, your audiologist may recommend two hearing aids. Using two appropriately fitted hearing aids can improve access to sound from both sides and may help with speech understanding and locating sounds.
Some suppliers quote prices per device, while others offer a price for a pair. A pair package may include fitting, programming, follow-up adjustments or other services.
Before comparing prices, ask the supplier to confirm:
- Whether the price is for one device or a pair
- Whether the hearing assessment is included
- Whether fitting and programming are included
- How many follow-up appointments or adjustments are included
- Whether servicing, repairs or accessories are included
- The warranty period and what it covers
- Whether a trial period is available and what the return conditions are
Comparing the complete package makes it easier to understand the true cost of ownership.
6. Does Medical Aid Cover Hearing Aids in South Africa?
Some South African medical aid schemes may provide benefits towards hearing aids, but the amount covered and the qualifying conditions depend on your specific scheme and plan.
Depending on the scheme’s rules, hearing aids may fall under a prosthetics or medical appliances benefit, another designated benefit, or a benefit funded through a medical savings account. An above-threshold benefit may be relevant on some plans where applicable, but this is not available or applicable to every member.
Do not assume that your plan will pay for the full cost, or that a benefit is automatically available.
Before purchasing, contact your medical aid and ask:
- Does my plan cover hearing aids?
- What benefit category applies?
- What is the available amount and how often can I claim?
- Is pre-authorisation required?
- Must I use a network audiologist or an approved supplier?
- Do I need a hearing test or prescription?
- Are both devices covered if I need a pair?
- What documentation must be submitted with the claim?
Ask the audiologist or supplier whether they can provide a quotation and the supporting documents required by your scheme.
Tip: Confirm your available benefit before committing to a purchase. This can help you budget for any shortfall and avoid unexpected expenses.
7. Prescription Hearing Aids vs Self-Fitting Devices
Traditional hearing aids are generally selected and fitted with the help of an audiologist. The professional assesses your hearing, recommends suitable devices and programmes them to your hearing needs.
Some hearing products are marketed as self-fitting or over-the-counter devices in certain countries. However, rules and availability differ by country, and the United States’ over-the-counter hearing aid category should not be assumed to apply in South Africa.
Personal sound amplification products are also not necessarily equivalent to hearing aids designed to treat hearing loss.
If you are unsure whether you need a hearing aid, start with a hearing assessment rather than relying on an online product description.
8. How to Choose the Right Hearing Aid: A Checklist
Before deciding, consider the following:
- Hearing assessment: Do I understand the type and degree of my hearing loss?
- Recommended style: Which device is suitable for my hearing needs and ear anatomy?
- Listening environments: Do I mainly struggle at home, at work, in groups or in noisy places?
- Connectivity: Do I want Bluetooth or smartphone control?
- Power: Would rechargeable batteries be more convenient?
- Comfort: Does the device fit securely and comfortably?
- Ease of use: Can I insert, remove, clean and operate it confidently?
- Budget: Can I afford the device and its ongoing maintenance?
- Medical aid: Have I confirmed my available benefit and any approval requirements?
- Aftercare: Are fitting, adjustments, servicing and warranty terms clear?
- Trial and returns: Can I try the hearing aids before making a final commitment, and what are the conditions?
The best hearing aid is the one that matches your hearing needs, fits comfortably, works for your lifestyle and comes with appropriate professional support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hearing aid to buy?
There is no single best hearing aid for everyone. The right choice depends on your hearing test results, lifestyle, preferred style, budget and the features you need. An audiologist can help you compare suitable options.
Are smaller hearing aids better?
Not necessarily. Smaller hearing aids can be more discreet, but they may be harder to handle and may have fewer features or shorter battery life. The best size is the one that balances comfort, usability and hearing performance for you.
Is it better to buy one hearing aid or two?
If both ears have hearing loss, an audiologist may recommend two hearing aids. Using a device in each ear can improve access to sound from both sides and may help with speech understanding and sound localisation. The recommendation depends on your hearing assessment.
How long do hearing aids last?
Lifespan depends on the model, care, wear and tear, repairs and changes in your hearing needs. Ask the supplier about the expected lifespan, warranty and ongoing servicing costs before buying.
Can hearing aids restore normal hearing?
Hearing aids can make sounds more accessible and improve communication for many people, but they do not generally restore normal hearing. The benefit you experience depends on your hearing loss, the device and how well it is fitted and adjusted.
Can I buy hearing aids online?
Some hearing products are sold online, but you should understand what you are buying and whether it is appropriate for your hearing needs. A professional hearing assessment and suitable fitting can help reduce the risk of choosing the wrong device. Check the seller’s reputation, warranty, after-sales support and return policy before purchasing.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a hearing aid does not have to be overwhelming. Start with a hearing assessment, identify the situations where you struggle most, and compare suitable devices based on comfort, features, cost and aftercare.
Remember to compare the full package price rather than the device alone, and confirm any medical aid benefit before purchasing.
Ready to explore your options?
Visit Medi-Market to browse available hearing aids and compare products from participating sellers. Availability, specifications, pricing and included services may vary, so confirm the details with the seller before buying.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for a professional hearing assessment or personalised medical advice.
