Hearing aids can be purchased and fit through several different models. Each option has different levels of professional involvement, technological features, and costs. Understanding these models can help you choose what best fits your needs, budget, and hearing goals.

Prescriptive (Audiologist-Fit) Hearing Aids

Best for: Individuals with any degree or type of hearing loss, or those who want full professional care. Best for complex hearing loss and those who may need additional support with technology and adapting to amplification.

Description: An audiologist provides a full hearing evaluation, recommends technology, programs hearing aids to your unique hearing profile, and verifies performance using specialized equipment. Care often includes follow-up visits, cleanings, and adjustments.

• Highest level of customization and verification
• Comprehensive support for long-term success
• Best outcomes for complex or progressive hearing loss

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids

Best for: Adults (18+) with mild to moderate hearing loss who want a do-it-yourself option.

Description: OTC hearing aids can be purchased directly in stores or online without a hearing test or visit to an audiologist. The user controls setup and adjustments using a smartphone app or built-in controls.

• Lowest upfront cost (typically $300–$1,000 per pair)
• Some models offer smartphone connectivity
• Limited customization—may not address complex hearing needs
• No professional fitting or verification of benefit
• Returns and customer support vary by retailer

Online (Direct-to-Consumer) Hearing Aids

Best for: Adults with mild to moderate hearing loss who want more support than OTC but less cost than traditional care.

Description: Online or “direct-to-consumer” hearing aids are purchased through a company’s website. Some may include a remote hearing test or optional virtual support from hearing specialists (not always audiologists).

• Convenient remote purchase and follow-up
• Some personalized adjustments or telehealth support
• Limited in-person testing or real-ear verification
• May be difficult to troubleshoot remotely
• Quality and service vary widely by company

Bottom Line

Audiologist-fitted hearing aids provide the most accurate, personalized, and supported approach, especially when hearing needs are more complex or communication is critical in work and social situations. OTC and online hearing aids can be a good starting point for adults with simple, mild hearing loss and comfort with self-management. It is easy to overestimate or underestimate your hearing difficulty without a comprehensive hearing evaluation.