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Behind-the-ear hearing aids

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Hearing aid positioned discreetly behind a man’s ear with a close-up inset highlighting the device’s design.

What are Behind-the-ear hearing aids?

As indicated by the name, behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids have a design that allows the main body of the hearing aid to sit hidden behind the ear. A clear, discreet wire or tube is then connected to an ear mold or dome and placed comfortably inside the ear canal.

BTE hearing aids are the most popular types of hearing aids on the market today. Recently, they have become smaller, more adaptable, and much more powerful.

In-the-ear hearing aids

Illustration of an ear wearing a hearing aid.
Versatile
They come in various styles and colors, are suitable for mild to profound hearing loss, and can include a wide range of features.
Illustration of an ear with a blue heart shape.
Comfortable
Placed partially behind and in your ear, they provide a comfortable listening experience and are easy to adjust.
charging battery icon
Powerful
With both rechargeable and disposable options available, they can house large batteries (thereby increasing battery life.)

Behind-the-ear hearing aid styles

Learn about and compare the different styles

Receiver-in-the-ear hearing aids

The RITE and miniRITE hearing aid is placed discreetly behind the ear and is connected by a thin wire which places the speaker or receiver inside the opening of the ear or ear canal.

  • Suitable for most types of hearing loss
  • Smaller and less noticeable than traditional BTE hearing aids
  • Rechargeable battery options available
  • Bluetooth enabled connection to compatible devices wirelessly1
  • Natural sound quality and more comfortable fit

Book free, 14-day trial See model examples

Behind-the-ear hearing aid fitted on a person’s ear, with close-up detailing of the device.

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids

A clear tube connects the main body of the hearing aid (nestled behind the ear) to an earmold or dome that fits inside the ear canal.  The following features make BTE hearing aids a versatile option: 

  • Suitable for most  hearing losses 
  • Suitable for most ears
  • Bluetooth enabled connection to compatible devices wirelessly1
  • Able to accommodate high-tech features (due to larger size)
  • Telecoil, volume and program controls are easy to manipulate
  • Larger battery size provides more power

Book a FREE* hearing check See model examples

Woman wearing a behind-the-ear hearing aid with close-up of the device.
Behind-the-ear hearing aids placed on a textured surface alongside blue pencils, a decorative glass orb, and a CES Innovation Awards 2021 Honoree badge.

What is the best hearing aid behind the ear?

Oticon has won several awards for its groundbreaking hearing aid technology. The newest Oticon More™ hearing aid allows you to experience the sound scene in balance and clartiy whilst supporting how your brain naturally works.

  • Discreet miniRITE style
  • Bluetooth enabled connection to compatible devices wirelessly1
  • Rechargeable
Book a FREE* hearing check

Features of behind-the-ear hearing aids

Learn about what to expect from hearing aids behind the ear
Bluetooth connectivity
Bluetooth enabled connection to compatible devices wirelessly(1)
Easier to keep clean
Since only the ear mold or dome comes in direct contact with the ear canal, they are less vulnerable to moisture and wax build-up.
Fewer issues with feedback
This benefit is achieved by the microphone and receiver being placed farther away from each other than in some ITE hearing aids.
Longer battery life
They include larger batteries, allowing for a longer battery life.
More open-fitting
The thin tube that sits in the ear canal provides ample air ventilation.
Comfortable
Learn about what to expect from hearing aids behind the ear.
Rechargeable batteries
They are available with both disposable and rechargeable battery options.
Suitable for severe-profound losses
They can cater to more severe hearing loss levels than some other hearing aid types.

Behind-The-Ear Hearing Aid FAQ's

1additional accessories may be required.
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