In-the-ear hearing aids (ITE) are devices with no external wires or tubes visible, as opposed to behind-the-ear hearing aids. ITE hearing aids are all custom-made, ensuring both a perfect fit and neat look.
When you select an in-the-ear hearing aid, the hearing care expert will need to take an impression or scan the inside of your ear, for a personalized fit.
Take a look at how the five different ITE styles fit in the ear:
Invisible-in-the-canal hearing aids (IIC) are the smallest hearing aids available. These custom-made hearing aids fit fully inside your ear canal, making them almost, if not completely, invisible. Tiny cords are attached to the hearing aid so that you can remove them easily.
Completely-in-the-canal hearing aids (CIC) were the smallest hearing aids available before the IIC hearing aid was introduced. The CIC is still discrete, however typically the face plate of the hearing aid can be visible at some angles.
ITC hearing aids sit in the lower third of your external ear and are custom-made to fit your ear canal shape.
Offer longer battery life than smaller styles
Option for wireless streaming/bluetooth in some models
Balance out background noise (via a directional microphone)
Half shell in-the-ear hearing aids are designed to fit inside half of the your external ear region. The shell of the hearing aid is made to fit the shape of your ear. Half shell in-the-ear hearing aids:
Full shell in-the-ear hearing aids are designed to fit the entire area of your external ear. These types of hearing aids are the largest of the custom models, due to the fact that they have larger amplifiers for providing greater sound amplification. The shell is custom-made to fit the shape of your ear.
In-the-ear hearing aids are custom-made devices designed to fit the shape of your ear. Unlike behind-the-ear models, all components sit within the outer ear or ear canal.
Because they’re individually moulded, they can feel secure and personalised. ITE hearing aids are typically suitable for mild to severe hearing loss, depending on the model and size chosen as well as your ear canal size and shape.
Many people choose inner ear hearing aids because they:
• Sit discreetly inside the ear
• Are shaped for individual comfort
• May be easier for some to insert and keep in place
For some, the appeal is cosmetic. For others, it’s the all-in-one design without tubing connecting from the canal to a device behind the ear.
Are In-the-Ear Hearing Aids Better that Behind-the-ear?
“Are in ear hearing aids better?” is a common question. The answer depends on your hearing level, ear anatomy and lifestyle.
Smaller devices may suit those prioritising discretion. Larger in-ear styles can offer more features, and stronger amplification for more significant hearing loss. If you live an active lifestyle or frequently adjust volume manually, size and controls matter.
The right choice isn’t about better or worse. It’s about fit and suitability.
B.Comm(Mgt), GradCertSci., M.Clin.Aud.,MAudSA(CCP)
Mona’s career has seen her work in a wide range of audiological areas, including paediatrics, diagnostics and tinnitus counselling, where she ultimately developed a passion for adult rehabilitation and helping not simply hearing care clients but developing the skills of our network of clinicians. Mona’s consistent relationship-focused ability to train and foster the talents of all client-facing team members saw her move into State Management and national training roles, before advancing to her current role as Chief Audiologist and Head of Clinical Governance and Training for the entire Audika Clinical Network across Australia and New Zealand.
Mona’s focus is now on ensuring every client that Audika interacts with is achieving a better quality of life, through a clinically consistent, professional and high-standard of care provided by all clinical team members. This client outcomes focus is the key driver in developing and reimagining the future of modern hearing care at Audika.
^Applies to Demant hearing devices only (Oticon, Bernafon & Sonic brands, excludes accessories.
