Understanding the Differences Between Behind-the-Ear and In-the-Ear Styles

Hearing loss is something that can affect individuals at any time of their lives and for several different reasons, but the one thing everyone will have in common is that they’ll want to find a solution where possible – and hearing aids are often what they think of first. There’s a good reason for that: hearing aids work for many individuals and can be exactly what they’re looking for.

When it comes to choosing the right hearing aid, it’s important to think carefully about a wide range of factors, and it’s also wise to speak to your audiologist for advice – they’ll be able to guide you in the right direction. The main choice you’ll need to make will be between behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids. But what is the difference?

Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear hearing aids are a popular choice, as they are extremely versatile and comfortable. As the name suggests, these particular devices rest behind the ear and connect to the ear canal through a small tube, otherwise known as an earmold. This design makes them a little more noticeable than an ITE hearing aid, but it also means these devices can work for a wide range of hearing loss levels.

BTE hearing aids are powerful, and they’ll amplify even the smallest sounds, making them ideal for those with more severe hearing loss. They’re also highly durable because they’re protected since they’re behind the ear. Plus, BTE hearing aids can be customized because the earmolds can be made to fit each individual, so they’re a better fit and more comfortable. They’re also easy to handle, with easily accessible controls so you can quickly make the adjustments you need – even if you have dexterity issues, BTE hearing aids are very convenient.

In-the-Ear Hearing Aids

In-the-ear hearing aids are quite different to BTE hearing aids because they’re designed to fit directly into the outer bowl of your ear. These devices are custom molded to the exact shape and contours of the wearer’s ear, meaning that you’ll get a discreet solution to your hearing loss.

This is actually one of the main reasons why people choose ITE over BTE – how they look. They’re less noticeable, and for many that’s an important factor and if that’s crucial for you, ITE hearing aids will fit the bill best. Plus, if you do a lot of outdoor activities, ITE hearing aids are generally seen as the best option because they have a snug fit that reduces wind and other outdoor noises to a more comfortable level.

Choosing the Right Style

In the end, the choice of which hearing aid you’ll prefer is down to your own needs and preferences which your audiologist will help in choosing the right one for you. Some things to consider when choosing are the level of your hearing loss, how you want the hearing devices to look and any lifestyle factors that might come into play, such as whether or not you do a lot of active hobbies, for example.