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Guide
Types of Hearing Aids Explained
Hearing aids come in several styles, from larger behind-the-ear devices to tiny in-canal designs. This guide explains each in plain terms.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aids sit behind the ear and connect to the ear via a thin tube or wire. They suit almost any level of hearing loss, have larger, easier-to-handle controls and batteries, and are the style most commonly provided on the NHS.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
A more discreet variant of BTE, where the speaker component sits in the ear canal rather than behind the ear. RIC devices are popular in the private market for balancing discretion with power and ease of handling.
In-the-Ear (ITE) and In-the-Canal (ITC)
ITE devices are custom-moulded to fill the bowl of the outer ear, offering easier handling than the smallest styles while remaining less visible than a BTE. ITC devices sit partly within the ear canal, a step further towards discretion.
Completely-in-Canal / Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
The smallest and most discreet styles, custom-moulded to sit deep within the ear canal. Not everyone is a candidate for these styles — it depends on the size and shape of your ear canal and your level of hearing loss. See our dedicated invisible hearing aids page for more.
How the Right Style Is Chosen
A qualified audiologist considers your level of hearing loss, ear canal shape, manual dexterity and eyesight, and your personal preference on discretion, before recommending realistic style options during your assessment.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily — smaller styles are more discreet but have smaller batteries and controls, which some people find fiddlier. The right style depends on your hearing loss and your own preferences.
Often yes, subject to a further assessment, though this may involve additional cost with a private provider.
NHS audiology typically focuses on BTE styles, since they suit most levels of hearing loss and are easier to fit and maintain at scale. Private providers usually offer a wider range of styles.