OTC vs. Prescription Hearing Aids: What’s the Difference?
- OTC hearing aids are designed for adults 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss and can be purchased without a prescription or hearing screening.
- Prescription hearing aids are professionally fitted and programmed based on your individual hearing needs. They can accommodate a wider range of hearing loss, including severe hearing loss.
- Cost and support differ. OTC hearing aids generally have a lower upfront price, while prescription hearing aids typically include professional fitting and may include follow-up care.
- The best choice depends on your hearing needs. A professional hearing screening can help you understand your hearing loss and decide which option is right for you.
Comparing Prescription and Non-prescription Hearing Aids
Side-by-Side Comparison of Prescription vs. OTC Hearing Aids
There are two types of hearing aids regulated and approved by the FDA to assist with hearing loss:
- Premium, medical-grade hearing aids available with a doctor's prescription.
- Pre-programmed medical-grade hearing aids sold over the counter without a prescription, also known as over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.
OTC and prescription hearing aids differ mainly in who they're designed for, how they're fitted, and the level of professional support involved.
OTC hearing aids are intended for adults 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss and can be purchased without seeing a hearing care professional. Prescription hearing aids can address a wider range of hearing loss and are professionally selected, fitted, and programmed based on your individual hearing needs.
This comparison table explains the similarities and differences between premium, doctor-prescribed hearing aids and pre-programmed OTC hearing aids.
Support
Support
Best for
Best for
Typical user
Typical user
Are Over the Counter Hearing Aids as Good as Prescription Hearing Aids?
For mild to moderate hearing loss:
OTC devices may provide adequate benefit for some adults who are comfortable choosing, fitting, and adjusting their own devices. However, they are not the same as prescription hearing aids. OTC devices are designed for general use and do not require a hearing test or professional fitting.
For more significant or complex hearing loss:
Prescription hearing aids offer individualized programming and professional fitting and can accommodate a broader range of hearing needs.
For ongoing care:
Prescription hearing aids also provide access to professional adjustments and follow-up support as hearing needs change.
Not Sure Which Hearing Aids to Choose?
How to Decide What’s Right for You
No matter which type of device you choose, always get a professional hearing test first so you’re investing in the right hearing aid for your specific needs.
The right hearing aid for you depends on your level and type of hearing loss, how confident you are with managing technology, and how much care and support you prefer.
Am I comfortable setting up and adjusting devices myself?
OTC hearing aids may be right for you if you have a milder form of hearing loss.Do I want access to hearing care professionals for screenings, device setup, and ongoing hearing care and support?
Prescription devices may be the right choice for you.Is my hearing loss stable or likely to advance?
If it’s progressed over time, prescription devices that can be readjusted as your hearing changes are ideal.
Do You Need a Prescription for Hearing Aids?
Adults 18 and older can purchase FDA-regulated OTC hearing aids without a prescription, medical exam, or professional fitting. However, OTC hearing aids are intended for adults who perceive their hearing loss as mild to moderate.
Prescription hearing aids are available through hearing care professionals and may be appropriate when hearing loss is more significant, complex, or requires individualized care.
Still unsure? We can help.
What to Check Before Buying Hearing Aids
Whether you choose OTC or prescription hearing aids, it's important to understand what's included in your purchase. Before making a decision, consider the following:
- Trial and return policies: Check whether you can try the hearing aids and return them if they don't meet your needs. Review the return window and any applicable fees or restrictions.
- Warranty coverage: Find out how long the warranty lasts and whether it covers repairs, replacements, or device malfunctions.
- Fitting and adjustments: Ask whether professional fitting or programming is included, or if you'll need to adjust the devices yourself.
- Follow-up care: Check whether cleanings, maintenance, and future adjustments are included in the purchase price or require additional fees.
- Total cost: Consider the cost of the devices along with any additional services, accessories, or ongoing care you may need.
Taking time to compare these details can help you choose hearing aids that fit your needs, preferences, and budget.
If you're unsure where to start, HearUSA's hearing care professionals can help you explore your options and find a solution that supports your hearing needs.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Are OTC hearing aids as good as prescription hearing aids?
OTC hearing aids can be a helpful option for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, but they aren’t right for everyone. Prescription hearing aids can address a wider range of hearing needs and are professionally selected, fitted, and programmed based on your hearing.
They also come with professional support and adjustments, which can be especially valuable if your hearing needs are more complex or change over time.
What happens if my hearing gets worse after buying OTC hearing aids?
If your hearing changes or your OTC hearing aids no longer provide enough benefit, schedule a professional hearing screening. A hearing care professional can assess your hearing and help determine whether adjustments, different devices, or prescription hearing aids may be appropriate. OTC hearing aids are intended for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss and may not provide sufficient support as hearing needs change. If you experience sudden hearing loss, seek urgent medical evaluation rather than attempting to adjust your hearing aids.
Can an audiologist adjust or program OTC hearing aids?
Some OTC hearing aids allow adjustments through a smartphone app, while others offer more limited customization. Whether an audiologist can program or adjust an OTC device depends on the manufacturer, model, and available software.
Not all OTC hearing aids support professional programming. If personalized adjustments and ongoing professional support are important to you, prescription hearing aids may be a better option.
Can I return OTC hearing aids if they don’t work for me?
Return policies for OTC hearing aids vary by manufacturer and retailer. Some offer trial periods or money-back guarantees, while others may have more restrictive return policies. Before purchasing, check the return window, refund conditions, and whether any restocking fees apply. If OTC hearing aids aren't meeting your needs, a professional hearing screening can help you explore other options.
Are prescription hearing aids worth the extra cost?
The value of prescription hearing aids depends on your hearing needs and the level of care you want. Their cost may include more than the hearing devices themselves, such as professional hearing evaluations, personalized fitting and programming, follow-up care, and ongoing adjustments.
For people who need individualized support or have more complex hearing needs, these services can be an important part of achieving the best possible hearing experience.
Sources
FDA: Over-the-counter hearing aids https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/hearing-aids/over-counter-hearing-aids
Mayo Clinic: Hearing aids https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/hearing-aids/art-20044116
NIDCD: Hearing aids https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing-aids
