Hearing aids have been helping people with hearing loss for decades. These small, electronic devices amplify sound to help the user hear. Though they can greatly improve your quality of life, many people still hesitate to purchase hearing aids because of the stigma associated with them or the high cost. This is where Eargo, a direct-to-consumer hearing aid company, comes in. Eargo offers an affordable and discreet solution for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. But are they really worth it?
To help you make an informed decision, we’ll look into the major features and benefits of Eargo hearing aids as well as the potential drawbacks. We’ll also look into how much they cost. If you are considering purchasing hearing aids or are simply curious about Eargo’s products, keep reading to learn more.
What Is Eargo?
Eargo is a medical device company that produces discreet, rechargeable hearing aids designed for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. The California-based company was founded in 2010 and has been featured as one of the 50 best inventions of 2018 by Time magazine. Interestingly, Eargo hearing aids are modeled after a fishing fly, using patented soft medical-grade silicone fibers that hold it in place and help it “float” in the ear canal. The company’s Flexi Fibers come in two sizes to fit most ears and allow for natural air circulation.
Eargo’s hearing aids are also classified as medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and some insurance policies cover their cost. Another benefit is the company’s hearing aids are self-fitting and do not require professional fitting, making them an affordable and convenient option for those looking for a discreet hearing aid solution. While Eargo hearing aids have many benefits, they also have some limitations, so let’s dive into these next.
The Features and Benefits of Eargo Hearing Aids
Eargo hearing aids offer a range of features and benefits designed to make them accessible, convenient, and comfortable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. One of the most significant benefits is that Eargo hearing aids are affordable (ranging from $1650 to $2950 USD per pair), costing less than some other hearing devices on the market.
Additionally, Eargo hearing aids are self-fitting, eliminating the need for a professional fitting, and are supported by licensed audio specialists who are available to answer questions and provide guidance. They also come equipped with various features designed to improve the user’s hearing experience. For example, some models have settings for different hearing environments, such as a noisy restaurant or theater, and sound match features that can adjust to the user’s surroundings. Other major benefits include:
- All hearing aids come with two sizes of soft, replaceable silicone tips.
- All hearing aids are rechargeable, and last approximately 16-hours on a full charge.
- Eargo hearing aids come with a 45-day trial period to make sure they’re a good fit for you.
- Eargo offers financing plans to make them more affordable.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
While Eargo hearing aids offer many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. One of the most notable drawbacks is they’re not designed to correct structural hearing problems or severe hearing loss. Additionally, while the devices come with multiple settings for different environments, some users may find that the customization options are limited to their specific needs. Other potential drawbacks include:
- Devices are not waterproof, except for the Eargo 6 (which is resistant for up to 30-minutes at a water depth of less than 1 meter) and the Eargo 7 (which is tested to withstand accidental water exposure up to a rating of IPX7).
- Devices require nightly cleaning and recharging.
- While some insurance policies cover the costs, not all do, which can make them a costly investment for some people.
Despite these potential drawbacks, many people find that the benefits of Eargo hearing aids outweigh any limitations, and the devices remain a popular choice for those seeking discreet and effective hearing assistance.
Shutterstock/aslysunHow to Use Eargo Hearing Aids
While it may take a bit to get used to your hearing aids, using them is fairly straightforward. To get started, it’s best to start at a lower volume setting and gradually increase the volume to a comfortable level. While you get used to your hearing aids your ears may feel itchy and noises (including your own voice) may sound different until your brain adjusts. Luckily, you can take full advantage of their 45-day trial period to determine if they’re right for you.
Eargo hearing aids are rechargeable and should be placed in the portable charger overnight to provide a full day’s use. The charger itself should be recharged weekly and has LED lights to indicate where to place the hearing aids. Regular maintenance is also necessary and includes cleaning the hearing aids with the included brush and microfiber cloth and changing the wax guard and Flexis every 3- to 6-months. Luckily, Eargo’s website provides helpful instructional videos and support from certified hearing professionals to help you along the way.
Eargo Hearing Aid Options and Costs
Eargo offers four different hearing aid models with varying levels of technology and features. Firstly, all four models are completely-in-canal (CIC), which means they are virtually invisible when worn. Each model has unique features and benefits, allowing users to select the best option for their lifestyle and degree of hearing loss.
For starters, the newest model, Eargo 7, costs $2950 for a pair and is water and sweat resistant, comes with a 2-year warranty and Sound Adjust+ technology that automatically optimizes sounds as you move through different environments. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, Eargo 5 may be a more suitable option, costing $1950 for a pair. This model features a 1-year warranty and allows you to personalize the hearing aids to your unique hearing preferences. To find the perfect set for you, compare the prices and features of all four models on their website.
It’s also worth noting Eargo offers financing options with monthly payments as low as $74 per month over 36-months. They may also be covered by insurance so review your policy and contact your provider to find out if you have coverage.
