What are the different types of hearing aids?

The main types of hearing aids are Behind-the-Ear (BTE), Receiver-in-Canal (RIC), In-the-Ear (ITE) and In-the-Canal styles (ITC and CIC). BTE and RIC styles sit behind the ear. ITE, ITC and CIC styles are custom-moulded to fit inside the ear and are more discreet. The best style depends on your hearing loss, dexterity and preferences.

What are the main types of hearing aids (BTE, RIC, ITE)?

How do you choose between styles?

The right style depends on several things. These include the degree of your hearing loss, your dexterity for handling small devices, and the shape of your ear canal. Some very discreet styles suit only milder loss. Your preferences around visibility, battery type and Bluetooth streaming also matter. Your audiologist matches these factors to your hearing test.

Do all styles offer the same technology?

Most core technology, such as noise handling and Bluetooth connectivity, is available across styles from the same manufacturer, though very small styles may have physical limits on battery size and certain features compared with larger styles.

What about invisible-in-canal (IIC) styles?

Some manufacturers offer an even smaller, invisible-in-canal option that sits deeper in the ear canal than a standard CIC device. These are the most discreet style available but are only suitable for some ear shapes and degrees of hearing loss, and they can be harder to insert, remove and clean. Your audiologist can confirm whether your ear canal and hearing test results make this a realistic option.

Can you try different styles?

Yes. Your audiologist can discuss which styles suit your hearing test results and let you see and try relevant options before you decide, so you can weigh comfort, visibility and features together.

For more information, visit Healthdirect (healthdirect.gov.au) (opens in a new tab).

Sources: Healthdirect. Information current July 2026 and general in nature.