Dr. Cliff's Best Receiver-in-Canal Hearing Aids of 2024

Disclaimer: Like all of Dr. Cliff’s hearing aid review videos, his Best Of lists are never sponsored. This means manufacturers cannot pay Dr. Cliff to get on the list – unlike other Best Of lists out there.

Here in 2024, communication is key and having a clear and vibrant hearing experience is essential. Thankfully, advancements in technology have led to the development of highly sophisticated hearing aids that can revolutionize the way we hear and interact with the world around us. Dr. Cliff discusses the notable new receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids, exploring the best options available in 2024. Whether you're looking for discreet in-ear devices or powerful behind-the-ear solutions, we've got you covered.

Dr. Cliff’s Best RIC Hearing Aids of 2024

The receiver-in-canal (RIC) style stands out as the most widely favored type of hearing device. All five of the featured hearing aids are presented here in a random order, ensuring that what suits one person may not necessarily be the best choice for another.

Oticon Real 1

Oticon Real One is an upgraded iteration of last year's Oticon More model (which also made Dr. Cliff’s best of 2023 RIC hearing aids).  Equipped with the advanced Polaris R chip, it has undergone learning with a vast array of 12 million distinct sound scenarios. This cutting-edge technology enables a deep neural network to engage in comprehensive deep learning, facilitating the identification of unique sound characteristics. Particularly adept at managing noise and wind noise, the Oticon Real One offers enhanced functionality to enhance your auditory experience. This device is compatible both with iPhone and Android. This hearing aid is perhaps the best for high frequency hearing loss.

ReSound Nexia

The ReSound Nexia shares similarities with the ReSound Omnia, a standout from last year, but boasts significant enhancements. As the smallest receiver-in-canal rechargeable hearing aid globally, its Micro RIE design offers unparalleled convenience. Featuring an internal power bank within the charging base, it can store multiple charges for on-the-go use. Available in various versions, including those with disposable batteries and telecoil functionality, the most groundbreaking improvement is its integration of LE Audio Bluetooth technology. LE Audio Bluetooth, a pioneering initiative led by the hearing aid industry, promises superior sound quality and reduced battery consumption. This innovation enables the broadcast of Bluetooth audio streams to multiple users, facilitating shared listening experiences—whether it's watching content on a phone and transmitting the audio directly to nearby individuals' hearing aids, Bluetooth earbuds, or headphones. ReSound also has the most highly rated app on the App Store and Google Play, and as an exciting new feature, Nexia allows your audiologist to make remote adjustments. This would be the perfect hearing aid for

Signia Pure Charge&Go IX

The PureCharge&Go IX offers the convenience of a rechargeable device without the option for disposable batteries. With a single charge, you can rely on this hearing aid for up to a day and a half, and it offers various charging options for added flexibility. Equipped with dual processors, it effectively separates speech from background noise, significantly improving sound perception in noisy environments. The Own Voice Processing feature ensures natural amplification of voices around you while minimizing amplification of your own voice, making the transition to hearing aids smoother, especially for newcomers. Additionally, this device is set to become future-compatible with LE Audio Bluetooth, pending a firmware update that may require a visit to your audiologist. Currently, it is a Made for iPhone hearing aid with Android compatibility, offering convenient control through the Signia App, allowing you to adjust programs, deactivate features, and even engage in remote sessions with your audiologist.

Phonak Audeo Lumity

The Phonak Audeo Lumity comes in several models catering to various needs, including rechargeable, rechargeable with telecoil, slim rechargeable, and waterproof rechargeable options. Phonak offers a range of charger cases tailored to each device for added convenience. These hearing aids are equipped with advanced technology that can analyze your environment and adjust settings automatically, whether you're indoors, driving, or dining out. What sets them apart is the level of customization available through your audiologist, allowing for personalized adjustments to streaming settings and custom earmolds. Phonak utilizes digitally scanned ear data to create custom earmolds with acoustically optimized venting, ensuring a perfect fit tailored to your unique hearing profile and ear anatomy. With seven smart speech technologies integrated into the device, including enhanced speech understanding in noise, speech censoring for improved clarity from all directions, and motion sensor hearing with tap control, Phonak Audeo Lumity offers unparalleled performance and customization options unmatched by other devices on the market and is also Bluetooth compatible - pairing up to 8 devices and having 2 concurrent connections (i.e. iPhone and tablet) without having to turn anything off.

Starkey Genesis AI

The Starkey Genesis AI RIC offers two models: the mini version and the RT variant equipped with telecoil, both featuring convenient rechargeable capabilities. Notably, Starkey has refined the fit of these models, particularly the wire, ensuring enhanced comfort. With an impressive battery life of up to 51 hours, the longest in the current market, users can enjoy prolonged usage without interruption. Additionally, the hearing aids come with chargers of various sizes for added versatility and ease of use, making them particularly suitable for individuals with limited dexterity. With an improved input dynamic range, these devices are an excellent choice for music enthusiasts. While they are compatible with Android devices, their performance is notably superior when paired with Apple products. The My Starkey App has been revamped to offer a user-friendly experience. Accessible on the homepage of the app, Edge Mode + utilizes deep neural networks to optimize speech clarity and minimize background noise, further enhancing the listening experience. An innovative feature is the fall detection capability, where the hearing aids can automatically alert designated contacts for assistance in case of a fall, providing peace of mind for users and their loved ones.

Choosing the Right Hearing Aid for You

Your audiologist will assess the degree and type of your hearing loss, which will help determine the most suitable hearing aid for you. Consider your lifestyle and the specific activities in which you engage. If you lead an active lifestyle or frequently find yourself in noisy environments, opt for hearing aids with advanced noise reduction features and speech enhancement capabilities. If you're more inclined towards music, look for hearing aids that offer enhanced music listening programs.

A comfortable fit is essential for long-term usage of hearing aids. Look for models that offer a variety of sizes and styles to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. Some hearing aids are custom-made to fit the contours of your ear, providing an optimal listening experience without compromising on comfort. Hearing aids come in a range of prices, so it's important to establish a budget before making a purchase. While it's tempting to opt for the most affordable option, keep in mind that investing in high-quality hearing aids will provide better long-term benefits and performance.

Dr. Cliff’s top RIC hearing aid picks for 2024 offer excellent new features designed to enhance your hearing experience and improve your overall quality of life. Selecting the right hearing aid can be a daunting task, given the multitude of options available in the market. Before purchasing a hearing aid, it's crucial to have your hearing evaluated by a qualified audiologist. Find an audiologist near you with our network of exceptional providers.