What's the difference between hearing aids and tinnitus maskers?

Hearing aids primarily amplify sounds to improve hearing loss, while tinnitus maskers generate sounds specifically to cover up or mask tinnitus. However, many modern hearing aids combine both functions, offering amplification for hearing loss plus built-in sound therapy for tinnitus management. Combination devices are often preferred because they address both hearing loss and tinnitus simultaneously. Your audiologist can determine whether you need amplification alone, tinnitus masking alone, or a combination approach based on your specific hearing profile and tinnitus severity.