Hearing Aid Technology Levels

The hardest part of choosing which hearing aid to purchase is usually deciding on a technology level. All of the information about the different levels can seem overwhelming!  

Step 1: Choose a Style  

You and your Audiologist will choose a style that is right for you. The style you choose should be based on your hearing loss, ear anatomy, lifestyle, and personal preference.  

For more info on styles check out our Hearing Aid Styles Blog: https://gardneraudiology.com/style-hearing-aid-2/ 

Need more help determining which HA is the best for you? Check out the, “What is the best hearing aid for me in Tampa Bay.”https://gardneraudiology.com/hearing-aid-tampa-bay/ 

Step 2: Choose a technology level  

All Technology Levels look the same. Technology level does not change the way a hearing aid looks (with very few availability-based exceptions). The difference is found in the tiny computer chip inside of the hearing aid.  

Technology is usually available in 3-4 different levels:  

*Cost varies based on technology level 

*Essentially all levels can be fit to any hearing loss (this is where style comes in). Lifestyle is what guides our recommendation.  

  Basic   Advanced  Premium 
Noise Control  No control 

0 dB  

Moderate control  

~ 8 dB  

Highest control  

~ 24 dB  

Acceptable Environment  Quiet environment 

  • 1-2 talkers 
  • No ambient noise  
Limited noise  

  • 2-3talkers  
  • “out to lunch” setting 
Noise & group  

  • 4+ talkers 
  • Busy restaurant/ group setting 
# of Channels  Limited  

  • Minimal room for adjustments  
  • Less specific to your hearing loss   
Acceptable 

  • Ability to make adjustments  
  • Specific to your hearing loss  
Maximum 

  • Widest range for adjustments  
  • Specific to your hearing loss  
 Automatic Changes  No automatic changes based on listening environment 

  • Manual adjustments required  
Automatic changes in less complex listening environments 

  • Manual adjustments in challenging listening situations 
Automatic changes in all listening environments  

  • Manual adjustments not required  

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