Comparing hearing aids
What actually matters when choosing hearing aids
Most people begin with brand, size or features. A better comparison starts with daily listening.
- Speech clarity: understanding conversation with less effort, especially when more than one person is talking.
- Background noise: restaurants, family gatherings and groups often show whether the technology level is right.
- Comfort and handling: fit, ear shape, charging, controls and cleaning all affect whether hearing aids become part of normal life.
- Fitting and support: careful fitting and verification, followed by regular aftercare, makes a real difference.
Brand, style and features still matter. They should support the hearing plan, not lead it. If you are comparing technology levels, our guide to premium hearing aids explains when higher-end devices are worth considering.
If you are comparing cost as well as care, our guide to hearing aid prices explains what affects private hearing-aid pricing in the UK. If you are weighing up NHS and private routes, our NHS hearing aids guide explains the main differences in choice, fitting and support.
Hearing solutions
The latest in hearing aid technology, styles & accessories
We put new hearing technology through its paces before it reaches our clients. Being independent means we are not tied to one manufacturer, so the recommendation can be based on your hearing, your listening needs and the level of support you want.
We offer current digital hearing aid technology from leading manufacturers including ReSound, Widex and Unitron, alongside other trusted brands where they are the better clinical fit.
Plus, all of our hearing aid treatment plans allow you to choose from any of the latest digital hearing aid styles, including our custom-fit and invisible hearing aids.
Types of hearing aids
Hearing aids come in behind-the-ear and in-ear styles. The right choice depends on your hearing, ear shape and how easily you can insert, remove and care for them.
If you are interested in a device that sits in the ear rather than behind it, our guide to custom in-the-ear hearing aids explains ITE, ITC, CIC and IIC styles.
Choose a style or drag the hearing aids to explore.Choose a style or swipe the hearing aids.
-
RICReceiver-in-canal (RIC)
A slim case behind the ear, connected by a fine wire to a small speaker in the ear canal. This style is also called receiver-in-the-ear (RITE or RIE).
-
BTEBehind-the-ear (BTE)
Sound travels from a case behind the ear through tubing to an earpiece in the ear.
-
Power BTEPower behind-the-ear (BTE)
A more powerful behind-the-ear hearing aid, with sound delivered through tubing to an earmould. Your audiologist will check how much amplification you need.
-
ITEIn-the-ear (ITE)
Custom-made to fit in the outer part of the ear, with no unit behind it. The larger shape can be easier for some people to handle.
-
CICCompletely-in-canal (CIC)
Made to sit inside the ear canal. Many are custom-made, while some use an instant-fit earpiece. How much is visible depends on your ear and the fitting.
-
IICInvisible-in-canal (IIC)
Designed to sit deeper in the ear canal. Whether an invisible fit is possible depends on the shape and size of your ear.
The right style depends on your hearing, ear shape, comfort and how you manage the hearing aids each day. Your audiologist will explain which options are suitable and why.
Images not shown to scale.
Technology
Industry leading hearing aid manufacturers
Hearing well means staying in the moment – enjoying conversations, laughter, and everything in between. We offer hearing aid tech that’s discreet, powerful and designed for seamless connection.
Read our article on ReSound hearing aids here.
ReSound is one of our key partners because their technology feels effortless in daily life. The sound stays clear and consistent, even in background noise, and connecting to phones or TVs is simple.
ReSound suits people who want clarity and ease without overthinking the technology. It just works, wherever you are.
Read our article on Widex hearing aids here.
Widex is also a key partner at Alto. They are known for sound that feels natural and true to life. Voices and music come through clearly, without harshness or artificial sharpness.
We often recommend Widex for people who care about sound quality and comfort. It delivers detail and warmth in equal measure.
Read our article on Unitron hearing aids here.
Unitron combines reliable performance with intelligent design. Their hearing systems adjust automatically as your surroundings change, keeping speech clear whether you are at home, outside or somewhere busy.
They are ideal for people who want excellent sound without needing to manage settings or controls.
Read our article on Starkey hearing aids here.
Starkey builds hearing systems that combine great sound with modern features. Their range includes options that track activity and personalise performance based on how you use them.
They are well suited to people who like technology that supports their lifestyle and gives them extra convenience day to day.
Read our article on Signia hearing aids here.
Signia designs hearing systems that make speech easier to follow in lively environments. They are particularly strong in restaurants, groups and social settings where there is lots happening at once.
For people who often find background noise tiring, Signia can make conversation feel clearer and less of a struggle.
Read our article on Phonak hearing aids here.
Phonak has a strong reputation for power and dependability. Their hearing systems connect easily to phones and other devices and perform well in complex sound environments.
They work well for people who live active, social lives and want consistent, reliable hearing support throughout the day.
Read our article on Oticon hearing aids here.
Oticon focuses on helping the brain make sense of sound naturally. Their systems aim to make speech stand out clearly while keeping awareness of everything around you.
The result is clear, balanced hearing that feels natural and easy to follow.
Over 1,000 Google reviews
What people say about Alto Hearing
Wireless connectivity & streaming
Bluetooth hearing aids
Wireless Bluetooth technology allows you to change your hearing aid settings via a remote control or app on your smartphone. You may also be able to connect your hearing aid to your phone, TV, assistive listening devices, or other hearing aid accessories, such as remote microphones, for ease of listening.
Some hearing aids also include wireless programming, meaning that your audiologist can offer our remote, AltoConnect support. Take a look at our hearing accessory guide for more information.
