- Our Handbook Team hand-tested 27 hearing aids, mystery shopped 11 brands, and gathered insights from hearing professionals.
- We also conducted multiple surveys and focus groups of hearing aid users to determine what is most important to our audience.
- When testing Audicus models, we used a 25-point questionnaire, taking notes on comfort, ease of use, sound quality, customer service, and follow-up care.
- Learn more about how we tested Audicus.
Key takeaways
- We recommend Audicus hearing aids for those who want custom-programmed, over-the-counter (OTC) devices with ongoing follow-up care and adjustments.
- Audicus hearing aids cost between $1,398–$2,498 per pair, which is higher than some other OTC hearing aid brands.
- Most Audicus models come in either disposable or rechargeable battery options.
- Three models are receiver-in-canal (RIC) style, and one is completely-in-canal (CIC) style.
- When ordering Audicus hearing aids, you must submit a hearing test so they can be custom-programmed to your hearing loss profile.
- Our team rates the Audicus brand a 9 out of 10, taking into account user-friendliness, customer service, cost, brand reputation, features, and performance.
Hearing loss can negatively affect a person’s quality of life, from mental health to enjoyment of outings and social gatherings. Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are an easy-to-access solution for people with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. But finding a brand that balances affordability with quality can be a challenge.
The Handbook Team has tested over 25 hearing aid models, including Audicus, a direct-to-consumer hearing aid. According to our survey of 600 recent hearing aid consumers, 86 percent purchased OTC devices. Over-the-counter hearing aids have provided greater accessibility to people with hearing loss because they don’t require a prescription and cost less than most prescription brands.
To find out if Audicus is the best hearing aid for you, read on to learn more about the specifics of each model.
Audicus Mini highlights
Our experience with Audicus Mini
The Audicus Mini is a discreet, in-the-canal hearing aid designed for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. While we think it offers simplicity without sacrificing essential features, it does not offer Bluetooth connectivity. The Mini is ideal for those seeking a compact, easy-to-use hearing aid that fits entirely in the ear.
Who may like the Audicus Mini: Someone looking for a discreet hearing aid that fits comfortably in the ear.
Who may want to avoid the Audicus Mini: Anyone who needs Bluetooth connectivity or has difficulty handling small batteries.
Insights from our Audicus Mini testers
The Audicus Mini is the most expensive in the brand’s lineup. It offers a completely-in-canal (CIC) design for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. It’s designed to be an affordable and nearly invisible alternative to traditional prescription hearing aids, making it an option if you’re looking for something that fits entirely in your ear.
The Mini runs on size 10 disposable batteries, which need to be replaced every four to seven days (around 70 hours of run time). This may pose a challenge for those with dexterity issues or impaired vision, as the batteries are small and may be tricky to handle. Despite its compact size, the Mini offers 12 processing channels and comes pre-programmed to your hearing test, like all Audicus models. The device is available in a single color option—red for the right ear and blue for the left—making it easier to distinguish between the two. Both right and left hearing aids have a black faceplate designed to look like the entrance to your ear canal for a more natural look. It comes in three dome sizes to fit it to your ear.
While it doesn’t have Bluetooth, the Mini can connect to the Rexton app manually, allowing for volume and balance adjustments and program changes. The app provides access to different listening modes, such as auto, noise/party, music, and outdoors, so you can customize the hearing experience based on your environment. A tinnitus Tinnitus is when a person hears ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ear. It is often associated with hearing loss. -masking program may be added during programming at your request. If you prefer to forgo the app, a remote control is available. There are no on-device controls, so volume changes can only be made through the app or with the remote, which our tester initially found confusing.
From our tester
“This hearing aid is very small, comfortable, and not very noticeable to others when inserted all the way in the ear.”
Audicus Spirit 2 highlights
Our experience with Audicus Spirit 2
The Audicus Spirit 2 is designed to cater to various lifestyles, offering flexibility and convenience through its advanced technology. The Universal Bluetooth allows connections to two devices, making switching between streaming music and taking phone calls easier. The Spirit 2 is smaller than its predecessor, the Spirit 1, and features improved sound quality, environmental adaptation, and noise reduction.
Who may like the Audicus Spirit 2: Someone looking for a tech-forward hearing aid with reliable Bluetooth connectivity and remote adjustment capabilities.
Who may want to avoid the Audicus Spirit 2: Anyone seeking a more basic, budget-friendly hearing aid without advanced technology features.
Insights from our Audicus Spirit 2 testers
The Audicus Spirit 2 is a versatile hearing aid designed to adapt to different environments and lifestyles, making it a good option for users who need reliable performance in different settings. We like that the Spirit 2 allows you to transition to different sound environments with its advanced auto-adapt technology, which automatically adjusts to background noise in four distinct settings.
One of the Spirit 2’s standout features is its Universal Bluetooth capability. Unlike many hearing aids with connectivity issues, the Spirit 2 can maintain active connections with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, a rare feature, especially for OTC hearing aids.
“This idea of ‘oh, my hearing aids can only hook up to one thing at a time’ is going to be gone,” says Rachel Cook, an audiologist at HearingUp. You don’t have to disconnect from one device to connect to another, meaning you can go right from streaming audio from a tablet, laptop, or television to taking a phone call from a smartphone.
The Spirit 2 also offers flexibility, offering the choice between rechargeable or disposable batteries. The hearing aid’s design includes 16 processing channels, which help fine-tune sound quality for clearer and more natural hearing. Telecoil A small copper wire in your hearing aid serves as a receiver, allowing you to connect to audio through a loop system often found in public facilities, including places of worship and public transportation. and tinnitus technology can be added upon request for added customization. Unlike the Mini, which connects to the Rexton app, Spirit 2 adjustments can be made remotely through the Audicus Hearing Remote app, a more popular and user-friendly app, according to our testers.
The Spirit 2 can be purchased outright or through the Audicus Premier package offered with Audicus Series 2 models. This is a leasing model priced at $249 upfront, plus $99 per month, that includes:
- Supplies periodically shipped to your home.
- Loss or damage insurance.
- Free upgrades every 18 months.
- Cancellation anytime.
If you forgo the Premier leasing package, you can purchase Audicus Protect for any model for $198. This provides three years of comprehensive insurance coverage for your hearing aids, including unlimited repairs, unlimited Clean and Care services, and a $195 copay for lost hearing aid replacements—limited to two pairs. A $50 copay may apply if the user damages the hearing aid (a copay must be paid for each repair).
Audicus Omni 2 highlights
Our experience with Audicus Omni 2
The Audicus Omni 2 is the most advanced model in the Audicus lineup and is designed for users who need a high level of performance in noisy listening environments. With features like Speech Finder technology (which automatically enhances speech clarity in noisy environments) and Universal Bluetooth connectivity, the Omni 2 automatically detects and focuses on speech, making it easier to hold conversations in challenging settings. This model is ideal for those looking for a higher-tech hearing aid with customizable options and remote adjustments.
Who may like the Audicus Omni 2: People who frequently find themselves in noisy places and need extra speech enhancement and noise reduction.
Who may want to avoid the Audicus Omni 2: Those seeking a simpler, more budget-friendly hearing aid without high-tech features.
Insights from our Audicus Omni 2 testers
The Audicus Omni 2 is the brand’s most feature-rich and advanced hearing aid. Its standout feature is its Speech Finder technology, which automatically detects and isolates speech while reducing background noise. This makes it especially useful in crowded restaurants, concerts, or bustling social gatherings, where it can be challenging to follow a conversation. Coupled with 20 processing channels, it’s designed to offer users a clear and natural sound.
Like the Spirit 2, the Omni 2 has Universal Bluetooth, plus it offers six auto-adapt environments, reducing the need for manual adjustments.
Despite its advanced features (which often make hearing aids bulkier), the Omni 2 is a sleek and discreet RIC design 10 percent smaller than its predecessor, the Omni 1. It’s available in four colors—amber, silver, black, and gray—allowing users to choose the style that best suits their preferences. The device can be powered by either a rechargeable battery or disposable batteries, which provides flexibility based on your lifestyle. Upgrades such as telecoil and a tinnitus masker can be added to the Omni 2. As with the Spirit 2, this model also connects to the popular Audicus Hearing Remote app.
This model’s Audicus Premier leasing option costs $249 upfront plus $119 monthly.
Audicus Wave 2 highlights
Our experience with Audicus Wave 2
The Audicus Wave 2 is the most affordable Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid in the Audicus lineup, balancing cost and features. It provides hearing support for everyday events, like intimate conversations, watching TV, and small gatherings.
Who may like the Audicus Mini: People looking for an affordable hearing aid with Bluetooth connectivity for casual, everyday use.
Who may want to avoid the Audicus Mini: Those who need advanced noise reduction and speech enhancement features for more challenging listening environments.
Insights from our Audicus Wave 2 testers
The Audicus Wave 2 is a hearing aid designed for those who need reliable, everyday hearing support without breaking the bank. It is part of the Series 2 lineup, which means it comes with many of the same features as some of the brand’s more expensive hearing aids but at a more accessible price. Like the other Series 2 models, the Wave 2 includes Universal Bluetooth connectivity, which allows users to connect to two devices simultaneously. The device is compatible with both Apple and Android smartphones.
The Wave 2 also automatically adapts to environmental noise, making it easier to follow conversations and enjoy media in different settings. However, it’s best suited for quieter, more controlled environments, like intimate conversations at home or watching TV. While it may not have the advanced noise reduction and speech enhancement technologies found in the Omni 2, it still provides a clear and reliable hearing experience.
The Wave 2’s slim, discreet RIC design is easy to wear and was designed to fit comfortably with glasses. Depending on your preference, the hearing aid can be powered by rechargeable or disposable batteries. Customization and adjustments can be made through the Audicus Hearing Remote app, which allows users to fine-tune their hearing aids from the comfort of home without the need to visit an audiologist.
The Audicus Premier leasing option with the Wave 2 is unavailable, but the Protect and Care packages can be added.
Audicus offers
Audicus offers Audicus Care for any model for $36. This service provides regular shipments of domes, batteries, earwax guards, wipes, drying capsules, and cleaning brushes, delivered every three months or whenever you request them at no additional charge. You can also purchase Audicus Protect for $198 with any model.
How much does Audicus cost?
The four models Audicus offers range in price from $1,398–$2,498 per pair. Model-specific pricing fluctuates depending on whether the hearing aid has rechargeable or replaceable batteries.
Is Audicus covered by insurance?
Coverage can vary widely depending on your insurance provider. Many private health insurance plans do not cover the total cost of hearing aids, though some may offer partial coverage or discounts through specific providers. Check with your insurance company to understand what your plan covers. Some plans might require you to purchase hearing aids through a network provider or offer a reimbursement after purchase.
Medicare generally does not cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids. This can be a significant out-of-pocket expense for many older adults, so some may consider other insurance or a Medicare Advantage plan offering some coverage for hearing aids. Medicaid coverage varies by state, with some states offering coverage for hearing aids under certain circumstances, particularly for children and, in some cases, for adults. Review your state’s specific Medicaid guidelines or consult a Medicaid representative to determine what might be covered.
While coverage options exist, many people still pay for hearing aids out of pocket, making affordability and financing plans key factors to consider when choosing a hearing aid.
How to save money on Audicus
Audicus hearing aids are already priced competitively, but there are a few strategies that can help you save even more. As mentioned above, Audicus offers a subscription leasing plan called Audiicus Premier, allowing you to pay a one-time cost of $249 plus a monthly fee of $119–$149, which includes the hearing aids, unlimited adjustments, regular supply deliveries like batteries, loss and damage coverage, and the ability to upgrade to new models when they’re available. This subscription plan is only available for the Omni 2 and Spirit 2. However, it can be a cost-effective way to maintain your hearing aids and ensure you always have access to the latest technology and professional guidance.
Audicus offers financing through Allegro or Care Credit. The brand also occasionally runs promotions and discounts, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their website or signing up for their newsletter to catch these deals. Finally, if you have a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA), you may be able to use those funds to purchase Audicus hearing aids, which can effectively reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
How does Audicus work?
Audicus simplifies the process of buying and using hearing aids by offering an entirely online experience, making it accessible and convenient. The first step is taking the online hearing test, which you can do from home. This self-guided test helps Audicus assess your hearing levels so they can recommend the most suitable hearing aid model for your needs. The test is easy to complete and provides instant results, which Audicus uses to program your hearing aids before they ship them to you. If you already have hearing test results from an audiologist, you can submit them to Audicus instead.
Once you choose a model, you can purchase your hearing aids directly through the Audicus website. The hearing aids arrive at your door pre-programmed based on your hearing test results, so you can use them immediately without visiting an audiologist. If you need adjustments, Audicus offers remote support from their audiology team, who can fine-tune your devices based on your feedback. This ensures you get the most out of your hearing aids without needing in-person appointments. All models come with a 100-day trial period.
Audius mobile apps
Mini users can use the Rexton app or make adjustments by pairing them with the remote control.
For the three RIC Series 2 models, Audicus offers a dedicated app called the Hearing Remote app, available for iOS and Android devices. This app allows users to easily adjust the volume, switch between different listening programs, monitor battery life, and request remote adjustments from Audicus hearing professionals. It also allows you to fine-tune the listening program settings to your preferences.
The app enables Bluetooth streaming of phone calls, music, and other audio directly to your hearing aids. Additionally, the app provides access to customer support, so you can get help or guidance from your smartphone.
Audicus accessories
Audicus offers two assistive listening devices: a partner mic and a TV connector. The partner mic is $229 and compatible with the three RIC models (not the Mini). It’s worn by the person you want to hear speaking to magnify their speech.
These are accessories for your hearing aids that can take their performance miles above and beyond what they can do, especially for speech recognition. Even the most advanced hearing aids can have a hard time in noisy environments distinguishing the speech you want to hear from background speech.
Rachel Cook, an audiologist at HearingUp
The TV connector costs $229 and allows you to stream the TV through your hearing aids while allowing other people in the room to hear audio through the TV speakers.
Audicus also offers a $99 power pack that can be attached to the charging case. It supplies seven days’ worth of charging, so it’s great for camping or any activity where you don’t have access to electrical outlets.
Our hearing aid testing experience
When the FDA approved OTC hearing aids in October 2022, the OTC hearing aid market experienced rapid growth with an influx of new companies. While this improves accessibility and helps drive down prices, it also muddies the waters. How do you know which products are trustworthy?After surveying the market, interviewing hearing health experts, and speaking to hearing aid users, we curated a list of 21 OTC models to test from nine brands: Audien, Audicus, Eargo, Go Hearing, Jabra Enhance, Lexie, Lucid, MDHearing, and Sony. We chose these brands because they have positive reputations and represent a range of prices, styles, and features. We also tested prescription models from Oticon, Phonak, and Starkey to experience the difference between OTC and Rx (prescription) hearing aids firsthand.
Purchase hearing aids as mystery shoppers.
Set up and adjust hearing aids.
Wear hearing aids and adjust volume.
Evaluate sound quality, comfort, and ease of use.
Charge them or remove and replace the batteries.
Remove and reinstall the domes and wax guards.
Clean hearing aid with provided tools and instructions.
Test all features, including Bluetooth streaming.
Download app and test features.
Our testers try multiple devices and answer 25 questions about each. We use these answers to look for outstanding performers. For example, the clarity of the Jabra Enhance Select 200 immediately catches our testers’ attention like no other OTC hearing aid.
From our tester
“Jabra Enhance Select 200 has great sound quality for different environments. I can really tell the difference between the listening programs.”
We also look for hearing aids that demonstrate consistent quality in fundamental features, like sound clarity, setup, comfort, and ease of use. Brands that don’t meet those standards didn’t make it onto our best-of list.
No brand’s hearing aids perform flawlessly. For example, one of our testers runs into trouble right away with the MDHearing Volt: the Quick Start Guide doesn’t explain how to turn it on.
We also complete onboarding calls with brand audiologists and talk with customer service representatives over the phone and through chat modules to accurately replicate the buying process and evaluate post-purchase support options.
Finally, we continue our testing by interviewing independent audiologists, hearing instrument specialists, mental health experts, and hearing aid users to get additional perspectives on OTC hearing aids.
The case for OTC hearing aids is particularly compelling. Being able to reach a wider population by increasing accessibility, simplifying the ease of fitting, and reducing the cost barriers … opens the gateway to an array of possibilities [previously inaccessible] due to exorbitant costs and lack of insurance coverage.
Shelley Singh, AuD
Compare Audicus hearing aid models
| Cost per pair | $2,498 | $1,648, $1,748 | $1,898, $1,998 | $1,398, $1,498 |
| Type of hearing aid | CIC | RIC | RIC | RIC M |
| Type of hearing loss | Mild to moderate | Mild to moderate | Mild to moderate | Mild to moderate |
| Battery Type | Replaceable | Rechargeable or replaceable | Rechargeable or replaceable | Rechargeable or replaceable |
| Bluetooth capability | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Telecoil | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Processing channels | 12 | 16 | 20 | 12 |
Compare Audicus vs. other hearing aid brands
Audicus is comparable to other popular OTC hearing aid companies like Jabra Enhance, Audien, and Eargo. It’s the only brand in this comparison that still offers disposable batteries and is on the higher end of the price range.
| Cost per pair | $1,398–$2,498 | $995–$1,995 | $189–$489 | $729–$2,950 |
| Hearing aid style | CIC and RIC | RIC | CIC and RIC | In-the-ear (ITE) and CIC |
| Type of hearing loss | Mild to moderate | Mild to moderate | Mild to moderate | Mild to moderate |
| Mobile app | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Battery type | Rechargeable or disposable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth capability | Yes, for three models | Yes | No | Yes, one model |
| Telecoil | Yes, available in three models | No | No | No |
Our final verdict on the Audicus hearing aids
We think Audicus offers a range of helpful models with many great features, but they have some drawbacks, including a higher price tag than other OTC models on the market.
Our favorite things about Audicus hearing aids
- Variety of models: Audicus offers a range of models, each catering to different needs, from the basic Mini to the advanced Omni 2.
- Affordable pricing: By selling directly to consumers, Audicus keeps costs lower than many traditional prescription hearing aid providers.
- Bluetooth connectivity: Models like the Spirit 2 and Omni 2 offer multiple Bluetooth connections, making it easy to switch between devices and stay connected throughout the day.
- Convenient adjustments: Making remote adjustments via the Audicus app or through telehealth support eliminates the need for in-person visits, offering greater flexibility and convenience.
- Custom programming: Each hearing aid is custom-programmed to your free online hearing test (or downloaded professional test), ensuring a personalized fit. Each model also offers an optional tinnitus-masking feature.
- Battery options: Audicus is one of the few OTC hearing aid companies still offering disposable battery options.
Our Audicus hearing aid complaints
- Limited advanced features in budget models: While affordable, the more basic models like the Mini lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end options, which might limit their effectiveness in more challenging environments.
- Limited in-person support: Since Audicus operates primarily online, users who prefer in-person consultations and fittings may find the lack of physical locations a drawback.
- Cost: While Audicus is priced lower than prescription hearing aid suppliers, it is on the higher end of OTC hearing aid prices.
Frequently asked questions
The most budget-friendly Audicus hearing aid with Bluetooth is the Wave 2. At $1,398 with disposable batteries or $1,498 with rechargeable batteries, it offers universal Bluetooth connectivity at a lower price compared to other models, making it a more budget-friendly option for those seeking basic Bluetooth features without sacrificing essential hearing support.
Yes, Audicus offers custom-programmed hearing aids directly to consumers. Audicus hearing aids are FDA-registered medical devices and meet the necessary safety and effectiveness standards set by the FDA.
The Audicus online hearing test is a convenient tool designed to give users an initial assessment of their hearing. While it is useful for identifying potential hearing loss and helping to select a suitable hearing aid, it is not a substitute for a comprehensive evaluation by an audiologist. For the most accurate and thorough diagnosis, it’s recommended to consult with a hearing professional in person.
- Research and Markets. (2023). Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids market size, market share, application analysis, regional outlook, growth trends, key players, competitive strategies and forecasts- 2023 to 2031. Link