Hearing Aid Styles

at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN

Hearing aids have improved greatly with continued development and advancement in digital technology. If you are picturing big and bulky devices with questionable sound quality, you will be pleased to learn today’s instruments are smaller, more comfortable, and provide sound that is more natural.



Hearing aids are available in a variety of sizes and styles, so finding an option that fits your lifestyle needs and cosmetic preferences is easier than ever.

Choosing the Right Hearing Aid Style

The best hearing aid style depends on several factors, including:


  • The type and degree of hearing loss



  • Comfort and ease of use


  • Cosmetic preferences


  • Lifestyle and listening environments


  • Recommended features and technology


Below are the most common hearing aid styles available.

Types of Hearing Aid Styles

Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC)

A Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC) hearing aid includes a small housing that sits behind the ear and contains all electronics except the receiver. A thin tube connects the housing to the receiver, which is worn in the concha (the bowl-shaped portion of the ear).



This style is small and discreet but powerful enough to treat mild to moderately severe hearing loss.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE)

A Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aid is curved to match the contour of the ear and rests behind the ear. The housing contains all electronics and is encased in plastic. It connects to the ear canal using a thin, clear tube or an ear mold.


Although more visible than other styles, BTE hearing aids are simple to use, making them a popular choice for children. This style is powerful enough for all types of hearing loss.

Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC)

A Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) hearing aid is placed deep inside the ear canal and is the smallest hearing aid style available. It uses the ear’s natural ability to collect sound, and its discreet size makes it virtually invisible to others.



This is a good option for mild to moderate hearing loss.

In-the-Canal (ITC)

In-the-Canal (ITC) hearing aids also fit in the ear canal but are not placed as deeply as CIC devices. Instead, they rest securely in the lower portion of the ear canal.



Because they are slightly larger, ITC hearing aids are easier to insert and remove. This style is best for mild to moderate hearing loss.

In-the-Ear (ITE)

In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids are designed to fill the outer portion of the ear and are larger than canal styles. While they are less discreet, the larger size allows for additional features and makes the device easier to adjust.



Patients with severe or profound hearing loss may benefit from this style.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the most discreet hearing aid style?

    Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are the smallest style and are often virtually invisible.

  • Which hearing aid style is best for severe hearing loss?

    Behind-the-Ear (BTE) and In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids can support more advanced amplification and are commonly used for severe hearing loss.

  • How do I know which hearing aid style is right for me?

    The best option depends on your hearing test results, comfort preferences, and lifestyle. Your audiologist will help you select the most appropriate style and technology.

Call Allergy & ENT Associates at (615) 889-8802 to learn more or schedule an appointment.