Our guide to hearing aids

These are similar to open-fit BTE hearing aids, except that the part of the hearing aid that sits behind the ear is smaller. It has a thin wire that connects to a speaker insider the opening of the ear.

• Smaller and less visible than BTE hearing aids
• Suitable for a wide range of hearing loss, from mild to profound loss
• All the benefits of open-fit BTE aids but they can be fitted with more amplification
• Can be vulnerable to wax and sweat so regular cleaning of the receiver is important

CIC hearing aids are not usually seen when worn as the working parts are in the custom moulded earmould, unless someone looks closely at your ear. They fit further into the ear canal than ITE and ITC hearing aids.

• Extremely discreet and lightweight
• Extremely comfortable as they are custom made to fit your ear shape
• Only suitable if you have mild to moderate hearing loss
• Can be prone to wax and sweat so regular cleaning is important
• The small controls can be more fiddly, so a remote control can be very beneficial

These send sound through very thin, clear tubing that is connected to a dome (soft tip) that sits inside your ear canal. Open-fit BTE aids are suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss and a good option for people who can hear low pitches well.

• Lets you hear sound naturally as it does not block up the ear
• Soft tip reduces that feeling of being plugged up that can happen with an earmould
• Comfortable and less visible than an earmould
• Need to be inserted correctly so they do not become loose
• Not usually suitable if you suffer from ear infections
• Cleaning can require more dexterity