Eargo manufactures and sells hearing aids. Its product range includes hearing aids that are rechargeable, small, and discreet.
About hearing devices
Hearing aids are wearable devices that allow people with hearing loss to hear more clearly. While they are not a cure for deafness, they can make a person’s life easier to manage.
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), about
Hearing aids magnify sound vibrations to allow the ears’ surviving sensory cells to detect them. These cells convert the vibrations into neural signals that the brain processes.
According to the
There is much evidence to support the effectiveness of hearing aids in helping individuals hear and, as a result, communicate better. A
Hearing aids can come in several varieties and use different technologies. When choosing a hearing aid, the NIDCD
- the features they require
- whether they would benefit from newer technologies
- whether the company offers trial periods
- the warranties available
- whether and how much they can adjust the hearing aid
- cost
Hearing aid types
There are different styles of hearing aids,
- Behind-the-ear (BTE)
- In-the-ear (ITE)
- In-the-canal (ITC)
- Completely-in-canal (CIC)
- Receiver-in-canal (RIC)
Individuals may choose any of the different styles depending on their preference and type of hearing loss.
Learn about the different types of hearing aids.
What is Eargo?
Eargo is a manufacturer of hearing aids, with its headquarters in the United States. It has been selling hearing aid devices since 2010.
The company also provides a smartphone app that works in connection with a person’s hearing aid, allowing users to control the settings of these devices. Additionally, the brand also provides customers with ongoing support from qualified hearing professionals.
Eargo registers its hearing aids with Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which also approves the devices.
Eargo reviews and reputation
Eargo’s hearing aids generally receive positive customer reviews.
Some positive comments from reviewers mention:
- the 45-day trial period, which allows a person to return their hearing aid if they are not satisfied
- the ease-of-use of the smartphone app
- the hearing aids’ comfortable fit
- how easy online purchases are with help from an Eargo specialist
- Eargo’s free nonworking sample offer that allows a person to test the fit and feel of a device product before purchase
However, some of the negatives of Eargo’s devices that people reported include:
- not being able to connect to the Eargo app while the hearing aid is in use
- being unable to hear audio between a person’s phone and hearing aid
- being unable to replace the rechargeable battery
Additionally, some individuals with profound hearing loss stated that Eargo hearing aids did not improve their hearing.
Pros and cons
There is a range of potential advantages and disadvantages to choosing Eargo:
Pros
- Customers can access a support team of professional audiologists.
- Eargo hearing aids are compatible with a dedicated app to control and customize hearing aid settings.
- Rechargeable batteries reduce environmental pollution and the need to purchase batteries.
- People can try free nonworking samples available to test fit and feel before purchase.
- Eargo hearing aids are small and discreet.
Cons
- Eargo hearing aids can be more expensive than other competitor devices.
- All Eargo models use rechargeable batteries, which increases initial cost and requires regular charging.
- There is no option for custom hearing aids to suit different ear canal shapes or hearing needs.
- Eargo has a limited range of models and options, so they may not suit people who do not want ITE models.
Eargo products and services
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information is purely research-based.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Eargo sells four different models of hearing aid. The manufacturer claims that three of these models are rechargeable, virtually invisible, and comfortable to wear.
All four hearing aids are available as ITE models and come with the following accessories:
- portable charger
- USB plug
- USB cable
- wax guard
- cleaning brush
Eargo hearing aids
Below is an overview of all of Eargo’s hearing aids.
Best for a longer warranty: Eargo 6
Its makers say that Eargo 6 is almost invisible and very comfortable.
It comes with two types of petal buds: open and closed. The company says that open buds provide less sound obstruction for a more natural hearing experience, while closed buds prevent more sound from escaping and reduce feedback.
The Sound Match function allows people to customize sound levels in each ear and save up to three settings.
The Eargo 6 has a 45-day return policy and a 2-year warranty. It is available to purchase online for around $2,950.
Best for faster charging: Eargo 5
The Eargo 5 is an almost invisible model. Using the Eargo app, a person controls the settings, including adjusting noise reduction and environmental sound matching.
Instead of contact pins, this model has magnets to keep it in place as it charges. The company says that this improves the charging time.
This device comes with two sizes of closed petal buds to ensure the right fit. The company highlights that this type of buds enhances comfort and amplification across sound ranges.
The Eargo 5 has a 45-day return policy, a 1-year warranty, and is available to purchase online for around $2,450.
Best for strong amplification: Eargo Neo HiFi
According to Eargo, this device has the most significant sound amplification, dynamic feedback reduction, and active noise cancellation of the three models.
The Neo HiFi features Eargo’s patented “Flexi Tetrapalms,” which reportedly make the hearing aid comfortable while also letting in air and natural sounds.
This hearing aid works in connection with the Eargo smartphone app. It also comes with a 2-year warranty.
The Eargo Neo HiFi has a 45-day return policy, a 12-month warranty, and is available to purchase online for around $1,950.
Best for amplifying speech: Eargo Max
The Eargo Max provides lower-quality sound amplification, dynamic feedback reduction, and active noise cancellation than the previous two models.
Eargo states that this product amplifies speech and reduces background noise, helping a person hear more clearly in noisier surroundings.
The company states that the Eargo Max features the company’s patented “Flexi Fibers” design, with a soft, comfortable silicone earpiece that allows airflow to the ear canal.
The Eargo Max is available to purchase online for around $1,450.
Eargo accessories
Eargo also sells a range of accessories to use with its hearing aids. These include cleaning tools, chargers, and microphone caps.
Eargo 5 and 6 Petals
Eargo sells open and closed Petals for the Eargo 5 and 6 hearing aids. A person can easily snap them on and off as needed.
The Open Petals amplify high frequencies. The company states these petals are suitable for people with almost normal low-frequency hearing.
A tray of three pairs costs $40.
The Closed Petals maximize sound amplification across the sound range. Eargo writes this makes for a rich and bold listening experience.
The company recommends a person changes Petals every 2 months or when the sound quality becomes decreased with use.
Flexis
Eargo’s Flexis range includes a range of flexible silicone tips that aim to make the hearing aids more secure and comfortable to wear and amplify sound. They also sweep out wax from the ear when a person removes them.
Each model comes in two or three sizes, and a tray of three pairs costs $25.
The Flexi Fibers model features numerous thin fibers. Eargo writes that this Flexi model makes the Eargo hearing aid more comfortable and it is compatible with the Eargo Plus, Eargo Max, and Eargo Neo.
The Flexi Domes feature the same fibers as the Flexi Fibers model, but it features a dome backing. Eargo writes these domes amplify sound and can potentially decrease whistling from the hearing aid. The company also claims they can help with amplifying mid-range frequencies, which are important in understanding speech.
Flexi Palms have fewer, wider fibers than the previous models. Eargo states that this product was developed alongside the Eargo Neo hearing aid. They aim to make this hearing aid more comfortable and secure. It may also decrease whistling. This model comes in three sizes: small, regular, and large.
Flexi TetraPalms also feature wider fibers, but it includes an extra layer compared to the Flexi Palms. This model aims to provide all-day comfort and build on the benefits of the Flexi Palms. Eargo states the Flexi TetraPalms offer the company’s best sound and improved retention in the ear.
Mic Caps
Eargo’s Mic Caps cost $40 for a tray of 3.
They are compatible with the Eargo 5 and 6.
This cap protects the hearing aid microphone and cleans the Sound Inlet.
The company recommends a person changes the mic caps every 2 months or when sound quality is decreased. Eargo also writes a person should clean their hearing aids regularly to preserve the best sound quality.
Wax Guard Replacement Tool
This cleaning accessory is compatible with the Eargo Max and Eargo Neo.
The company writes its hearing aids come with a set of replacement wax guards. A person can use this tool to replace the internal wax guard. It includes a tool to remove the wax guard and a wheel that contains 16 replacement internal wax guards.
A person will use this wheel to dispense the replacement wax guard and the removal tool to apply a new guard to the hearing aid.
One Wax Guard Replacement Tool costs $25.
Eargo smartphone app
The Eargo smartphone app allows people to personalize their settings to suit their listening environment, with separate bass and treble customization for each ear.
Individuals with the Eargo smartphone app can also contact licensed hearing professionals for additional support. The company states that its support network comprises more than 30 audiologists and nationally recognized industry leaders who can help people set up their hearing aids and tailor their listening experience to their lifestyle. The team can also answer any questions a person might have about their hearing or the Eargo product they own.
How to order
An individual does not need to speak with an audiologist or receive an audiogram to purchase an Eargo hearing aid.
Eargo provides a free hearing test so that someone looking to purchase one of their products can determine whether it is suitable for their needs. The company also offers customers a telephone or video checkup with a specialist who can provide assistance and answer questions.
Once they choose a hearing aid model that suits them best, individuals can place their order through the Eargo website or by telephone.
The company usually delivers products within 2–3 days. All hearing aids also come with either a 1- or 2-year warranty, depending on the model.
Return policy
Eargo offers a 45-day money-back return policy, where customers can return their hearing aids within this timeframe for a full refund.
Insurance coverage
Eargo accepts a range of insurance plans, including Federal Employee Health Benefits plans, although customers will need to check they have coverage under their specific plan or provider.
Find out here what insurance plans Eargo accepts.
Financing
Various financing options are available for people without insurance coverage, including 12- and 24-month finance plans.
Learn more about Eargo financing plans.
Free sample
People can request free non-working hearing aid samples from Eargo, which they can test at home to check their fit and style. Although these samples do not work, they allow people to see if the hearing aid feels comfortable.
People can order their free hearing aid sample here.
Comparison
This table compares Eargo with some similar online hearing aid manufacturers.
| Cost range | Type | Battery | Hearing test required | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eargo | $1,450–2,950 | ITE | rechargeable | no |
| Phonak | $1,500–3,000 | BTE, RIC, ITE | rechargeable or changeable | yes |
| Lively | $1,595–1,995 | BTE | rechargeable | no |
| Oticon | $1,000–$6,000 | BTE | rechargeable | yes |
| Miracle-Ear | $1,000–4,000 | BTE, RIC, ITE | rechargeable | yes |
| MDHearingAid | $800–1,199 | BTE | rechargeable or changeable | no |
| Hearing Assist | $699–999 | BTE, RIC, CIC | rechargeable | no |
Learn about the best hearing aid manufacturers here.
When to contact a doctor
Consider speaking with a doctor or an audiologist if a hearing aid:
- causes discomfort
- causes audio feedback, which may be a screeching sound
- makes voices too loud
- makes background noise too loud
- buzzes during cell phone use
Frequently asked questions about Eargo
Below, we answer some of the top frequently asked questions about Eargo.
Does Medicare pay for Eargo hearing aids?
No. Medicare does not cover the cost of any brand of hearing aid.
Is Eargo worth the money?
Eargo hearing aids are suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. Those with more severe hearing loss may not find Eargo hearing aids suitable. Eargo hearing aids are also more affordable than many other brands, making them a suitable choice for a wider range of people.
Is Eargo an amplifier or a hearing aid?
Eargo devices are hearing aids. A hearing aid will amplify specific frequencies to compensate for frequencies a person cannot hear well due to hearing loss. They will also often use algorithms to amplify certain frequencies or volumes of sound based on a person’s environment. An amplifier will amplify sound across all frequencies equally.
Summary
Eargo offers three different models of hearing aid that vary in price and specification. A person considering a hearing aid may benefit from researching all their options before committing to a specific model.
Eargo also provides free nonworking sample hearing aids upon request for people to test the fit and design. The 45-day return policy allows customers to return hearing aids for a full refund if they are unsuitable.
However, Eargo hearing aids are more expensive than many similar competitors. The company accepts a range of insurance plans, including federal employee plans, and has various financing plans available.
Please note: Medical News Today does not imply warranty of fitness for a particular purpose or endorse any of the mobile applications in this article. Nobody at MNT has evaluated these apps for medical accuracy. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved them unless otherwise indicated.