Types of Hearing Aids: What’s the Difference? | Wigan Hearing
Types of Hearing Aids Available in Wigan
At Wigan Hearing, we often get asked about the different types of hearing aids in Wigan and which style is best. The answer depends on your lifestyle, your level of hearing loss, and your personal preferences. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the main hearing aid types – from discreet invisible options to powerful behind-the-ear models – so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
When it comes to hearing aids, there’s no such thing as “one size fits all.” The best option depends on your hearing loss, lifestyle, and preferences. At Wigan Hearing, we often get asked: “What are the different types of hearing aids, and which one is right for me?”
This guide explains the main hearing aid styles, their pros and cons, and how we help you choose the right one in Wigan.
The Main Types of Hearing Aids
Modern hearing aids come in several designs, but the three most common are:
1. Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
BTE hearing aids sit comfortably behind the ear with a slim tube or custom earmould delivering sound into the ear canal.
✅ Pros: Powerful amplification, reliable, suitable for all levels of hearing loss.
❌ Cons: Slightly larger and more visible.
Best for: Mild to profound hearing loss, patients who want durability and easy handling.
2. In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
ITE aids are custom-moulded to fit inside the ear. They are smaller than BTEs but still powerful.
✅ Pros: Discreet, comfortable fit, easier to use than very small models.
❌ Cons: Smaller battery, less powerful than BTEs.
Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss, patients who value comfort and aesthetics.
3. Completely-in-Canal (CIC) & Invisible Hearing Aids
These sit deep inside the ear canal and are barely noticeable.
✅ Pros: Extremely discreet, almost invisible.
❌ Cons: Smaller size makes handling tricky; shorter battery life.
Best for: Mild hearing loss and those who want an “invisible” option.
Comparison Table: Hearing Aid Styles
| Style | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behind-the-Ear (BTE) | Powerful, durable, easy to adjust | More visible | All types of hearing loss |
| In-the-Ear (ITE) | Comfortable, discreet, custom fit | Smaller battery, less power | Mild–moderate loss |
| Invisible / CIC | Almost invisible, very discreet | Short battery life, fiddly | Cosmetic preference, mild loss |
How to Choose the Right Hearing Aid in Wigan
The “best” hearing aid isn’t always the smallest or the most powerful — it’s the one that matches your hearing needs, lifestyle, and comfort.
When you visit Wigan Hearing, we guide you through:
✅ Your level of hearing loss (measured with speech audiometry, tympanometry, and diagnostic tests).
✅ Cosmetic preferences (discreet vs practical designs).
✅ Lifestyle needs (Bluetooth streaming, rechargeable options, noise management).
✅ Ease of use (especially if dexterity or vision is limited).
Our HCPC-registered audiologists make sure you understand every option before making a choice.
Why Choose Wigan Hearing for Hearing Aids?
Unlike high street chains, we’re an independent, family-run clinic in Standish. That means:
No sales targets or manufacturer bias — we recommend what’s right for you.
Access to all major brands including Phonak, Oticon, Widex, Bernafon, Starkey & Unitron.
Advanced testing others don’t offer locally: 3D ear scanning, speech audiometry, tympanometry & acoustic reflex testing.
Ongoing aftercare and fine-tuning to make sure your hearing aids always perform at their best.
FAQs About Hearing Aid Types
Q: What are the main types of hearing aids?
A: The three main styles are Behind-the-Ear (BTE), In-the-Ear (ITE), and Invisible/CIC devices.
Q: Which hearing aid is most discreet?
A: Invisible/CIC hearing aids are the most discreet, as they sit deep in the ear canal.
Q: Do all hearing aids work the same way?
A: All hearing aids amplify sound, but their design, features, and comfort vary. Choosing the right one depends on your hearing test results and lifestyle.
Q: Can I try different hearing aids before choosing?
A: Yes. At Wigan Hearing, we let you compare different models so you can make an informed decision.
Book a Hearing Aid Consultation in Wigan
Ready to explore the best types of hearing aids for you? At Wigan Hearing, we provide expert advice, advanced diagnostic testing, and personalised fittings — all from our trusted family-run clinic in Standish.
👉 Book your consultation today or call 01257 444 044.
