Choosing a hearing aid can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This guide explains the main types of hearing aids, who each one suits best, and why getting a proper audiometric fitting — rather than buying off the shelf — is essential.
Why Hearing Aid Type Matters
Hearing aids are not one-size-fits-all devices. The right type depends on your degree of hearing loss, the shape of your ear canal, your lifestyle, dexterity, budget, and cosmetic preference. An audiologist will match you with the best option after reviewing your audiogram.
⚠ Never Buy a Hearing Aid Without an Audiogram
A hearing aid fitted without a proper hearing test is like wearing someone else's glasses. It can damage your remaining hearing and wastes money. Always get a full audiological assessment first.
Type 1 — BTE (Behind-the-Ear)
The most common and versatile type. The hearing aid sits behind the ear and connects to a custom ear mould inside the ear canal via a thin tube.
Best for: All degrees of hearing loss, children (ear moulds are replaced as they grow), first-time users, elderly patients.
Advantages: Durable, easy to handle, suitable for severe/profound loss, rechargeable options available.
Brands available: Signia, Phonak, Widex, GN ReSound, Unitron
Type 2 — RIC / RITE (Receiver-in-Canal / Receiver-in-the-Ear)
A slimmer, more discreet version of BTE. The receiver (speaker) sits inside the ear canal rather than behind the ear, connected by a thin wire. Nearly invisible when worn.
Best for: Mild to moderately severe hearing loss, adults who want a discreet device, those active in social situations.
Advantages: Excellent sound quality, natural sound, very discreet, Bluetooth connectivity in premium models.
Type 3 — ITE (In-the-Ear)
Custom-made to fit entirely within the outer ear. Made from a mould of your ear canal.
Best for: Mild to severe hearing loss, adults who find BTE devices difficult to handle.
Advantages: No external components, cosmetically preferred by some patients.
Disadvantages: More susceptible to moisture and earwax; not suitable for children as the ear is still growing.
Type 4 — ITC and CIC (In-the-Canal / Completely-in-Canal)
Very small devices that sit deep in the ear canal. Nearly invisible.
Best for: Mild to moderate hearing loss in adults with a suitable ear canal shape.
Limitations: Small battery (shorter life), less power, can be difficult to handle for patients with dexterity issues.
🔌 Brands Available at MMM Hearing Centre
We carry all major international hearing aid brands including Signia, Phonak, Widex, and GN ReSound — available at dealer price. All devices are programmed using professional fitting software to match your specific audiogram.
Analogue vs Digital Hearing Aids
Analogue aids (older technology) simply amplify all sounds equally. They are cheaper but provide a poor listening experience in noisy environments.
Digital aids (what we fit at MMM) use advanced signal processing to separate speech from background noise, reduce feedback (whistling), and automatically adjust to different environments. They can also be connected to phones and TVs via Bluetooth in premium models.
We recommend digital hearing aids for all patients — the improvement in quality of life is significant.
How Hearing Aids Are Fitted at MMM Hearing Centre
- Full audiometric evaluation to determine your hearing profile
- Selection of the most suitable type and model based on your audiogram and lifestyle
- Ear impression taken (for custom moulds)
- Device programmed using Real Ear Measurement or manufacturer fitting software
- Patient counselling — how to wear, clean, and maintain the device
- Follow-up appointment at 2–4 weeks for fine-tuning
Get Fitted for a Hearing Aid in Bijnor
Dr. Shehroz Majid will recommend the right device based on your hearing test. All brands available at dealer pricing.