Why You Can Trust Our Expert Review
Our experts independently research and recommend products we believe provide value in the lives of our readers. We’ve spent collectively more than 5,000 hours conducting in-depth research on hearing aids. Throughout this process, we did the following:
- Engaged in ongoing independent research
- Consulted with independent audiologists
- Consulted with geriatric care experts
- Mystery shopped the brands
- Surveyed hundreds of hearing aid users
- Tested various models of hearing aids
- Interviewed experts in the field
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews from trusted third parties such as Better Business Bureau and Consumer Reports
Why Phonak Is One of Our Top Picks
Phonak is one of our top hearing aid picks because they offer a wide range of customizable options with advanced technology features suited for many different types of users. Not only is Phonak one of the oldest and best-known names in the industry, they have also developed some important hearing aid technologies. We like that they offer behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-the-canal (RIC), and in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid models with four different performance levels to meet different hearing loss needs.Many Phonak hearing aids are also Bluetooth compatible, allowing users to connect their hearing aids to devices including smartphones, televisions, speaker systems, and more. This also allows users to manage and adjust their Bluetooth-compatible hearing aids using the myPhonak app. We especially like the various technology features that help improve hearing in noisy settings, like crowded restaurants or busy streets.Finally, Phonak provides customers with a great variety of style and design options to choose from. This allows the wearer to find a hearing aid that can both help improve hearing, but also fits their comfort and style needs. We like brands that give customers more say in the look, feel, and functionality of their hearing aids.
Pros and Cons of Phonak Hearing Aids
Pros
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Wide range of behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-the-canal (RIC), and in-the-ear (ITE) models
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Leading hearing device manufacturer with more than 70 years of experience
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Almost all Phonak hearing aids can connect to Bluetooth-enabled devices
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Many designs accommodate challenging noise environments like schools and offices
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Long-lasting batteries and extended wear options
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The Phonak Lyric is the only hearing aid that is 100 percent invisible when worn
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Lyric includes a 30-day trial
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Advanced technology like telecoils, noise cancellation, speech enhancers, and tinnitus treatment help to balance sound and speech
Cons
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Prices are not featured on website and vary widely by distributors
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Expensive when compared to competitors
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Purchase requires professional consultation
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One-year limited warranty
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Mix of good and bad customer reviews