The best hearing aids can't be the same for everyone.
The hearing aid that is right for you will depend on a lot of factors, one of the main ones being the severity of your hearing loss.
The best hearing aid for a severe hearing loss will be very different from the best hearing aid for someone with a mild hearing loss, or even someone with a moderate hearing loss.
We are going to break down which hearing aids are the best for severe hearing loss for adults, why we believe they are the best, and some other things you should take into consideration if you have a severe hearing loss.
If there is a specific topic you'd like to read more about, use the Table of Contents below to skip to that section.
Contents
- What is severe hearing loss?
- Top 5 hearing aids for severe hearing loss
- Less-expensive treatment options
- Things to consider before purchasing
Number 1 Hearing Aid: Phonak Naida B
Our top pick for the best hearing aid for severe hearing loss is the Phonak Naida B.
We picked the Phonak Naida B as the best hearing aid for severe hearing loss for several reasons:
- There are three style options to choose from; a RIC, BTE SP (Superpower), and BTE UP (Ultrapower) so the fitting range will be sure to provide an adequate amount of gain for a severe hearing loss.
- It includes several automatic and manual programs to accommodate changing environments, with a focus on improving speech intelligibility in noise.
- There is a DuoPhone feature for landline phone use which allows the wearer to hear the phone conversation in both ears simultaneously.
- It has a telecoil and an FM System (Roger) can be easily integrated with the hearing aid for more support in background noise or classroom/lecture situations, church etc.
- It is also compatible with Phonak's bluetooth accessories for smartphone streaming.
- It has an IP68 rating which means it is water and dust resistant for good reliability/durability.
The Phonak Naida B device is made specifically for a severe or profound hearing loss. It takes into account all the hearing needs that a person with severe hearing loss would have, including adequate amplification, clear sound quality, reliability and compatibility, and does an excellent job.
Number 2 Hearing Aid: Oticon Opn Power
Our runner-up for the best hearing aid for severe hearing loss is the Oticon Opn.
The Oticon Opn has recently expanded to include two new style options; a Plus Power BTE and a miniRITE-T with power receiver. With these two additions, the Opn has made it to the top of our list for severe hearing loss. Here's why:
- The two style options (Plus Power BTE and miniRITE-T) are discreet but functional, and provide adequate amplification for those with severe hearing loss
- With a custom earmold on either style, there is little risk of feedback
- It is on Oticon's latest Velox platform which includes a natural 360 degree listening experience and very effective noise reduction
- It has a telecoil and is compatible with a bluetooth TV adapter to improve TV listening
- It is also a Made for iPhone hearing aid for streaming audio directly from iPhone, iPad, etc.
- It has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance
It should be noted that the Opn in the Plus Power BTE and miniRITE-T models are brand new products as of June 2017. Based on the Opn product, which launched in May 2016, we anticipate the addition of these new styles to be a great solution for people with severe hearing loss, but will continue to monitor this product for updates.
What is severe hearing loss?
A severe hearing loss describes the severity, or level, of your hearing loss. With a severe hearing loss the person has difficulty hearing most environmental sounds and normal conversational speech levels. We classify a severe hearing loss as having hearing thresholds in the 71 to 90 decibel range.
In most cases, hearing aids are the recommended treatment method for a severe hearing loss, although in some cases a cochlear implant may be recommended.
Additional assistive listening devices such as FM systems may also be recommended in conjunction with a severe hearing loss if hearing aids are not enough to overcome their hearing difficulties, particularly in background noise.
What makes a good hearing aid for severe hearing loss?
People with severe hearing loss need a hearing aid that will provide them with good audibility, but also a clear sound quality and aggressive noise reduction features to assist in noisy environments without making them feel like the sound is “closing down” around them.
They will also want to take into consideration what kinds of additional assistive listening devices are compatible with their hearing aid, such as a telecoil, phone compatibility, remote mic, or FM System, for additional assistance in challenging environments such as hearing on the phone, in restaurants, church, classroom or lecture-type setting, or in the car.
Finally, because people with severe hearing loss will be relying on their hearing aids every day all day, comfort and reliability should be taken into consideration as measured by the design and IP rating.
Top 5 hearing aids for severe hearing loss
Here is a list of all our top picks for the best hearing aids for severe hearing loss.
1. Phonak Naida B
Overall Rating
Summary:
- Performance levels - B90, B70, B50, B30
- Style - Available in BTE ultrapower for profound loss, also available in RIC and BTE superpower (SP)
- Battery - Disposable, 312 or 675
- IP Rating - IP68
- Telecoil - Yes, in all performance levels
- FM compatibility - Yes, Remote mic accessory available in all performance levels
- Standard phone compatibility - Duophone feature available in B90, B70, and B50
- Wireless compatibility "Smart" technology - TV, standard phone, and smartphone streaming available with adapter
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2. Oticon Opn Power
Overall Rating
Features:
- Performance levels - Opn1, Opn2, Opn3
- Size - Available in a RIC or BTE model
- Battery - Disposable, Size 312 (RIC) or 13 (BTE)
- IP Rating - IP68
- Telecoil - Yes, in all performance levels
- FM Compatibility - No
- Standard Phone compatibility - Auto-phone feature available in all performance levels
- Wireless compatibility "Smart" technology - TV streaming available with adapter, Made for iPhone, internet-connected
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3. ReSound ENZO2
Overall Rating
Features:
- Performance levels – 9, 7, 5
- Size – Available in a BTE model
- Battery – Disposable, Size 13 or 675
- IP Rating – Not rated
- Telecoil – Yes, in all performance levels
- FM Compatibility – Yes, Remote mic accessory also available in all performance levels
- Standard Phone compatibility – PhoneNow feature available in all performance levels
- Wireless compatibility “Smart” technology – TV and android streaming available with adapter, Made for iPhone
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4. Widex Unique Fashion Power
Overall Rating
Features:
- Performance levels – 440, 330, 220, 110
- Size – Available in a BTE model (Fashion) and RIC model (Fusion)
- Battery – Disposable, Size 312 (RIC) or 13 (BTE)
- IP Rating – IP58
- Telecoil – Yes, in all performance levels
- FM Compatibility – Remote mic accessory available in all performance levels
- Standard Phone compatibility – Phone accessories available for all performance levels
- Wireless compatibility “Smart” technology – TV, standard phone, and smartphone streaming available with adapter
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5. Unitron Max
Overall Rating
Features:
- Performance levels - 20, 6, E
- Size - Available in a BTE model
- Battery - Disposable, Size 312 or 13
- IP Rating - IP57
- Telecoil - Yes, in all performance levels
- FM Compatibility - Yes in 20 and 6 levels, Remote mic accessory also available in 20 and 6 performance levels
- Standard Phone compatibility - Binaural phone feature available for all performance levels
- Wireless compatibility "Smart" technology - TV, standard phone, and smartphone streaming available with adapter in 20 and 6 performance levels
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Book your free hearing consultation today
Speak to a qualified hearing specialist and discuss hearing aid options tailored specifically for you. We recommend that you get professional advice before considering one of the hearing aids listed below.
Some less-expensive options for treating severe hearing loss
When a cochlear implant is not indicated, digital wireless hearing aids are the best option for treating severe hearing loss.
When it comes to the options listed above, the prices can range anywhere from $500 up to $3500 for one hearing aid, depending on the performance level you choose and what types of professional services are included in the cost. However, we understand that in some cases, the need for a less expensive option is necessary.
Our budget pick: Williams Sound PockeTalker
View the PockeTalker on Amazon
Some things to consider however when buying a hearing aid for severe hearing loss
When it comes to hearing aids…you get what you pay for.
In other words, there are several different performance levels available in each of the models listed in the chart above.
The quality of sound, particularly in background noise, is going to be better in a higher performance level product, which also means a higher price tag. It is important to balance your budget and your hearing needs to find the best solution for you.
A custom earmold is usually necessary when it comes to fitting a severe hearing loss with either a BTE or RIC hearing aid. This will help to maximize audibility of speech without feedback occurring. Be sure to talk to your hearing healthcare professional about having a custom earmold made for your ear to obtain the best fit possible.
You may need to consider adding additional accessories, such as an FM system or remote mic option, to help in environments with a lot of background noise.
Summary
You've got a solid amount of options if you're looking for a hearing aid to accommodate severe hearing loss. The votes seem to indicate that the Oticon OPN Power is the best bet, but all other hearing aids listed here would serve you well. If you're still unsure, talking to a hearing specialist is the best way to find the best hearing aid for you.
Talk to your hearing healthcare professional about your speech discrimination abilities and what you can expect with your hearing aids. To find trusted hearing centres in your area, you can use our free online tool. If you have questions, please leave a comment below.
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It’s really great that you talked about the decibel range that we need to pay attention to in order to diagnose severe hearing loss. My son hasn’t been able to hear us lately and I am really worried about his ears. I’ll try to take him to a hearing test soon so that we can find some hearing aids that will help him.
Do you have a suggestion for a hearing aid for my 87 year old mother with profound hearing loss. Bought her a resound high end 8 years ago and nothing but one problem after another. Returned to respond 5 times and no improvement, just a $200 Bill each time. Live in a rural area of Virginia and the hearing aid dealer has no interest in addressing problems , only interested in making a dollar $$$$ ! Thanks for your help!
Be sure to check out our list of hearing aids for a profound hearing loss: https://www.clearliving.com/hearing/hearing-aids/best-for-profound-loss/
Naida marvel…when this hearing aids are coming?
Good question. We hope to have an answer for you soon!
Naida marvel…when is it coming?
Good question. We hope to have an answer for you soon!
I have severe hearing loss and used resound enzo 7s for at least 3 to 4 years they are no good for noisy enviroments or listening to any one who talks ĺow or television. Ive tried their new quatro 3d range but found them no better than my enzo 7s, could you please advise me on a make that would hopefully help me in these situations ie noisy background , low speaking person i can hear voice but not words and television please can help make my social life better.
You should check out the new Phonak Marvel or Oticon Opn S devices with their TV adaptor/connector.
My grandson has severe hearing loss since birth. He’s now attending college online would like to attend in a class setting. Problem he’s now over 18yrs. His insurance only covers earing test, he no longer qualifies for free hearing aids. Is there any funding available for those who can’t afford to pay for them.
You should look into Vocational Rehabilitation in your county as they may provide funding for hearing aids so he can attend college classes.
Hi folks at Clear Living,
I have severe hearing loss in both ears, currently wear ReSound Cala 8 from Costco, and the aids are no longer sufficient. An audiologist recently told me these aids are not powerful enough for my needs and recommended Oticon. Is it true that these aids are insufficient for severe hearing loss? Can I increase their effectiveness by getting a custom mold installed (I doubt this will be possible because they have an in-the-ear receiver)?
Also, what is your opinion on buying hearing aids from Costco?
Thank you so much!
Hi Wendy,
It may be true that your ReSound aids are not powerful enough for your severe hearing loss depending on the speaker strength. You could find out whether Costco is able to increase the speaker strength on them, as well as a custom mold. However, if your hearing aids are over 5 years old it will be much more beneficial if you consider new ones.
We recommend getting hearing aids from a local Audiologists versus purchasing them from a big box store like Costco. The personalized service provided and specialized fitting at your Audiologist’s office can make all the difference for how well you hear with your hearing aids.
Hi…I have very severe hearing loss in both ears. Left ear from birth, right ear at age 21/22. …Menieres. I tried Phonak and Resound this time. Neitger worked. I’m going to buy Oticon OPNS. I could hear a huge difference immediately. I was also offered the hearing test at MEDITONE HEDIM in Rehovot. I will probably buy them…I have tried two others. Unfortunately there is absolutely no reduction on price on any private aid. From age 65 i will have. I must wait five years. I would actuallyrecommend their aids especially since they check ears with their computer.
Unfortunately the battery works for60 hiur only
I have two Phonak hearing aids for my ears. I only get little hearing from them. I have severe hearing the the cochlear operation was suggested to me. Is there a better hearing aid that would help get better sound versa the surgery.
Hi Faith
It depends on the age and power level of your current hearing aids, as well as the severity of your speech discrimination ability. You can go through a trial with different hearing aids before considering the cochlear implant.
Hello,
I’m using a pair of Widex U-FS 440 HAs. Purchases 18 months ago. Using HS for the last 10 years. I have been recommended the Circa AI for severe hearing loss. Viewing this web page, I’m wondering, since this page states that the HAs review was updated last March, that since then you have any information on the aforementioned brand. Furthermore, do you know if within the Widex line-up, my current model can be updated?
Thank you in advance for your help!
Hi Ike,
Typically for a severe hearing loss we recommend a RIC or BTE style hearing aid. The Circa Ai is a new NuEar RIC or BTE hearing aid. They are made by Starkey. The focus of this hearing aid is on connectivity functions to bluetooth devices, so if that is a priority for you then it may be a good option. However, if you are looking at the best sound quality for severe loss with connectivity as well, I would consider the new Phonak Marvel RIC device. When it comes to a Widex hearing aid, the BEYOND are EVOKE are their new models, but neither come in HS styles at this time.
I am completely deaf without hearing aids. Currently the ones I am using are ReSound Silhouette BTE. They are 10 years old
and I now don’t hear well with them. My problem is that I can hear most of the time high tones and not low tones very well.
I need I think a very strong hearing aid. The audiology center I go to only works with Phonak. What would be the top of the line
hearing aids from that company and what would be the cost for two?
The top of the line Phonak aids for a severe loss would be the Naida B90.
I’ve had the same Widex hearing aids for 15 years, though they only promised 7 when I bought them. Repaired twice during that time. My first pair were Starkey ( lasted 7 years) “in the canal “hearing aids which worked well but did not have sound suppression. I had to take them out when I went into a restaurant. Once I got the Widex, still in the ear but not in the canal, I had directional hearing, sound suppression of background noise, and a wonderful , life-changing, experience. I’m sure there is newer technology, but I find it hard to see how they could be better. I’d have a hard time living without them.
That is a long time to have a pair of hearing aids, you must take very good care of them! The benefit of a new pair for you would be better/more natural sound quality in noisy environments as well as wireless/bluetooth functionality.
Recently suffered hearing loss on pistol range (30 minutes – Had ear plugs – open air range)
Loss in both ears 68 left 70 right severe, right? I have some hearing very close, but 5 ft away only static or mumbo jumbo sounds, unintelligible. I am being told hearing aids do not help severe cases of hearing loss. I am on a prednisone regimen
60 mg daily – no change. Next thing, per ear doctor, is hyperbaric oxygen chamber (Medicare does not cover – BCBS Fed Employee debating over next 5 to 14 days whether they will. Too expensive for me out of pocket when maybe not work.
Tell me if what I am hearing about hearing aids and severe hearing loss is correct or not. Just wanting to work part time answering phone in funeral home, hearing normal conversation in a room with 5 or 6 other people, or just watching a
tv program about 6 or 8 ft. away Thank you in advance for your input. Have to make a decision soon.
Hi Jack. What you are describing is a decline in your speech discrimination abilities. When you have a sudden loss, poor speech discrimination can be a result. Unfortunately hearing aids will not correct your speech discrimination abilities, they will make sounds easier to hear, but not necessarily clearer. I would follow your doctors recommendations. Hope that helps.
please advise about hearing aid in2018 for profound hearing loss. also if programmable analogue aid is available . thanking you
Programming of naidav-up for profound loss by NAL-R if possible.I am on trial for naida , however the male sound is garbled and poor discrimination .
Have been using Phonak for 3 years.
I have problem with high frequency.
Have not found Phonak to be much help in hearing conversation or music. Have revisted audiologist and I think they did their best.
I feel the hardware/product is not up to par
Would appreciate any comments that may help me locate alternative suppliers
Thanks
My child age 14 years 130dpe 100dbhl hearing levele worse then 30db bilaterally super power hearing aid with tone contorler lost price best hearing aid payment in cash or cheque
I have almost severe hearing lost in my left ear which was caused by two times ear drum operations in 1986. Doctor provided a fake ear drum for my left ear. Therefore I lost a good amount of hearing and I end up having “Tinnitus” (ringing) in my left ear since my operation of 1986. I need to get an hearing aide for my left ear which possibly could also help to reduce my tinnitus noise. I never purchased a hearing aide since I tried to use my right ear for telephone and TV and basically for all hearing purposes for last 30 years. But, it is getting harder to hear specially when someone is on left side, in the theaters and I also have to turn my TV so high in order to understand the words.
Is there any company that makes a type that could assist and work with tinnitus also? The “Ear -Miracle” local branch office in San Francisco area told me their top of the line type (about $5,800.0 for my left ear, one chargeable type and no battery) will help my tinnitus and be a good solution for my left ear. I am not sure if I did believe him and could trust any local sales person which is probably paid based on commission. Could you please provide some information and also suggest which brand and type would work for my left ear case. My right ear hearing is okay for a 65 year old man. FYI, my 2014 doctor chart shows about 40 db from 250 to about 2000 and then drops to 90 to 110 db between 4000 to 8000. I would greatly appreciate your response.
I can’t fathom why you didn’t include Signia/Siemens in your selection of the top 5. They produce several outstanding models for profound hearing loss.
hello,
Gone through your page on the best sp hearing aids ,but there are no prices
to the products,i am interested in purchasing the sp hear aid for my son who
has severe hearing loss ,please let me have an idea of the prices
We do not publish prices because we do not sell these hearing aids. Hearing aids are required to be fit by a local hearing healthcare provider. You cannot legally get them online.
why do my resound linx3d 9 rie have static and whisal I use the I phone 8 with them
I am looking for high powered hearing aid for my brother…He was treated for MDR TB and he lost his hearing and it is severe.
I like your point that you get what you pay for when looking for hearing aids. My father is losing his hearing and it’s time that we look into hearing aids. I’m trying to save money so that he can afford some good ones.
That’s a great idea. Not everyone needs the best of the best BUT the better technology is going to mean better hearing and are worth the extra money!
Hello,
I have severely profound hearing loss range 80-95DB.
Before I spend $5,900 on 2 BTE Trust 9 brand hearing aids through Beltone I want to be sure I’m not getting ripped off.
The aids I’m about to purchase offer bluetooth features and have a nanotec protective coating along with automatic volume adjusting. I will also be able to adjust sound through my phone if needed. Lifetime customer service, 3 yr warranty and 3 yr supply of batteries because I guess I’m unable to get the rechargeable hearing aids.
I noticed your aides when doing research and would love to get more information.
Are your brands water resisitant and adaptable to Android cell phones?
I am interested in the 360° and water proof features … I’m extremely uncomfortable in group conversations and I like to exercise with my hearing aids so those features sound like it would help me and make me a happier person.
Please call Steve (my boyfriend) (phone number removed)
So we can talk a bit more about this.
Respectfully,
Vicky Dreuth
We don’t have much experience with Beltone products so we are unable to comment on whether this particular device is the best for you. Any of the devices on this list will fit your needs.
Vicky,
Beltone is the retail arm of GN Resound. Essentially the hearing aids Beltone sells are using the same\similar technology as GN Resound. I currently use GN Resound Enzo2 hearing aids and so far are the best hearing aids I have used thus far. I recommend finding an audiologist that isn’t loyal to only 1 or 2 brands to get a better idea of what your options are.
This website provides more information about Beltone.
https://www.healthyhearing.com/beltone-hearing-aids
I think yr getting ripped off beltone is really resound go to zip website get lower prices and an audiologist near to do fittings near you to do the fittings
which brand is the best for severe high pitch hearing liss? I tried one pair in 2012 with not satisfied result too much noicy coing into ears still cannot heat clearly such as t s p. Any techolgy improved in recent years? Thanks.
Starkey offers a RIC device for severe hearing loss. It costs less than my current Phonak Audeo Smart aids but with my hearing loss changing from moderate to severe I need to upgrade. What if anything is known about Starkey? A local place pushes this brand.
Hi Allison,
Starkey is one of the top hearing aid brands so I would recommend giving it a try for your severe hearing loss. Your local clinic should offer a trial with the hearing aids to make sure they work well for you. As an experienced hearing aid user you will be able to tell pretty quickly whether it is going to be a good model for you.
Here are my comments posted on Starkey’s site: Is Starkey drunk? How could they charge a premium price for hearing aids that consistently fail to remain paired, or can’t be found by their janky app, and oftentimes, when I get a phone call in a noisy environment, these Stupid Starkeys think I want to have the outside noise amplified to painful levels and then I can’t hear my call in my aids. Only a drunk could make something this useless and then do little of nothing about it. They just don’t care.