Behind-the-ear (BTE)

For hearing losses ranging from mild to profound degree

The components are housed in a slim case that sits over the outer ear; the case is connected to an earmold that ends the sound from the hearing aid to the ear canal.

Specially suited for high-frequency hearing loss because it enables the selective amplification of high-toned sounds without occluding the ear canal and causing a feeling of “echo.” It also creates distance between the receiver and the sound delivery piece (earmold) allowing for a boost in the loudness of the high tones without feedback (whistling or ringing sound produced when you approximate your hand or other object over the microphone of a hearing aid).

The controls, batteries and battery drawer are easier to see, manipulate and clean.

In-the-ear (ITE)

For hearing losses ranging from mild to severe degree

All components are housed in a shell that sits in the outer ear extending into the ear canal by several millimeters.

It is best suited for flat or gently sloping hearing loss.

Easier to insert and manipulate for elderly patients whose ear canals have not collapsed or do not produce excessive cerumen as the receiver might be easily plugged.

In-the-canal (ITC)

For mild to moderately severe hearing loss

All components are housed in a shell that sits in the ear canal and part of the ear opening.

More cosmetic than an ITE; however, might be difficult to operate for patients with poor vision and dexterity problems since all the controls and the batteries and battery door are substantially smaller.

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)

For mild to moderate hearing loss

All components are housed in a very small shell that sits entirely in the ear canal and has a plastic filament to remove the aid from the ear; requires a fairly straight and open (not collapsed) ear canal.

Does not have any user controls because of space limitations.

Very cosmetic and functional, as long as you can accept limitations dictated by size.