RIC vs. BTE Hearing Aids: Which is Right for You?

Choosing the right hearing aid can greatly improve life for people with hearing problems. Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) hearing aids are good for mild to severe hearing loss and are discreet because the receiver sits inside the ear canal. Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are  preferred for more severe to profound hearing loss and are known for their strong amplification and durability.  Learn about them so you can make an informed decision. Here are some important distinctions between the two categories.

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids

A RIC hearing aid device consists of two parts: a compact component that is positioned behind the ear and a slender wire or receiver that extends into the ear canal. 

Advantages of RIC Hearing Aids

• Sleek Design:  RIC hearing aids are praised for their delicate and almost undetectable design
  by people who value discretion. The behind-the-ear component is small and elegant. You may wear the gadget with confidence and without attracting attention since the small cable connecting the device to the ear canal is discreet. They guarantee both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
• Enhanced Sound Quality: By positioning the receiver in the ear canal, sound may be transmitted in closer proximity to the eardrum, resulting in a more authentic sound. This configuration enhances the auditory perception by delivering sound to the ear in a manner that closely resembles the normal hearing process, resulting in a more authentic listening experience.
• Comfortable Fit: The RIC  hearing aids are small and light, and they are meant to be easy to wear for long amounts of time. Its simple form means that they won't be difficult to wear or make you feel uncomfortable. As they are so light, you can wear them all day without any pain.
• Reduced Stuffiness: RIC hearing aids are more comfortable because they let more air flow through the ear canal because they are open-fit. This style helps lessen the plugging or blockage feeling that some other types of hearing aids can cause. By letting more air flow through the ear, this hearing aid keeps the ear from feeling full or blocked, which can make wearing them more natural and relaxing. Better airflow also keeps wetness from building up and lowers the risk of ear infections, which is good for the health and comfort of your ears generally.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

BTE hearing aid devices consist of a case that rests behind the ear, connected to a custom earmould or dome that fits inside the ear canal. The sound is magnified and sent via the ear mould or dome to the ear.

Advantages of BTE Hearing Aids

• Powerful Sound: By using bigger batteries and more powerful amplification components, the design of BTE hearing aids enables them to produce loud sound levels. People who suffer from severe to profound hearing loss might benefit greatly from this since the enhanced amplification allows them to hear sounds with greater clarity and precision. If you need more powerful auditory assistance, a BTE hearing aid is a great option because of its capacity to generate louder sounds.
• Ease of Handling: It's easier to use and clean BTE hearing aids because they are bigger. More people should be able to use these hearing aids, especially people who want a less sensitive device. Now that the parts are bigger and easier to hold and adjust, it's much easier to change the batteries or clean them. This ease of use could be very helpful for people who want a reliable and low-maintenance hearing aid.
• Customizable: BTE hearing aids provide adjustable earmolds that guarantee a pleasant and snug fit. These ear moulds may be custom-moulded to precisely fit the unique shape of each individual's ear.

Which Type is Better?

Choosing the type of hearing aid is based on various factors like level of hearing loss, lifestyle, budget, etc. Consulting an audiologist solves this issue, as they would thoroughly test your hearing levels and preferences. Once it is done, you will have a clear idea of the type of hearing aid you need. 

Conclusion

The best type of hearing aid for you will depend on your personal preferences, level of hearing loss, needs, and way of life. With RIC hearing aids, you might be able to get privacy as they are invisible and also have great sound. BTE hearing aids will be great for you if you value longevity and long hours of power. See an expert audiologist, because they can help you choose the best hearing aid for your needs.