This is actually a multi-faceted question! At its most basic, the answer could be “yes,” because — from a manufacturing standpoint — hearing aids all require the same parts: a microphone, an amplifier, a receiver (or speaker) and a battery source. And, from a functional standpoint, all hearing aids should amplify sounds, just as all cars should get you from Point A to Point B.

However, if we take a closer look at the hearing aid technology that is available to us today, the answer isn’t quite so simple.

Hearing aids have different features and technologies

First, there are many different technologies and features that are available within today’s hearing instruments. There are memories, channels, bands, wireless, wired, remotes, accessories, and more. Because these options are intricate and confusing to many, it is strongly recommended that one seeks out a reputable hearing healthcare professional to guide them through the process.

Hearing aids come in different styles

Second, there are several styles of hearing instruments available. They range from behind-the-ear hearing instruments to the very smallest invisible-in-the-canal hearing instruments. Again, a hearing healthcare professional will make a recommendation of which style of hearing instrument is the best option for one’s type and severity of hearing loss.

The company that makes the hearing aid also makes a difference

Finally, there are several manufacturers of hearing instruments. Each of these manufacturers make reliable, quality products. And they all offer (mostly) the same styles. But each manufacturer also specializes in, excels at or is known for certain things.

To go back to the automobile analogy: sure, companies like Ford, Toyota and Volkswagen all make sedans, minivans and SUVs that get you from A to B — but think why you ultimately choose one over the other?

Starkey Hearing Technologies is known for quality, simplicity and reliability

Starkey Hearing Technologies has differentiated their hearing aids from the others with features like exceptional sound quality, industry-best feedback cancellation, easy and robust wireless connectivity, a proprietary music setting, custom hearing aid expertise, and the industry’s best network of hearing healthcare professionals, just to name a few.   

So, as you can see, there is not one single answer to the question of “Aren’t all hearing instruments the same?” The best hearing aids will be the hearing aids that are appropriate for the user’s hearing loss and have the features and technology that will best benefit the user’s lifestyle.

This blog was originally written by Amanda Edwards, Au.D., and published on www.starkey.com.