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    OTC Hearing Aids

    No prescription. Big change since 2022.

    Apple AirPods Pro 2

    $249

    iOS 18+ FDA-cleared as hearing aid. Already-own option for iPhone users.

    Best secret weapon.

    Sony CRE-C20

    $1,000

    Self-fitting. Sony quality. App control.

    Best premium OTC.

    Lexie B2 Powered by Bose

    $999

    Sold at Walgreens. Self-fit. Bose audio quality.

    Best in-store.

    Jabra Enhance Plus

    $1,000-2,000

    Customer-favorite. Online hearing test + self-fit.

    Best customer satisfaction.

    Eargo 7

    $2,950

    Invisible in-canal. App-controlled. Strong support.

    Best invisible.

    Audien Atom Pro 2

    $249

    Cheapest decent OTC. Basic but workable.

    Best budget.

    Apple AirPods as hearing aid

    • iOS 18+ — AirPods Pro 2 are FDA-cleared as OTC hearing aids.
    • Take iPhone hearing test (10 min) → AirPods adjust to your hearing.
    • Look like normal earbuds — no stigma.
    • Cost $249 (vs $4,000+ prescription).
    • Best for mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
    • Setting: Settings → Accessibility → Hearing Devices.

    When to see audiologist instead

    • Severe hearing loss (test before).
    • One ear much worse than other.
    • Sudden hearing loss — go to ER same-day (treatable).
    • Tinnitus / ringing.
    • Ear pain or drainage.
    • Dizziness with hearing loss.
    • Hearing loss after head injury.

    Free hearing tests

    • Costco Hearing Center — FREE for members. Best deal.
    • Sam's Club Hearing Center — FREE for members.
    • VA — free for veterans.
    • Mimi Hearing Test app — free home test on iPhone.
    • Local audiology school — free or low-cost.

    Try OTC first

    $249 AirPods or $999 OTC ≪ $4,000 prescription. Try OTC for mild loss first. If not enough — escalate. Most people don't need expensive prescription aids. Most insurance + Medicare covers little to no hearing aids — OTC saves real money.