Styles of BTE Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids provide the ideal hearing loss solution for many people. Generally featuring a main body tucked discreetly behind or over the top of the ear with tubing that connects to an earmold above the ear canal, BTE hearing aids are available in a variety of styles. Consider the features of each of these styles and talk to a hearing instrument specialist about which device might be right for you or your family member.

Mini BTE Styles

The mini BTE is designed to hide completely behind the outer ear, with extra-thin tubes for a more discreet appearance. It usually connects to a soft-tip microphone sitting over the ear canal rather than completely blocking it. Known as an open fitting, this creates a more natural experience as air and sound is free to flow around the tip, in addition to through it. Usually recommended for mild to moderate hearing loss at higher frequencies, this style has become so popular it’s being offered in an increasing range of ear tips and for a wider range of hearing loss.

RITE and RIC Styles

Receiver-in-the-ear and Receiver-in-the-canal varieties of the BTE have speakers built right into the ear tip, rather than in the main body sitting behind the ear, which houses the microphone and processor. A larger tip is required to contain the speaker components, but one perk is that if it becomes damaged, it can often be replaced at a hearing aid center instead of being sent back to the manufacturer.

BTE with an earmold

Of all the BTE styles, this one is perhaps the most versatile. Its larger size, featuring a longer body behind the ear, enables a wide range of power and adjustment features. For this reason, it’s a good fit for nearly any type of hearing loss. Because all the electrical components of this BTE are behind the ear, it’s less susceptible to the damaging effects of moisture and earwax present in models that feature an ear tip. The earmold is custom fit to your ear and the tubing can also be removed, cleaned and replaced as it wears. It’s also available in a wider range of colors and styles than many other hearing aids. This style is especially popular for children because it can be programmed and the earmold can be easily replaced through the growing years.

While ITE hearing aid styles tend to be more discreet, BTE styles have the advantage of greater versatility in features and hearing ranges and better durability. Talk to your hearing instrument specialist to help determine which type and style of hearing aid is right for your hearing needs.