RIC vs BTE Hearing Aids: Which Is Right For You?

There are various types of hearing aids, which offer benefits for people who experience hearing loss. If your audiologist has encouraged you to consider using hearing aids, it’s beneficial to explore the options available to you. There are pros and cons of all types of hearing aids and some may be better suited to you than others. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into receiver-in-canal (RIC) and behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids to help you decide which option is right for you.

What Are RIC Hearing Aids?

RIC hearing aids fit over the ear with the receiver placed inside the ear canal. The main part of the hearing aid sits behind the ear, and it is connected to the speaker through a very small wire. These devices are acceptable for individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

What is a BTE Hearing Aid?

A BTE hearing aid is located behind the ear. Unlike the RIC hearing aid, all of the components, including the receiver, are contained within a single case. BTE devices are recommended for mild-to-profound hearing loss.

Similarities

There are lots of similarities between RIC and BTE hearing aids. Both of these types of hearing aids sit behind the ear and they comprise hard cases, which contain the electronic parts of the device. Both hearing aids work with an earpiece or mold, and they offer similar technological features, including rechargeable batteries, smartphone connectivity and remote controls depending on the model.

Differences

The key difference between RIC and BTE hearing aids is the location of the receiver or speaker. With a BTE hearing aid, the receiver is encased with all the other electronic parts behind the ear. In the case of RIC hearing aids, the receiver sits inside the ear canal. It is connected to the other components via a thin wire.

Other differences include:

• Size: BTE hearing aids tend to be slightly larger than RIC hearing aids.
• Amplification: BTE hearing aids are known for their amplification power.

What are the pros and cons of BTE and RIC hearing aids?

It’s helpful to weigh up the pros and cons of RIC and BTE hearing aids before you make a decision.

BTE hearing aids are easier to maintain and clean, because of their larger size. If you have dexterity issues, BTE hearing aids may be the best choice for you. Talk to your audiologist about BTE hearing aids and what they have to offer. Other pros of BTE hearing aids include:

• Easier to maintain and clean
• Suitable for people with moderate and severe hearing loss/
• Able to house larger batteries
• Longer lifespan

The cons:

• Larger and bulkier than RIC hearing aids.
• May be less comfortable than RIC hearing aids.

When looking at RIC hearing aids, they are smaller and more discrete than a BTE hearing aids. If you are looking for a sleeker option, then ask your audiologist about RIC hearing aids. Other pros may include:

• More discreet than BTE hearing aids
• Clear, high-quality sound
• Lower risk of feedback
• More natural sound

The cons:

• More difficult to remove, clean and maintain.
• Increased risk of earwax buildup.
• Not ideal for those with severe hearing loss or loss of fine motor skills.

Which Hearing Aids Are Right for Me? BTE or RIC?

It is always beneficial to explore the different types of hearing aids available when deciding which devices to choose. Some hearing aids are better suited to certain individuals than others depending on the degree of hearing loss and personal requirements and preferences.

Some people have preferences in terms of the size and visibility of their hearing aids while others choose one type over another because it caters to their needs in terms of hearing loss. If you’re unsure which style of hearing aid to choose, your audiologist will be able to talk through the benefits and drawbacks and make suggestions and recommendations based on the results of your hearing assessments and your preferences.

BTE hearing aids are often a better choice for individuals who experience severe hearing loss, as they offer more powerful amplification. They are also easier to fit and remove than RIC hearing aids and they are not as susceptible to damage or wear caused by dirt, wax or moisture. RIC hearing aids suit those with moderate hearing loss and individuals who would prefer a more discreet hearing aid.

RIC and BTE hearing aids are among the most common types of hearing aids. BTE and RIC hearing aids both sit behind the ear, but the receiver is placed inside the ear canal when using RIC hearing aids.

If you would like to find out more about RIC and BTE hearing aids, or you need advice to help you decide which hearing aid is right for you, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Siouxland Hearing Healthcare P.L.C at (712) 266-3662.