From convenience to sustainability, your lifestyle and priorities should guide your choice
Choosing between rechargeable and battery-operated hearing aids is a key decision for anyone managing hearing loss, whatever the degree of their loss. Both offer clear benefits but also present challenges, and understanding these can help users find the device that suits their needs.
Why choose rechargeable hearing aids?
Rechargeable hearing aids are increasingly popular thanks to their ease of use. Instead of handling small batteries, users simply place their devices in a charging station overnight.
This can be particularly helpful for people with limited dexterity, and it minimises the risk of running out of power during the day.
While rechargeable models tend to cost more upfront, many users save money in the long run by avoiding the regular purchase of disposable batteries.
There are drawbacks, however. Users are reliant on regular access to electricity. Travelling or dealing with power cuts can present difficulties, especially if no back-up is available. And after a few years, rechargeable batteries may degrade and need replacement, adding an eventual cost.
Why choose battery-powered hearing aids?
Battery-operated hearing aids offer greater flexibility. Users can carry spare batteries and replace them easily, making these devices a practical option for those who travel often or are frequently away from charging facilities.
But there are trade-offs. Handling small batteries can be tricky, particularly for older adults. Ongoing costs of disposable batteries add up over time. Environmental concerns are also a consideration: disposable batteries contribute to waste, something increasingly important to modern eco-conscious users.
Battery life and everyday use
Rechargeable hearing aids typically provide around 24 hours of use per charge, with many users finding an overnight charging routine easy to manage. Battery-powered devices generally last from 5 to 14 days, depending on the model, size of the battery, and usage.
Ultimately, the choice depends on lifestyle. Users who value convenience and have regular access to electricity may prefer rechargeable aids. Those who travel frequently or spend long periods away from charging points may find battery-operated devices more practical.
Eva Opitz, a Clinical Audiologist at Hearology® said: “There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. We support patients in weighing up what matters most, from dexterity and daily habits to lifestyle needs and environmental factors, so they can confidently choose the hearing aid that best suits them.”
References
- RNID – Royal National Institute for Deaf People description of the different types of hearing aids available
- Hearing Link – Hearing aid overview provided by Hearing Link Services (part of the Hearing Dogs for Deaf People organisation)
- Hearing Aid Batteries UK – Hearing aid battery guide
