A Guide to Behind the Ear Hearing Aids

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Reviewed by

Updated on January 18, 2023

When we talk about hearing aids, most people probably think of a curved, plastic case that hooks over the top of and behind the ear. These are behind the ear – or BTE – hearing aids.

We explain how BTE hearing aids work, their advantages and drawbacks, and who might benefit from wearing one.

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How do BTE hearing aids work?

All hearing aids are made up of three main components: a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker (also called a receiver).

With a BTE hearing aid, the microphone and amplifier are contained in a small, plastic case that hooks over and rests behind the ear.

The microphone picks up sounds from the environment and converts them into electrical signals. The amplifier processes those signals to make them louder.

The case is attached to a thin, flexible tubing and a custom-made earmold that carries the signals to the receiver and into the ear.

an example of a behind the ear hearing aid

Behind the ear (BTE) vs receiver in canal (RIC)

BTE hearing aids are connected to an earmold. The earmold fits in the concha or bowl of your outer ear, so it’s visible. The receiver is inside the case, behind the ear.

RIC (receiver in the canal) hearing aids are connected to a small, flexible bell-shaped tip, called a dome, which covers the receiver. The dome is pushed into your ear canal, so you cannot see it. RIC hearing aids with domes don’t block the ear canal like BTE hearing aids, so they allow you to hear sounds more naturally.

As a result, RIC aids may be suitable for people with mild or severe hearing loss who can pick up low-pitched sounds, and they also mean you hear your own voice more naturally.

BTE hearing aids with earmolds are suitable for people with very severe or profound hearing loss. Hearing aids for very severe or profound hearing loss are called ‘power’ or ‘superpower’ hearing aids.

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Pros and cons of BTE hearing aids

Behind the ear hearing aids are the most common type of hearing aids, because they are suitable for most types of hearing loss, from mild to profound. They have many advantages and some drawbacks.

Pros

They are larger than in the ear hearing aids, so they are often available with more advanced features, like bluetooth technology
They are less fiddly than other hearing aid styles. That means you can use them more easily if you have a vision impairment or problems with your dexterity
Many types come with rechargeable batteries, so you don’t have to worry about buying new batteries frequently. And the batteries are larger, so they tend to last longer
Earmolds for BTE hearing aids are custom-made to fit your ear size and shape, making them particularly suitable for children, who will need to have new earmolds as they grow
Because the electronic components don’t go into your ear, they are less prone to dirt and wax, so they’re easier to keep clean
Many BTE hearing aids are small and discreet, tucking in behind your ear so they’re hardly noticeable

Cons

They block the entrance to the ear canal so they can make you feel like your ears are plugged
The casing tucks behind the back of your ear so you might find them uncomfortable if you also wear glasses
BTE hearing aids can sometimes pick up more background sound - like wind noise

How much do BTE hearing aids cost?

The cost of a behind the ear hearing aid depends on several factors, including the brand, what features it includes, and how advanced its technology is.

You will also have to factor in the costs of having the earmold custom-made so it fits you and is comfortable, as well as adjustments, batteries, and ongoing maintenance. However in some private clinics the after care and earmolds are included in the price.

In the US, you may be able to get some hearing aids for as little as $1,000, but you can pay as much as $4,000. The average cost is around $2,000 to $3,000 per hearing aid.

In the UK, you can get some hearing aids for around £800, but most people who pay for hearing aids spend considerably more – between around £1,800 and £3,100 – with the average coming in at £2,700.

It’s a good idea to discuss hearing aid choices with your audiologist, who can advise you about what type of hearing aid is right for you and give you more detailed information about features, benefits, and – importantly – cost.

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Written by:

Allie Anderson

Allie Anderson is a health writer and editor with many years of experience creating accurate, evidence-based content for consumer and professional audiences. Allie is passionate about making medical information as accessible as possible, empowering people to make informed choices about their health and well-being.

Allie holds a first-class honours degree in Linguistics from University College London, a Russell Group institution that’s ranked in the top 10 universities globally. She trained as a journalist with the UK’s NCTJ (National Council for the Training of Journalists) and after working as a news reporter for local newspapers and B2B titles, began writing about health.

Published in medical journals, peer-reviewed magazines for healthcare professionals and a broad range of consumer titles, Allie has covered all manner of health and medical topics throughout her career, most recently focusing on hearing health and hearing loss.

Allie has conducted in-depth research into the mechanisms underpinning hearing and has developed an understanding of the nuanced impact hearing loss can have on individuals and their loved ones.

Reviewed by:

Ana Paula de Lima Rodrigues Audiologist

Audiologist Ana Paula de Lima Rodrigues (Audiology and Speech Therapy BSc) is extremely passionate about providing exceptional care, advice and support for people with hearing loss. Ana trained at the University of Vale do Itajai in Brazil in 2001 and currently works in London where she is registered with The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).