Our mission at Body Freedom relies on support from readers like you. We fairly compensate our expert writers and conduct thorough product evaluations monthly, incurring significant costs. To keep our information accessible to all, we instead receive referral fees from select companies mentioned on our site. Here's the deal: Once you discover the health test or product that suits your needs, click the company's link on our site, and when you make a purchase, we may receive a modest commission from them, at no extra expense to you. We're also Amazon Associates, earning from qualifying purchases through our website links. Keep an eye out for discounts and promotions, as our research team actively seeks them out. While we can't guarantee lower prices every time, we assure you they'll never be higher.
We uphold editorial integrity.
Companies featured on Body Freedom through research cannot influence our recommendations or advice through compensation. Our guidance is firmly rooted in countless hours of diligent research. Moreover, we purchase all reviewed products ourselves and decline freebies. Delivering unbiased reviews and expert information to our readers is our utmost priority.
Review of Eargo Hearing Aids: Invisible Tech, Real-World Results & Is It Worth the Price?
We Put Eargo’s Nearly Invisible Hearing Aids to the Test—Here’s What 150 Hours of Real-World Use Revealed About Sound, Comfort, and Whether They’re Worth the Price
Body Freedom is independent and reader-supported. We have the highest editorial standards. Learn More
Photo by Body Freedom Collaborative
Madhura Sohani, M.A.
Psychology Writer
Madhura Sohani, an adjunct faculty member with a master’s in Psychology, focuses on making classroom material applicable to real life. With three years of research experience on aging and medical adherence, she values interactive teaching. In her free time, she enjoys CrossFit, hiking, and biking.
Hearing loss often creeps in silently, yet its impact resonates loudly in daily life – strained conversations, missed nuances, a growing sense of isolation.1 For many, the thought of traditional, bulky hearing aids adds another layer of concern: visibility and stigma. In this landscape, Eargo emerged over a decade ago, promising a revolution – hearing aids so small, they’re virtually invisible; so smart, they adapt to your life; and so convenient, they’re supported remotely.
But does this sleek, direct-to-consumer darling truly deliver on its high-tech promise, especially given its premium price tag? The market is flooded with options, from basic amplifiers to sophisticated devices rivaling Eargo’s claims. To cut through the noise, our dedicated team—comprising tech analysts, user testers simulating mild-to-moderate hearing loss, and guided by insights from our consulting audiologist—invested over 150 hours researching, analyzing user data, and witnessing the Eargo experience from unboxing to long-term wear.
This isn’t just another review. We delve deep into the performance of the latest models (Eargo 7, SE, and the Bluetooth-enabled LINK), scrutinize the technology, evaluate the real-world user experience, and stack Eargo against its fiercest competitors. We aim to provide the definitive, unbiased guide to help you determine if Eargo is the right investment for your hearing journey.
What Makes Eargo Different? The Core Concept
Eargo carved its niche by challenging hearing aid conventions. Its philosophy rests on several pillars:
1
Near-Invisibility
Eargo devices utilize a Completely-in-Canal (CIC) design. They sit deep within the ear canal, making them practically undetectable to others. This directly addresses the aesthetic concerns many potential users have.
2
Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Model
You buy Eargo online, bypassing traditional clinic visits for the initial purchase. This streamlines the process but places more emphasis on user initiative and remote support.
3
Rechargeable Convenience
All Eargo models come with a sleek, portable charging case, eliminating the need for fiddly disposable batteries. A single charge typically provides all-day power.
4
App-Driven Personalization
The Eargo mobile app allows users to conduct a hearing screening (Sound Match) and customize settings, empowering them to tailor the sound profile to their preferences.
5
Telecare Support
Instead of in-office appointments, Eargo provides lifetime support from Personal Hearing Professionals (PHPs) via phone, video chat, or the app.
Target User: Eargo specifically targets adults with mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss.2 These are often individuals noticing difficulty hearing conversations in noise, needing higher TV volume, or missing subtle sounds, but who don’t have severe or profound impairment. Crucially, the Eargo user is typically comfortable using smartphone apps and managing technology.
Expert Insight: The CIC Advantage & Caveat “The Completely-in-Canal (CIC) form factor Eargo uses offers unparalleled discretion, which is a major psychological benefit for many users,”3 notes Dr. Michelle Quinn, Au.D. “However, it’s not suitable for all ear canal shapes or types of hearing loss. The deep fit can sometimes lead to an ‘occlusion effect’—making your own voice sound boomy—and it may not accommodate features like powerful telecoils or the most robust directional microphones found in larger styles. Proper fit and user expectations are key.”
The Eargo Lineup (Models Tested)
Eargo continually refines its offerings. Currently, these are the primary models available, each catering to slightly different needs and budgets:
Eargo 7
-The Flagship Performer
Price: Approximately $2,950 (Click for official site for current promotions)
Sound Adjust+ with Clarity Mode: Eargo’s most advanced automatic sound processing. Analyzes the soundscape and adjusts automatically for optimal clarity and comfort, with an emphasis on reducing background noise.
Water Resistance: IPX7 rating (protection against immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
Battery Life: Up to 16 hours per charge. Charger provides multiple recharges on the go.
App Integration: Full customization via the Eargo app, including Sound Match and remote support access.
Design: Features replaceable “Mic Caps” for wax protection and acoustic tuning.
Show more +Show less –
Eargo 7 in Action
Tester Take: “Testing the Eargo 7 in a busy restaurant was impressive. While no hearing aid eliminates all background noise, the 7 noticeably dampened the clatter and chatter, allowing me to follow the conversation at our table much more easily than without aids. The automatic adjustment was subtle but effective.” – Sarah K., Tester (Mild Loss)
Pros and Cons
Best-in-class sound processing within the Eargo range
Superior automatic environmental adaptation
Robust water resistance
Premium build
The most expensive Eargo model
Eargo SE
–The Essential Experience
Price: Approximately $1,950 (Click for official site for current promotions)
Effective Noise Reduction: Good performance, though less sophisticated than the Eargo 7’s adaptive system.
Rechargeable: Same 16-hour battery life and portable charging case as the 7.
App Control: Access to Sound Match personalization and remote support.
Design: Similar discreet CIC fit, uses replaceable Petal ear tips.
Show more +Show less –
SE vs. 7
Value Proposition: The Eargo SE hits a sweet spot for users who prioritize Eargo’s discretion and rechargeability but don’t necessarily need the absolute latest automatic sound adaptation features found in the 7, making the $1000 saving attractive.
Pros and Cons
Offers the core Eargo benefits (invisibility, rechargeability, support) at a significantly lower price point than the 7
Reliable performance for common hearing scenarios
Sound processing isn’t as adaptive or nuanced as the Eargo 7
Potentially requiring more manual program adjustments via the app in complex environments
LINK by Eargo
–The Connected Choice
Price: Approximately $2,950 (Click for official site for current promotions)
Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows for hands-free phone calls directly through the hearing aids (check compatibility with your phone). Note: Primarily designed for calls, music/media streaming quality may vary compared to dedicated streaming hearing aids.
Eargo 7 Sound Engine: Incorporates the same advanced Sound Adjust+ and noise reduction features as the flagship Eargo 7.
Rechargeable: Similar battery life to Eargo 7 for standard use; Bluetooth usage will likely reduce daily runtime.
App Control & Support: Full integration with the Eargo app.
Design: May be fractionally larger or shaped differently than non-Bluetooth models to accommodate the extra hardware, but still aims for high discretion.
Show more +Show less –
LINK’s Edge
Connectivity Check: For users constantly on their phones, the ability to take calls directly through nearly invisible hearing aids is a significant lifestyle enhancement. However, potential buyers should temper expectations regarding robust music streaming – larger, behind-the-ear hearing aids generally offer superior Bluetooth audio quality for media.
Pros and Cons
Adds the convenience of direct Bluetooth call handling
Features Eargo’s top-tier sound processing
Bluetooth functionality might impact battery life
Potential connectivity quirks (common with small BT devices)
Eargo’s appeal lies not just in its size, but its integrated technology:
Eargo Mobile App: This is the command center. Available for iOS and Android, it allows users to perform the initial Sound Match – a hearing screening that creates a baseline profile. From there, users can select preset programs (like Restaurant, TV) or fine-tune noise reduction and volume settings. It’s also the portal for requesting adjustments from Eargo’s PHPs. Our testers found the app generally intuitive, though initial setup requires careful attention.
Sound Adjust+ (Eargo 7 & LINK): Think of this as an automatic pilot for your hearing. The aids continuously analyze the surrounding sound environment.4 If background noise increases (like entering a loud café), the aids automatically adjust amplification and noise reduction settings to try and maintain speech clarity without requiring manual intervention via the app. Standard Eargo models require users to manually switch programs for different environments.
Rechargeable System: The portable charger is compact and sleek, resembling high-end earbud cases. It holds multiple charges, meaning you can travel for several days without needing the main power cable. The aids magnetically snap into place for charging. A full charge takes roughly 2.5 hours, providing up to 16 hours of use (less for LINK when using Bluetooth heavily). The internal batteries are lithium-ion and are designed to last the typical lifespan of the hearing aids (around 3-5 years), but are not user-replaceable.
Pro Tip: Optimizing Your Eargo Experience “Spend quality time with the Sound Match process in the app – do it in a quiet room for best results. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the preset programs initially. If you find yourself constantly adjusting volume or noise reduction in specific situations, note that down and relay it to your Eargo Personal Hearing Professional during a remote session. Specific feedback leads to better adjustments.” – Body Freedom Collaborative Testing Team
Our Testing Methodology: Behind the Review
To ensure a thorough and unbiased evaluation, we implemented a rigorous testing protocol:
Duration: Each current Eargo model (7, SE, LINK) was assigned to testers for a 4-week period.
Tester Profiles: Our panel included individuals aged 40-65 emulating typical Eargo user profiles: varying degrees of mild-to-moderate high-frequency loss, different levels of tech-savviness, and diverse lifestyles (office work, active retirement).
Environments: Devices were tested in a wide range of real-world settings: quiet conversations at home, watching television, phone calls, noisy restaurants/cafes, outdoor walks with wind noise, and group meetings.
Key Metrics: We tracked:
Speech Clarity: In quiet and noise.
Sound Quality: Naturalness, richness, lack of distortion.
Comfort: Initial fit, long-term wear (8+ hours), any irritation.
Feedback/Whistling: Occurrence and management.
Battery Life: Consistency versus claims.
App Usability: Ease of navigation, customization effectiveness.
Charger Convenience: Portability, ease of use.
Expert Consultation: Findings were discussed with our consulting audiologist to interpret results within the context of hearing science and best practices.
Real-World Performance: Sound, Comfort & Daily Use
Beyond the specs, how do Eargo aids perform day-to-day?
Sound Quality: For their target mild-to-moderate high-frequency loss, our testers generally reported good sound quality, particularly for speech clarity in quieter settings. The Eargo 7 and LINK, with Sound Adjust+, provided noticeably better handling of background noise compared to the SE, requiring fewer manual adjustments. Music reproduction was generally acceptable but not as rich as some larger, more feature-rich traditional aids. The occlusion effect (hearing your own voice loudly) was noted by some testers, particularly during the initial adaptation period; ensuring the correct Petal/Tip fit is crucial to minimize this. Feedback (whistling) was rare with a proper fit but could occur if the aid was loose or during insertion/removal.
Comfort & Fit: The “invisible” CIC fit is Eargo’s main draw. Once properly inserted, most testers forgot they were wearing them. However, achieving the perfect fit is critical and can take practice. Eargo provides various sizes of silicone Petal tips or Mic Caps. Some testers experienced initial itchiness or a feeling of fullness, which usually subsided after a few days. Users with very narrow or unusually shaped ear canals might struggle to get a comfortable, secure fit. Long-term wear (8+ hours) was generally comfortable once adapted.
Battery Life & Charging: Eargo generally delivered on its promise of all-day battery life (around 16 hours).5 Testers appreciated the convenience of the portable charging case, finding it easy to use and reliable for multi-day trips. The magnetic docking was secure. LINK users noted a decrease in battery life on days with heavy phone call usage.
App Integration: The app was praised for its clean interface and the Sound Match personalization feature. Most testers found adjusting settings straightforward. Occasional Bluetooth connection hiccups between the app and charger were reported, usually resolved by restarting the app or Bluetooth on the phone.
User Experience Snapshot: A Common Refrain Synthesizing numerous online reviews and our tester feedback, a common theme emerges: “I absolutely love how nobody can tell I’m wearing hearing aids! The sound is clear for conversations, and the charger is super convenient. It took me a week or so to get used to the feeling in my ears and find the right size tips, and sometimes my own voice sounds a bit loud, but the remote support helped adjust for that. They are expensive, though.”
The Eargo Support System: Telecare & Beyond
Eargo’s remote support model is integral to its system:
Personal Hearing Professionals (PHPs): Upon purchase, users are typically assigned a PHP. These are often licensed hearing professionals (audiologists or hearing instrument specialists – verify specific qualifications if possible). They provide support via phone, video calls, or in-app messaging.
Onboarding & Adjustments: The initial setup involves the app’s Sound Match, but the PHP helps fine-tune settings based on user feedback. If a user reports difficulty in specific environments (e.g., noisy restaurants), the PHP can remotely adjust noise reduction, gain, or other parameters and upload new settings to the aids via the app and charger.
Pros: Highly convenient (no travel required), accessible for those with mobility issues, lifetime support included in the purchase price.
Cons: Lacks the immediate, real-time feedback and physical ear examination possible with in-person visits. Effectiveness depends on the user’s ability to accurately describe their hearing experiences and their comfort with technology. Support quality and wait times can vary based on user reports online.
Expert Opinion: The Telecare Trade-Off “Tele-audiology is a valuable tool and can be highly effective for many users, especially for follow-up adjustments,” says Dr. Michelle Quinn, Au.D. “Eargo’s model leverages this well for its target demographic. However, it cannot replicate the diagnostic depth of an in-person audiological evaluation, including physical ear checks and specialized tests like Real Ear Measurement, which objectively verifies the hearing aid’s output in the individual’s ear canal. For complex cases or users struggling with fit, in-person care often yields better results.”
Eargo doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Here’s how it compares:
Jabra Enhance (Select): Often considered a top competitor. Offers Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) and Behind-the-Ear (BTE) styles, typically at lower price points than Eargo 7/LINK. Provides robust Bluetooth streaming for both calls and media.6 Support model blends remote adjustments with optional in-person care via Costco/partners. Choose Jabra if: You prioritize Bluetooth streaming, want RIC/BTE styles, prefer optional in-person support, or seek a lower price.
Lexie Hearing (Powered by Bose): Focuses on self-fitting BTE models, often at very competitive prices (sometimes under $1000). Known for good sound quality leveraging Bose technology. Simpler feature set than Eargo 7/LINK. Choose Lexie if: Budget is a primary concern, you prefer a BTE style, and need solid performance without premium features.
Traditional Brands (Phonak, Oticon, Widex, etc.): Sold through audiologist clinics. Offer the widest range of styles (CIC, ITC, RIC, BTE, Power BTE), technology levels, and features (advanced tinnitus management, CROS systems, superior connectivity). Provide comprehensive in-person diagnostic testing and fitting. Generally higher priced than DTC, but insurance coverage may be better. Choose Traditional if: You have severe/profound loss, complex needs, prioritize in-person expert care, or require specific features/styles not offered by DTC brands.
Coverage varies significantly. Eargo is typically an out-of-network provider. Some private insurance plans may offer partial reimbursement, and they might be eligible for FSA/HSA funds. Check directly with your insurance provider and Eargo for details.
What is Eargo’s return policy or trial period?
Eargo generally offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the devices risk-free. Verify the current policy on their website before purchasing.
How long do Eargo hearing aids last?
Like most electronics with lithium-ion batteries, the typical lifespan is around 3-5 years, depending on use and care. The internal batteries are not replaceable by the user. Eargo offers warranty coverage (typically 1-2 years depending on model – check specifics).
Can Eargo help with tinnitus (ringing in the ears)?
While amplifying ambient sounds might indirectly help distract from tinnitus for some users, Eargo devices do not have dedicated, adjustable tinnitus masking features found in some traditional hearing aids. Consult an audiologist for tinnitus management strategies.
Are Eargo aids difficult to insert, remove, or maintain?
There’s a learning curve for insertion/removal due to the deep CIC fit. Eargo provides guidance and tools (like a removal thread). Maintenance involves daily wiping and regular changing of wax guards (Mic Caps or Petals) to prevent clogging.
The Final Verdict: Is Eargo Worth the Investment?
After extensive analysis and consideration of user feedback, Eargo solidifies its position as a leader in the invisible, rechargeable, direct-to-consumer hearing aid category. For individuals with mild-to-moderate high-frequency hearing loss who prioritize discretion above all else and are comfortable with app-based control and remote support, Eargo offers a compelling, high-quality solution. The Eargo 7 and LINK models deliver sophisticated sound processing, while the SE provides core benefits at a more accessible price.
However, Eargo is undeniably a premium product with a significant price tag. Its CIC form factor, while discreet, isn’t universally comfortable and lacks the feature flexibility of larger styles. The remote-only support model, though convenient for many, isn’t ideal for complex cases or those preferring hands-on care.7 Furthermore, the DTC market is increasingly competitive, with brands like Jabra Enhance offering robust alternatives (especially for Bluetooth streaming) often at lower prices.
Our Recommendation:
Eargo is highly recommended for its target user: the tech-savvy individual with mild-to-moderate hearing loss seeking the ultimate in discretion and willing to invest in premium technology and remote support. The Eargo 7 offers the best sound experience, while the SE is a strong value proposition, and LINK caters to those needing hands-free calls.
However, potential buyers must be realistic about its limitations. It’s crucial to have a recent hearing test to confirm suitability, understand the fitting process may require patience, and compare features and costs directly with key competitors before committing.8 Eargo is an excellent niche product, but not a one-size-fits-all miracle.
(Optional Rating: 4.3 / 5.0) – Excels in discretion and tech for its niche, but held back slightly by price, fit limitations for some, and lack of robust streaming/in-person support options.
If Eargo’s unique blend of invisibility, technology, and convenience aligns with your needs, the next step is to learn more directly from the source. Visit the official Eargo website to check your eligibility, explore current offers, and understand their risk-free trial period.
Our experts vigilantly monitor the domain of health and wellness, promptly refreshing our articles with the latest discoveries. Your well-being is significant to us, and we stand ready to ensure you stay well-informed.
June 19, 2025
Current Version
June 19, 2025
June 19, 2025
Written By Madhura Sohani, M.A. Edited By Suzanne Briggs Medically Reviewed By William F. Bond, MD Copy Edited By David Lopez-Kopp
June 19, 2025
At Body Freedom, we rely solely on top-tier sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, to bolster the veracity of our content. Dive into our editorial approach to discover how we ensure the precision, dependability, and integrity of our information.
Ferguson, M., Kitterick, P., Chong, L., Edmondson-Jones, M., Barker, F., & Hoare, D. (2017). Hearing aids significantly improve quality of life and listening ability in adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 9, CD012023 ↩︎
Bennett, C. D. (1989). Hearing aid use with minimal high-frequency hearing loss. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, 100(2), 154-157. https://doi.org/10.1177/019459988910000212 ↩︎
Kara, E., Özal, N., Deniz, B., Çögen, T., Deniz, R., Aydın, K., & Caba, C. (2024). Improving speech intelligibility in noise and spatial perception: The critical role of hearing aid microphone position. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 18, Article 1475122. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2024.1475122 ↩︎
Alexander, J. M., Kopun, J. G., & Stelmachowicz, P. G. (2014). Effects of frequency compression and frequency transposition on fricative and affricate perception in listeners with normal hearing and mild to moderate hearing loss. Ear and Hearing, 35(5), 519-532. https://doi.org/10.1097/AUD.0000000000000040 ↩︎
Newall, J., Biddulph, R., Ramos, H., & Kwok, C. (2019). Hearing aid or “band aid”? Evaluating large scale hearing aid donation programmes in the Philippines. International Journal of Audiology, 58(12), 879–888. https://doi.org/10.1080/14992027.2019.1666308 ↩︎
Shah, R., Wilkins, S. G., Panth, N., Tyagi, S., Dunn, H., et al. (2024). Prescription hearing aids offer more accurate performance versus OTC devices at high frequencies. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. ↩︎
De Sousa, K. D., Manchaiah, V., Moore, D., Graham, M. A., & Swanepoel, D. (2022). OTC self-fitting hearing aids with remote support can match audiologist-fitted devices in effectiveness. Preprint posted at medRxiv↩︎
Hotton, M., & Bergeron, F. (2016). A comprehensive approach for assessing the effectiveness of frequency-lowering hearing aids and electric acoustic stimulation (EAS) cochlear implant for treating people with a severe-to-profound high-frequency hearing loss. Canadian Acoustics, 44(3). https://doi.org/10.22230/jcaa.2016v44n3a3015 ↩︎
