It is a common misunderstanding that hearing aids that require a prescription are quite expensive. Because of this misconception, some individuals who have a hearing loss but require hearing aids are skeptical about obtaining their hearing aids from audiologists and instead look into other, less expensive hearing aid options. The question is whether or not low-cost hearing aids are effective. Are cheap hearing aids any good?
There are already a lot of low-cost hearing aids on the market thanks to the proliferation of online retailers selling them. Customers are enticed to purchase due to the extremely tempting low price point. Despite this, the vast majority of reliable hearing aid manufacturers offer their products at prices that are accessible to a wider audience without compromising on product quality.
Before you go out and buy a hearing aid, you need to give some thought to what features are most important to you in such a device. Are simple hearing aids all that’s needed? Or do you require a more sophisticated device that comes equipped with features such as automatic noise filters, hands-free calling, directional microphones, and so on?
It will be much simpler for you to evaluate your choices in hearing aids if you have a clear idea of what you need. Cheap hearing aids bought online are not guaranteed to address your hearing problems. Think of it this way – prescription hearing aids need fine-tuning and adjustment by an audiologist to address a patient’s unique hearing loss. Do you think cheap hearing aids will automatically improve your hearing? Definitely not. Online hearing aids may simply offer amplification, and treating hearing loss is not just limited to amplification.
The best step is to make an appointment with an audiologist to get a hearing evaluation and be fitted for hearing aids.
Why should you consider purchasing a pair of hearing aids that are of high quality?
If you purchase inexpensive hearing aids online, you should anticipate receiving much less than what you paid for. This is due to the fact that inexpensive hearing aids are typically manufactured in large quantities despite failing to meet adequate quality standards.
Cheap hearing aids are typically manufactured from materials that are not up to industry standards and are not designed for long-term use. This is done so that the price can be kept at a competitive level. In addition, there is little to no warranty included with low-cost hearing aids, so they could stop working at any time.
Meanwhile, hearing aids available with a prescription provide a greater number of advantages and features than cheaper hearing aids. Hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist come with superior after-sales service and support.
The following list of reasons explains why most cheap hearing aids fall short of expectations:
- Poor construction and made with low-quality materials
- Not fitted by an audiologist
- Lack of hearing evaluation and real ear measurement
- Warranty and return policies that are highly questionable
- Little to no after-sales support
The level of technology integrated into a hearing aid is the primary component responsible for determining its cost. If you bought a hearing aid for a ridiculously low price, you shouldn’t expect it to make a significant difference in your ability to hear in everyday situations. Some amplifiers are merely marketed or disguised as a hearing aid. You do not know this for certain. Do not let yourself be fooled by this type of marketing ploy because you run the risk of making your hearing problems even worse.
Reasons why you should steer clear of cheap hearing aids
Hearing aids have come a long way from their bulky, analog models of the past. It’s possible that hearing aids are now capable of offering a great deal more than they were several decades ago. If you want to experience the greatest hearing improvement and get the most out of your money, it is in your best interest to shop for a hearing aid that is manufactured by a well-known brand.
At Santa Clarita Hearing Center, we have a team of highly trained and caring audiologists who are ready to assist you in selecting the hearing aid that is best suited to meet your requirements.
Hearing Aids in Valencia, CA
In a nutshell, most cheap hearing aids may be nothing more than amplifiers. Due to the absence of essential features, cheap hearing aids have a significantly lower value and functionality. In addition, hearing aids that can be bought online for a low price do not come with a hearing evaluation, real ear measurement, guidance, and support from audiologists.
Audiologists at Santa Clarita Hearing Center will make sure that your hearing aid is well-fitted, comfortable, and programmed to meet your unique hearing requirements.
Santa Clarita Hearing Center provides a wide selection of hearing aids in Valencia, CA. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!