According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, about 15% of Americans ages 12 years and older report trouble hearing. (1) Many likely hesitate to seek help because of high costs, with traditional hearing aids averaging around $2,000 to $4,000. (2) Statistics show that people wait an average of 10 years before getting hearing aids after realizing they need them. (3) According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, like those from MDHearing, aim to make hearing support more accessible, especially for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. (4)
MDHearing, founded by a board-certified ear, nose, and throat physician in 2009, focuses on offering budget-friendly hearing aids without sacrificing quality. It manufactures and sells its products directly to consumers, cutting out the middleman to keep prices low. MDHearing offers four models: NEO XS, NEO, AIR, and VOLT.
The NEO XS stands out for its compact, discreet design. Nearly invisible hearing aids are becoming increasingly popular and appealing to people who may be worried about the possible stigma of wearing noticeable hearing aids. (5) OTC hearing aids are designed for people looking for a simple, cost-effective solution to improve their hearing without needing an in-person professional fitting or customization. (6)
MDHearing’s approach combines affordability and ease of access, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking reliable, affordable hearing aids. This article explores the NEO XS and other MDHearing models in detail, breaking down the features, costs, and performance to help you decide if MDHearing suits your needs.
Our favorite MDHearing hearing aids
The Fortune Recommends™ top pick from MDHearing is the NEO XS for its unbeatable combination of discretion, comfort, and affordability. It’s the smallest, most discreet option in the lineup, making it ideal for users who want a nearly invisible hearing aid that still offers solid noise reduction and feedback cancellation. Read on for full details to see why the NEO XS is our editor’s choice.
Our picks for the best MDHearing hearing aids
Compare MDHearing hearing aids
|
|
|
|
|
| MDHearing NEO XS | MDHearing NEO | MDHearing AIR | MDHearing VOLT | |
| Rating | ||||
| Price | $397 | $297 | $297 | $397 |
| Type (OTC or prescription) | OTC | OTC | OTC | OTC |
| Style | Completely-in-canal (CIC) | In-the-canal (ITC) | Behind-the-ear (BTE) | Behind-the-ear (BTE) |
| Battery type | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth | No | No | No | No |
MDHearing NEO XS – Nearly invisible design
Key product features
What you should know
- The MDHearing NEO XS is the most compact model in the brand’s lineup and is designed for users seeking a nearly invisible device that fits completely in the ear canal.
- Priced at $397 per pair, the NEO XS provides a budget-friendly option compared with other OTC hearing aids, which often cost more than $1,000.
- The NEO XS suits users with mild to moderate hearing loss who prefer a simple device with easy functionality and who do not feel the need for advanced features or Bluetooth connectivity.
- The NEO XS features an 18+ hour rechargeable battery, which takes around two hours to charge.
MDHearing NEO XS overview
The NEO XS is MDHearing’s newest and smallest model, offering an affordable and discreet solution for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. This completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aid is designed to fit snugly within the ear canal, making it ideal for those who might want an invisible hearing aid.
Specs
| Price | $397 per pair |
| Type | OTC |
| Style | CIC |
| Battery | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth | No |
| Trial period | 45 days |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Design and construction
At 11mm x 15mm, the NEO XS is the brand’s smallest hearing aid. The design focuses on discretion, which is ideal for those who prefer a device that doesn’t draw attention. It’s especially useful for individuals who may wear glasses or use oxygen tubes, as it does not interfere with other items sitting on the outer ear. The device is also likely comfortable for users with smaller ear canals. It comes with medium-sized domes attached, plus small and large replacement domes.
A key feature is the sturdy removal string—a stiff, wire-like extension on the part of the hearing aid that faces out of the ear—which helps with insertion and removal. This hearing aid is meant to be inserted deeply into the ear canal, a maneuver that can take some getting used to. These devices are quite compact and can be difficult to handle for those with dexterity difficulties. As hearing aids get smaller, some wearers, especially adults who may be prone to manual dexterity limitations, may have difficulty with handling and operation. (7)
Features and performance
While the NEO XS doesn’t come with high-end features like Bluetooth for app controls, streaming, or hands-free calls, it focuses on essentials such as background noise reduction and feedback cancellation. All adjustments are made with a small, multi-function push button on the device. Users can scroll through nine volume settings and four pre-set listening programs, which include:
- Quiet: For watching TV and time with family at home. Helps with both low- and high-pitched hearing loss.
- Social: For time with friends and small group settings. Helps with hearing loss in the higher pitches.
- Noisy: This is for large crowds, restaurants, traffic, nature sounds, and concerts. It helps with hearing loss in the higher pitches.
- Restaurant: Reduces background noise in any loud environment.
All of these adjustments are indicated by various pitched beep/tone notifications. Volume adjustments are indicated by a series of three beeps when minimum and maximum volume is reached, with a single high-pitched beep indicating each step in between. Program changes are indicated by low-pitched beeps—one for Quiet, two for Social, three for Noisy, and four for Restaurant.
One feature worth noting is its rechargeable battery, which provides around 18 hours of use on a single charge. The hearing aids take about two hours to fully charge from 0–100%. The portable charging case can fully charge the devices in two hours and provides up to six hearing aid charges per case battery, which fully charges in about three hours. The hearing aids will beep three times slowly every minute when the battery is low. The hearing aids automatically turn off when inserted into the case and turn on when removed from it.
Price and value
At $397 per pair, the NEO XS is an affordable and solid OTC hearing aid. Compared with traditional hearing aids, which can cost upwards of $6,000 or more, the NEO XS offers excellent value for users looking for a low-cost, entry-level option without needing to visit an audiologist, also known as a hearing specialist. (8)
Warranties and policies
MDHearing offers a one-year warranty on all its hearing aids, covering any defects in materials or workmanship. This warranty provides peace of mind for users, ensuring that MDHearing will repair or replace the device at no cost if there’s an issue with the hearing aids due to manufacturing defects. The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse or regular wear and tear.
In addition to the warranty, MDHearing provides a 45-day, risk-free trial period. This allows users to test the hearing aids at home and in various environments. If they’re not satisfied within 45 days, they can return the hearing aids for a full refund, minus return shipping costs. This trial period gives customers time to decide whether the hearing aids meet their needs before committing to the purchase. Both the warranty and trial period lengths are on the shorter end of what we’ve seen in many competitors’ policies—warranties tend to range from one to three years, and trial periods from 45 to 100 days.
All MDHearing purchases come with lifetime support from the staff hearing professionals. They can be reached by:
- Phone call to 800-918-3914 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT.
- Email to support@MDHearingAid.com
- Contact form on the website
- Online chat
Final thoughts
The NEO XS is a discreet, affordable, and rechargeable hearing aid for mild to moderate hearing loss. While it doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, its ease of use, compact design, and affordability make it a viable choice for those likely seeking simple, discreet, no-fuss hearing support.
What customers are saying
Amazon customers gave the NEO XS 2.5 out of 5 stars with 41 reviews. While 27% of customers gave 5 stars, over 50% gave only 1 star. Some customers reported difficulty handling these devices and making adjustments due to their tiny size—these hearing aids would benefit from an app or remote control to mitigate difficulty handling and adjusting them. Customers also reported poor sound quality and unwanted screech-like or whistling feedback. While some customers were compelled to return their devices, others were able to reduce the feedback noise by switching out the domes (silicone tips) to one of the other sizes provided. A few customers experienced charging difficulties.
“Overall, these have worked very well,” writes Doc, a verified customer on Amazon. “If you are getting squealing feedback, you are probably using the wrong domes. The NEO XS comes with three sizes of domes. While [the medium domes] felt comfortable, as soon as I started increasing the volume I would get an annoying squeal. I decided to use a larger size dome included in the box. If you push it in a bit more than what is comfortable and then pull it slightly out just a bit, it makes a better seal and stops the feedback from the outer microphone to the inner speaker that causes the problem. As I wore them over time, I now use them on volume level seven without any annoying feedback.”
We’ve featured MDHearing NEO XS in:
Who MDHearing NEO XS is recommended for:
- People with mild to moderate hearing loss
- Those who prefer a nearly invisible, discreet hearing aid
- Users looking for an affordable, budget-friendly option
- Individuals who wear glasses or use oxygen tubes and desire devices that will likely not interfere or cause discomfort at the top of the ear
- People with smaller ear canals who may find larger hearing aids uncomfortable
Who MDHearing NEO XS is not recommended for:
- People with severe or profound hearing loss
- Those who want Bluetooth connectivity for app-based controls or advanced features like streaming or hands-free calls
- Individuals with dexterity or vision limitations
How we rated MDHearing NEO XS
We score hearing aids based on the following criteria:
- Performance: Sound quality, noise reduction, feedback control, programmability, and connectivity
- Features: Durability, battery options, hearing loss range, wireless connectivity, water resistance, and safety features
- Value: Insurance coverage and financing options
- Customer experience: Shipping, warranty, and customer support
Additional models from MDHearing
The MDHearing NEO is a solid choice for people with mild to moderate hearing loss who may want a discreet, in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid with a lower price tag. At $297 per pair, the NEO is one of the best affordable hearing aids with essential features like feedback cancellation and noise reduction. They are larger than the NEO XS and fit more like an earbud rather than sitting in the ear canal. Those with larger hands or dexterity problems may find these easier to handle than the smaller NEO XS.
The rechargeable battery lasts over 17 hours, although it has a slightly longer charging time (about three hours) compared with other models like the NEO XS and VOLT, which charge in about two hours. These hearing aids are water-resistant, which adds durability for everyday wear, but should still be kept away from moisture-heavy activities like swimming or showering. They have a manual button for volume control, but no pre-set listening programs. They don’t offer Bluetooth connectivity or an accompanying mobile app.
Who the MDHearing Neo is recommended for
The NEO is best suited for individuals who might want a smaller, in-the-canal hearing aid with very basic features at an affordable price.
The MDHearing AIR is the brand’s most affordable behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid, priced at $297 per pair. It’s a great option for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss who need a basic, entry-level device. One of its standout features is the built-in telecoil (T-coil), which allows users to connect to assistive listening systems in venues equipped with hearing loops, like theaters or places of worship.
While it lacks advanced features like Bluetooth smartphone pairing or water resistance, we think the AIR offers reliable sound quality with feedback cancellation and noise reduction. It’s slightly lighter than other models, making it a good choice for those who may prefer a lightweight device. However, its manual volume control button can pose a challenge for users with dexterity or vision issues.
Who the MDHearing Air is recommended for
Overall, the AIR is a better option for budget-conscious individuals who want simple, lightweight, behind-the-ear hearing aids without high-tech features.
The MDHearing VOLT is a rechargeable behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid priced at $397 per pair, offering a step up from the more basic AIR model. This model is likely best suited for people with mild to moderate hearing loss who may need enhanced sound clarity in busy environments. The VOLT features dual-directional microphones that amplify the sounds in front and behind wearers while reducing background noise, which can greatly improve speech comprehension in conversations. The battery charges in about two hours and gives 20 hours of use, ensuring all-day functionality.
The VOLT is also water resistant, providing additional durability for those with active lifestyles who may be exposed to light moisture, like sweat or humidity. While it doesn’t connect via Bluetooth to a mobile app, it does offer four pre-set programs for different hearing environments, allowing users to manually adjust settings as needed. It features separate volume and program buttons and may be easier to adjust than the NEO XS. This makes it a solid option for those who might want reliable, easy-to-use hearing aids with intelligent noise reduction without the need for smartphone integration.
Who the MDHearing VOLT is recommended for
Overall, the VOLT is great for individuals who need the sound clarity of a more advanced BTE model but want to avoid the higher cost of premium brands.
We’ve featured MDHearing in:
- Best hearing aids
- Best invisible hearing aids
- Best affordable hearing aids
- Best rechargeable hearing aids
- Best OTC hearing aids
MDHearing vs. competitors
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| MDHearing NEO XS | Jabra Enhance Select 500 | Eargo 7 | Audien Atom 2 | Lexie B2 Plus | |
| Rating | |||||
| Price | $397 | $1,795–$1,995 | $2,950 | $189 | $999 |
| Type (OTC or prescription) | OTC | OTC | OTC | OTC | OTC |
| Style | Completely-in-canal (CIC) | RIC | CIC | ITE | RIC |
| Battery type | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth | No | Yes, advanced | Only for app, no streaming | No | Yes |
When comparing the MDHearing NEO XS to other popular OTC models, such as the Jabra Enhance Select 500, Eargo 7, Audien Atom 2, and Lexie B2, we see some unique benefits and differences.
The Jabra Enhance Select 500 is a great option for those who may want a more tech-forward hearing aid with advanced Bluetooth connectivity and customizable settings through an app. It’s likely ideal for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss who want advanced features, like streaming and personalized adjustments, all managed through their smartphone.
The Eargo 7 is another in-the-canal option, like the NEO XS, but is best suited for people who prioritize comfort and sound quality, as Eargo’s design focuses on all-day wear with higher-end features like water resistance and a strong noise reduction system. However, it comes at a higher price point.
At $189, the Audien Atom 2 is one of the most affordable options, making it a good fit for budget-conscious buyers with mild hearing loss. It’s simple, with fewer features than the Jabra or Eargo, so it’s best for those who don’t need advanced settings.
The Lexie B2, powered by Bose, offers excellent sound control and Bluetooth capabilities at a mid-range price, making it a great option for users who want more customization without breaking the bank. Its best fit is for those who prefer receiver–in-canal devices and value app-based adjustments for more tailored hearing experiences.
FAQs
Are MDHearing hearing aids any good?
Yes, we think MDHearing hearing aids are considered good, especially for those seeking affordable, over-the-counter options. They provide essential features like noise reduction, feedback cancellation, and rechargeable batteries. While they don’t offer high-end features like Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity, they provide solid performance for people with mild to moderate hearing loss at a much lower price compared with traditional hearing aids. The best Bluetooth hearing aids tend to be more expensive but offer more features.
Are MDHearing hearing aids amplifiers?
No, MDHearing hearing aids are not just amplifiers. They are FDA-registered medical devices designed to improve hearing by selectively amplifying sounds based on specific environments and using technologies like feedback cancellation and noise reduction. Amplifiers, by contrast, simply increase all sounds equally, which can lead to more background noise and less clarity. (9)
How do you wear an MDHearing hearing aid?
MDHearing aids are worn either behind the ear (BTE) or in the ear canal (ITC or CIC), depending on the model. For BTE models like the AIR and VOLT, the main part of the hearing aid sits behind your ear, while a small tube connects to an ear tip that fits inside the ear canal. In-the-ear models like the NEO and NEO XS fit entirely within the ear canal, offering a discreet look.
Our experts
Amanda Marten, MSN, FNP-C
Amanda Marten is a Family Nurse Practitioner and freelance writer. She currently works as a Nurse Practitioner in urgent care. She enjoys developing relationships with her patients and educating them about their health while promoting evidence-based research.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Lauren Sherman
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Lauren Sherman brings a blend of academic rigor and practical application to her role as a health content expert. With a Master’s degree in Human Genetics from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Lauren combines deep scientific knowledge with real-world experience gained at National Jewish Health and Children’s Hospital Colorado. She specializes in creating authoritative and engaging content tailored to aging adults, drawing on her extensive research into products and strategies that enhance the quality of life for this demographic. Her work is informed by personal experience, having navigated the aging process with her own parents, and is underpinned by a commitment to providing actionable insights for her readers. Lauren’s contributions can be found on renowned platforms such as NCOA.org, HelpGuide.org, and MarketWatch.com, where she addresses complex health topics with clarity and compassion.
References
- Quick Statistics About Hearing, Balance, & Dizziness. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Updated Sept. 20, 024. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/statistics/quick-statistics-hearing#
- Mroz M, Healing Aid Prices Health Hearing Updated Sept. 6, 2023. https://www.healthyhearing.com/help/hearing-aids/prices
- (UK), N. G. C. (n.d.-a). Early versus delayed management of hearing loss. Hearing loss in adults: assessment and management. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536548/
- OTC Hearing Aids: What You Should Know. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/hearing-aids/otc-hearing-aids-what-you-should-know
- Invisible Hearing Aids. Amplifon. https://www.amplifon.com/uk/wearing-hearing-aids/the-pros-and-cons-of-invisible-hearing-aids#
- Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Update June 13, 2024. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/over-counter-hearing-aids
- Laird D. Hearing Aids, Aging, and Dexterity—Are Hearing Aids Too Hard to Handle For Some? My Hearing Newsfeed. Aug, 6, 2024. https://myhearingcentre.com.au/hearing-aids-ageing-and-dexterity/.
- How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost? Colorado Ear Care. https://coloradoearcare.com/hearing-services/hearing-aids/how-much-do-hearing-aids-cost/
- Hearing Aids and Personal Sound Amplification Products: What to Know. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/hearing-aids-and-personal-sound-amplification-products-what-know