Affordability is a major barrier in treating hearing loss. A 2018 survey found that nearly 75% of Americans can’t afford hearing aids worth more than $2,500. (1) Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, first introduced in 2020, are less expensive than prescription hearing aids, giving more people access to effective treatment.
Lexie makes reliable, moderately priced OTC hearing aids with exceptional sound quality. Our experts tested three Lexie devices, evaluating their ability to combat mild to moderate hearing loss. Each Lexie hearing aid has tools to enhance the listening experience in different settings, but the B2 Plus has the most advanced features for superior sound quality.
Our favorite Lexie hearing aids
Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids are our overall pick because they offer several popular features at an affordable price point: Bluetooth streaming, noise cancellation, feedback reduction, and audiologist support. The brand’s only rechargeable device, the B2 Plus, lasts up to 18 hours and allows users to adjust the volume in the app and on the hearing aids themselves. Self-fitting technology and easy customizations make them a top solution for mild to moderate hearing loss.
Our picks for the best Lexie hearing aids
Compare Lexie hearing aids
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| Lexie B2 Plus | Lexie B1 | Lexie Lumen | |
| Rating | |||
| Price | $999 | $749 | $699 |
| Type (OTC or prescription) | OTC | OTC | OTC |
| Style | Receiver-in-canal (RIC) | RIC | Behind-the-ear (BTE) |
| Battery type | Rechargeable | Replaceable batteries | Replaceable batteries |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Key product features
What you should know
Lexie B2 Plus are self-fitting, over-the-counter hearing aids that house the receiver behind the ear (RIC). They include noise reduction and feedback cancellation, bidirectional microphones for sound clarity, and lifetime remote customer care through the app. The battery life is long, and our testers say they like the high-quality charging case, which is slim and sleek and has a magnetic connection for easy docking.
- Our testers were impressed with how intuitive it is to set up iPhone calls and audio streaming. Call quality is stronger and clearer than other OTC hearing aids we’ve tested.
- The hearing aids are $999 per pair, including free lifetime audiology support, a one-year warranty, and a 45-day trial period. Lexie Club is available for $9.99 monthly, and the extended protection plan costs $180.
- Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids are an affordable solution for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. We recommend them to people who want popular features like Bluetooth, advanced sound technology, and rechargeability.
- Hearing modes include four environments (noisy indoor, outdoor, music, every day) and 10 recommended presets based on your hearing profile. These settings go beyond what other comparable OTC hearing aids offer for sound adjustments and customizations.
- Lexie B2 Plus is the brand’s only rechargeable hearing aid.
Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids overview
At $999 per pair, the Lexie B2 Plus is competitively priced compared to other affordable hearing aids on the market and doesn’t sacrifice audio quality or compromise key features.
An upgrade to Lexie’s B1 hearing aids, the B2 Plus includes an in-app hearing test to customize your sound settings and self-fit your hearing aids, similar to a fitting in an audiologist’s office. The hearing test follows a speech-in-noise format, which is a helpful way to diagnose your hearing loss, verify comprehension, and recommend treatment. (2) Another unique feature is hearing mode recommendations based on your hearing profile, which you can save for future use. The Lexie Hearing App is a user-friendly companion app that can help you take advantage of these features.
The B2 Plus has three sets of open and closed domes in various sizes. These domes, often called ear tips or earbuds, block background noise or amplify low-frequency sounds. (3) We like that the B2 Plus has multiple-size tips, letting you find the most comfortable fit to optimize sound quality. If you have trouble fine-tuning it to your liking, you can contact a Lexie support specialist in the app for recommendations.
Another standout feature is Lexie B2 Plus’s Bose technology. Bose, best known for its noise-canceling headphones, uses the same feedback and sound reduction features in these hearing aids. Testers say this is evident in the B2’s sound quality. The recommended sound modes also go above and beyond other OTC devices, letting wearers easily find a programming setup that works for them at home and in social settings.
The charging case and other accessories are high-quality. However, our testers found it odd that the carrying case doesn’t contain its own battery. Instead, the case must be plugged in using the included USB-C cable to recharge the hearing aids, limiting the device’s portability.
Our testers loved the brand’s in-app rewards system, Lexie Points. This system awards points when users wear hearing aids and perform everyday tasks. Points are redeemable in Lexie’s accessories store. Habit tracking may encourage hearing aid usage, and users who wear hearing aids consistently have a lower risk of dementia and falls than those who don’t. (4)
What customers are saying
Lexie hearing aids are available online and at retailers like Costco and Amazon, so the brand has no shortage of verifiable, third-party reviews we can evaluate. On Amazon, the Lexie B2 Plus has 3.9 out of five stars from an average of 151 reviews. Nearly 70% of reviews are four and five stars. Most customers say the Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids are comfortable, easy to use, and have excellent sound quality.
Related post: Best Costco hearing aids
One verified reviewer says the Lexie B2 Plus worked better than his Starkey hearing aids. “I lost a lot of hearing from the military. I’ve been wearing Starkeys for 10 years, and they finally gave out. The price for new hearing aids is unbelievable. It’s a ripoff. I bought these [Lexie Hearing Aids] because of the positive feedback. They work great and get louder than the Starkeys. There is also way more adjustment for whatever environment you are in. The setup was a breeze. I have a Galaxy S24+, so downloads were fast and easy. It’s best to have a newer phone for these hearing aids. I’m very happy with my purchase,” says verified Amazon reviewer Jerry.
Several negative reviews mention feedback issues, trouble adjusting the device’s volume, or difficulty registering for the warranty.
“These hearing aids worked well, and I am happy to have them. They provide many crisp high frequencies, which helped me understand speech; I can now hear the crickets. I held back one star because the app associated with my iPhone is not particularly convenient. Aside from those mentioned above, a couple of features would make the app more useful. It would be convenient to be able to turn them on and off from the app and would avoid feedback when removing them,” says verified Amazon reviewer Charles L.
Other customer reviews say Lexie’s online hearing test is inaccurate and unhelpful. Reviewers say it takes time to find your ideal settings, even with the presets.
We recommend visiting an audiologist for a more comprehensive diagnosis of your specific hearing loss, even if you plan to purchase OTC hearing aids. This may help you identify the best hearing aids for you and make it easier to adjust your Lexie device’s settings. (5)
Related post: How do hearing aids work?
Who Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids are recommended for:
- People with mild to moderate hearing loss: The B2 Plus replaced the B2 in 2024, making it Lexie’s most updated model. Impressive sound technology aside, OTC hearing aids are recommended for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. People with severe hearing loss are better suited to prescription models with advanced customizations. (6)
- Those who want to control their experience: The app’s features and capabilities give wearers more control over their hearing. These tools allow them to preprogram sound settings and make quick adjustments using a smartphone.
- Anyone with an active lifestyle: This hearing aid is ideal for active people who want a reliable, high-quality OTC device that can be recharged at home or on the go using a portable charger. With 18 hours of battery life and the ability to toggle between sound settings quickly, users will hear better wherever they are.
Who Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids are not recommended for:
- People with tinnitus: These are not the best hearing aids for tinnitus because they lack features to help relieve symptoms like sound therapy. (7)
- Anyone looking for invisible hearing aids: Lexie does not offer any in-the-ear (ITE) or completely-in-the-canal (CIC) models, which are smaller, stylish, and more discreet. Lexie’s RIC hearing aid is a more traditional style, and the receiver will be visible on your ear.
- Some Android users: Lexie advises customers to confirm their Android phone is compatible for streaming before purchasing. While Lexie works with iPhone® version 13 Plus and above, you must have an Android with the OS version Android 11 or higher to use call streaming.
How we rated Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids
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
Where to buy Lexie hearing aids
Lexie OTC hearing aids are available in stores and online, so you don’t have to visit a hearing care provider to buy them. You can purchase the devices directly via Lexie’s website and at the following retailers:
- Walgreens
- CVS
- Walmart
- Best Buy
- Amazon
- Costco
Lexie hearing aid app
We rated the Lexie app higher than most other hearing aid companion apps for its user-friendliness. You can initiate video and phone calls through the app, adjust your sound settings, and contact customer support. Our testers say the app’s features allow users to control their hearing experience without a big learning curve. The app includes walk-through videos, images, and diagrams to help you fit the hearing aid and use all the technical features. The app has a memory recall function that remembers your settings between sessions.
“The single-card quick start guide helped walk me through the basic steps to download the Lexie app and follow the instructions in the app. [It] even prompts you to shake your head back and forth and up and down once fitted to ensure the fit is secure, which is the most robust fitting guidance I’ve seen in an app so far. You have to enter your phone number and email to use the app, which some people may not like,” says a tester.
The app instantly connects to Bluetooth to make a call: this quick connectivity, plus the ability to toggle between sound profiles and update microphone directionality and balance.
Warranties and policies
All Lexie hearing aids have a one-year warranty for manufacturer faults and damage. This policy does not cover replacement devices that are lost or stolen. You can also purchase an extended warranty covering your hearing aids for an additional 12 months if you’re an active Lexie Club member.
The Lexie Product Protection Plan covers certain accidental damage for 24 months. If your B2 Plus product is stolen, lost, or damaged, Lexie will replace it at a reduced cost of $360.
Lexie also has a 45-day trial period and return window that begins on the delivery date. This entitles customers to a full refund. Forty-five days is a standard return window, but Jabra hearing aids and Lucid devices have longer windows.
Specs
| Style | RIC |
| Battery | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| Prescription | No, OTC |
| Warranty | 12 months |
| Financing | Yes, via Klarna |
| Dimensions | N/A |
Key product features
What you should know
- This hearing aid uses replaceable batteries, which our testers found difficult to manage due to their size and the doors used to insert them. People with dexterity limitations may consider this a product flaw.
- Batteries must be changed every five to seven days, depending on usage.
- Only available in one color (gray). If you want more color options to match your style, you’ll need to choose the Lexie Lumen or an OTC hearing aid offered by another brand.
- You can store your preferred noise settings in the app.
Recommended for
People who don’t want to recharge their devices: The B1s rely on disposable batteries, so you won’t have to worry about recharging your devices or carrying a portable charger. Simply replace your battery every five to seven days.
Key product features
What you should know
- As the brand’s only BTE style, the receiver sits behind the ear, so Lexie Lumen may not be the best choice for people who wear glasses.
- Bluetooth hearing aids, but no streaming options available (music or phone calls).
- Costs under $699.
Recommended for
- Anyone searching for a lightweight, comfortable hearing aid: The Lumen is pretty small compared to other BTEs, and it fits comfortably on the ear. It’s available in four colors to blend with your style.
- People who feel intimidated by high-tech devices: The Lumen is equipped with technology features like Bluetooth and sound customizations, and the intuitive app makes it easy to tailor for daily use.
We’ve featured Lexie in:
- Best hearing aids
- Best affordable hearing aids
- Best OTC hearing aids
- Best Bluetooth hearing aids
- Best Costco hearing aids
Lexie vs. competitors
In a recent study from the Journal of the American Medical Association, researchers chose Lexie hearing aids to compare fittings for over-the-counter and prescription hearing aids. (8) Participants who used Lexie hearing aids showed similar positive outcomes regarding the quality and reliability of the devices.
Lexie hearing aids cost under $1,000, making them more affordable than some comparable models from popular OTC hearing aid brands like Jabra or Eargo. For example, the Jabra Enhance Select 500 offers many of the same features in a BTE style but costs about $700 more. It’s up to you to determine if hands-free calling and a 30-hour battery life (compared to 18 hours with Lexie) are worth the added fee.
Our testers caution that Lexie’s replaceable battery options (the B1 and Lexie Lumen) could be difficult for those with dexterity limitations. Most competing hearing aids with advanced sound technology are rechargeable, but you’ll likely pay more for this feature.
For some customers, style may be a deciding factor when comparing Lexie to its competitors. Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids are RIC-style aids, which could make some people reluctant to wear them due to their appearance (9), especially if they prefer invisible hearing aids that are smaller and more discreet.
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| Lexie B2 Plus | Jabra Enhance™ Select 500 | Eargo7 | Audien Atom 2 | MDHearing Neo XS | |
| Rating | |||||
| Price | $999 | $1,795–$1,995 | $2,950 | $189–$289 | $397 |
| Type (OTC or prescription) | OTC | OTC | OTC | OTC | OTC |
| Style | RIC | BTE | CIC | ITE | CIC |
| Battery type | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
FAQs
Is Lexie B2 a hearing aid or an amplifier?
The Lexie B2 and B2 Plus are receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids. They are not considered amplifiers because they have a microphone, amplifier, and speaker that allow wearers to customize their sound experience instead of simply amplifying the sounds around them.
Who makes Lexie hearing aids?
Lexie partners with Bose, a leading manufacturer of headphones, speakers, and soundbars, to create the B1 and B2 Plus hearing aids with advanced sound quality. The devices are developed by the hearX Group.
What is the difference between the Lexie B1 and B2?
The main difference between the Lexie B1 and B2 is the B2 hearing aids are rechargeable with up to 18 hours of wear time on one charge. The B1 uses replaceable batteries. While the B1 is equipped with Bluetooth, it does not offer streaming capabilities, and it has fewer sound presets.
Are Lexie hearing aids covered by Medicare?
While Medicare does not cover Lexie hearing aids (10), Medicare may cover a more in-depth diagnostic exam to determine hearing loss than the free evaluation available in the Lexie app. Search your state guidelines for Medicare coverage of hearing aids and hearing exams. Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer additional hearing benefits, and Medicaid may be able to help seniors afford hearing aids in certain states. (11) Lexie offers financing to help pay for hearing aids.
Our experts
Dr. Heidi Moawad
Dr. Heidi Moawad is a neurologist and teaches at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. She serves on the editorial board of Neurology Clinical Practice and is a reviewer for Neurology.
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 Hamer, CFEI, CPRW
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Sources
- Jilla, A.M., Johnson, C.E. Population-Based Perspectives on Affordability of Hearing Aids. The Hearing Journal. 2020; 73(12):p 42,44,45. https://journals.lww.com/thehearingjournal/Fulltext/2020/12000/Population_Based_Perspectives_on_Affordability_of.12.aspx
- Billings, C. J., Olsen, T. M., Charney, L., Madsen, B. M., & Holmes, C. E. Speech-in-Noise Testing: An Introduction for Audiologists. Seminars in hearing. 2023; 45(1), 55–82. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10872656/
- American Hearing Audiology. The Ultimate Guide to Hearing Aid Domes. Accessed October 15, 2024.
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. The Hidden Risks of Hearing Loss. Accessed October 15, 2024.
- Salmon, M. K., Brant, J., Hohman, M. H., & Leibowitz, D. (2023, March 1). Audiogram interpretation. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK578179/#:~:text=Aud
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids. Accessed October 16, 2024.
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Tinnitus. Updated May 1, 2023. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus
- De Sousa K.C., Manchaiah V, Moore D.R., Graham M.A., Swanepoel D.W. Effectiveness of an Over-the-Counter Self-fitting Hearing Aid Compared With an Audiologist-Fitted Hearing Aid: A Randomized Clinical Trial. 2023;149(6):522–530. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/2803832
- Broome E, Meyer C, Church P, et al. What factors are important to whom in what context, when adults are prescribed hearing aids for hearing loss? A realist review protocol 2022;12:e059836. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/12/7/e059836
- Medicare.gov. Hearing aids. Accessed October 15, 2024.
- Hearing Loss Association of America. Financial Options for Hearing Loss Treatment. Accessed October 15, 2024.