CIC and IIC designs are the smallest in size on the market. They sit deep in the ear canal and are usually chosen for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. Both offer high cosmetic appeal, because they’re virtually invisible when worn. However, they are prone to ear wax and moisture damage, and don’t tend to come with manual controls.

Appropriate for a wide range of hearing losses, ITC styles sit in the lower part of the outer ear bowl, and are slightly larger in size than IIC and CIC hearing aids. Comfortable to wear and easy to handle, ITC styles typically have a longer battery life and can hold more features.

 Low profile styles range in designs that fill about half the outer ear bowl to almost entirely. These designs, like ITCs, are large enough to accommodate additional features like exterior control options, and are a good choice for people with dexterity problems.

These styles sit behind the outer ear, with discreet tubing that routes sound into the ear canal, typically connecting with a soft tip. The result is known as an “open fitting,” and is a good choice for mild to moderate high-frequency losses.

RIC and RITE designs hold their speakers in the ear tip, instead of built into the hearing aid center. The speaker sits close to the eardrum, while the processor and microphone fit in a small case behind the ear.

These styles are designed to suit any kind of hearing loss, from moderate to severe. They have a longer shape that follows the outer ear, and generally accommodate more features and controls than other styles. And because the hearing aid’s electrical parts sit behind the ear, it is generally less susceptible to wax or moisture damage.