- Half shell hearing aids offer an ideal balance between discretion and performance, providing more advanced features than smaller in-the-ear styles while remaining less visible than full-shell models.
- In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids come in five sizes, and the larger the device, the more power, battery life, and connectivity options (like Bluetooth and telecoils) are available.
- Custom fit is essential for comfort and sound quality, which is why all ITE hearing aids (including half shell hearing aids) require professional ear impressions and audiologist guidance.
In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are custom-made devices that fit entirely inside the outer portion of the ear. They are designed to be discreet and comfortable while providing excellent sound quality. There are 5 sizes of ITE hearing aids. From smallest to largest, these are:
- invisible-in-the-ear (IIC)
- completely in the canal (CIC)
- in-the-canal (ITC)
- half-shell in-the-ear
- full-shell in-the-ear
How Half-Shell Hearing Aids Look and Feel
ITE hearing aids can be appropriate for hearing losses ranging from mild to severe. The larger the ITE hearing aid, the more features that are available. Consumers should weigh the cosmetic benefits of the smaller devices with the increased features available in the larger devices when making a decision about which ITE hearing aid is best for their particular hearing loss, ear anatomy, and lifestyle.
Because ITE hearing aids are made to fit each individual user, earmold impressions must first be taken. This involves placing a cotton or foam block deep in the ear canal and then filling the ear canal and bowl of the ear with a soft silicone material that hardens in 2-5 minutes.
The impression is removed and mailed to the manufacturer so the ITE hearing aid can be made in that particular size and shape. This makes them a comfortable choice for people who do not want a hearing aid sitting on top of or behind their ears.
Features of ITE Hearing Aids
Design and Fit
ITE hearing aids are molded to the shape of your ear, ensuring a snug and personalized fit. They come in various sizes, from invisible-in-the-ear devices that sit entirely inside the ear canal to full-shell devices that fill the entire bowl of the outer ear.
Visibility
They are less visible compared to behind-the-ear models, though larger ITE aids may still be noticeable. This makes them a popular choice for patients seeking more subtle options.
Functionality
These devices house all the components (microphone, amplifier, speaker, and battery) within the ear shell. Depending on the model, they may also include features like directional microphones, Bluetooth connectivity, and volume controls.
Suitability
ITE hearing aids are ideal for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss. However, their suitability can depend on ear anatomy and lifestyle needs.
Ease of Use
Because the entire device sits inside the ear, there is no behind-the-ear component to work with, and this makes them easier to handle for some users. They also work well for people who use oxygen and can’t fit a behind-the-ear device on top of their ear, along with the oxygen tubing.
What are the different in-the-ear hearing aid styles?
Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC)
Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aids are the smallest version of ITE hearing aids. IIC hearing aids are made to fit entirely inside the ear canal and cannot be seen from the outside. They have a long removal cord that allows the user to remove the hearing aids from the ear.
The benefit of IIC hearing aids is that they are nearly invisible, making them cosmetically appealing. The drawback is that they are so small that they can be difficult to handle for people with dexterity issues.
They use a size 10 battery, which is the smallest hearing aid battery available. It lasts an average of 3-4 days and can be difficult for those with large hands or dexterity issues to change the battery. IIC hearing aids are too small to house a Bluetooth antenna, so they are not compatible with Bluetooth streaming of media or phone calls and typically cannot be adjusted via a mobile app.
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids are one size larger than IIC hearing aids. They also use a size 10 battery, which only lasts 3-4 days and can be difficult to manipulate. The main advantage of CIC hearing aids is cosmetic. Some CIC hearing aids have a button that allows program or volume changes. Some CIC hearing aids also have an external Bluetooth antenna that allows them to connect to smartphones for media, calls, and adjustments via a mobile app.
In-the-canal (ITC)
In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids are one size larger than CIC hearing aids. They typically use a 312 battery, which is twice as big as the size 10 batteries used in IIC and CIC hearing aids. This makes it easier to manipulate. ITC hearing aids are more visible in the ear as they protrude slightly out of the ear canal and into the concha (bowl) of the ear. Their larger size allows room for a program/volume button and a Bluetooth antenna, which allows for wireless streaming and mobile app adjustments.
Half-shell in-the-ear
Half-shell in-the-ear hearing aids are one size larger than ITC hearing aids. They fit partially within the concha (bowl) of your outer ear but are smaller than full-shell ITE hearing aids, making them slightly more cosmetically appealing. Their larger size can make them easier to handle than smaller ITE hearing aids for those with large hands or dexterity issues.
They typically use a size 312 battery, but there are also rechargeable options available in this size. Half-shell ITE hearing aids are large enough to accommodate directional microphones, telecoils, and Bluetooth antennae, so they are a good option for those who want a discreet hearing aid with full functionality.
Full-shell in-the-ear
Full-shell in-the-ear hearing aids completely fill the concha (outer bowl) of the ear. They are the largest custom-made hearing devices and utilize a size 13 battery, which is twice the size and lasts almost twice as long as the size 312 batteries used in the ITC and half-shell ITE devices.
There are also rechargeable battery options in the full-shell ITE style. Their larger size allows for more power, so they are appropriate for people with greater degrees of hearing loss. The larger size also allows room for extra features like directional microphones, telecoils, and Bluetooth antennae, making them versatile devices.
Hear Comfortably With Appropriate-Sized Hearing Aids For You
In conclusion, in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids offer a comfortable and discreet solution for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss who do not want a hearing aid that sits above or behind their ear.
Their custom fit, ease of use, and advanced features make them a versatile choice for many lifestyles. ITE hearing aids come in five different sizes, from the tiniest invisible-in-the-ear hearing aids to the much larger full-shell in-the-ear hearing aids.
The best size for you will depend on your unique hearing loss and listening needs. If you’re looking for a hearing aid that balances performance with subtlety, an ITE model may be the ideal option for you.
Talk to your audiologist about your specific needs and preferences to determine if this is the right choice for your hearing care. Your audiologist will take into consideration your hearing loss, ear anatomy, and lifestyle in order to make the best recommendation for you.
