Hearing loss, whether mild or severe, weighs heavily on your daily life. It hinders conversations and leaves you feeling isolated. It forces you to turn up the volume on everything, to the point where those around you ask you to turn it down. More seriously, it can compromise your safety! Fortunately, solutions have never been more accessible.
At CLARIA, we are proud to offer the best over-the-counter hearing aids on the web, whether you prefer the in-the-ear (ITE) or behind-the-ear (BTE) format—with prices starting at $98, we definitely have the option you need! We always encourage an annual hearing test whenever possible, and recommend consulting a doctor at the slightest doubt. But many people do not have access to a hearing care professional, or simply want a direct solution for what they perceive as mild to moderate hearing loss—without having to juggle insurance, prescriptions, or the healthcare system. With our devices, no tedious in-person appointments are necessary.
That said, we are constantly asked how our devices compare to hearing aids from Costco and Sam’s Club. After all, you may have a Costco or Sam’s Club near you, and the more traditional support offered by these retailers may appeal to you.
In truth, there isn't that much difference between Sam’s Club and Costco hearing aids. They are similar in that you receive a hearing screening, followed by personalized product recommendations and ongoing support, regardless of the degree of hearing loss.
But Costco mainly offers prescription hearing aids starting at $1,600, while Sam’s Club offers more affordable models, in the $200 to $300 range. However, this comparison is not limited to price alone. Discover the CLARIA vs. Costco vs. Sam’s Club matchup below!
Criterion
CLARIA
Sam’s Club Hearing Aids
Costco Hearing Aids
Price Range
From under $100 to $700 per pair
$175–$2,500 per pair
$1,600–$3,000 per pair
Purchase Method
Online, no appointment needed
In-store testing and fitting mandatory
In-store testing and fitting mandatory
Degrees of Hearing Loss
Mild to moderate
Mild to moderate-severe
Mild to moderate-severe
Models Available
Atom (ITE) or Ion (BTE), available in several models
RIC and BTE from Liberty, Lucid, Lexie
RIC and BTE from Philips, Rexton, Jabra
Key Features
FDA-registered, Bluetooth/streaming, listening modes, app, 24-48 hr battery life
Rechargeable, Bluetooth, custom-molded tips, in-store adjustments
Rechargeable, Bluetooth, directional sound, in-store follow-up
Support & Follow-up
Lifetime remote support via phone, chat, and email
In-store follow-up visits, adjustments, cleanings
In-store follow-up visits, adjustments, cleanings
CLARIA Hearing Aids
CLARIA has earned the trust of over a million customers, and that number continues to grow, by solving two of the most common obstacles related to hearing aids: cost and constraints. We design the best affordable hearing aids on the web for people suffering from mild to moderate hearing loss.
Where traditional approaches impose appointments, fitting sessions, and long waits, we allow you to buy your hearing aids online in just a few clicks, without the obstacle course. Your new devices arrive at your home in just a few days, so you can start hearing clearly again.
You can choose between in-the-ear and behind-the-ear hearing aids: we have a model for every preference. Our Atom in-the-ear (ITE) range focuses on simplicity, comfort, and ease of use. These devices start at $98 a pair. Our Ion behind-the-ear (BTE) range adds advanced features like adjustable hearing profiles and app controls, starting at $489 a pair. Our hearing profiles are our major asset: they offer personalization comparable to our competitors!
Both formats are rechargeable, discreet, and designed by audiologists to offer real sound clarity at a fraction of the cost of prescription devices. Each purchase includes lifetime support and a 45-day risk-free trial, so you can order with peace of mind.
Sam’s Club Hearing Aids
Sam’s Club Hearing Solutions partners with Lucid Hearing to offer a range of over-the-counter and medical-grade devices at its in-store centers.
It is a more affordable distribution option than many traditional hearing clinics, while retaining the benefit of face-to-face consultations, free hearing tests, and ongoing follow-up—provided you are a Sam’s Club member, of course.
Their range is wider than that of many competitors. The most popular models are the Enrich (basic digital amplifier), the Enrich Pro (improved clarity and feedback control), the Engage (Bluetooth with streaming & app customization), and the Fio (invisible in the canal, with natural sound profiles).
All models are rechargeable and provide access to Lucid's expertise in fitting and adjustment. Prices are competitive, but remain higher than those of over-the-counter brands like CLARIA.
It is also important to note that not everyone needs to deal with the constraint of in-person visits. People with mild to moderate hearing loss can save time, stress, and money by simply ordering online. Let's move on to the other half of the comparison between Costco and Sam’s Club hearing aids.
Costco Hearing Aids
Costco is very similar to Sam’s Club: its members gain access to customized hearing support through carefully selected partnerships with brands like Jabra, Phonak, Philips, and others.
As with Sam’s Club, you will need to go to a Costco Hearing Center, present in hundreds of locations across the country. You make an appointment for a visit and a hearing test, after which specialists fit and program your hearing aids according to your audiogram.
Costco distributes well-established brands like Phonak, Jabra Enhance Pro, Philips, and Rexton: so you have the assurance of getting a reliable solution in any case. You will have access to in-the-ear and behind-the-ear formats, with a recommendation based on your hearing needs.
Most Costco offerings include rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth streaming, noise reduction, and an app to make your life easier. But this is where the shoe pinches for most people: Costco hearing aids are not cheap.
Prices start at $1,600 and can easily exceed $3,000 per pair. That may be less than what you would pay at an independent center, but it is much more expensive than over-the-counter options like CLARIA. If you only suffer from mild to moderate hearing loss, this expense can be hard to justify.
That said, the appeal of Costco hearing aids is easy to understand: the brand's reputation, in-person support, free follow-up adjustments, and extended warranties. The question is: is it worth it for YOU?
Sam’s Club vs. Costco vs. CLARIA Hearing Aids: key differences to consider regarding models, prices, support, and more
Let's be clear: you won't go wrong choosing Costco or Sam’s Club hearing aids if your hearing loss is more advanced and you want in-person support.
But the best hearing aids under $200, or even the best hearing aid under $100, are just a few clicks away at CLARIA if you only suffer from mild to moderate hearing loss and want to save money, time, and hassle.
At the end of the day, hearing loss is a personal matter. Your choice between Costco, Sam’s Club, and CLARIA hearing aids should be based on the criteria that matter most to you, as well as the stage of your hearing loss.
Price and Value for Money
The distinction between CLARIA and Costco or Sam’s Club hearing aids is clear in terms of cost. Our devices are specifically designed to be the most affordable option, because we believe hearing aids should be more accessible.
Our over-the-counter devices start at under $100, and even our most sophisticated model tops out at $700 a pair. They are economical, but don't confuse that with "low-end." The value for money is remarkable when you consider the features, performance, and support.
How do we manage to keep prices so low compared to Sam’s Club and Costco hearing aids? It's simple: we don't have expensive physical retail locations, and we don't offer diagnostic care.
Costco is at the other end of the spectrum, while remaining a bit more affordable than some centers. Expect to pay between $1,600 and over $3,000 per pair depending on the brand and model selected.
Sam’s Club sits in the middle, with devices starting at around $175—but our entry-level models cost almost half as much and offer much better performance. The retailer also offers hearing aids between $1,200 and $2,500 for more severe hearing loss.
Models and Technologies
There is no shortage of choice at these three retailers: you can therefore adapt your decision to your specific hearing needs and comfort preferences.
All our CLARIA models are FDA-registered and offer the essential functions to get the most out of a hearing aid: background noise reduction, adjustable frequencies, and rechargeable batteries. Some models also feature Bluetooth and streaming! Battery life varies from 24 to 48 hours.
Sam’s Club sells exclusively Lucid Hearing aids, with models ranging from completely-in-canal to behind-the-ear. They offer Bluetooth streaming, charging, and custom fitting options. They cover all degrees of hearing loss, but with fewer advanced features than in high-end centers.
Costco offers the widest range since the retailer works with four different suppliers. You can therefore find even more advanced technologies: directional microphones, feedback suppression, and advanced smartphone apps. All, of course, at a higher price.
Remember that Costco distributes Jabra. You can compare CLARIA and Jabra hearing aids on our blog to better identify the strengths of each. We also offer similar comparisons between CLARIA and MD Hearing Aid, or even between Nano and CLARIA.
Convenience and Buying Experience
This is the deciding criterion for many when comparing CLARIA to Costco and Sam’s Club hearing aids: convenience. We are the only one of the three brands that allows you to buy a hearing aid online, without a hearing test or in-person visit.
If you already know that you suffer from mild to moderate hearing loss and you just want to get back to a normal life, your search ends here. Choose your device (with our help if you wish!), it is shipped to your home, and you are up and running in minutes. Setup is a breeze!
Sam’s Club and Costco both require an in-person visit for a hearing test and professional fitting. This is an advantage or a disadvantage, depending on your point of view. On one hand, you get personalized face-to-face support. On the other, it involves an appointment, time out of your day, and, of course, significantly higher prices.
Support and Follow-up
You will receive excellent support for your hearing needs, whether you choose CLARIA, Costco, or Sam’s Club—that's guaranteed. The whole difference lies in how you access this support.
Our CLARIA team is ready to recommend the right product or solve a device issue, long after the sale. You can reach us at any time by phone, email, or live chat—without making an appointment. Customer service on your terms. Not to mention the 45-day risk-free trial to ensure the device is right for you!
Conversely, Sam’s Club hearing aids like those at Costco include in their price in-person follow-up, adjustments, and cleaning services. The difference is that you have to travel to take advantage of them. This can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Especially for people who need help getting out of the house!
Who is each option for?
Ultimately, the right choice between CLARIA, Costco, and Sam’s Club depends on the type of hearing loss you have and your personal preferences.
Sam’s Club is well-suited for those who already shop there and want in-person service at a rate slightly lower than traditional centers. Costco is quite similar, but provides access to high-end models from more recognized brands (at a higher price, too).
CLARIA is the ideal choice for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss looking for an affordable, discreet, and quick-to-implement solution. You don't pay too much for features you don't need, and you avoid the hassle of appointments.
We have earned the trust of millions of customers and hope to help you, too, hear clearly again. Discover today the difference CLARIA hearing aids can make in your life!
"I've had them for two weeks now and they are great. I highly recommend them. Their customer service is impeccable. I had a few issues at the beginning, but after talking with support, everything was resolved. Plus, they followed up with me several times since, just to see if everything was working well. The Bluetooth part is excellent." - Neal
"These ION Pro hearing aids are a game changer. My mother had tried several, but even at maximum volume she couldn't hear. These, at 20%, are plenty for her. She told me: 'I hear like the hearing I was born with.' The new chip works very well and the app is simple to use. Order placed and received quickly. I will buy from CLARIA again in the future." - David
"This company really seems to care about giving you what you need. Very accommodating." - Dianne
In conclusion: our comparison of Costco and Sam’s Club hearing aids
Hearing loss is a personal matter, and choosing the right device is not to be taken lightly. Fortunately, after reading our comparison between Sam’s Club and Costco hearing aids, you should have a clearer picture of the ideal solution for your needs.
But whether you are comparing Costco and Sam’s Club hearing aids, Oracle, Bossa, or any other brand, it is hard to beat the balance of price, convenience, performance, and service that CLARIA offers.
An affordable and reliable hearing aid, backed by lifetime support, is just a few clicks away. Start hearing the moments that matter most again with CLARIA!
