Hearing loss can impact many aspects of daily life, from conversations with loved ones to following instructions at work. Fortunately, several solutions exist, both prescription and over-the-counter. Two brands frequently compared online are Lively hearing aids and those from Costco.
In reality, Lively no longer exists: the brand was acquired by one of the world's largest hearing aid manufacturers, GN Hearing. This group also owns several other brands, such as Jabra.
Costco's offerings, on the other hand, range from Kirkland models to internationally recognized devices from Jabra, Rexton, Philips, and many others. Beyond the catalog, Costco Hearing Aid Centers offer much more personalized individual support than a brand like Lively. Costco hearing aids are prescription devices, but generally offered at lower prices than those found in private practices.
However, Lively hearing aids are still available on the used market, so we compare Costco and Lively below. For adults with mild to moderate hearing loss without complications, over-the-counter (OTC) devices are another option. Brands like CLARIA focus on accessibility and price in this category (buying hearing aids online).
From in-ear models to behind-the-ear, we know how personal hearing care is, and we have a solution for everyone. We eliminate the stress, delays, and frustration associated with hearing aids, with models starting at $98. Discover them today and rediscover the joy of living life to the fullest!
"These hearing aids work very well and the insurance plan is really affordable. The Atom 2 is the best, with all the features it offers." - Ricky
"I think I've tried every OTC hearing aid ever made and I can honestly say that the CLARIA Ion far surpasses the competition. The Ion BTE is by far the clearest and lightest device on the market." - Ron
"Wow, I had no idea filling the dishwasher made so much noise. The clatter of plates, the jingle of silverware, the rinsing of glasses. I hadn't heard those sounds in a long time, and I didn't even know I missed them until I put the CLARIA ION hearing aids in my ears." - Mary
Note: If you are unsure of your level of hearing loss, it is best to consult a licensed hearing professional.
Lively vs. Costco Hearing Aids at a Glance
Feature
Costco Hearing Aids
Jabra Enhance (formerly Lively)
Hearing Aid Type
Prescription or Over-the-Counter (OTC)
Prescription or Over-the-Counter (OTC)
Ideal for
Mild to Profound Hearing Loss
Mild to Profound Hearing Loss
How to Buy
In-store, at Costco Hearing Centers
Direct online purchase at JabraEnhance.com
Fitting & Support
In-person fitting with follow-up appointments; varies by store
Remote adjustment and fitting by licensed professionals (up to 3 years)
Bluetooth Streaming
Available on most models (depending on brand)
Available on all models (iOS & some Android devices)
Technology Platform
Varies by brand (Kirkland, Jabra, Rexton, Philips, etc.)
SoundScape™ with app customization and noise management
Popular Models
Kirkland Signature, Jabra Enhance, Rexton, Philips HearLink
Enhance Select 50R, 300, 500
Price Range (per pair)
$1,399 – $2,500
$1,195 – $1,995
Trial & Warranty
180-day return policy; warranty varies by model
100-day risk-free trial; warranty up to 3 years
What are Lively Hearing Aids?
Lively was a direct-to-consumer hearing aid brand, created to make high-tech devices more accessible and less intimidating through online sales. Customers had access to prescription-quality devices, with remote audiological follow-up.
The brand became so popular that it was eventually acquired by another manufacturer. In other words, the company no longer manufactures or sells hearing aids under the Lively name.
Who owns Lively today?
GN Hearing is the group behind well-known brands like Jabra and five others, including Lively. It integrated Lively into its growing portfolio in 2021, building on its infrastructure and digital-first business model to build what is now Jabra Enhance.
Specifically, if you are looking for "Lively hearing aids" today, you will be better off looking at the Jabra Enhance Select range. We have a dedicated article comparing Jabra and CLARIA if you want to know more.
In any case, Lively branded devices are no longer updated or directly supported. New users are now directed to the Jabra offering. You may still be able to find used Lively devices, but with limited support and no software updates.
An Overview of Available Models
Lively built its reputation on three receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids:
Lively 2 Lite: an entry-level model with basic features, for people new to hearing aids.
Lively 2 Plus: offered more sound customization, Bluetooth streaming, and rechargeable batteries.
Lively 2 Pro: their high-end device, featuring more advanced directional microphones and a more powerful noise reduction algorithm.
These were good mid-range devices, suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. They can still be found today on eBay and other used platforms, but without customer service, warranty, or any certainty that the device purchased is a genuine Lively.
Price and Customer Experience
Price was a major contributor to the success of Lively hearing aids. These devices cost between $1,200 and $2,000 per pair, with remote support from licensed hearing professionals. This is quite expensive, but it represents only a fraction of the cost of most prescription devices.
Customers could take an online hearing test, choose a device, and have it delivered to their home, without any physical visits. This simplicity is another reason why Lively became one of the industry's benchmark brands.
Today, Jabra Enhance Select devices have largely replaced Lively's original lineup, and while the pricing structure remains comparable, some users have noted differences in service organization and platform usability since the rebrand.
This is quite logical during such a large-scale transition. A Lively customer from five years ago may have had a very different experience than someone entering the Jabra ecosystem today.
Does Costco Sell Lively Hearing Aids?
Costco sells a multitude of hearing aid brands in its Hearing Aid Centers, and this question comes up constantly. Does Costco sell Lively hearing aids today? No, but you will find Jabra Enhance devices there instead.
This is undeniably the closest technology to Lively currently on the market. Some even believe that the two brands share the same internal components. But Jabra is just one of many brands you'll have access to at Costco.
What Does the Costco Hearing Center Offer?
Costco Hearing Centers function somewhat like small audiology clinics, although not all employ a licensed audiologist. Some locations only have staff authorized to dispense hearing aids.
In any case, customers can make an appointment at their local Costco, receive a comprehensive hearing evaluation, try out devices on site, and benefit from personalized fitting. This is very appealing for any Costco cardholder looking for face-to-face support.
What Brands are Available at Costco?
Costco's offerings range from its own private label to reputable brands produced by global manufacturers, including GN Hearing.
Kirkland Signature (Costco's house brand, manufactured by Sonova, parent company of Phonak)
Jabra Enhance (from GN Hearing, direct replacement for Lively hearing aids)
Rexton (sister brand of Signia, under WS Audiology)
Philips HearLink (manufactured by Demant, parent company of Oticon)
This is a real asset, as you can refine your choice to find a device that matches not only your hearing profile, but also your budget and lifestyle. Each brand offers different models and features, and you also benefit from Costco's support services.
Pros and Cons of Costco Hearing Centers
It's hard to beat Costco's value for money in the hearing industry. It's an excellent option for anyone with moderate to profound hearing loss who wants in-person support without the $5,000+ price tag.
You get major brand technology, on-site testing, and affordable batteries and accessories. Warranties and return policies are also generous, as is typical for Costco.
However, there are trade-offs to consider. In some stores, it's difficult to get an appointment. You are limited to the brands referenced by Costco, with no possibility of going beyond. And the quality of care varies from one location to another.
So, how do you decide between Lively and Costco hearing aids?
Lively vs. Costco Hearing Aids: Key Differences
Let's be clear from the outset, before comparing Costco and Lively, that the only Lively devices still available today are old stock models, prior to the acquisition. We've already said it, but we do not recommend buying these devices.
You risk not getting proper support, a warranty, or software updates. It's not even certain that you'll receive a genuine Lively device. The uncertainty is too great.
For this comparison between Lively and Costco hearing aids, we will therefore focus primarily on the Jabra Enhance range, as that is what Lively has become.
Online vs. In-Person Support
Jabra Enhance, like Lively before it, operates entirely remotely. You take an online hearing test, choose your device, and receive professional support by phone or video call.
This is exactly what many are looking for: it's very convenient and more affordable, especially if you live in a rural area, far from any Costco. Jabra offers some of the best OTC hearing aids on the market, picking up the torch where Lively left off.
Conversely, Costco offers in-person support at its Hearing Aid Centers. You undergo your hearing evaluation on site, try different models in real conditions, and interact with specialists face-to-face. The experience is generally more personalized and in-depth.
This is a better choice if you prefer the traditional route with local service, or if you don't feel comfortable managing your devices yourself. It remains more affordable than an audiology practice, but the cost will be higher (we'll come back to this below).
Ultimately, there is no universal answer on this point of comparison between Lively and Costco. The right model depends on your comfort with technology, the degree of autonomy you want, and the proximity of your nearest Costco.
Technology and Features
This is where you can't really go wrong between Costco and Lively (Jabra Enhance): both offer solid technology for moderate to profound hearing loss.
Costco references models from several manufacturers, including Jabra, Philips, Rexton, and its own Kirkland Signature line. Some models offer Bluetooth streaming, rechargeable batteries, directional microphones, and app controls.
Jabra Enhance (formerly Lively) offers a more focused range. All models feature Bluetooth connectivity, recharging, app adjustments, and fine-tuning remotely.
You'll have fewer choices, but each product is designed for ease of use and long-term support. The software interface is intuitive and remote support is an integral part of the experience: no need to stress about troubleshooting or updates.
Price Comparison
There is also a price difference between Costco and Lively (Jabra Enhance). These two brands are in the mid-range price bracket.
Jabra Enhance (formerly Lively) generally costs between $1,195 and $1,995 per pair, depending on the model chosen. The service plan selected also influences the price. You benefit from a three-year warranty, continuous remote support, and loss and damage coverage.
Costco hearing aids, on the other hand, will cost you between $1,399 and $2,500 per pair. It all depends, of course, on the brand chosen, whether it's the more affordable devices in the Kirkland range or one of the more sophisticated branded models.
Services included in your purchase: hearing evaluations, fitting, and basic follow-up visits. The return policy (generally 180 days) is among the most generous in the industry, and extended warranties are offered.
Thus, even if Costco appears more expensive on paper, it can represent better value for money if you prioritize high-end support. Ultimately, that's where the choice between Lively and Costco, or between any other hearing aid brands, comes down to: what do you REALLY need?
Who Each Solution is For
Jabra Enhance is convenient and flexible if you are comfortable with a smartphone and agree to manage your devices with phone or video call assistance. You avoid the clinic and save money.
But Costco will probably be more suitable if you prefer to talk to someone in person, try devices before buying, or if you feel more confident with face-to-face explanations.
The right choice depends on your degree of hearing loss, your lifestyle, and your expectations for support. Many adults with mild to moderate hearing loss find OTC devices sufficient, while others benefit from the enhanced monitoring of prescription hearing aids for more complex needs. We are all unique!
Looking for a More Affordable OTC Hearing Aid?
Not all hearing loss requires a prescription or a clinic-dispensed device. OTC hearing aids are a good choice for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. You get a safe and effective solution, without the extra cost, delays, or complexity of the traditional medical route.
These devices are simple and require no hearing test, doctor's visit, or custom fitting. The key is to know your level of hearing loss. For millions of people, it is moderate enough that prescription devices are unnecessary, or even overkill.
That's where we come in.
CLARIA was born from the idea that hearing care should be simple, accessible, and affordable. Our devices start at just $98 per pair, making them among the most affordable FDA-registered hearing aids on the market. The range includes:
Atom One: our most affordable model at $98 per pair, with a discreet in-ear design, a unique listening mode, and up to 20 hours of battery life on a single charge.
Atom 2: at $189 per pair, this rechargeable in-ear model offers four listening modes and improved daily clarity thanks to the advanced A2TM audio chip.
Atom Pro 2: our best-selling in-ear model, at $289 per pair. You get background noise reduction, integrated UV cleaning, and a rechargeable charging case.
Ion: a behind-the-ear model at $489 per pair, featuring Bluetooth streaming, rechargeable batteries, and a mobile app for easy volume and mode adjustments.
Ion Pro: our most advanced model, at $689 per pair, with 6 customizable hearing profiles, directional microphones, enhanced noise management, and remote support via app, with Bluetooth and audio streaming.
Each model is ready to use right out of the box, rechargeable, and delivered directly to your home in just a few days. Whether you prefer a discreet in-ear style or an app-controlled behind-the-ear device, our solutions give you clarity without complications.
You also get lifetime support and a 45-day risk-free trial, so you can order with peace of mind. Join over a million customers who trust CLARIA today.
To Conclude Our Costco vs. Lively Comparison
Lively is no longer an active brand, and while some of its DNA survives through Jabra Enhance, it's important to know what you're actually buying. We hope this comparison of Lively and Costco hearing aids has shed some light on the subject.
You can discover how Costco compares to other solutions on our blog. We have written similar comparisons: Costco vs. Miracle Ear hearing aids, Costco vs. Sam's Club, and Costco vs. Kaiser.
But all of these options may be overkill for a person with mild to moderate hearing loss. Consider our stylish hearing aids as a third path, at a gentler price point. If price and simplicity are your priorities, OTC hearing aids like those from CLARIA are definitely worth your attention! (best hearing aids under $200 and best hearing aid under $100)
