Whether you are looking for an alternative to Starkey hearing aids because you don't want to go through the complicated and expensive prescription-only process OR because you have already tried them and they didn't work for you, you are in the right place.
Starkey makes excellent prescription hearing aids, there is no doubt about that. But they aren't right for everyone, especially those with mild to moderate hearing loss. These devices are very expensive compared to what most of these users actually need on a daily basis. Starkey hearing aids often offer more features than many other solutions, but some people never use them—and the price then becomes hard to justify for mild to moderate loss.
We will help you compare alternatives to Starkey hearing aids below, including:
CLARIA hearing aids
Signia hearing aids
Phonak hearing aids
Lexie hearing aids
Oticon hearing aids
Jabra hearing aids
Eargo hearing aids
Widex hearing aids
Rexton hearing aids
Sony hearing aids
Here are the ten best options currently on the market: a mix of prescription-grade medical devices and some of the best OTC hearing aids. CLARIA is a top-tier choice if you have mild to moderate hearing loss and want premium performance and ease of use, at a fair price.
We offer the best hearing aid under $100, and even our most sophisticated devices—featuring multiple listening modes, Bluetooth streaming, touch screens, and over 48 hours of battery life—cost a fraction of the price of a Starkey hearing aid.
Discover today why we are the trusted alternative to Starkey hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss. Or contact our customer service team now for personalized support!
"I’ve only been wearing my devices for a week, but I am very satisfied!" - Wanda
"Customer service really goes above and beyond to help you." - John
"These hearing aids work very well and the insurance plan is very affordable. The Atom 2 is the best out there, with all the features it offers." - Ricky
Are Starkey hearing aids among the best options on the market?
Starkey is a well-known prescription hearing aid brand distributed in audiology clinics nationwide. It is a popular choice for complex hearing loss, thanks to its advanced sound processing, numerous fitting options, and in-clinic adjustments.
But as you may have already found, the Starkey experience doesn't always justify the price for an average person dealing with mild to moderate hearing loss.
The most popular Starkey hearing aids
Several Starkey hearing aid lines are available through your hearing care professional, from Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) to In-the-Ear (ITE), as well as Behind-the-Ear (BTE), Invisible-in-Canal (IIC), and Completely-in-Canal (CIC) models. Here are the most popular:
Omega AI: uses deep-learning processors to adapt to background noise and make voices stand out. Robust, rechargeable RIC and BTE models with excellent environmental sound filtering.
Genesis AI: built around "Neuro Sound Technology," in custom RIC and ITE versions. Offers Bluetooth streaming, hands-free calling, and automatic environment-based adjustments.
Edge AI: real-time adaptive sound management, long battery life, and a wide range of styles. Includes connected features and dynamic noise processing.
Signature Series: discreet, custom-molded devices. These are small, low-profile devices with simplified controls for users who prioritize aesthetics over advanced connectivity.
You will easily find the ideal model for your degree of hearing loss and lifestyle. Regardless, in every case, these are prescription hearing aids. That is why they aren't right for everyone.
Why look for an alternative to Starkey hearing aids?
Starkey hearing aids often represent much more device (and much more expense) than you actually need for mild to moderate hearing loss. These models cost several thousand dollars a pair once you factor in appointments, fitting, and follow-ups.
Accessing them can even feel like an uphill battle. You have to find a hearing care professional near you, book an initial appointment, undergo hearing tests, and then have the device fitted—with regular adjustments to tune the performance to your precise needs. This is a real plus if your hearing loss is particularly complex. But again, that isn't the case for most people.
We have seen many Starkey hearing aid reviews highlight that the aspects that really matter to the user—clearer daily conversations, reliable battery life, comfortable fit—don't quite match the premium price tag.
Not to mention that getting started with a Starkey can feel like a very long process if you just want a simple solution to hear better. That is why we are going to show you the best alternative to Starkey hearing aids below.
What is the best alternative to Starkey hearing aids?
It is entirely possible to find a reliable hearing aid without the specialized clinic pricing or repeated appointments. There are excellent over-the-counter (OTC) options. And there are also better prescription devices to explore.
But let’s start with the best alternative to Starkey hearing aids for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. Look no further than the hearing aids offered by CLARIA.
CLARIA hearing aids
We believe everyone should be able to hear the sounds that matter most, without the costs or hassles of prescription hearing aids. That is why we have developed a range of devices starting at just $98. Even our most advanced device costs only $689.
Every model comes ready to use, fits comfortably, and simplifies daily hearing care. Here is an overview of the best budget-friendly hearing aids from CLARIA:
Atom ONE ($98): entry-level in-the-ear device, with simple volume control and a compact design, perfect for a first-time user. 24 hours of battery life.
Atom X ($289): touch-charging case, Bluetooth streaming, 4 listening modes, and over 48 hours of battery life. Modern features that are quick to get the hang of.
ION Pro 2 ($689): app-controlled, directional microphones, 6 customizable modes, and sound output more focused on speech. A high-end OTC option. You enjoy fine-tuning without needing a hearing professional or a prescription.
All our hearing aids set up in minutes, and you receive lifetime support from our team if you run into any trouble. Your order is covered by our 45-day trial period and a one-year warranty, for your peace of mind.
Over a million people have turned to CLARIA to hear better, and the results speak for themselves. 93% heard better in group conversations, and 89% recommended CLARIA to their loved ones dealing with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Whether you are looking for the best hearing aids under $200 or a touch-screen hearing aid, you will find it in our range—order now or contact us for personalized advice!
Signia hearing aids
One of the biggest names that comes up as an alternative to Starkey hearing aids—at least on the prescription side—is Signia. These devices handle background noise very well and come in a wide range of formats, both RIC and custom in-the-ear models.
This flexibility can be useful for people with more complex hearing profiles, but the price and clinic visits add up quickly and don't necessarily make sense for mild to moderate loss. Here are some popular models:
Pure Charge&Go IX: RIC format with rechargeable batteries, advanced noise management, and Bluetooth streaming. Well over $3,000 a pair at a specialized clinic.
Silk Charge&Go IX: nearly invisible custom CIC design. Rechargeable and Bluetooth-compatible. Designed for comfort and discretion.
Styletto AX: slim design, very good speech comprehension performance in noise, and fast charging. A lifestyle approach to the RIC format.
You will learn much more about the Signia vs. Starkey duel in our blog, as these two prescription brands are among the best options for truly complex and atypical hearing loss.
But for mild to moderate hearing loss? Both manufacturers offer more performance than is necessary for the asking price. Not to mention the inconvenience of regular in-clinic adjustments.
Phonak hearing aids
Phonak arguably has the most extensive catalog of hearing aids in the industry, with devices ranging from ITE to BTE. The brand is committed to offering a solution for everyone, whether you have mild to moderate hearing loss or severe to profound loss.
Audéo Lumity: RIC device offering top-tier speech clarity in noise, hands-free calling, and rechargeable versions. A premium model available from hearing care professionals.
Slim: a slimmer RIC format that sits discreetly behind the ear without the bulk of traditional models. Perfect for those who want something very discreet but still effective.
Virto Paradise: custom ITE formats with reliable streaming and better clarity in low frequencies. This obviously comes at a cost. Expensive and complicated.
Phonak hearing aids are durable and perform very well in noisy environments. They also offer solid Bluetooth capabilities, on both iPhone and Android, for easy daily use. But the cost and fitting process often put them out of reach for the general public. Expect to pay between $4,000 and $7,000 a pair, all-inclusive.
Lexie hearing aids
CLARIA is not the only alternative to Starkey hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss. Lexie sits between traditional prescription brands and entry-level OTC devices, and it is also a very popular choice. Two main models are offered:
B2 Powered by Bose: rechargeable RIC format, directional microphones, and a comprehensive app that adjusts treble, bass, and gain. About $999 a pair.
Lumen: battery-operated, offers several environment presets, and is a more affordable entry point for new users.
Many Lexie hearing aids rely on Bose sound processing for remarkable clarity. You also get an app offering more fine-tuning than most OTC products. This is a reasonable choice if you like technology and don't mind adjusting settings yourself.
Lexie hearing aids offer good value for money, but not everyone wants a system that relies so heavily on an app. Many users with mild to moderate loss prefer a simpler in-the-ear device, without a learning curve, especially if they mainly need help with voices and the television.
Oticon hearing aids
Oticon takes an "open sound" approach to hearing loss. The devices let more environmental sounds in instead of filtering them aggressively. People who want a richer, more natural soundscape generally appreciate this philosophy. But it comes at a price: these are not affordable OTC devices.
That said, Oticon equips its devices with very advanced technology. The price may be justified if your hearing loss is complex. Here are three of the most popular models:
Real: handles wind and sudden noises very well. A good choice if you are active and spend a lot of time outdoors or in changing environments.
Own: custom in-the-ear formats, with the same Real processing. Better suited for those who want a discreet device, but just as expensive as you would expect for a prescription device.
Zircon: more affordable RIC option, but still tied to a complete in-clinic fitting and follow-up. You lose some of the performance of other Oticon devices.
We have a separate comparison between Oticon and Signia if you wish to contrast these two popular choices and refine your selection of the best alternative to Starkey hearing aids.
Jabra hearing aids
Jabra is a slightly unusual alternative to Starkey hearing aids, in that you have access to both prescription-grade medical devices and OTC models. This is a good choice if you want solid connectivity and easy setup. Popular models in the Jabra Enhance range include:
Enhance Select 50R: rechargeable RIE with Bluetooth streaming and basic noise reduction. Sold as OTC, but they still cost over $1,000!
Enhance Select 700: improved sound processing and environment adaptation. About $1,700-$1,900 a pair.
Enhance Pro 20 / Pro 30: prescription-grade RIE devices sold by retailers, with more powerful amplification and AI-based processing.
These devices are feature-rich. You get Bluetooth streaming, app control, and rechargeable batteries. Users say they feel more like consumer electronics than traditional hearing aids. Learn more about the Signia vs. Jabra comparison on our blog if you wish.
Just be aware that as OTC devices, they miss the mark on the essentials. They are bought directly, which is a plus—but you don't really achieve the savings you hoped for with devices starting at $1,195!
Eargo hearing aids
Looking for a virtually invisible alternative to Starkey hearing aids? Eargo might be worth checking out. These rechargeable in-the-ear devices are a good candidate for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss who want something very discreet. Models include:
Link: earbud-style OTC device with Bluetooth streaming; about $799 a pair.
SE: rechargeable CIC format with four presets; about $1,650-$1,700.
8: premium CIC device with adaptive sound; about $2,699 a pair.
These sleek hearing aids strike a good balance between comfort and aesthetics, and they self-adjust. No need for complicated (or expensive) specialized clinic appointments. But many people find that in-the-ear formats don't really meet their hearing needs, which rules out Eargo.
Our main reservation, however, remains the value for money. The entry-level Eargo device is still more expensive than our most sophisticated model at CLARIA!
Widex hearing aids
Widex's "cleaner" sound output appeals to people sensitive to how digital processing can alter timbre. Their RIC and BTE devices reproduce music very well and are consistent in varied environments.
Most Widex models are only available by prescription, which implies appointments, fitting, and higher prices. Here is an overview of the range:
SmartRIC: rechargeable RIC with up to 37 hours of battery life and excellent speech clarity.
Moment: available in RIC, BTE, and custom versions, with natural sound processing.
Allure: high-end model delivered in-clinic, with tinnitus support and advanced sound shaping.
The obvious limitation for anyone with mild to moderate hearing loss is the cost. These devices easily exceed $3,000-$5,000 a pair once fitted, which goes well beyond the daily listening needs of this user profile.
Rexton hearing aids
If you are considering getting fitted at your local Costco hearing center, Rexton hearing aids might catch your eye. These devices are distributed there, as well as in many audiology clinics across the country.
Rexton hearing aids provide access to prescription-level features at prices slightly lower than some competitors. They offer reliable and robust rechargeable BTE and RIC formats, with good speech management in noisy environments. Devices include:
BiCore RIC: rechargeable device with stable Bluetooth streaming and dual-processor sound processing.
MotionCore BTE: extended amplification range for greater hearing loss. You get good reliability and wind management for less money.
Reach Series: newer range with better directivity and clearer speech pickup.
But even if they are more affordable than some prescription brands, you will still have to go through in-clinic appointments for fitting and adjustments. That is much more effort than necessary for mild to moderate hearing loss.
Sony hearing aids
To wrap up our list of alternatives to Starkey hearing aids, here is Sony—yes, the brand also makes hearing aids, in addition to all the technology that has made its reputation!
Sony's OTC range combines hearing assistance with consumer electronics design, making it perfectly suited for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. You have the choice between discreet CIC models and an earbud-style device with Bluetooth streaming. Models include:
CRE-C20: rechargeable CIC device offering up to 28 hours of use per charge, at $999 a pair.
CRE-E10: earbud-style OTC hearing aid with Bluetooth streaming for iOS. 26 hours per charge.
CRE-C10: budget-friendly CIC option powered by disposable batteries. Approximately $699 a pair.
Setup is handled via a self-fitting app: it is therefore an easy solution to get started with, without a clinic visit. Perfect for those comfortable with technology, but getting started may prove a bit challenging for some users. The format is also not suitable for everyone.
Note: if you suspect severe hearing loss, sudden changes, or symptoms affecting only one ear, an assessment with a hearing care professional is recommended.
Alternatives to Starkey hearing aids: the bottom line
Starkey hearing aids have their place, but the most important thing to remember is that hearing loss is not treated in a one-size-fits-all way. No brand — not even CLARIA — is suitable for EVERYONE.
That said, when comparing alternatives to Starkey hearing aids, you will quickly notice that most prescription models are designed for hearing losses that are far more complex than what the majority of people actually suffer from.
Simple and reliable amplification, with features you will actually use every day, offers the best value for money if your hearing loss is mild to moderate. This is where CLARIA makes perfect sense. Explore our range or contact us now to find out if our devices are right for you!
