Choosing Between Different Hearing Aid Styles: A Visual Guide
- Hearing Solutions
- Mar 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 4
Not sure which hearing aid style is right for you? This visual comparison guide breaks down every style so you can make an informed decision.
Expert guidance from Professional Hearing Solutions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Call 0332-5014111.
All Hearing Aid Styles at a Glance
Style | Where It Sits | Visibility | Best For | Price Range (German) |
BTE (Behind-the-Ear) | Behind ear + tube to canal | Visible | Severe loss, elderly | Rs.90,000-580,000/unit |
RIC (Receiver-in-Canal) | Small unit behind ear + thin wire | Slightly visible | Mild to severe, most popular | Rs.265,000-620,000/unit |
ITC (In-the-Canal) | Lower portion of ear canal | Partially visible | Mild to moderate | Rs.235,000-580,000/unit |
CIC (Completely-in-Canal) | Deep in ear canal | Nearly invisible | Mild to moderate | Rs.235,000-580,000/unit |
IIC (Invisible-in-Canal) | Deepest in canal | Invisible | Mild to moderate | Rs.235,000-580,000/unit |
Click CIC (Signia Silk) | In ear canal (instant fit) | Nearly invisible | Mild to moderate | Rs.335,000-875,000/unit |
BTE (Behind-the-Ear)
Largest style — sits behind the ear with tubing to the ear canal
Most powerful — handles severe to profound hearing loss
Easiest to handle — ideal for elderly or those with dexterity issues
Largest battery — longest battery life
Available in many colors to match hair/skin
Models: Signia Motion series, Signia Prompt, Signia Intuis
RIC (Receiver-in-Canal)
Most popular style worldwide
Small behind-ear unit connected by thin wire to a receiver in the canal
Suitable for mild to severe hearing loss
Excellent sound quality — receiver sits closer to eardrum
Bluetooth, rechargeable, and all modern features available
Models: Signia Pure series
CIC / IIC (Completely or Invisible in Canal)
Sits entirely inside the ear canal — virtually invisible
Custom-made from ear impression for perfect fit
Best cosmetic option — nobody can see it
Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss only
Smaller battery — shorter battery life
Models: Signia Insio series
Click CIC (Signia Silk)
Instant-fit invisible hearing aid — no custom mold needed
Pre-made in multiple sizes with silicone click sleeves
Ready to wear immediately — no waiting for custom manufacturing
Excellent for patients who want invisibility without waiting
Models: Signia Silk X series
How to Choose
Consider your hearing loss level — severe loss requires BTE or powerful RIC
Consider visibility preference — CIC/IIC/Silk for maximum discretion
Consider dexterity — BTE is easiest to handle; CIC/IIC are smallest
Consider features needed — Bluetooth and rechargeable are available in BTE and RIC
Consider budget — all styles come in basic to premium technology levels
Visit Professional Hearing Solutions for trial fitting of each style
How Hearing Loss Affects Daily Life
Hearing loss impacts more than just the ability to hear sounds. It affects communication, relationships, work performance, mental health, and overall quality of life. In Pakistan, where family gatherings, busy markets, and social interactions are central to daily life, hearing loss can be especially isolating.
Common Causes of Hearing Loss in Pakistan
Cause | Type of Hearing Loss | Preventable? | Common in Pakistan? |
Aging (Presbycusis) | Sensorineural | Not fully — manageable with hearing aids | Very common (60+ age group) |
Noise Exposure | Sensorineural | Yes — use hearing protection | Very common (traffic, factories) |
Ear Infections (Otitis Media) | Conductive | Yes — treat infections early | Common in children |
Genetic Factors | Sensorineural or Mixed | No — but early detection helps | Moderate |
Ototoxic Medications | Sensorineural | Yes — discuss with doctor | Moderate |
Head Trauma | Conductive or Mixed | Yes — wear safety equipment | Less common |
Earwax Blockage | Conductive | Yes — professional ear cleaning | Very common |
Signs You Should Get a Hearing Test
Frequently asking others to repeat themselves, especially in group conversations
Turning up the TV or phone volume higher than others find comfortable
Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments like restaurants or family gatherings
Feeling that people are mumbling or speaking too softly
Avoiding social situations because of difficulty hearing
Ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in your ears (tinnitus)
Difficulty hearing doorbells, phone ringtones, or car horns
Treatment Options Available in Pakistan
Treatment | Best For | Available at PHS | Effectiveness |
Hearing Aids | Most hearing loss types | Yes — full Signia range | Highly effective |
Ear Wax Removal | Conductive loss from wax | Yes | Immediate improvement |
Medical Treatment | Ear infections, conditions | Referral provided | Depends on condition |
Surgical Options | Specific conductive cases | Referral to ENT | Case-dependent |
Tinnitus Management | Ringing/buzzing in ears | Yes — Signia notch therapy | Significant relief |
Do Not Ignore Hearing Loss
Research shows that untreated hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline, dementia, depression, social isolation, and increased fall risk. The longer hearing loss goes untreated, the harder it becomes for the brain to process speech. Early intervention with hearing aids preserves brain health and keeps you connected to the people and world around you.
If you or a family member shows signs of hearing loss, do not wait. Get a professional hearing assessment at Professional Hearing Solutions. Call 0332-5014111 or visit our Islamabad (Blue Area) or Rawalpindi (Saidpur Road) clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which style is most popular?
RIC (Receiver-in-Canal) is the most popular worldwide. It balances small size, excellent sound, and full features.
Q2: Can I get an invisible hearing aid?
Yes — CIC, IIC, and Signia Silk are virtually invisible. Suitability depends on your hearing loss level and ear canal size.
Q3: Which style lasts longest?
All styles have similar electronics lifespan. BTE casings tend to be most durable. Proper care extends any style's life.
Q4: Can I switch styles later?
Yes. You can change styles at any time, though pricing will vary. Your audiologist can help you transition.
Q5: Where can I see and try different styles?
Professional Hearing Solutions. We have all styles for comparison. Call 0332-5014111.
Note: Prices may vary slightly due to market fluctuations, currency exchange rates, and inflation. Contact Professional Hearing Solutions for the latest confirmed pricing.
Visit Professional Hearing Solutions
Islamabad Branch: Office B-9, Muhammad Gulistan Khan Plaza 82 East, Besides Tehzeeb Bakers, Fazl-ul-Haq Road, Blue Area, Islamabad, Pakistan
Google Maps: View Islamabad Location on Map
Rawalpindi Branch: Office 5/6, Ground Floor, Siraj Plaza, Opposite Rasheed Nursing Home, Adjacent Gulzari Optics, Saidpur Road, Rawalpindi
Google Maps: View Rawalpindi Location on Map
Phone/WhatsApp: 0332-5014111
Website: www.professionalhearingsolution.com
Conclusion
Each hearing aid style has unique advantages. Visit Professional Hearing Solutions to see, feel, and compare all styles in person. Call 0332-5014111 for a fitting consultation.
