Overview

Established in the year 2010, Eargo is a medical device corporation based in San Jose, California. The innovative Eargo hearing aids are the brainchild of Florent Michel, M.D., a specialist in ear, nose, and throat surgery. His unique hearing aid designs, which are supple, gentle, and capable of self-adjustment, draw inspiration from the world of fly fishing feathers.

Eargo’s primary mission is to cater to individuals dealing with hearing loss who may have refrained from acquiring a hearing aid due to concerns about their appearance or cost constraints. In comparison to certain competitors, Eargo’s hearing devices are priced at approximately half the cost, making them a more affordable and accessible option for those seeking hearing assistance.

Features of Eargo Hearing Aid Models

Eargo hearing aids, introduced to the market in 2015, represent a relatively recent addition to the landscape of hearing health technology. These self-fitting, direct-to-consumer hearing aids eliminate the need for an audiologist visit and come at a price point roughly half that of premium-level prescription hearing aids. Eargo’s hearing aids are discreetly designed, almost imperceptible when worn, and they offer the added convenience of being rechargeable. Many of their models empower users to fine-tune their hearing aid settings through a mobile app.

Eargo 5

Among Eargo’s offerings, the Eargo 5 stands as the most budget-friendly hearing aid. With this device, users have the option to select from four predefined programs (Normal, Phone, Restaurant, and TV) within the Eargo app, allowing them to customize their hearing experience based on their surroundings. Each set of hearing aids includes a wireless charger, and similar to the Eargo 6 and 7 models, they boast an impressive battery life, capable of lasting up to 16 hours on a single charge.

Eargo 6

Eargo 6 represents the mid-tier offering in Eargo’s lineup, positioned slightly above the Eargo 5 in terms of pricing. What sets the Eargo 6 apart is the use of automatic Sound Adjust technology, which adeptly recognizes and diminishes background noise as you transition between various environments.

Unlike the Eargo 5, where users select presets from the app, the Eargo 6’s adaptive technology takes care of this automatically. Moreover, the Eargo 6 boasts water-resistant capabilities, enabling it to withstand submersion at depths less than 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. This feature makes it suitable for use during activities like bathing and swimming.

Eargo 7

The Eargo 7 stands as Eargo’s latest and premium model, commanding a higher price point than its predecessors. It shares the same automatic sound adjustment technology as the Eargo 6, but Eargo emphasizes that the technology in the Eargo 7 is even more advanced. One significant departure with the Eargo 7 is its warranty, offering users a generous 2-year warranty compared to the 1-year warranty provided with the Eargo 5 and Eargo 6.

Eargo hearing aids typically come with a range of accessories to enhance the user experience and facilitate maintenance.

• Portable Charger: Eargo hearing aids are designed to be charged overnight, and they offer an impressive 16 hours of usage on a single charge. The accompanying charger, designed for the hearing aids, boasts a week-long battery life on its own charge and includes a power cord for recharging convenience.
• Cleaning Tools: Accessories such as a brush and microfiber cloth for cleaning the hearing aids.
• Wax Guards: Tiny internal wax guards and a tool for replacing them as needed (usually every 3-6 months).

Special Features and Customization

• Sound Match: The Sound Match feature is a valuable tool that allows users to tailor their hearing experience to specific environments, whether it’s a bustling restaurant or a quiet theater. This feature is available on the Eargo 5, Eargo Neo HiFi, and Eargo Neo models, providing users with enhanced flexibility and adaptability in varying acoustic settings.
• Tips: Eargo hearing aids are equipped with two sizes of soft, interchangeable silicone tips that rest gently inside the ear, allowing for ventilation and the preservation of natural sounds. These innovative tips provide both comfort and a more natural hearing experience.
• Black cap: The Eargo 5 includes a discreet black “cap” that enhances invisibility by seamlessly blending with the ear’s natural darkness at the opening. This design element contributes to the hearing aid’s inconspicuous appearance when worn.

Additional Services & Products

You have the option to purchase additional accessories directly from the website:

• Silicone Tips: These are available in packages containing three pairs each, priced at $25 per package.
• Wax Guard Replacement Tool: For $25, you can acquire a tool that includes a set of 15 wax filter screens.

These supplementary accessories can be conveniently purchased on the website to enhance and maintain your Eargo hearing aids.

Maintenance Requirements

Eargo hearing aids are designed to be conveniently removed and charged overnight using the portable charger. As per the company’s specifications, they reach a full charge in approximately 6 hours, providing approximately 16 hours of usage. To maintain their performance over time, it is recommended to regularly brush and wipe the hearing aids with the provided brush and microfiber cloth before each charging session.

Additionally, Eargo advises users to periodically replace the tiny internal wax guard, typically every 3 to 6 months, depending on the amount of wax buildup. A handy tool is included for this purpose. Furthermore, the Flexis, another component, should be replaced every 3 months for optimal functionality.

Pricing

Hearing aids represent a significant investment in one’s hearing health. Eargo hearing aids, while not considered inexpensive, offer a cost-effective option compared to other hearing aids available in the market. Eargo’s pricing typically falls within the range of $1,650 to $2,950.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Eargo extends a 10% discount on specific models to honor and support military personnel, veterans, teachers, nurses, doctors, and first responders. This discount serves as a gesture of appreciation for the dedicated individuals in these professions.

Eargo hearing aids can be conveniently obtained through several channels. Customers have the option to purchase them directly from Eargo via phone or online. Additionally, Eargo hearing aids are available on Amazon, offering another avenue for procurement. They are also stocked in a limited number of physical stores.

For those seeking flexible payment options, Eargo offers monthly financing plans, with rates starting at $67 per month, making them more accessible to a broader range of individuals.

Warranty and Trial Periods

Eargo provides a 1-year warranty for the Eargo 5 and Eargo 6 models, while the Eargo 7 benefits from a more extensive 2-year warranty. These warranties encompass unlimited repairs, one-time loss or damage per hearing aid.

Eargo 7 hearing aids are backed by an extended two-year warranty on each hearing aid. In contrast, Eargo 5, Eargo 6, and Eargo Neo HiFi hearing aids are covered by a one-year warranty for each device. The warranty encompasses unlimited repairs and one-time loss or damage per hearing aid within the timeframe.

During the warranty period, if an issue arises with the hearing aid or charger, Eargo will conduct an inspection and either repair or replace the unit with a new or refurbished one as needed. Eargo provides customers with the option to return their hearing aids within a 45-day period, allowing for a full refund. However, it’s essential to note that if the hearing aid or charger is lost or damaged within Eargo’s 45-day return period, the system cannot be returned for a refund.

It’s important to be aware that the return process may involve a few phone calls to complete. Note that the return policies of retailers who sell Eargo hearing aids could vary. Therefore, it’s advisable to check and understand the specific return policy of the store from which you purchased the hearing aids

Customer Support

The chat functionality on the Eargo website primarily offers automated responses and provides links to helpful articles. If you wish to have your questions addressed by a live person, you’ll need to provide your phone number for a callback.

Conclusion

Eargo hearing aids are specifically engineered to assist individuals dealing with mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss. They offer an appealing choice for those who prefer a self-guided approach to managing their health and wellness and are seeking a discreet hearing aid solution. With that said, an evaluation by an audiologist can provide a precise assessment of your hearing loss, which can significantly enhance your decision-making process when choosing a hearing aid.