Behind-the-ear Hearing Aid
Behind-the-ear (BTE)
BTEs sit comfortably behind your ear while amplified sound passes down a tube to a customized earmold that fits securely into your ear. Because they are larger, BTEs can accommodate bigger batteries for longer life and larger amplifiers for maximum amplification. BTEs are suitable for mild to profound hearing losses.
Advantages
Most durable style of hearing aid
Less change for wax damage as no electronics go into the canal
Earmold can be removed and washed
Most powerful style of hearing aid, which is necessary for a profound hearing loss
Larger in size; can be easier to manipulate
Directional microphones available
Can use larger batteries: the bigger the battery, the longer the battery life
Rechargeable option available in some models
Compatible with wireless technology
Integrated receivers available for FM use
Disadvantages
More conspicuous, larger and heavier piece behind the ear
Requires repositioning of the receiver when using the phone