The most familiar hearing aid style, Behind-The-Ear (BTE) aids, are housed in a durable case that rests on the back of the outer ear. These aids are suitable for the widest range of hearing loss, including profound hearing loss. While the larger size of BTEs allow for more power and features, the smaller ones, mini BTEs, are quite discreet when worn.

There are two types of BTEs: Closed fit and Open fit. 

Closed fit: These hearing aids use a fitted ear mould that fills the outer ear. Although they are larger than open fit hearing aids, closed fit BTEs are a better fit because they seal the auditory canal, which minimizes the whistling sometimes experienced by hearing aid wearers.

Open fit: These contain a thin plastic micro tube that extends over the outer ear and into the ear canal. In addition to being small and cosmetically appealing, the open fit tube avoids the “stopped up” feeling of in-the-ear hearing aids.