Millions of people have hearing loss, a condition with which a huge number of people across the world struggle. For many, hearing aids are a much-needed solution to help them reconnect to the world around them. CIC (Completely in Canal) hearing aids are among a plethora of hearing instruments and are gaining popularity as a discreet design with effective functionality as well.
If you're considering Linner hearing aids or are specifically interested in CIC models. In that case, this article will explain everything you need to know, from how they work to their benefits, and guide you toward making an informed decision about your hearing needs.
Table of content
What Is a CIC Hearing Aid?
CIC hearing aid is also called Completely-in-the-Canal. It is an extremely concealed hearing aid, which is characterized by being small and completely embedded in the ear canal, and is almost invisible from the outside.
Pros of CIC hearing aid
- Invisible: Not easy to be noticed on social occasions.
- Comfortable to wear: Small size, low foreign body sensation, suitable for long-term wear.
- Natrual sound quality: the hearing aids are close to the eardrum, the sound transmission is more direct.
- Good wind noise prevention effect: Because the ear canal is blocked, the interference of wind on the microphone is reduced.
Cons of CIC hearing aid
- Shorter battery life: Due to its small size, the batter capacity is limited.
- Functional limitations: Usually no advanced features such as Bluetooth and directional microphones (some new models may have simplified technology).
- High maintenance requirements: susceptible to earwax and moisture, need to be cleaned regularly.
- Limited fitting range: users with narrow ear canals, moderate to severe hearing loss, or poor manual dexterity may not be suitable.
How Does it Work？
A CIC hearing aid amplifies sound and directs the sound into the ear canal to assist in hearing sound better. The device is able to capture sound with a microphone, which amplifies the audio to a volume that’s comfortable for the person wearing the device.
CIC hearing aids are based on technology that includes miniature microphones, amplifiers and receivers, all in a small, shell. Some CIC models have digital signal processing (DSP) technology that filters noise and improves the clarity of speech to allow more freedom in hearing.
Some Linner hearing aids are intended for easy use, with simple volume controls and other features to benefit the user. They fit deep in the ear canal and benefit from the ear’s natural shape, which is why they don’t distort sound like other models that fit away from the ear.
Who Is a Good Candidate for CIC Hearing Aids?
As mentioned, CIC hearing aids are most suitable for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. This includes those who have difficulty understanding speech or other sounds at lower volumes, but can still hear louder noises relatively well.
In addition to the severity of hearing loss, a good candidate for CIC hearing aids is someone who prefers a discreet and cosmetically appealing option. The small size of these devices allows them to sit deep in the ear canal, making them practically invisible when worn.
Furthermore, individuals with smaller ear canals may also benefit from CIC hearing aids as they can be custom-made to fit comfortably in their unique ear shape. However, it's important to note that not everyone is a suitable candidate for CIC hearing aids.
Some factors that may prevent someone from being a good candidate include excessively small ear canals, certain medical conditions such as chronic ear infections or skin irritations in the ear canal, and difficulty with manual dexterity. In these cases, other types of hearing aids such as behind-the-ear (BTE) or receiver-in-canal (RIC) may be more suitable options.
Comparison Between Different Style of Hearing Aids
According to appearance and structure, hearing aids can be divided into 5 types.
| Type | Fitting Range | Battery Life | Invisibility | Comfort | Suitable for |
| Behind-the-Ear (BTE) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | All kinds of hearing - loss people, especially the elderly |
| Receiver-in-the-Canal(RIC) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | People who are looking for a balance between comfort and performance |
| In-the-Ear (ITE) | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | People with mild to moderate hearing loss, who pursue concealment and aesthetics |
| In-the-Canal (ITC) | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | People with high requirements for concealment and not - very - severe hearing loss |
| Completely - in - the - Canal (CIC) and Invisible - in - the - Canal (IIC) | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | People with high requirements for concealment and not - very - severe hearing loss |
| Pocket - type | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ | People with severe hearing loss, living in a quiet and simple environment, and having no high requirements for portability and aesthetics |
How to Choose & Fit a CIC Hearing Aid
Choosing the right CIC hearing aid involves several factors:
- Professional Evaluation: An audiologist or hearing care professional should evaluate your hearing loss to learn the extent of your hearing loss. They will also be able to advise you on the most effective type of hearing aid for you.
- Customization and Comfort: CIC hearing aids, being custom molded, require working with a professional to ensure the perfect fit is crucial for both comfort and effectiveness.
- Sound Quality and Features: Find models with digital processing and directional microphones or noise reduction. Some of these models have Bluetooth compatibility or rechargeable batteries.
- Ease of Use: The hearing aid should be easy to adjust, and the volume control or other settings should be comfortable to manage. Many of the OTC CIC hearing aids have provided some user-friendly options.
Top OTC CIC Hearing Aids In The Market
| Brand | Model | Price | Description | Our Rating |
| LINNER | Saturn | $199 | American ChipBest Seller on Amazon | 10 |
| Eargo | 7 | $2,399 | First CIC Hearing Aids in the Market | 9.8 |
| Ceretone | Core One | $399 | App controlFunded through Indiegogo | 9.5 |
FAQs for CIC Hearing Aids
How long do CIC hearing aids last?
The lifespan of CIC hearing aids depends on usage. However, if they are maintained properly, they will last between 3 to 7 years as well.
Are CIC hearing aids suitable for all types of hearing loss?
The CIC hearing aids work best for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. Other models like BTE are more appropriate for those with more severe hearing loss.
Can I use OTC CIC hearing aids?
Of course, OTC CIC hearing aids are a convenient and relatively inexpensive option for people with a mild to moderate degree of hearing impairment. Among these over-the-counter models, you often get simple control and easy customization.
Conclusion
CIC hearing aids offer a discreet and effective solution for those seeking to improve their hearing without drawing attention. For people living with mild to moderate hearing loss, their small size, natural sound quality and comfort make them the most suitable hearing aids.
Whether finding the best OTC hearing aid for your needs or deciding on OTC CIC hearing aids, you should explore all options available and talk to a hearing pro to find the one that best fits your needs.Ready to take the next step? Find the Linner hearing aids solution that suits your hearing needs today.
Click to learn:
OTC Hearing Aids: What Are They and Why Choose Them?
How to Clean Hearing Aids: Daily Maintenance Tips for Longevity
