Choosing the right over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid can change your daily experience, from conversations with loved ones to enjoying music or simply tuning into the sounds all around you.
With more companies now offering affordable OTC hearing aids, affordable options, LINNER and Audien stand out as two of the top brands shaping the new OTC hearing aid market in the US. But which one is right for you?
This comprehensive review walks you through everything you need to know. From company backgrounds and product lines to detailed feature and price comparisons, plus real user and industry reviews, this guide will help you decide whether a LINNER or Audien hearing aid best fits your needs.
Getting to Know LINNER and Audien
Brief Background LINNER
LINNER, based in San Jose, California—The heart of innovation—is a hearing technology company focused on design, comfort, and customer-centric solutions for people with hearing loss.
Their mission is to blend smart innovation with stylish form factors, offering FDA-approved OTC hearing aids that combine intelligent noise reduction, easy setup, and all-day wearability.
LINNER frequently updates their product suite, making them a top choice for users looking for the latest in wireless connectivity and battery advancements.
Brief Background Audien
Audien is a US-based startup known for aggressively affordable solutions and a mission to break down the barriers to hearing care. Their direct-to-consumer approach enables them to pass significant savings on to buyers.
Audien’s hearing aids are compact and nearly invisible, prioritizing discreetness and a snug fit. Their offerings are particularly popular among budget-conscious shoppers, and their lineup is streamlined for simplicity.
LINNER OTC Hearing Aids vs Audien
Both brands design hearing aids for the OTC market, with devices addressing mild to moderate hearing loss. Here’s a quick overview of what they’re offering:
· LINNER’s Product Line offers hearing aids priced from $99 to $399, including models like LINNER Nova, Mars, Saturn, and Mercury. These include ITE, RIC, and OTE types, featuring rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth streaming, and various sound environment modes.
· Audien’s Product Line offers hearing aids priced from $99 to $698, including models like Audien Atom, Audien Atom Pro, and the mid-tier Audien ION BTE line. Their range includes in-the-ear (ITE) and receiver-in-canal (RIC) styles, focusing on simplicity and affordability.
Now let's break down their offerings by price category and critical features.
1. $99 Hearing Aids Comparison
LINNER Saturn OTC Hearing Aids
Features:
1. Completely invisible for hassle-free usage.
2. 20 hours battery life on a single charge.
3. Available in beige and black color options.
4. Rechargeable portable charging case.
Audien Atom 1 OTC Hearing Aids
Features:
1. Small and discreet size
2. No hearing test needed
3. Simple & Easy to use
2. $199 Hearing Aids Comparison
LINNER Saturn 2 OTC Hearing Aids
Features:
1. Upgraded USA Onsemi chipset.
2. Feedback shield for comfortable listening.
3. 24 hours battery life plus 72 hours from charging case.
Audien Atom 2 OTC Hearing Aids
Features:
1. 4 hearing modes
2. No prescription needed.
3. 24 hours battery life.
3. $299 Hearing Aids Comparison
LINNER Mercury
Features:
1. Ric hearing aids style for better comfort.
2. Powerful output, suitable for up to severe hearing loss.
3. Powered by USA Onsemi chip.
Audien Atom Pro OTC Hearing Aids
Features:
· Background noise cancellation.
· UV cleaning light.
· Powered by A2 chip.
4. $399 and Above Hearing Aids Comparison
LINNER Mars Bluetooth OTC Hearing Aids
Features:
· In ear hearing aids support Bluetooth streaming and App control.
· 4 hearing modes plus dedicated Focus mode.
· Wireless charging.
· Hear Zen sound therapy.
Audien ION Series OTC Hearing Aids
Features:
· RIC style.
· non-Bluetooth and Bluetooth version are available.
LINNER vs Audien：User Reviews Comparison
We pick some product listings across different platforms.
LINNER Website Ratings
Official Website: 4.84/5 1000+reviews
Walmart: 4.8/5 700+ reviews
Amazon: 4.7/5 30+ reviews
Audien Website Ratings
Official Website: 4.84/5 1000+reviews
Walmart: 4.2/5 6000+ reviews
Amazon: 3.5/5 20,000+ reviews
LINNER vs Audien：Industry Reviews Comparison
LINNER Industry Reception
· LINNER has been reviewed by leading industry media, including Forbes Health, NCOA, Top10, Wired, Soundly, Hearing Tracker, and Hearing Advisor.
· Praised for advancing OTC features like Bluetooth, app controls, and modern design.
· LINNER was the winner of 2022 French Design Award, 2023&2024 Hearing Innovator Award, 2025 Muse Design Award, and 2025 American Good Design Award.
· Recognized for comfort, user customization, and commitment to R&D and innovation.
"Linner offers the most affordable over-the-counter(OTC)hearing aids."--Hearing Tracker
"Tailored to your hearing with LINNER HA App".--Forbes Health
"Linner hearing aids are comfortable, easy to use,and affordable over-the counter devices."--NCOA Adviser
"The Linner Mercury is our top pick for hearing aids under $300."--Soundly
Audien Industry Reception
Audien hearing aids are often highlighted by media outlets like Forbes Health and NCOA for their affordability and ease of access. However, industry experts, including WIRED and Hearing Tracker, have criticized them for missing basic hearing amplification performances.
"While Atom are relatively small, I did not find them comfortable and their ear tips did not create a great seal in my ears." --Hearing Tracker
"Very blunt, basic volume boosting that rarely sounds great. No way to fine-tune based on your audiogram. Zero smart features." -- WIRED
LINNER vs Audien：After Service Comparison
LINNER
· Offers a 1-year standard warranty
· Friendly, US-based support with live chat and email
· Robust online help center including video tutorials
· 45-day risk-free trial with returns
Audien
· 1-year limited warranty on most models
· Support primarily through email and FAQ
· 45-day return policy
Fewer live support options; some users report slightly longer response times
Verdict
LINNER provides a more premium service experience, with multiple support channels and a more accessible return process. Audien’s after-service is reliable, but a bit more basic.
Which Is Right for You
When deciding between LINNER and Audien, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. Audien is a great choice for those looking for simple, discreet amplification at an affordable entry-level price. On the other hand, LINNER stands out for its advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity, app controls, and superior aftercare, making it a better fit for those seeking a more customizable hearing solution, especially in the $299+ range.
Both brands also offer a risk-free 45-day return policy, giving you the flexibility to try each and determine which works best for your lifestyle.
Read more:
Best Hearing Aids 2025: Top Picks & Why Linnerlife Leads the Market
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