One of the biggest choices for new hearing aid users is whether to choose rechargeable or non-rechargeable (battery-powered) hearing aids.
Both options have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, convenience needs, and hearing goals. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each.
Rechargeable Hearing Aids
Rechargeable hearing aids use built-in lithium-ion batteries that can be charged overnight using a charging case. Most can run 20–30 hours on a single charge.
Pros
· Convenience: No need to constantly purchase, store and carry disposable batteries.
· Easy to handle: Easy to manage for those with dexterity or vision challenges, No need to handle tiny batteries. Simply place them in the charger overnight.
· Cost-effective over time: Although the upfront cost is higher, you save on disposable batteries in the long run.
· Environmentally friendly: Fewer batteries are thrown away, decrease environmental waste.
Cons
· Charging dependence: You need daily access to a power source.
· Higher cost upfront: In general, rechargeable hearing aids cost more upfront. However, they are more cost-effective over time, since you won’t need to buy batteries.
Non-Rechargeable (Disposable Battery) Hearing Aids
These traditional hearing aids use zinc-air batteries, available in various sizes (10, 312, 13, 675). Users replace the batteries manually every few days or weeks depending on usage.
Pros
· No downtime: You can instantly replace a dead battery—no waiting for a charge.
· Ideal for travel: Perfect when power outlets aren’t readily available. Each disposable battery typically lasts 3-10 days, so you can set it and forget it until the next round.
· Smaller models available: Many tiny CIC or IIC hearing aids can only use disposable batteries due to space limits.
· Lower initial cost: The device itself may be less expensive.
Cons
· Hard to handle: Handling small batteries can be challenging for people with limited dexterity or vision.
· Ongoing costs: Over time, battery purchases add up.
· Safety concern: If a battery is dropped on the floor, children or pets could accidentally swallow it, which is dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.
· Less eco-friendly: Disposing of used batteries can increase environmental waste.
At Yeasound, we offer rechargeable options due to their convenience, environmental benefits, and long-term cost efficiency.
