Eargo Neo review
Hearing loss can contribute to a sense of isolation, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. It can also be tied to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and more. Because of this, the FDA recently created a category of over-the-counter hearing aids for adults who are suffering from mild to moderate hearing loss. Many of these hearing aids can be purchased online.
Eargo is an online hearing aid company that wants to improve the hearing care journey by streamlining the process of buying hearing aids to make it as easy as possible while keeping their product as affordable as possible.
We wanted to know if Eargo has really made it easy to buy hearing aids online. We tried out the service and here’s what we discovered.
How we tested Eargo Neo HiFi
To test Eargo hearing aids, we had an individual with age-related, mild to moderate hearing loss give this product a try. Our tester used the Eargo Neo HiFi hearing aids on multiple occasions in various settings for extended periods of time to gauge their functionality. Our tester also explored the customization options and took detailed notes on the product’s comfort and sound quality.
How to buy hearing aids online
Purchasing a pair of Eargo hearing aids online is a three-step process. First, is an optional online hearing test that involves finding a quiet space in your home and listening to a series of tones through headphones or earbuds (open or closed) to determine if you’re a candidate for Eargo hearing aids.
You then place your order, either online or via the phone, whichever way you’re more comfortable with.
Eargo will pair you with a licensed hearing professional who can answer any questions you have. Additionally, the licensed hearing professional can remotely fine tune your hearing aids for you, if needed.
Should you buy hearing aids online?
Eargo hearing aids are not for everyone. These hearing aids are specifically manufactured to help individuals with mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss. If your hearing loss falls outside the scope of this diagnosis, you should consult an otolaryngologist (also known as an ENT) or an audiologist.
That being said, you don’t need to call a doctor and you don’t require an audiogram before contacting Eargo — they can be the first stop in your search for hearing care. After taking the hearing test and consulting an Eargo hearing professional, you’ll have a better understanding of what level of care you need and if online hearing aids are a viable option for you.
How to use Eargo Neo HiFi
Eargo has taken great strides to make the initial user experience as enjoyable as possible. After cleaning your ears (as directed by your physician), getting to know your Eargos (the company has tutorials online and on the Eargo app), and making sure they’re charged, you simply insert your Eargo hearing aids into your ears and you’re ready to go.
Eargo Neo HiFi setup
We found the setup process for the Eargo Neo HiFi to be clearly explained and simple to follow. However, if someone isn’t comfortable with gadgets, they might be a little intimidated with the setup.
After downloading the Eargo mobile app, make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone and tap on “Connect Charger.” Once the pairing is complete, you just need to answer a few questions about your hearing journey and you have immediate access to all the tools needed to learn, customize and connect with Eargo.
To cycle through the four preset programs on your Eargo hearing aids, you lightly tap your ear with an open hand (twice within one second) and the device will advance to the next program while also stating which program that is.
Eargo Neo HiFi sound quality
Our product tester noted that sound improved noticeably when wearing the Eargo Neo HiFi hearing aids. The units had a slight tinny quality with a barely perceptible high-end reverb, but that wasn’t problematic.
The mobile app allows you to customize the sound of your Eargo hearing aids to your preference, which includes fine-tuning the bass and treble. If you’re not happy with the out-of-the-box quality of your hearing aids, you may need to spend a little time tweaking them to find out what works best for you.
Eargo Neo HiFi comfort
There was no need for our tester to experiment with using different size Flexis (the part of the hearing aid that holds the device in the ear canal), as the Eargo Neo HiFi hearing aids delivered a perfect fit straight out of the box. There was a noticeable itchy feeling that takes a little getting used to, but other than that, the hearing aids were comfortable to wear.
How much are Eargo hearing aids?
Eargo has three different hearing aids available: the Eargo Max, the Eargo Neo, and the Eargo Neo HiFi.
Eargo Max MAX
The budget model in Eargo’s line is the Eargo Max. This model offers no connectivity for remote customization, comes with a one-year warranty and has what the company describes as “good” audio features. This model is available for $1,850 (with financing as low as $86/month).
Eargo Neo
The mid-range model in Eargo’s line is the Eargo Neo. This model offers connectivity for remote customization, comes with a one-year warranty and has what the company describes as “better” audio features. This model is available for $2,350 (with financing as low as $109/month).
Eargo Neo HiFi
The high-end model in Eargo’s line is the Eargo Neo HiFi. This model offers connectivity for remote customization, comes with a two-year warranty and has what the company describes as “best” audio features. This model is available for $2,950 (with financing as low as $118/month).
Eargo Neo HiFi pros
Eargo Neo HiFi hearing aids are easy to use and adaptable to a number of situations. The company’s customer support is excellent, and they have an abundance of information available for the consumer. The units can be fully charged overnight and will last up to 16 hours. If you’re unsure if you’ll like the feel, Eargo offers a free non-working sample so you can try them out before purchasing. Additionally, these hearing aids come with a 45-day satisfaction guarantee.
Eargo Neo HiFi cons
While Eargo Neo HiFi hearing aids are supposed to be worn fully inside the ears, it’s still possible to see them at certain angles. Having a variety of colors available to more closely match a user’s skin tone would be desirable.
If you’re wearing a knit cap, the hearing aid removal threads can get caught, making it possible to pull the hearing aids out accidentally when removing your cap.
Some users have had issues with the charger reliably establishing a connection with the hearing aids. A few individuals noted they would have benefited from more customization options for the volume and EQ. Individuals with limited dexterity may have difficulty with the small size of these hearing aids.
Is Eargo Neo HiFi worth it?
Eargo hearing aids are not designed to work in all situations. If you have sudden or severe to profound hearing loss, your best strategy is to consult an otolaryngologist or audiologist. However, from our experience, if you’re suffering from age-related, mild to moderate hearing loss, these hearing aids work very well. While the price is considerable, the streamlined user experience coupled with the high-quality, life-changing performance makes the Eargo Neo HiFi a great value.
Allen Foster is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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