
Behind-the-ear hearing aids
The ultimate guide for behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. Speak to us today to find the best hearing aid to suit your individual needs.
What are behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids?
BTE hearing aids are exactly what the name suggests, hearing aids that sit comfortably behind your ear. They’re the most powerful hearing aid available which makes them suitable for the widest range of hearing loss including profound hearing loss.

Key features
Explore the benefits of BTE hearing aids
Helps Reduce Brain Fatigue
Speech in Noise
Suitable for a Wide Range of Hearing Loss
Tinnitus Relief
Powerful
Rechargeable Options
Bluetooth
Which hearing aid is best for you?
Hearing varies from person to person which is why there is a broad range of styles available. The best way to find the right hearing aid is to speak with an audiologist or audiometrist. A great place to start is with a free hearing check.
If you want to explore more about hearing aids, feel free to check out our types of hearing aids page. You’ll find our latest products including Lyric, the world’s first and only 100% invisible hearing aid.
The BTE benefits
Why would you choose a BTE hearing aid? BTE’s pack a lot of power which allows for greater amplification of the sounds around you. That’s what makes these devices ideal for a wide range of hearing loss including profound hearing loss. BTE hearing aids also typically have longer battery life, up to 10 days, meaning you can go about your day with confidence knowing that your hearing aids will be there to support you along the way.
Advanced connectivity
Thanks to ongoing advancements in hearing technology, BTE hearing aids are more convenient and connected than ever. Rechargeable hearing aids remove the need for fiddley battery changes. You simply place them in their charging case overnight and by morning, they’re ready to go.
Many BTE hearing aids also feature Bluetooth® connectivity, allowing you to stream music, phone calls and TV audio directly to your ears.
Watch our experienced audiologist Chloe explain further.
BTE vs RIC: what’s the difference?
The main differences between a Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) and a Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aid are how they fit and how they transmit sound into the ear canal.
BTE
BTE hearing aids sit comfortably behind the ear and typically use a custom ear mould or dome that fits inside the ear canal.
They’re typically larger with a thicker tube which allows for greater amplification of sound and processing power.
They are suitable for the widest range of hearing loss, including severe to profound.

RIC
Like BTE devices, RIC hearing aids sit behind the ear, with a thin wire that extends into the ear canal. They’re typically smaller than traditional BTE hearing aids.
The receiver contains the speaker, which transmits sound directly into the ear canal for a clear and natural listening experience.
They are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.

Best BTE models in Australia
The Phonak Naída™ Lumity is a powerful, robust and reliable behind-the-ear hearing aid. The Naída Lumity has SmartSpeech technology so you can navigate conversations with confidence and reconnect with the world around you.
Featuring universal connectivity with Bluetooth® enabled devices and ability to personalise your listening experience with the myPhonak app, Naída Lumity empowers you to take control of your hearing.
Hearing aid maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your hearing aids ensures they function optimally and can support the longevity of your devices.
Tips for maintaining your devices include
- Wipe them with a dry cloth, tissue or small brush daily.
- Regularly check and replace the wax filter.
- Keep them dry.
- Store rechargeable hearing aids in the charging case when not on your ears.
Watch as Chloe demonstrates what maintenance looks like.
FAQs
We’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about BTE hearing aids. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, visit our FAQs page for more information.
Why Choose Connect Hearing?
Did you know that 43% of Australians over 50 agree that hearing loss negatively impacts their quality of life?* That’s why we’re committed to delivering personalised care and support to empower all Australians with hearing loss regain their confidence and reconnect with the world around them.
When you choose Connect Hearing, you’re not just getting hearing aids; you’re gaining ongoing support from our team of experienced clinicians, ensuring you continue to get most out of your devices over time.
Our Client Care Representatives can also help with day-to-day troubleshooting and maintenance. In many cases, you won’t need to wait for an appointment - simply call your clinic and speak with a friendly team member who can assist you promptly. Find your closest clinic here.
Next Steps
The best way to determine what hearing aids are most suited to your lifestyle and needs is to speak to a hearing care professional.
Fill out our contact form today to request a FREE hearing check. Our expert team will be able to answer any questions you may have.
*Statistic from our commissioned study with: YouGov (July 2024), Hearing, health and social engagement, YouGov, connecthearing.com.au/research ^Terms and conditions apply. For more information visit connecthearing.com.au/info/terms-conditions/
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