Costco Hearing Aids Review 2024: Costs, Pros and Cons, Models

Trying to save money on Costco hearing aids? Costco sells a variety of styles from three leading hearing aid brands. Learn about the available models, pros and cons, and prices, as well as alternatives to Costco hearing aids.

Costco hearing aids have been dominating the market in recent years. The mammoth warehouse retailer opened its first hearing aid center in 1989 to join the network of Costco gas stations, pharmacies, and food courts. According to the company's customer magazine, Costco Connection, hearing aid centers can now be found in "more than 754 Costco warehouses in 13 countries around the world." The company’s massive buying power means it can sell prescription hearing aids at costs well below those of other hearing centers.

Costco offers a variety of hearing aid styles, including behind-the-ear, receiver in-the-canal, in-the-ear, and custom molded devices. The hearing aids can connect by Bluetooth to smartphones and other compatible devices for hands-free calling and TV streaming. Costco also offers accessories, charging systems, remote controls, and after-purchase support from hearing instrument specialists. Read on for a snapshot of the hearing aid brands you'll find at Costco. We’ll also cover the pros and cons of Costco hearing aids, available models, costs, the buying process, warranty information, customer reviews, discount alternatives, and how Costco hearing aids compare with some of the best hearing aids on the market today.

Three hearing aid models on display at Costco with sign reading 'Premium Hearing Aids'

Hearing aids and prices displayed at a Costco Hearing Aid Center.

Pros and Cons of Buying Hearing Aids at Costco

Pros

  • Variety of hearing aid styles and accessories
  • Lower prices than competitors
  • Remote services on some hearing aid products
  • Free hearing tests, follow-up appointments, and cleanings
  • Free loss and damage coverage
  • Complimentary warranty
  • 180-day refund policy

Cons

  • Only available to Costco members
  • Limited availability of Costco hearing aid centers in rural areas
  • Appointment required for a hearing test
  • No payment plans or financing options

Which Hearing Aids Are Available at Costco?

Costco carries three brands of hearing aids: Philips, Rexton, and Jabra. Read on for an overview of each one.

Philips

The Philips HearLink line offers receiver-in-ear and behind-the-ear styles with different receiver options to fit the wearer’s needs. These hearing aids treat mild to severe hearing loss using an artificial intelligence system (AI) to accurately process speech in a variety of environments. Philips SoundMap technology analyzes sound more clearly in especially noisy places than Philips hearing aids without AI, according to the company's internal research (this has not been independently verified).

The HearLink mini RITE T R includes a rechargeable battery that gives users a day of use with three hours of charging. Users can activate Bluetooth streaming on iOS devices and make adjustments via the HearLink app.

The Philips HearLlink comes in a range of colors. The company offers separate accessories for purchase like a TV adapter, remote control, and an audio clip for hands-free phone calls. The Philips HearLink line does not offer tinnitus management features.

The HearLink starts at $1,599.99 per pair. Custom earmolds, which are often needed for more severe hearing loss, may increase the price.

Our alternative top pick: Oticon Real 1

Rexton

Costco carries two lines of Rexton hearing aids: the M-Core line and BiCore C R-Li devices. One key feature of Rexton products is Motion Core technology, which recognizes changes in the wearer’s environment and adapts accordingly. Rexton BiCore rechargeable hearing aids use a lithium-ion battery for maximum lifespan. Below we summarize the main features of the Rexton hearing aids carried by Costco.

  • BiCore C R-Li Includes Motion Core technology; rechargeable batteries can run for up to 21 hours (with five hours of streaming on a full charge) offers Bluetooth streaming on iPhones and most Android devices
  • M-Core SR Includes rechargeable batteries and a charging case accommodating up to four days of use
  • M-Core 312 Rechargeable hearing aid with optional t-coil; includes Motion Core technology
  • M-Core B-Li M Includes Motion Core technology; continuous sound resolution adjustments; can recognize up to 120 hearing situations; direct audio streaming
  • M-Core B-Li P A smaller version of the B-Li M; offers an optional charging station that dries and sanitizes the hearing aids; includes Motion Core technology
  • M-Core B-Li HP Rechargeable behind-the-ear device designed for people with severe to profound hearing loss; includes Motion Core technology; a single charge lasts 61 hours; optional charging and cleaning station
  • M-Core iX Adapts to the environment and recognizes hearing situations better than existing products

Rexton also offers accessories for an extra charge such as a TV streaming transmitter, a smart microphone for hands-free calling and streaming, and a remote control. Prices start at $1,599.99 per pair.

Our alternative top pick: Signia Styletto

Jabra

Costco carries the only prescription model made by hearing aid manufacturer Jabra, the Jabra Enhance Pro 10. This receiver-in-ear (RIE) device offers the following features:

  • Eight colors to choose from
  • Rechargeable batteries with up to 30 hours of use per charge
  • Bluetooth streaming and hands-free calling with iPhones version 11 and newer
  • Waterproof coating
  • Tinnitus management, accessed via the app

The Enhance Pro 10's starting cost is $1,699.99 per pair.

While the Enhance Pro 10 is a prescription hearing aid and addresses mild to profound hearing loss, the Jabra Enhance Select 100 addresses mild to moderate hearing loss and can be purchased over-the-counter. If you only need treatment for mild to moderate hearing loss and are 18 and over, then our alternative top pick is the Jabra Enhance Select 100

Alternatives to Costco Hearing Aids

While discount prices are one of the benefits of Costco hearing products, there are also other ways to find affordable hearing aids.

High-quality hearing aids can be purchased online through a discount network like Yes Hearing, which will connect you with a hearing care provider in your area who facilitates the order and then fits and programs your new hearing aids. Yes Hearing carries models from every major prescription brand, including Phonak, ReSound, Signia, Oticon, Starkey, and Widex.

Now that OTC hearing aids are on the market, you have the option of purchasing hearing aids online directly from the company that makes them. Some brands offer deals and discounts to new customers.

Standout Hearing Aids You Can’t Find at Costco

Jabra Enhance

Jabra Enhance, previously known as Lively, offers a wide range of receiver-in-the-canal hearing aids, featuring 12 processing channels, noise-blocking functions, and a companion mobile app. The company is popular for its customer service and engagement.

Similar to Costco, new customers take a hearing test and consult with a hearing professional who helps program and adjust their hearing aids. But Jabra Enhance takes it a step further: The entire process takes place online. Following users’ first appointment, they can reach out to their remote audiology care team for questions and feedback anytime for three years. Prices range from $1,195 to $1,995 per pair.

Read our full Jabra Enhance review.

Get options at JabraEnhance.com

Phonak Naída Paradise 90

The Phonak Naída Paradise 90 behind-the-ear hearing aid is built specifically for people with profound hearing loss. The device has seven auto-switch programs that adjust automatically based on your listening environment:

  • Calm
  • Speech in noise
  • Speech in loud noise
  • Speech in car
  • Comfort in noise
  • Comfort in echo
  • Music

It supports eight Bluetooth connections and includes an air-tap feature that allows wearers to pause and play streaming with two taps near their ear. Prices average $2,399 per hearing aid or $4,798 for a pair.

Read our full Phonak review. 

Get the Phonak Naída Paradise 90 at YesHearing.com.

Eargo

The Eargo in-the-canal hearing aid models are perfect for people who prefer discreet devices. With advanced noise reduction, feedback cancellation, and sound amplification, the Eargo Neo HiFi and Eargo 5, 6, and 7 models pack the best in-demand features into a small design. The company also offers an online hearing test and support from hearing experts. Once customers find the model they want, Eargo will mail a sample kit to try out the hearing aids before buying.

Federal employees or retirees may be able to get Eargo hearing aids at no cost through their insurance benefit plan. Prices range from $1,650 to $2,950 per pair.

Read our full Eargo review.

Get Eargo at Eargo.com.

Lexie

Lexie Hearing offers three devices with different capabilities and functionality, all within the OTC hearing aid category for adults 18 and older with mild to moderate hearing loss.

The Lumen is this brand’s least expensive model, priced at $799 per pair. It’s a receiver-in-ear (RIC) style that our reviews team found very lightweight and comfortable during testing. The Lumen comes with a disposable battery and is the only model offered by Lexie with a telecoil. Telecoil-equipped hearing aids can stream sounds directly without interference from background noise. A tiny wire inside the hearing aid picks up signals from any telephone or facility equipped with an Assistive Listening System (ALS). Many theaters, museums, and places of worship are equipped with ALS systems called hearing loops. To activate the Lumen’s telecoil, select the "telecoil" listening environment using the hearing aid’s button or the Lexie Hearing app.

The Lumen works with the app to conduct a brief hearing screening when you put your hearing aids on for the first time. Based on the results, the app adjusts the six preset listening environments in your hearing aids. After that you can switch between environments (which are now customized to your hearing screening results) based on the sound situation you're in.

The Lumen offers the following listening environments:

  • Everyday
  • Noisy indoor
  • Outdoor
  • Music
  • Telecoil
  • Companion mic

The two other models made by Lexie incorporate Bose sound technology in a self-fitting device. Self-fitting hearing aids like the Lexie B1 and B2 can be fine-tuned for your needs. In addition to choosing from various listening environments, you can adjust the left/right balance, treble/bass balance, and directionality using the app.

The most notable difference between the two models (other than price) is that the B1 has disposable batteries while the B2 comes with a rechargeable battery. The B1 retails for $849 per pair and the B2 sells for $999.

We researched disposable batteries and found that if you buy them in bulk, you can get a one-year supply for about $44. This means that after your first year of owning the hearing aids, you’ll save money by choosing the rechargeable option.

Read our full Lexie review.

You can buy Lexie hearing aids on the manufacturer’s website and at the following stores:

  • Best Buy
  • CVS
  • Walgreens
  • Walmart

Get Lexie at LexieHearing.com.

ReSound One

ReSound One is a highly customizable receiver-in-the-ear hearing aid that’s perfect for people who have tinnitus (ringing in the ear). A microphone sits in the ear canal to complement two additional microphones on the device — providing full sound quality through 17 audio channels, four customizable programs, and an accompanying mobile app. Prices range from $3,198 to $4,738 per pair.

Read our full Resound review.

Get the ReSound One at YesHearing.com.

How Much Do Costco Hearing Aids Cost?

Prices vary depending on the model and brand wearers choose and whether they want a single device or a pair. Prices start at:

  • Philips $1,599.99 per pair
  • Rexton $1,599.98 per pair
  • Jabra $1,699.99 per pair

For perspective, most estimates place the average cost of a single hearing aid between $1,000 and $4,000. In 2015, the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology reported that the average prescription hearing aid costs more than $2,300 (or $4,600 for a pair).

How to Buy Hearing Aids at Costco

Those who are not Costco members will need to sign up for a Costco membership to take advantage of its hearing aid program. A standard Gold Star membership, priced at $60 per year, includes access to all Costco warehouses and e-commerce channels and offers two membership cards. For $120 per year, users can upgrade to a Gold Star Executive membership, which includes an annual 2 percent reward on eligible purchases, additional benefits and discounts on services, and a Costco Connection magazine subscription.

Since all of Costco’s hearing aids are prescription brands, you’ll need to contact a Costco hearing aid center to schedule an appointment for a hearing exam before making your purchase. You can find the location closest to you with the company’s online store locator.

Before your appointment you'll have to fill out and submit a confidential case history form (available here) detailing your medical history and hearing needs. The hearing test takes place in a private sound booth and lasts about 30 minutes.

After the test, a Costco hearing specialist will explain your results and determine whether hearing aids are the best solution for your needs. They can then guide you to the best hearing aid for your hearing profile, preferences, and budget.

Warranties and Guarantees

Warranties vary by model and manufacturer. But Costco offers loss and damage protection free of charge, with no deductible needed.

And if you aren’t satisfied with the product, you can return it for a full refund within 180 days of purchase.

Costco Hearing Aid Customer Reviews

“I have had hearing aids for 10 years using three pairs before Costco's, beginning January 2020. I have had Oticon ($4,500) and Phonak ($5,500) and have never been happy with them. These Kirkland for $1,600 are great. I can hear my wife, the TV, and conversations. Before, I could hear volume, but did not understand the words. Even better is the Bluetooth connection to the TV. Only downside is now that I can really hear my wife, I noticed she has a lisp, which I never noticed before!” — D., verified customer, ConsumerAffairs.com

“My wife and I tried to use our United Healthcare insurance plan for hearing aids. The insurance program proved to be expensive and low quality after two appointments with United Healthcare providers. We then met with an independent provider who was good but very expensive. I then decided to see what Costco had to offer. That proved to be an excellent decision.” — Tom, verified customer, ConsumerAffairs.com

“This is my first time getting hearing aids. What a difference! I bought the Kirkland 10. And they are fantastic! After a few days my wife turned the volume on the TV to what I set it prior. Wow, talk about waking up the neighborhood ... Save up, it’s worth it.” — Randy, Retirement Living

Why You Can Trust Our Review

Underlying research:

  • 2,500 hours researched
  • 13 experts consulted
  • 30 brands considered
  • 96 models considered
  • 600-plus users surveyed

Our experts have spent more than 2,500 hours conducting thorough research on hearing aids. Throughout this process, we did the following:

  • Deeply researched the hearing device category
  • Consulted with audiologists and hearing device experts
  • Mystery shopped 30 brands
  • Surveyed more than 600 hearing aid users
  • Read and reviewed the current studies published in this space

Read thousands of verified customer reviews from trusted third parties such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot

The Bottom Line

Users have a lot to consider when purchasing hearing aids, and with so many different kinds of brands and styles out there, it can be overwhelming to try and choose the best one without testing them out in person.

For value shoppers looking for national hearing center brands at lower prices, Costco hearing aids could be the way to go. Customers get a variety of perks, from a no-deductible loss and damage warranty to free checkups, adjustments, and hearing aid cleanings.

That said, if users purchase hearing aids through Costco and need to repair their devices, they have to visit a Costco hearing center to do so. If you have mild to moderate hearing loss and are 18 years or older, you may want to consider OTC hearing aids that can be purchased online and come with remote care, usually at no extra cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Costco hearing aids good quality?

Costco hearing aid products are a low-cost but valuable buy. It’s important to remember that with lower prices come some trade-offs, like losing out on access to an audiologist.

Customers can buy certain hearing aids online (from companies like MDHearing or Audicus, for example) for the same or lower price than Costco, with audiologist care included.

Who makes Kirkland hearing aids for Costco?

Kirkland hearing aids were manufactured by Sonova until the end of 2022, when Sonova’s partnership with Costco ended and the Kirkland brand was discontinued. Costco hasn’t yet announced who will take over manufacturing for their flagship brand.

Does Costco use audiologists?

Costco mostly uses licensed hearing aid specialists, who are trained to evaluate each customer's hearing loss and establish the best solution for their needs and lifestyles. Hearing aid specialists are licensed by the state where they live to dispense hearing aids, but they do not have the same academic degree as an audiologist.

Audiologists hold a doctor of audiology degree and are experts in all things related to hearing care and balance. They can diagnose and treat hearing and balance issues from infants to adults, whereas hearing aid specialists test strictly for the purpose of fitting and programming hearing aids, working with clients who are 18 and older.

If customers require the expertise of an audiologist, Costco may not be the best option for them. But if you're looking for affordable and quality hearing aids without the need for audiologist support, Costco hearing aids may be a viable low-cost option.

What is the average cost of Costco hearing aids?

Costco hearing aids range in price from $1,599.99 to $1,699.99 per pair. This is higher than many OTC brands, but considerably less than the average cost of most prescription hearing aids, which often run about $4,600 per pair according to figures from the federal government.

How long does it take to get a hearing aid at Costco?

Your hearing exam will take about half an hour. When it’s complete, the hearing specialist will go over your results and recommend a hearing aid for your needs and budget. If they have it in stock, you can get fitted that day.

Programming can take another hour or so, as the software in each device includes dozens of parameters that the specialist will adjust based on your hearing profile. If you need a custom earmold or the store doesn’t have your model in stock, you’ll come back for a fitting appointment once those are ready.

Are Costco hearing aids covered by Medicare?

Medicare Parts A and B don’t cover hearing aids or hearing aid supplies, although Part B will pay for hearing exams if they are ordered by a physician as part of a medical diagnosis. Many Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) and private insurance plans do include a hearing benefit, though. Check with your health insurance provider for your specific plan benefits.

Can I buy Costco hearing aids without a membership?
No, Costco requires an active membership to purchase its hearing aids.
What hearing aids are carried by Costco?
Costco currently sells three brands of hearing aids: Rexton, Philips, and Jabra.
Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.

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