All hearing aids get their power from batteries. Some hearing aids use rechargeable batteries, and others run on disposables you’ll need to change manually.
No matter which hearing aid type you use, you’ll have to build battery changing or charging into your routine.
The type of battery you need will be determined by your hearing aid brand and type. But the quality of the disposable batteries you purchase is up to you to decide.
In this roundup, we’ll explain the types of hearing aid batteries you may need, and list some brands to consider.
In general, there are two categories of hearing aid batteries:
- rechargeable batteries made from lithium ion or silver zinc
- zinc-air button disposable batteries
Rechargeable batteries
You probably already own technological devices that came with their own rechargeable battery. These include cell phones and computers. Just like devices you’re already familiar with, hearing aids that come with a rechargeable battery need to be replenished with power on a daily basis.
Some companies that manufacture hearing aids with rechargeable batteries include:
Many people who use hearing aids find that the best time of day to charge them is overnight when they’re asleep and not wearing them.
The battery life of your rechargeable device will be indicated by the manufacturer at purchase. In general, you can expect to get at least 30 hours of use from each charge.
Zinc-air button disposable batteries
Disposable batteries contain zinc, which is lighter and less expensive than lithium ion. Zinc is also eco-friendly and can be disposed of in a recycling bin, unlike ordinary batteries.
Disposable batteries come with a factory-sealed, peel-off back that keeps them protected from air. They become activated when their zinc content interacts with oxygen, creating zinc oxide. For this reason, you’ll need to keep their backing on until you’re ready to use them.
Disposable hearing aid batteries are sold in four sizes, which are color-coded to eliminate guesswork. They last anywhere from 3 days for the smallest batteries, to 22 days for the largest type. The larger the battery, the longer its lifespan.
From largest to smallest they are:
- 675 (blue)
- 13 (orange)
- 312 (brown)
- 10 (yellow)
Blue size 675 batteries are used in powerful hearing aids that provide maximum sound amplification. They are often used in bone-anchored hearing aids and behind-the-ear hearing aids.
Orange size 13 batteries are usually used in behind-the-ear hearing aids that are medium-large in size, and provide high levels of sound amplification.
Brown size 312 batteries are often used in small behind-the-ear and in-the-ear hearing aids.
Yellow size 10 batteries are used in the smallest hearing aids, such as mini-receiver in-the-ear hearing aids and completely-in-the-canal hearing aids.
Hearing aids battery life
The lifespan of your battery is affected by:
- length of time you wear your hearing aids
- number of control functions
- amount of streaming you do
No matter your habits, it makes sense to always have a spare pair with you.
The hearing aid batteries on this list come from trusted manufacturers. We analyzed clinical research on hearing aid batteries and included brands that most closely met manufacturing claims when tested in independent laboratories.
We read scores of consumer reviews on multiple sales sites and only included batteries with high approval ratings for longevity and freshness.
Pricing guide
Disposable hearing aid batteries can be purchased in small two-packs or in bulk packages of 80 or more. Usually, the more you buy the less you will pay per battery.
Prices can range from under $15 to over $25.
Duracell batteries
Duracell batteries are guaranteed to last 4 years when stored correctly.
All of Duracell’s hearing aid batteries have extra-long tabs and are recommended by the Arthritis Foundation for ease of use.
They can be purchased in varying quantities at multiple retailers. Duracell hearing aid batteries are made in the United States and are mercury free.
Find Duracell batteries online
Rayovac batteries
Rayovac batteries can be purchased in varying quantities at multiple retailers.
Users of this brand often mention that they last longer than other battery brands. They have a 3-to-4-year shelf life when stored correctly.
These batteries are mercury-free. They’re made in the United States from U.S. and global parts.
Power One batteries
Power One hearing aid batteries are a very popular international brand.
Online reviews mention that Power One batteries provide sustained power for long periods of time. They are guaranteed to last at least 3 years when stored correctly.
Power One batteries don’t contain mercury and are made in Germany.
Panasonic batteries
According to the manufacturer, Panasonic batteries have been improved and now provide 20 percent more capacity than previous models.
Online users mention long life and reliability, with no dead batteries in each package purchased.
They’re coated with a Teflon layer that promotes airflow throughout the battery.
Panasonic batteries are mercury-free.
Always check the expiration date before you buy, especially when you’re buying in bulk.
To prolong battery life, never store any batteries in extreme hot or cold temperatures, including in the refrigerator.
Shipping and return policies are usually determined by the seller, not the manufacturer, of the batteries.
Some sellers, including Hearing Direct, give a 30-day money-back guarantee on hearing aid batteries. Others, including HearingPlanet, guarantee battery freshness and offer free shipping on purchases over $30.
Always check to see what your added costs will be for shipping or returns when purchasing.
Battery cost can be a significant factor to take into account when you are purchasing hearing aids.
Rechargeable vs. disposable
In some instances, rechargeable hearing aids may wind up being more cost effective than those that rely on button batteries.
Bundling with hearing aids
You can also consider bundling. Batteries are usually included in the bundled cost of hearing aids, along with other line items such as warranties. Bundles typically include as many batteries as you will need for the lifetime of your devices.
Other hearing aid options
If you have concerns about cost, talk to your audiologist about which type of hearing aid makes the most sense for you, both in terms of functionality and budget.
Hearing aids come with either rechargeable or disposable batteries.
If your hearing aids need disposable batteries, make sure to purchase the right size. Disposable batteries come in four sizes. The larger the battery, the longer its life.
When purchasing hearing aid batteries, always check the expiration date.
Buying in bulk may help to reduce the overall cost of your battery purchase.