I recently tested out several different options (thanks Amazon). I tested out the ISOtunes AIR DEFENDER, ISOtunes Link 2.0, 3M WorkTunes Connect, 3M WorkTunes Connect + Gel Ear Cushions, and 3M Pro-Protect. Here is how I would rank them based on several different categories I considered (1 terrible to 5 great - or at least as great as can be expected from work wear):My favorite are the 3M Pro-Protect and the 3M WorkTunes Connect + Gel Cushions. They are similar in price and quality and both have the nice gel ear cushions. I give the edge to the Pro-Protect as the ear pockets are deeper for less pressure on the ears and I liked the headband a bit better as it was a it more comfortable and felt softer on my head (both WorkTunes have some hard plastic on the outer edges of the headbands that dig in a bit). The biggest complaint I have about the Pro-Protect is it is AA battery powered. I could see that maybe being a benefit depending on your use case, but in a general home use I would prefer to plug it up to charge when I am done for the day. So I would give the edge to the WorkTunes being rechargeable (wish it was USB-C though). The sound is a bit different between all 3 of the of the 3M headphones. I gave the edge to the Pro-Protect being fuller sounding and a wider sound floor, but the WorkTunes Connect + Gel Cushions are a bit crispier and tighter, so it depends on your preference and what you are looking for. We are not comparing Hi-Fi headphones so the quality in general is not amazing anyway, but it is adequate for listening on the job. The Pro-Protect also have an audio pass through function where it can amplify things like talking around you and then turn off when loud sounds are in the environment. This could be a positive or a negative depending on your needs. You can mute them, but the mics automatically turn on when you turn the headphones on each time (I wish it would default to your last setting).I really disliked everything about the ISOtunes products. Honestly they were just terrible all around... not worth paying the same price as the 3M (or more in the case of the LINK 2.0). If they were half of the price I would say they fit the quality/market. First off the audio quality was terrible, then the volume was very low, they let in way more noise from the environment (no idea how they have a similar NRR rating as the 3M products), they feel like a lower quality constructed product, and they have too many unnecessary buttons that get confusing where it works perfectly fine with 1 button on the 3M products (or 2 in the case of the Pro-Protect). I cannot recommend these at all.I am waffling back and forth between the WorkTunes Connect + Gel Cushions and the Pro-Protect as to which direction I want to go. I like the extra comfort of the Pro-Protect and better audio in my opinion, but I don't like the battery situation and that the mics don't default to the last status when you turn them on. 60 hours on the battery may be enough for my use case that I won't have to change the batteries enough that it would be annoying. Maybe I will sacrifice the audio quality and comfort for the convenience of the rechargeable battery and go with the WorkTunes Connect + Gel Cushions. I may have to get the opinion of the 2 other people that will be using them as well before I buy a couple of pairs of one type.I hope this helps. If you go for one or the other let me know!
If you wear hearing aids, you know how important it is to find a headset that works seamlessly with your gear. We're here to explore the best headphones to use with hearing aids where tech meets accessibility so you can get the best audio experience possible.
Thanks to the progress in hearing aid technology, you can find headphones compatible with your hearing aids.
For some, finding headphones that are compatible with hearing aids can be difficult because the extra gear stands in the way of a good fit.
Depending on which hearing aids you use, some designs won't properly sit around the hearing aids or sit too close to the microphone, giving you problems with audio feedback. However, with some experimentation, you can find headphones that work great with your hearing aids.
If you're looking for headphones to use with your hearing aid device, aside from comfort and fit, type of connectivity and purpose of use, the most important factor to consider is what type of hearing aids you wear.
From wireless Bluetooth to traditional wired and noise-cancelling sets, there's a wide range of features to choose from, providing full coverage and intuitive controls for ease of use.
These are the most common hearing aids and what type of headphone fits best:
Since the main components are located behind the ear, over-the-ear headphones are the best option to maximize sound efficiency without compromising comfort. Larger, over-ear designs generally cause less pressure on your ears and block sounds more effectively. In this case, you’ll want to avoid headphones that go in the ear because it will prevent the hearing aid from picking up sound.
For this type of hearing aid, it is recommended that the headphones completely cover your ears with at least one centimeter between the headphones and the hearing aid microphone to avoid unwanted feedback.
Since these hearing aids sit back in the ear canal, it's possible to use earphones that fit inside of the ear. This type of hearing aid requires a headphone that seals the ear canal to eliminate some ambient sound. The headphone should fit in the ear canal while allowing room for the hearing aid.
Personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) are amplifying devices you can purchase over-the-counter without a prescription or seeing a healthcare professional. PSAPs are not regulated as medical devices by the FDA; thus, they are meant for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. If you have more severe hearing loss, OTC hearing aids might be unable to amplify sounds at high enough levels to help you.
Wireless and Bluetooth headphones bring their own benefits and features to the table, but which one is the right fit for you?
Wireless Headphones: These offer the freedom to move around without being tied to your device. With different connectivity options like radio frequency (RF) or infrared (IR), they can work well with hearing aids by connecting directly to the audio source. They often provide a stable connection and robust sound quality, making them a solid choice.
Bluetooth Headphones: Bluetooth technology has revolutionized wireless audio, allowing seamless connections with multiple devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This convenience is a huge plus for those on the go. Bluetooth headphones often come with easy-to-use controls, noise-cancellation features, and built-in microphones for hands-free calls.
However, there's a catch. Some hearing aid wearers might find that Bluetooth connectivity can interfere with their devices, causing potential disruptions in sound quality. On the other hand, wireless headphones may not have this issue due to their distinct frequency range.
So, whether you lean towards the flexibility of wireless headphones or the convenience of Bluetooth, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and compatibility with your hearing aids. Exploring the features and weighing the pros and cons of each option will guide you towards a choice that enhances your auditory experience in a way that suits your unique needs.
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AfterShokz has an open-ear design that uses bone conduction technology to transmit sound via mini vibrations to the inner ear, bypassing the eardrums. Since they sit outside the ear instead of in or on the ear, you can comfortably wear AfterShokz headphones with hearing aids.
A definite leader in wireless over-ear headphones that are exceptionally comfortable with best-in-class noise cancellation perfect for all hearing aid users.
Since we all hear differently within the audio frequency spectrum because no two ears are exactly alike, the Nuraphone headphones can adapt to your unique way of hearing, making them an ideal choice for those with unbalanced hearing, like having your own custom audio engineer.
These on-ear wireless headphones are ideal to use over hearing aids for use with TV. Although they don’t include Bluetooth connectivity, they have a good battery life and a charging cradle, and they’re a good model for enhancing the TV viewing experience. They pair best with heating aids completely in canal.
These over the ear headphones are extra roomy around the ears with noise canceling and exceptional call quality.
This sleek and discrete design is perfect for those recently experiencing hearing loss, finding it difficult to understand sounds or speech in certain situations, such as in noisy restaurants or while watching TV at home. This sound amplifier can make a great difference and improve the quality of your daily life.
Another excellent over-the-ear headphone providing a comfortable experience with great sound that is also compatible with iOS and Android making it possible to take calls.
These over-the-ear headphones make the list due to their high performance and complete control over the audio experience. Although made with gamers in mind, these headphones provide crisp sound directionality with a built-in microphone which make it ideal for business meetings or phone calls.
These in-ear monitors (IEMs) can be used with hearing aids with a telecoil feature and are great at blocking ambient noise and ensuring a comfortable customized fit. The ergonomic design is available in different sizes and is designed with a lightweight shape and optimized nozzle angle to fit comfortably in the ear.
In a world where hearing aids and headphones converge, finding the perfect balance between functionality and comfort is paramount. We hope this list can help you narrow your search for the best headphones to use with hearing aids according to your specific needs.