MDHearing vs Phonak

MDHearing is a hearing aid provider based in Chicago, Illinois, and was founded in 2009 by a board-certified ear, nose, and throat doctor. They specialize in over-the-counter (OTC), FDA-registered hearing aids for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. Rather than relying on in-person clinic visits, they offer a fully remote model, combining online hearing tests, mail-order delivery, and optional virtual support from licensed professionals. Their current lineup includes six rechargeable models, with both behind-the-ear (BTE) and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) options. Select models support app-based self-fitting and remote adjustments, while others focus on ease of use with manual controls. Users can also opt into their VIP Care service for added guidance and extended warranty coverage. They are accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and hold an A rating, suggesting they generally resolve complaints and honor their policies. Customer reviews praise their affordability, ease of setup, and responsive support, though some users have noted delays with returns and issues with comfort on certain models. Overall, they aim to make hearing care more accessible without compromising essential features. To learn more about their products and how they stack up against competitors, read our full MDHearing review.

Phonak, founded in 1947 and headquartered in Stäfa, Switzerland, is a globally recognized hearing aid manufacturer and a member of the Sonova Group. They serve customers in over 100 countries and focus on delivering professionally fitted hearing solutions for individuals with mild to profound hearing loss, including children and those with single-sided deafness. Phonak’s devices are available exclusively through licensed hearing care providers, emphasizing personalized fittings and ongoing clinical support. Their hearing aids feature advanced technology such as AI-powered sound processing, SmartSpeech Technology, AutoSense OS, universal Bluetooth streaming, and app-based adjustments. Rechargeable batteries, discreet designs, pediatric-friendly options, and compatibility with accessories like Roger microphones further set their lineup apart. Notably, the company introduced an FDA-cleared self-replacement option for their Lyric hearing aid in 2024. Customer feedback is mixed—many users praise the clarity, connectivity, and adaptability of the devices, while others cite challenges with app performance or warranty clarity. Despite this, Phonak maintains an A+ BBB rating and continues to be recognized for innovation, winning awards for their noise-reduction technologies. Want to know how Phonak’s features stack up, what they cost, and who they’re best for? Our full review explores all the details.