trusted formPhonak vs ZOUNDS | Several.com
Although we earn commissions from partners, we ensure unbiased evaluations. More on our 'How We Work' page

Phonak vs ZOUNDS

Press [Add to Compare] to Edit, Add or Remove Vendors

Pros
  • Wide variety of device styles and configurations
  • Bluetooth streaming for Android and iOS devices
  • Rechargeable battery options available
  • App-based adjustments with remote provider support
  • Pediatric-friendly models with tamper-resistant designs
Pros
  • Variation of models
  • Affordable models
  • Remote control included
Cons
  • No direct-to-consumer sales or published pricing
  • Most advanced features reserved for premium-tier models
  • Limited warranty clarity depending on provider
  • Limited direct support
Cons
  • Unaccredited by the BBB
  • Limited center locations
Summary

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.

Summary

Zounds Hearing was founded in Chandler, Arizona, by Sam Thomasson. Backed by Acoustic Technologies Inc., Zounds developed its own semiconductor chips and low-power algorithms to deliver high-quality sound while keeping devices affordable. Their hearing aids were built for people with mild to severe hearing loss and came with features like intuitive noise cancellation, feedback suppression, and customizable listening modes. Each device included a 30-day free trial and a three-year protection plan. Customers could test a model at home and return it for a full refund if it didn’t meet their needs. Pricing for most models ranged from $499 to $999 per aid, with premium models like the Vizara priced at $1,499. Financing options were also available. Zounds maintained a hands-on customer experience, offering free hearing tests at their centers and personalized consultations to match users with the right device. Though the company is no longer in business, they were known for delivering strong value, comfort, and clarity to users across various lifestyles. 

Quick Stats
  • FDA Approved : Only the Lyric’s self-replacement option is FDA-cleared
  • Free Hearing Aid Test : Online hearing test available
  • Free Trial Period : Undisclosed
  • Loss and Damage Protection : Undisclosed
  • Price : Ranges from $1,300 to $5,000 per device
  • Warranty Duration : One-year international warranty; local terms vary
  • Customer Experience : Fair
Quick Stats
  • FDA Approved : Yes
  • Free Hearing Aid Test : Unvailable
  • Free Trial Period : Available
  • Price : Starting at $499
Selling Points
  • AI-powered sound processing with environment detection
  • In-ear tap controls for calls, music, and voice assistants
  • FDA-cleared self-replacement option for extended-wear model
  • Integration with Roger microphones for improved speech clarity in noise
Selling Points
  • Variation of models
  • Affordable models
  • Remote control included
Device Features
  • App Control Compatibility
  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Custom Fitting
  • Directional Microphones
  • Environment Settings
  • Feedback Cancellation
  • Noise Reduction
  • Preset Programs
  • Rechargeable Battery
  • Streaming Capabilities
  • Telecoil Compatibility
  • Undisclosed
    Voice Prompts
  • Volume Control
Device Features
  • Undisclosed
    App Control Compatibility
  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Undisclosed
    Custom Fitting
  • Undisclosed
    Directional Microphones
  • Undisclosed
    Environment Settings
  • Undisclosed
    Feedback Cancellation
  • Noise Reduction
  • Undisclosed
    Preset Programs
  • Rechargeable Battery
  • Undisclosed
    Streaming Capabilities
  • Undisclosed
    Telecoil Compatibility
  • Undisclosed
    Voice Prompts
  • Undisclosed
    Volume Control
Types of Hearing Loss Served
  • Mild Hearing Loss
  • Moderate Hearing Loss
  • Moderately Severe Hearing Loss
  • Profound Hearing Loss
  • Severe Hearing Loss
Types of Hearing Loss Served
  • Mild Hearing Loss
  • Moderate Hearing Loss
  • Undisclosed
    Moderately Severe Hearing Loss
  • Profound Hearing Loss
  • Severe Hearing Loss
Customer Support
  • Email
  • FAQs
  • Help Guides
  • Live Chat
  • Mobile Application
  • Phone
  • Ticketing System
Customer Support
  • Email
  • Undisclosed
    FAQs
  • Undisclosed
    Help Guides
  • Undisclosed
    Live Chat
  • Undisclosed
    Mobile Application
  • Phone
  • Undisclosed
    Ticketing System
Payment Options
  • Undisclosed
    Cash
  • Undisclosed
    Check
  • Undisclosed
    Financing Options Available
  • Undisclosed
    HSA/FSA Eligible
  • Major Credit Cards
Payment Options
  • Undisclosed
    Cash
  • Undisclosed
    Check
  • Financing Options Available
  • Undisclosed
    HSA/FSA Eligible
  • Undisclosed
    Major Credit Cards

Save Big on Hearing Aids

Fill out a quick form to claim special offers on Hearing Aids

image