Widex Review: A Household Name

About Widex

Widex was created in 1956 in Lynge, Denmark, with a vision to help anyone who has a hard time hearing stay connected to the world. They are part of WSAudiology, and they have helped improve the lives of millions of people.

According to Widex, one in three hearing aids worn by people worldwide has been manufactured by them; they own retail shops globally. So you can find them anywhere in Europe, North America, and Asia. 

They are pioneers in the industry; over the years they have: 

• Received the ID PRIZE Design in 1985 after designing the world's first in-the-ear hearing aid with the same quality as a behind-the-ear hearing aid. 
   
• Introduced the world's first fully digital in-the-ear hearing aid in 1995.
   
• Designed and produced the world's smallest receiver-in-canal hearing in 2008.
   
• In 2010, they created a hearing aid specifically for babies. 
   
• Recently, Widex applied the first real-time machine-learning AI technology to hearing aids.

They are currently in over 100 countries, offering different designs and styles and constantly working on improving their products.
 

How Widex Works

1. Take the online hearing test

The Widex online hearing test will help you determine if you need to consult a professional. The test requires you to answer a few general questions and check your ability to hear high and low-frequency sounds in different environments. The whole process is offered for free and takes about five minutes. 

 2. Find a local Widex professional near you

Widex does not sell its products online; you'll need to physically go to a professional that works with Widex to receive your hearing aid. 

On their website, click on "Store locator," they have stores from five continents across 28 countries. 

When you choose your country, you can type up your current location, and they'll show you the nearest shop. Then, make an appointment at the closest location to your convenience; once you get there, a professional will test the severity of your hearing loss and recommend a device that fits your degree of hearing loss, environment, needs, lifestyle, and budget. 

You can also fill out an online form on the Widex website, and a local Widex professional will reach out to you; then, you will get help with selecting, fitting, and maintaining your device. 

3. Check out your new device

Widex hearing aids are meant to reconnect you to the world; if it is not helping the way you need it to, or you are having issues with your device, the company offers a no-obligation free trial where you can return them during a set timeframe.

Widex Hearing Aid Devices

Widex knows that hearing aids are not one-size-fits-all, so they created a wide variety of hearing aids for both adults and children. Each model they have has a variety of sub-models with different price points and features. 

Most of their models come in four levels of technology: 440, 330, 220, or 110. The highest of them being the 440 costs more and comes with a wide variety of features. 

EVOKE Series

This line contained their first smart hearing aids; although it's the oldest model they have, Widex is constantly upgrading and maintaining them. They are known for the battery's longevity and extensive features.

The device comes with an app that customizes the device to your preference. It remembers all your choices and adjusts the sounds around you accordingly.

This series has three receiver-in-canal, two receiver-in-the-ear, three behind-the-ear, two completely-in-canal, and three in-the-ear hearing aids. Along with all the features, the in-the-ear devices come in three colors, and in-the-ear comes in 10 colors.

BEYOND Series

This line comes in two forms, the BEYOND and BEYOND Z. They offer a variety of features, and it is Bluetooth enabled. The device was made to be compatible with most Android phones and iPhones, and you can stream from any smart device.

This model has its own app where you can take full control over your device; it even allows you to add locations and pictures to personalize your program. The device is available in 15 colors. 

UNIQUE Series

This line is completely digital and comes in all four Widex technology levels. There are so many fits and styles that anyone can wear comfortably. Not only do they provide a great fit they also work in different environments to give you the best hearing experience.

The model is available in 15 colors. 

Widex CUSTOM Series

This model is exactly what the name implies; a customized hearing aid made to be as comfortable as possible. So when you go to the Widex professional, you will get a fitting to get the perfect device. The hearing aid also comes with the latest technology, and its design makes it almost invisible. 

Apart from the fitting, you'll get to choose between six colors and the features. 

Widex Apps

Widex offers a number of different apps: 

• EVOKE: This app gives you complete control over your EVOKE hearing aid. You can use the app to adjust the volume on each hearing aid and choose the hearing direction. You can also use it to stream audio from any iPhone and some Android phones. Plus, you get the advantage of choosing your own sound program to fit the environment.
   
• BEYOND: This app is designed to control the volume or mute the hearing aids. It can also be used to stream audio from a compatible device. You can also choose photos to customize your program, and the battery life will be on display.
   
• TONELINK: This app replaces a remote control and Bluetooth, as you can make any adjustment using this application. You can adjust the volume, mute the device, select programs, and directional focus.
   
• COM-DEX: This app is the COM-DEX hands-free streaming function that can control different hearing aids. With this app, you get high-quality streaming and microphone gain adjustments.
   
• ZEN: If you have tinnitus symptoms, this is the app for you, as it uses a relaxing sound streamed from a smart device that minimizes the symptoms. You will also gain access to ZEN Tones.

Widex Accessories

Their accessories include: 

• AC-DEX: This small remote helps you make adjustments without touching your device. You can manage volume and program selection.
   
• UNI-DEX: This is an accessory worn around the neck, and it is used to stream audio for up to 40 hours. You need to plug it in with the mini-jack; once the connection is made, the streaming starts immediately.
   
• CALL-DEX: If you have EVOKE, DREAM, SUPER, or UNIQUE hearing aids, you can use this to hear voice calls clearly. Once you plug it into a smartphone, the conversation will be streamed to your hearing aids. 
   
• PHONE-DEX 2: This is similar to a cordless phone but for those who are hard of hearing. The accessory connects automatically, so the sound is immediately amplified, which makes having a phone conversation much easier. It also comes with an emergency button, a directory with up to 20 contacts, adjustable font size, alarm, and a voicemail recorder.
   
• TV-DEX: This accessory was created to enhance your TV-watching experience. The device is wireless, and it helps you listen to quality audio without echoes or distortion. The features of this device allow you to turn the microphone off so you can get rid of any distractions around you; afterward, you can turn it back on when you are ready to hear a conversation.
   
• FM+DEX: This device is a great option if you like listening to FM radio. It gives out a signal conversion from FM receivers, telecoils, and audio line-in jacks.
   
• TV PLAY: If you struggle to hear the TV with your hearing aids, this company has got you covered, as it gives you direct streaming to your ears.

Widex Costs

Widex does not advertise the cost of its hearing aids on its website; to get the exact cost, you'll have to visit a local professional that directly sells Widex hearing aids. 

The prices depend on the model, technology level, features, severity of hearing loss, batteries, and whether it is for both ears. In general, the base prices are:

• UNIQUE: Ranges between $1,200 - $1,500.
• EVOKE: $1,300 - $1,800.
• BEYOND $1,400 - $1,800.

Warranty

If you buy your device from an authorized retailer, you'll get a warranty. However, it is important to note that your warranty is not valid if you buy the hearing aid from an online retailer. 

They offer different timeframes depending on the model you purchase. However, most of their products are covered from two to three years. You can also get an extended warranty for an additional year or two with a fee.

Their warranties cover loss, damage, repairs, batteries, and chargers. Unfortunately, it does not cover accessories and earmold. If you lose the hearing aid, you can pay a small fee, and you'll get a replacement, but you will need to pay for shipping and handling.

When you first get the device, you can talk to the authorized dealer to learn more about their warranties. 

Conclusion

Widex has been in the hearing aid industry for decades, and they have constantly been innovating and creating new designs and technology to improve their products. 

They offer a wide variety of hearing aid models and submodels to ensure there is a device for every ear. A comprehensive list of features is also included to give you the best hearing experience.

The best part is that their products are available in 28 countries, so you might have a retail shop just around the corner. Go to their website to check out if there is a location near you.