About 28.8 million people in the U.S. could benefit from using hearing aids. If you’re one of them and considering hearing aids, you’re probably facing many decisions on what style, fit and accessories you’d like. One such decision is the question of the hearing aid battery: do you go with rechargeable batteries or disposable ones?
Neither battery type is better than the other in terms of hearing aid functionality or effectiveness. Both types will power your hearing aid and connect you back to the world of sound, just like you want. The most significant factor to consider when looking at batteries is what will fit your lifestyle.
Disposable Batteries
Disposable hearing aid batteries are removable from the hearing aid and will need to be replaced every so often. How often depends on your hearing aid and use, but they can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. The batteries are small and round (sometimes called “button batteries” for this reason) and can be purchased almost anywhere. This type of battery has traditionally been the default option on most hearing aids.
Rechargeable Batteries
Hearing aids with rechargeable batteries never require you to remove the battery from the hearing aid. Instead, you dock the hearing aids on a charger, like your phone. A charge on rechargeable batteries typically lasts about a day, so daily charging is required. These are a newer technology than button batteries, and they’re gaining popularity among hearing aid users.
What Should I Choose?
Once again, it comes down to lifestyle and preferences. Some hearing aid users swear by disposable batteries, while others strongly prefer rechargeable. Interestingly, both camps will claim their preferred battery is more “convenient.” That’s because no option works equally for everyone; what’s convenient for one person might be quite inconvenient for another.
Advantages of Disposable Batteries
- Easy to find. You can find them at most general stores or pharmacies. Disposable batteries were the default only until recently, and as a result, they are more widely accessible.
- Replace the battery anywhere. Insert a new battery whenever you need it, even when away from home. You don’t need power to charge your battery or a trip to the clinic.
- Faster results. You won’t be without your hearing aids for hours while they charge.
- Go a long time between replacements. As mentioned above, the amount of time a single battery lasts can vary, but you can get several days out of one battery.
Advantages of Rechargeable Batteries
- Reliable schedule. They’re on the same rhythm you are: work all day, charge at night. No need to constantly purchase, store and carry disposable batteries.
- Easier to handle. If you struggle with motor skills, the dexterity required to handle the small disposable batteries could present a challenge.
- Longer lifespan. Rechargeable batteries usually last about five years before they need to be replaced, but you’ll recharge them hundreds of times in that time.
- Reduced environmental footprint. Rechargeable batteries are never removed and thrown away, so that’s one less item in the landfill.
Every hearing aid user has different personal preferences and different hearing care needs. Contemplate what works best for you in the lifestyle you lead. Of course, there are plenty of other factors to consider when choosing a hearing aid. Be sure to talk in-depth with your hearing health specialist about the options available and their pros and cons. Our knowledgeable team at Kampsen Hearing is ready to help you take this step and make the decisions necessary. Call today for an appointment!