Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Eargo 6

The Apple AirPods Pro 3 is a budget-priced OTC hearing aid released in 2025, earning a B grade with a SoundScore of 3.3/5 in our lab testing. At $250, it sits in the most affordable price tier of OTC devices, though its overall sound performance ranks #49 of 65 in the category. This device delivers standout performance in music streaming, scoring a strong 4.3/5—a full 2.38 points above the category average. Feedback handling is equally impressive at 5.0/5, meaning users can expect excellent stability without whistling or squealing during normal use. These strengths make the AirPods Pro 3 particularly appealing for users who prioritize media consumption alongside hearing assistance. However, speech clarity presents a more mixed picture. Speech in quiet scores 2.3/5, falling 0.53 points below the category average. Speech in noise measures 1.8/5, which is above the category average but still low in absolute terms. Own-voice comfort also trails at 1.9/5, sitting 0.61 points below typical OTC performance. The AirPods Pro 3 is best suited for users already invested in the Apple ecosystem who want hearing assistance combined with premium streaming quality. Those prioritizing speech understanding in conversations may want to explore alternatives like the Apple AirPods Pro 2, which scores higher overall at a lower listed price, or the Elehear Beyond at the top of this price range.

The Eargo 6 is a premium-priced OTC hearing aid ($2,250) that earned a B grade and a SoundScore of 3.4/5 in our lab testing, placing it in the top 63% of OTC hearing aids we've evaluated. This invisible-in-ear device delivers solid speech clarity in quiet environments, scoring 3.3/5—notably 0.53 points above the OTC category average. Own-voice comfort is also above average at 2.9/5, though mixed in absolute terms. However, the Eargo 6 shows significant weaknesses in challenging listening situations, with speech-in-noise performance scoring just 1.0/5, falling 0.48 points below the category average. The most notable limitation is music streaming, which scored 0.0/5 in our testing—substantially below the category average. Feedback handling scored 3.3/5, solid in absolute terms but 1.24 points below the OTC average of 4.54/5. The device uses rechargeable batteries and maintains a fully invisible profile when worn. The Eargo 6 may suit consumers who prioritize discreet aesthetics and primarily need help hearing conversations in quieter settings. However, shoppers should note that alternatives like the Sony CRE-C10 and Olive Union Air achieved higher SoundScores at lower price points. Those frequently in noisy environments or who value music streaming should explore other options.