Apple AirPods Pro 3 vs Linner Nova Deluxe

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 Linner Nova Deluxe is a budget-priced OTC hearing aid available for $299, earning a B grade with a SoundScore of 3.3/5 in HearAdvisor's lab testing. This visible-in-ear style device ranks #53 of 65 OTC hearing aids tested, placing it in the lower tier of its category. In our testing, the Nova Deluxe showed a notable strength in feedback handling, scoring an excellent 5.0/5—0.46 points above the category average. This suggests stable performance without whistling during typical wear. Speech clarity in quiet environments scored a mixed 2.8/5, right at the category average, providing basic conversational support. However, speech understanding in noisy situations scored a low 1.4/5, slightly below average. The device has significant limitations in two areas. Own-voice comfort scored just 0.5/5, which is 2.01 points below the category average, indicating noticeable occlusion effects when speaking. Music streaming scored 0.0/5 in our lab measurements, 1.92 points below average, making this device poorly suited for audio entertainment despite offering iPhone, Android, and hands-free streaming connectivity. At its $299 price point, the Nova Deluxe competes against higher-performing alternatives in the same budget range. This device may suit buyers prioritizing stability and basic speech clarity in quieter settings, but those who stream music or are sensitive to how their own voice sounds should consider other options in this price tier.