EarCentric EX2 vs Olive Union Air

The EarCentric EX2 is a behind-the-ear prescription hearing aid priced at $218, positioning it as a budget-friendly option in the prescription category. In HearAdvisor's lab testing, it earned a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.7/5, ranking #35 of 39 prescription hearing aids tested. This 2021 release demonstrates mixed performance across key metrics. Its standout strength is feedback handling, scoring an excellent 4.7/5—essentially matching the category average and indicating reliable stability during movement. However, speech performance is a significant weakness: speech in quiet scores just 1.0/5 (2.40 points below the category average of 3.40), and speech in noise scores 1.0/5 (1.11 points below average). These low absolute scores suggest limited audibility enhancement in our standardized test conditions. Own-voice comfort scores 2.3/5, which is mixed in absolute terms and 0.40 points below the category average. Music streaming scored 0.0/5, indicating this device is not suited for audio entertainment purposes. The EarCentric EX2 may appeal to budget-conscious consumers who prioritize cost over performance, but alternatives exist at similar or lower price points with stronger test results. The RxEars Rxi, available in the same price range, scored 4.07/5 in our testing. Consumers seeking entry-level amplification should weigh the significant speech clarity limitations against the low purchase price.

The Olive Union Air is a budget-priced OTC hearing aid that earned a B grade with a SoundScore of 3.9/5 in our lab testing, placing it in the top 31% of OTC hearing aids at #21 of 65 devices tested. At $250, it represents a competitive entry point in the over-the-counter hearing aid market. In our testing, this visible-in-ear style device demonstrated notable strengths in music streaming, scoring 3.6/5—a solid result that sits 1.67 points above the OTC category average. Feedback handling was excellent at 5.0/5, meaning users should experience minimal whistling or squealing during normal use. Speech understanding in quiet environments also performed well at 3.3/5, measuring 0.46 points above the category average. The Olive Union Air does show limitations in more challenging listening situations. Speech in noise scored 1.0/5, falling 0.48 points below the category average—a common weakness among budget OTC devices that may affect conversations in restaurants or busy environments. Own-voice comfort measured 2.2/5, slightly below average, which some users may notice when speaking. This device is best suited for individuals who prioritize music and media streaming, need reliable feedback control, and primarily listen in quieter environments. Those who frequently encounter noisy social situations may want to consider devices with stronger speech-in-noise performance.