EarCentric EX2 vs Zepp Clarity Pixie

The EarCentric EX2 is a budget-priced prescription behind-the-ear hearing aid released in 2021, earning a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.7/5 in HearAdvisor's lab testing. At $218, it ranks #33 of 36 prescription hearing aids tested, placing it in the bottom 11% of its category. In our testing, the EX2 showed a significant split in performance. Feedback handling was excellent at 4.7/5, essentially matching the category average and demonstrating stable operation during movement. However, speech performance was notably limited, with both speech in quiet and speech in noise scoring 1.0/5—well below the category averages of 3.32 and 1.96 respectively. Music streaming scored 0.0/5, falling 2.64 points below the prescription category average of 2.64/5. Own-voice comfort scored 2.3/5, a mixed result that sits 0.45 points below the category average. The device uses a rechargeable battery, which adds convenience for daily use. Notably, tuning did not improve performance in our testing—the Initial and Tuned fit scores were identical at 2.7/5. Budget-conscious shoppers in this price range may want to compare alternatives. The RxEars Rxi scored 4.09/5 at a similar price point, while OTC options like the Audien Hearing Atom offer comparable or better sound performance at lower prices. The EX2 may suit users who prioritize feedback stability and rechargeable convenience over speech clarity, but its limited speech performance is a significant tradeoff.

The Zepp Clarity Pixie is a mid-priced OTC hearing aid featuring an invisible-in-ear design, priced at $999. In our lab testing, it earned a B grade with a SoundScore of 3.6/5, placing it in the top 48% of OTC hearing aids tested. Speech clarity is a notable strength for the Pixie. It scores 3.6/5 for speech in quiet—a solid result that sits 0.77 points above the category average. Speech in noise performance is above the category average as well, though at 1.7/5 it remains low in absolute terms. Feedback handling is strong at 4.3/5, though slightly below the category average of 4.54/5. The Pixie shows significant limitations in other areas. Own-voice comfort scores just 1.5/5, falling 1.01 points below the category average—users may notice their own voice sounds unnatural or boomy. Music streaming is a particular weakness, scoring 0.0/5, which is 1.92 points below the category average. Those who frequently stream phone audio should consider alternatives. At this price point, competitors offer stronger overall performance. The Yeasound RIC800 and Sony CRE-E10 both score above 4.6/5 at similar prices. The Elehear Delight and Yeasound RIC700 deliver scores around 4.3/5 at lower price points. The Pixie may appeal to users who prioritize its discreet invisible-in-ear form factor and primarily need speech clarity in quieter environments, but those seeking well-rounded performance or music streaming should explore alternatives.