Eargo Link vs HSKLock Hearing Aid

The Eargo Link is a mid-priced OTC hearing aid released in 2024, earning an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.1/5 in our lab testing. At $799, it ranks #15 of 65 OTC hearing aids tested, placing it in the top 22% of the category. In our testing, the Eargo Link demonstrates notable strengths in music streaming, scoring 4.4/5—a strong result that sits 2.48 points above the category average. This makes it a standout choice for users who prioritize audio quality when streaming from their phone. Speech performance is solid, with speech in quiet measuring 3.2/5 (0.42 points above average) and speech in noise at 2.0/5 (0.54 points above average, though mixed in absolute terms). Feedback handling is excellent at 4.7/5. The main limitation is own-voice comfort, which scores 1.3/5—a low result that falls 1.21 points below the category average. Users sensitive to the sound of their own voice may find this challenging, particularly with the closed dome configuration used in the tuned fit. The Eargo Link supports both iPhone and Android streaming with hands-free capability and uses rechargeable batteries. It's best suited for those who value exceptional music streaming quality and solid speech clarity, and who can tolerate some own-voice occlusion. Competitors in this price range include higher-scoring options like the Yeasound RIC800 and Sony CRE-E10, though the Eargo Link's streaming performance remains a differentiator.

The HSKLock Hearing Aid is a budget-priced amplification product available for $69, earning a B grade with a SoundScore of 3.0/5 in our lab testing. This behind-the-ear device uses disposable batteries and represents an entry-level option in the amplification category. In our standardized testing, the HSKLock demonstrates excellent feedback handling at 5.0/5, scoring 0.72 points above the category average. This means users are unlikely to experience whistling or squealing during normal wear. Own-voice comfort scores 2.8/5, which is slightly above the category average but mixed in absolute terms—wearers may notice some occlusion effects when speaking. Speech performance presents significant limitations. Speech in quiet scores 1.5/5, falling 0.63 points below the category average, while speech in noise scores 1.0/5, sitting 0.37 points below average. These low absolute scores indicate limited benefit for understanding conversation in our test framework. Music streaming is not supported, scoring 0.0/5. The HSKLock ranks #5 of 8 amplification products tested, placing it in the top 50% of its category. At this price point, it may suit buyers seeking basic amplification with reliable feedback control, though those prioritizing speech clarity should consider the trade-offs carefully.