Eargo SE vs Oticon More

The Eargo SE is a premium-priced OTC hearing aid at $1,699, featuring an invisible-in-ear design and earning a B grade with a SoundScore of 3.1/5 in our lab testing. This places it in the top 85% of the OTC hearing aid category, ranking #56 of 65 devices tested. In our testing, the Eargo SE demonstrated solid performance in speech clarity for quiet environments, scoring 3.2/5—0.43 points above the category average. Feedback handling was excellent at 4.6/5, meaning users should experience stable performance without whistling issues. However, the device showed limitations in challenging listening situations, with speech in noise scoring 1.3/5, which falls 0.23 points below the category average. A notable weakness is the complete absence of music streaming capability, scoring 0.0/5 compared to the category average of 1.92/5. Own-voice comfort scored 2.4/5, slightly below the category average. These mixed results suggest the Eargo SE prioritizes its discreet form factor over comprehensive audio features. The Eargo SE may appeal to users who prioritize an invisible design and primarily need help hearing conversations in quieter settings. However, given its premium price point and the availability of alternatives like the Jabra Enhance Select 50R that deliver stronger overall scores at lower prices, value-conscious consumers may want to explore other options before committing.

The Oticon More is a premium prescription behind-the-ear hearing aid that earns an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.6/5 in our lab testing, placing it in the top 23% of the 39 prescription hearing aids we've evaluated. Currently available at $4,598, this 2021 release has earned our Expert's Choice Award in both 2023 and 2024. In our testing, the Oticon More demonstrates strong speech clarity performance. Speech in quiet scores 4.0/5, which is 0.65 points above the category average—a meaningful advantage for everyday conversation. Speech in noise measures 2.7/5, which is 0.60 points above the category average, though the absolute score reflects the inherent challenge all hearing aids face in noisy environments. Own-voice comfort is solid at 3.1/5, sitting 0.40 points above average. The device does show one notable weakness: feedback handling scores 3.5/5, which is 1.22 points below the category average of 4.72/5. While this is still a solid score in absolute terms, competing devices in this price range generally perform better in this area. Music streaming is solid at 3.0/5, slightly above the category average. The Oticon More offers flexibility with both rechargeable and disposable battery options, plus streaming compatibility with both iPhone and Android devices including hands-free calling. For those considering alternatives, newer models like the Oticon Intent and Oticon Real score higher in our testing at similar price points. The Oticon More remains a capable choice for listeners who prioritize speech clarity and want a well-established platform with proven performance.