Eargo SE vs RxEars Rxi

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 RxEars Rxi is a budget-priced prescription hearing aid in an invisible-in-ear style, earning an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.1/5 in our lab testing. At $499, it ranks #24 of 39 prescription hearing aids tested, placing it in the top 59% of its category. This device demonstrates notable strengths in speech understanding in quiet environments, scoring 4.3/5—a strong result that sits 0.89 points above the category average of 3.40/5. Feedback handling is excellent at 4.7/5, providing stable performance during movement without the whistling that can plague some hearing aids. Speech in noise performance is mixed at 2.1/5, essentially matching the category average. The RxEars Rxi has significant limitations to consider. Own-voice comfort scores low at 1.6/5, falling 1.10 points below the category average—users may notice their own voice sounds unnatural or boomy. Music streaming is not supported, scoring 0.0/5, which is 2.76 points below the category average. This device uses disposable batteries rather than rechargeables. The RxEars Rxi is best suited for users who prioritize discreet cosmetics and clear speech understanding in quieter settings, and who don't need music streaming capabilities. Those sensitive to own-voice quality or who frequently listen to streamed audio should explore alternatives.