HearingAssist Micro vs Oticon More

The HearingAssist Micro is a premium amplifier in the invisible-in-ear style, priced at $698. In our lab testing, it earned a B grade with a SoundScore of 3.6/5, placing it #3 among the 8 amplification products we've tested. This device shows a clear strength in speech clarity during quiet environments, scoring 3.5/5—a solid result that sits 1.35 points above the category average of 2.11/5. Feedback handling is also strong at 4.0/5, though slightly below the category average of 4.28/5. Own-voice comfort comes in at 2.8/5, which is above the category average but only mixed in absolute terms. The Micro has notable limitations. Speech-in-noise performance is low at 1.1/5, falling 0.31 points below the category average. Music streaming is where this device struggles most significantly, scoring 0.0/5—well below the already modest category average of 1.16/5. Users who want to stream audio from their phone should look elsewhere. The HearingAssist Micro may suit those prioritizing discreet, invisible-in-ear design and clear speech understanding in quieter settings. However, buyers seeking strong noise management or any music streaming capability should consider alternatives. At this price point, the Sennheiser Conversation Clear Plus offers notably higher overall performance, while options like the iHear MatriX deliver similar sound quality at a lower price.

The Oticon More is a premium behind-the-ear prescription hearing aid that earned an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.6/5 in our lab testing, placing it in the top 22% of the 36 prescription hearing aids we've evaluated. Released in 2021, this device remains competitive and has received HearAdvisor's Expert's Choice Award in both 2023 and 2024. In our testing, the Oticon More demonstrated strong speech clarity performance. Speech in quiet scored 4.0/5, which is 0.73 points above the category average—a notable margin that reflects genuine audibility advantages in everyday conversations. Speech in noise measured 2.7/5, which is above the category average by 0.75 points, though only mixed in absolute terms, meaning challenging listening environments may still require effort. Own-voice comfort scored a solid 3.1/5 (+0.35 vs category average), and music streaming measured 3.0/5 (+0.36 vs category average), both performing above typical prescription aids. Feedback handling scored 3.5/5, which is solid in absolute terms, though below the category average of 4.71/5 by 1.21 points—something to discuss with your hearing care provider. At $4,598, this is a premium-priced device offering iPhone and Android streaming, hands-free calling, and your choice of rechargeable or disposable batteries. The Oticon More is well-suited for those prioritizing speech clarity who want a proven performer from an established manufacturer. Competitors in this price range include the newer Oticon Intent (4.85/5) and Oticon Real (4.75/5), which may be worth comparing during your fitting appointment.