Lexie B3 vs Otofonix Encore

The Lexie B3 is a mid-priced OTC hearing aid available at $999 that achieves an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.7/5 in our lab testing, ranking #1 among 65 OTC hearing aid devices tested. This behind-the-ear style device delivers category-leading performance across multiple metrics. Speech clarity is a standout strength. In our lab testing, the Lexie B3 scores an excellent 4.5/5 for speech in quiet, measuring 1.73 points above the OTC category average. Speech in noise performance scores 2.5/5—above the category average by 1.02 points, though only mixed in absolute terms at 2.5/5. This pattern reflects the broader challenge OTC devices face in noisy environments while still positioning the B3 as a top performer relative to its category. Music streaming quality is solid at 3.3/5, outperforming the category average by 1.38 points. Own-voice comfort scores a solid 3.0/5, sitting 0.49 points above average. Feedback handling is excellent at 4.6/5, essentially matching the already-strong category average. The Lexie B3 is best suited for consumers seeking top-tier OTC sound performance without prescription hearing aid costs. Those who prioritize speech clarity in quieter settings will find particular value here. Budget-conscious shoppers may want to consider alternatives like the RxEars Rxi, which offers strong performance at a lower price point.

The Otofonix Encore is a budget-priced prescription hearing aid available for $295, earning a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.7/5 in our lab testing. This behind-the-ear device ranks #37 of 39 in the Prescription Hearing Aid category, placing it in the bottom tier of its class. In our standardized testing, the Encore demonstrates one clear strength: excellent feedback handling at 4.7/5, which means users are unlikely to experience whistling or squealing during normal use. However, the device shows significant limitations in other areas. Speech intelligibility scores are low in both quiet (1.0/5) and noisy environments (1.0/5), falling 2.40 and 1.11 points below category averages respectively. Music streaming performance scored 0.0/5, indicating this device is not suitable for those who want to stream audio content. The Encore uses disposable batteries and comes in a traditional behind-the-ear style. Notably, our tuned fit testing showed a slight decrease in overall performance compared to the initial fit, with the normalized score dropping from 2.8/5 to 2.4/5. Own-voice comfort also declined substantially when moving to a more occluding coupling. At this price point, consumers may want to consider alternatives. The RxEars Rxi offers substantially better performance at a similar budget price point with a score of 4.07/5. The Otofonix Encore may appeal to buyers seeking a very low-cost entry into prescription hearing aids who prioritize feedback stability, but those needing reliable speech clarity or streaming capabilities should explore other options.