MDHearing Neo XS vs RxEars Rxi

The MDHearing Neo XS is a budget-priced OTC hearing aid in the invisible-in-ear style, available for $397. In HearAdvisor lab testing, it earned a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.9/5, ranking #63 of 65 OTC hearing aids tested. Performance results reveal a mixed profile. The Neo XS shows strength in own-voice comfort, scoring 3.2/5—0.69 points above the category average—meaning wearers may experience less of the "boomy" quality that can accompany hearing aid use. Feedback handling is excellent at 5.0/5, sitting 0.46 points above average, so users should experience stable performance without whistling during typical wear. However, speech clarity is a significant limitation. Speech in quiet scores just 1.0/5, falling 1.77 points below the OTC category average. Speech in noise also scores 1.0/5, 0.48 points below average. Music streaming scored 0.0/5, which is 1.92 points below the category average—this device is not suited for audio entertainment. At this price point, several alternatives offer notably stronger performance. The Elehear Beyond (4.36/5), Apple AirPods Pro 2 (4.06/5), and Zepp Clarity Omni (3.88/5) all deliver better overall sound quality in the same price range. The Neo XS may appeal to those prioritizing own-voice comfort and feedback stability over speech intelligibility, but most users seeking meaningful hearing benefit should consider higher-scoring options.

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 represents one of the most affordable options in the prescription hearing aid category while still delivering solid overall performance. Speech clarity is a notable strength for this device. In quiet listening environments, the Rxi scores 4.3/5, which is 0.97 points above the category average—a strong result that should benefit users in conversational settings at home or in calm environments. Speech understanding in noisy conditions scores 2.1/5, slightly above the category average by 0.16 points, though this remains mixed in absolute terms and may present challenges in demanding acoustic situations like busy restaurants. Feedback handling is excellent at 4.7/5, essentially matching the category average and indicating reliable stability during daily wear. However, the Rxi shows notable limitations in other areas. Own-voice comfort scores 1.6/5, falling 1.15 points below the category average, which may result in a hollow or boomy perception of your own voice. Music streaming is not supported, scoring 0.0/5—a significant gap of 2.64 points below category average that buyers should consider if streaming audio matters to them. The RxEars Rxi is best suited for budget-conscious consumers who prioritize speech clarity in quieter environments and don't require streaming capabilities. Its invisible form factor and disposable battery design offer convenience, though those seeking better own-voice comfort or music features should explore alternatives.