Otofonix Groove vs RxEars Rxi

The Otofonix Groove is a behind-the-ear prescription hearing aid priced at $795, earning a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.7/5 in our lab testing. This rechargeable BTE ranks #38 of 39 devices in the prescription hearing aid category, placing it in the bottom 5% of its class. In our testing, the Groove demonstrated excellent feedback handling at 5.0/5, scoring 0.28 points above the category average. This represents a genuine strength, with the device maintaining stability during our standardized challenge motions. However, speech performance was significantly limited, with speech in quiet scoring 1.0/5 (2.40 points below the category average of 3.40) and speech in noise also at 1.0/5 (1.11 points below average). Music streaming was not functional in our tests, scoring 0.0/5 against a category average of 2.76. Own-voice comfort also fell well below typical prescription hearing aid performance at 0.4/5, which is 2.30 points below the category average. At this price point, several lower-cost alternatives delivered stronger overall performance in our testing. Consumers seeking value in the prescription category may want to explore other options, though those requiring robust feedback control in a rechargeable BTE format may find the Groove's stability noteworthy despite its other limitations.

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.