Phonak Sphere Infinio Ultra vs RxEars Rxi

The Phonak Sphere Infinio Ultra is a premium behind-the-ear prescription hearing aid priced at $4,898. In HearAdvisor's lab testing, it earned an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.9/5, placing it in the top 5% of the 39 prescription hearing aids tested and ranking #3 in the category. This device demonstrates exceptional speech performance in our testing. Speech in noise scored 4.5/5—an excellent result that measures 2.40 points above the category average of 2.11/5. Speech in quiet also performed strongly at 4.3/5, which is 0.92 points above the category average. These results suggest the Sphere Infinio Ultra may particularly benefit users who frequently navigate challenging listening environments like restaurants or group conversations. Music streaming delivered a solid 3.3/5, measuring 0.54 points above category average. Own-voice comfort scored 2.8/5, which is above the category average by 0.10 points but remains mixed in absolute terms. Feedback handling measured 4.2/5—strong in absolute terms, though 0.52 points below the category average of 4.72/5. The Sphere Infinio Ultra is best suited for users seeking top-tier speech clarity who prioritize performance in noisy environments and are prepared to invest at the premium price tier. Those seeking similar sound quality at a lower price point may also consider the Phonak Sphere Infinio, which scored 4.98/5 in our testing.

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.