The EarCentric EX2 is a budget-priced prescription behind-the-ear hearing aid released in 2021, earning a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.01 out of 5 in HearAdvisor's lab testing. At $218, it sits in the lowest price tier for prescription devices but ranks near the bottom of its category at #28 of 34 prescription hearing aids tested.
In our standardized testing, the EX2 struggled significantly with speech clarity. Speech in quiet measured well below the category average, and speech in noise performance was similarly limited—scoring negative values that indicate minimal benefit in challenging listening environments. Where the device showed relative strength was in feedback handling, performing above average and suggesting good stability during typical wear.
For budget-conscious consumers, the value proposition requires careful consideration. While the $218 price point is attractive, several alternatives offer notably better sound performance at similar or lower prices. The RxEars Rxi, available in the same price range, achieved a substantially higher SoundScore of 3.73. Even some lower-priced OTC options like the HSKLock Hearing Aid at $69 outperformed the EX2 in our testing.
The EarCentric EX2 may be appropriate for users with minimal amplification needs who prioritize low upfront cost and feedback-free operation over speech clarity benefits. However, those seeking meaningful improvement in understanding speech—particularly in noisy environments—should explore higher-performing alternatives within this price range.
