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Eargo 8 Expert Review

Premium OTCReleased 2025

Our independent lab tested the Eargo 8 invisible-in-ear hearing aid across five performance metrics. This review presents our measured results for both initial and professionally tuned fit conditions.

Dr. Steve TaddeiDr. Steve Taddei, Au.D.Lab Director & Reviewer
Dr. Abram BaileyDr. Abram Bailey, Au.D.Fact Checker / Editor
How We Test

The Eargo 8 is a premium-priced OTC hearing aid at $2,399, featuring an invisible-in-ear design with rechargeable batteries. In our lab testing, it earned a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.8/5, placing it in the top 60% of the OTC hearing aid category.

Sound performance shows a mixed profile across our tested scenarios. Own-voice comfort is a notable strength, scoring 3.2/5—a solid result that sits 0.71 points above the category average. Feedback handling also performs well in absolute terms at 4.2/5, though this falls slightly below the category average. However, speech-in-noise performance is low at 0.3/5, sitting 0.83 points below average, which may limit effectiveness in challenging listening environments.

Speech-in-quiet performance is mixed at 2.6/5, essentially matching the category average. Music streaming scored 0.0/5 in our testing, falling 1.93 points below the category average—a significant limitation for users who value audio quality when streaming from their phone.

At this premium price point, the Eargo 8 faces stiff competition. Within the same price range, the Eargo 6 and Eargo 7 both achieved higher scores. Additionally, several lower-priced alternatives like the Blaids BlaidsX Pro (3.20/5) and HearingAssist Control (3.04/5) outperformed it in our testing. The Eargo 8 may appeal to users who prioritize the invisible form factor and own-voice comfort over speech-in-noise performance, but those seeking maximum value or strong performance in noisy environments should explore alternatives.

Reliable & Repeatable Lab Results

Quality data starts with quality recordings. HearAdvisor worked with GRAS to build a no-compromise front end so every test is repeatable and reliable.

Learn more
Steve in HearAdvisor Lab

Lab Assessment

Our Verdict on the Eargo 8

Our testing team evaluated the Eargo 8 across standardized listening scenarios to measure real-world performance. The verdict below summarizes how this invisible-in-ear device performed in our lab and where it stands among OTC hearing aids.

HearAdvisor Verdict
CTop 100% of OTC Hearing Aid
Bottom Line

The Eargo 8 is a premium invisible-in-ear OTC aid with natural own-voice quality, best for users prioritizing discreet design over advanced sound performance.

Strengths
  • Strong feedback handling4.2/5
  • Above-average own-voice naturalness+0.71 vs category
  • Virtually invisible in-ear design
Drawbacks
  • Low speech-in-noise performance0.3/5
  • No music streaming capability0.0/5
  • Premium price at $2,399

Fit Conditions

Eargo 8 Performance Across Initial and Tuned Settings

We tested the Eargo 8 in both its out-of-box initial configuration and after professional tuning adjustments. The summaries below show how each fit condition performed in our standardized measurements.

Lab Test Summary

In initial fit testing with a Power Dome with Slits coupling, the Eargo 8 achieved a normalized score of 2.8/5. Speech-in-quiet measured 1.9/5, while speech-in-noise scored -0.2/5, indicating limited benefit in challenging acoustic environments out of the box. Feedback handling was excellent at 5.0/5, and own-voice comfort was solid at 3.2/5. Music streaming scored 0.0/5. The initial configuration prioritizes stability and comfort over speech audibility.

What is HearAdvisor's Initial Fit?

The Initial Fit approximates the most likely settings and eartips for a typical moderate hearing loss. Results are measured across the same 72 acoustic scenes in our custom-built lab, then scored on a 5-star scale using an auditory model.

Measured Metrics

Eargo 8 Score Breakdown by Category

Our lab measures five distinct performance areas for every hearing aid we test. The score card below displays how the Eargo 8 performed in speech-in-quiet, speech-in-noise, own-voice comfort, feedback control, and music streaming.

Lab Review Scores
C
SoundGrade
Initial Score
2.8
Tuned Score
3.0
Speech in quiet
best
1.9
5.0
Own voice
best
3.2
5.0
Speech in noise
best
-0.2
5.0
Feedback handling
best
5.0
5.0
Music streaming
best
0.0
5.0

Amplification Data

Eargo 8 Insertion Gain Measurements

Insertion gain shows how much amplification a hearing aid provides across different frequencies. The graph below plots the Eargo 8's measured output against prescriptive targets for a standardized hearing loss.

Graph

Audio Samples

Hear the Eargo 8 Through Our Test Manikin

We capture audio samples using a head-and-torso simulator equipped with ear canal microphones. The recordings below let you compare what the Eargo 8 picks up against our unaided reference signal.

Lab Recordings
Adjust volume to make "No hearing aids" as loud as it would be in the real world, without hearing aids. Remove hearing aids while auditioning. High-quality headphones will improve results!
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Test Documentation

Eargo 8 Lab Configuration and Settings

Every test follows our standardized protocol with documented device settings and conditions. The notes below detail the specific configuration used during our Eargo 8 evaluation.

Lab Notes
Initial Fitting
Tuned Fitting
Ear Coupling
Power Dome with Slits
Power Dome with Slits
Receiver
Integrated in device
Integrated in device
Fitting Formula
Proprietary manufacturer default
Proprietary manufacturer default
Listening Program
Restaurant
Restaurant
Volume Setting
Manufacturer defaults
100% (Max volume)
Software Version
Software v5.7.0
Software v5.7.0
Tuning Adjustments
On-ear assessment performed, Noise Reduction set to High, Other settings at manufacturer defaults
On-ear assessment performed, Noise Reduction set to High, Treble at 2 above minimum, Bass at maximum, Other settings at manufacturer defaults
Specs
Invisible in Ear
Invisible in Ear
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable Batteries
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