Compare Hearing Aids During Your Trial Period
Use a repeatable listening scorecard to compare real devices and prepare for a follow-up visit.
Published October 31, 2026 · HearMetrics editorial guide
Before the trial starts
Confirm the return deadline, refund terms, fees, included visits, warranty, and accessory return policy in writing. Set a reminder before the deadline. Ask which exact model and technology tier you are trying and whether fitting verification is included.
Choose three situations that matter to you. For each, write down the same seat, talker, approximate distance, device program, and accessory setup. Everyday comparisons are useful observations, not controlled clinical tests.
Compare clarity, effort, comfort, and usability separately
Use a personal 1–5 scale for each category, with 1 meaning very difficult or poor and 5 meaning easy or good. Higher is better in all four columns. Write “not tried” when appropriate. These ratings are a conversation aid, not a validated clinical score.
| Date / device / program | Situation / distance / accessory | Clarity (1–5) | Ease of listening (1–5) | Comfort (1–5) | Usability (1–5) | Missed words / next question |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ________________ | Quiet conversation ________________ | _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ | ________________ |
| ________________ | Restaurant or group conversation ________________ | _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ | ________________ |
| ________________ | TV or video call ________________ | _____ | _____ | _____ | _____ | ________________ |
Use the same comparison routine
- Try a familiar conversation in a comfortable setting first.
- In each chosen situation, note your device, program, seating, distance, and whether a remote microphone was used.
- Record specific examples: “missed a question from my left” is more useful than “bad in noise.”
- Repeat after adjustments. Changes in the room, talker, and familiarity can affect ratings, so avoid treating small score differences as proof of device superiority.
- Track practical issues such as charging, phone connection, insertion, and handling separately from speech clarity.
Bring your notes to your provider
Take the scorecard, trial agreement, device details, and a description of your two hardest situations. Ask:
- Was this fitting checked with real-ear measurements?
- Can we assess aided speech understanding in noise?
- Which adjustment could address the specific problem I recorded?
- Would a compatible remote microphone help in this situation, and can I trial it?
- When is the next review, and what must I do before the return deadline?
For general preparation and adjustment information, see NIDCD: Hearing Aids. This scorecard is an original planning worksheet; it does not prescribe a wear schedule or replace a fitting appointment.
Educational information. For hearing assessment, fitting, and individual advice, work with your hearing care provider.