Miracle-Ear: Review, Prices, and an Affordable Alternative

Miracle-Ear is a hearing aid company originally part of Dahlberg Electronics, founded in 1948. In the 1950s, the company began selling hearing aids using the brand-new transistor technology. This included the D-10 Magic Ear—the first “in the ear” hearing aid that fit snugly inside the ear canal.

Since then, Miracle-Ear has gone through multiple purchases and mergers. In 1999, it became its own entity, Miracle-Ear Inc. The company also operates the Miracle-Ear Foundation, a charitable organization. The Miracle-Ear Foundation helps provide hearing aids to children and adults with hearing loss.

Miracle-Ear hearing aids definitely aren’t on the affordable end of the spectrum. Their prices range from $1,000 to $5,000 and up for a single hearing aid. But this doesn't mean you should ignore or downplay your signs of hearing loss, hoping that the problem will go away.

Given these high prices, are Miracle-Ear hearing aids worth it? This question is crucial when there are also high-quality, affordable hearing aids on the market.

In this Miracle-Ear hearing aids guide, we’ll discuss Miracle-Ear products, reviews, prices, and more. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information to make the right choice.

What Are Miracle-Ear Hearing Aids?

Miracle-Ear sells hearing aids directly to the customer. This means you can buy hearing aids without needing to go through your doctor. Miracle-Ear has an extensive network of franchise outlets, with over 1,500 locations across the United States. Most users of Miracle-Ear hearing aids are never too far from one of the company’s stores.

Miracle-Ear offices are essentially a hearing clinic, staffed with employees who are hearing instrument specialists and audiologists. During an in-person visit, customers can take a hearing exam and speak with an expert for advice or assistance.

Before buying Miracle-Ear hearing aids, customers must take an in-person test to assess their level of hearing loss. Miracle-Ear hearing tests have multiple components, including:

A discussion of your hearing health history
An inspection of your ear canal using an otoscope
A hearing threshold test to check your degree of hearing loss
A speech discrimination test to evaluate how well you understand speech in different contexts

Miracle-Ear recommends customers make an in-person visit five times per year:

Four times for a free quarterly check-up and cleaning
Once for a free annual exam to monitor your hearing abilities

Miracle-Ear Hearing Aid Products

Miracle-Ear is not a hearing aid manufacturer, but a hearing aid reseller that also offers customer service and support. Audiologist Brad Ingrao at SeniorLiving.org has confirmed that Miracle-Ear products are Signia hearing aids sold under a different name.

Before we look at Miracle-Ear products, we need to explain the differences between three types of hearing aids:

Behind-the-ear (BTE): Behind-the-ear hearing aids hook over the top of your ear. The bulk of the device sits behind your ear. BTE devices have easier controls and a longer battery life, but can be more visible than other types of hearing aids.
Receiver-in-canal (RIC): Receiver-in-canal hearing aids have a speaker inserted in the ear canal. This may help avoid feedback issues, but often requires more maintenance. The rest of the device sits behind the ear, just like a BTE hearing aid, and can be a bit smaller, making them more discreet.
In-the-ear (ITE): In-the-ear hearing aids sit entirely inside the ear rather than behind it. Some are custom-fitted to the bowl of your outer ear, but many are placed inside the ear canal. They're highly discreet, but more difficult to handle than other options and can have more problems with wax and moisture build-up.

Miracle-EarEASY

The Miracle-EarEASY is Miracle-Ear’s affordable hearing aid product line. It comes in two different options: behind-the-ear and receiver-in-canal. Miracle-Ear claims the Miracle-EarEASY RIC model offers “superior sound quality.” The BTE model, meanwhile, is “comfortable and powerful.”

undefined — Image Source: miracle-ear.com

The features of Miracle-EarEASY include:

Directional microphones
Feedback cancellation
Speech and noise management
Lightweight frame

Miracle-EarMINI

Miracle-EarMINI devices are for hearing aid users who want the most inconspicuous look. This product line also comes in two options: in-the-ear and receiver-in-canal. According to Miracle-Ear, its ITE hearing aids are “nearly invisible” and “virtually unnoticeable.”

The features of Miracle-EarMINI include:

Directional microphones
Bluetooth connectivity
Feedback cancellation
Superior fit due to custom-made design

Miracle-EarCONNECT

Miracle-EarCONNECT devices are Bluetooth hearing aids with both RIC and BTE options. Bluetooth technology helps electronic devices communicate with each other over short distances.

Bluetooth hearing aids such as Miracle-EarCONNECT can link up with other Bluetooth-enabled devices. These include your TV, phone, computer, or GPS. These devices then send audio directly to your hearing aids. You can hear the audio better than if the sound is traveling through the air.

Other features of Miracle-EarENERGY include:

Directional microphones
Bluetooth connectivity
Voice recognition

Miracle-EarENERGYGO

Like its counterpart the Miracle-EarENERGY, the Miracle-EarENERGYGO is a rechargeable hearing aid. However, its battery is half as powerful, with roughly 12 hours of life.

What the Miracle-EarENERGYGO lacks in battery life, it makes up for in style. Miracle-Ear calls the Miracle-EarENERGYGO a “tech-forward, modern hearing device.” Unlike the Miracle-EarENERGY, the Miracle-ENERGYGO doesn't look like a traditional hearing aid. Instead, it resembles an Apple AirPod or another wireless earbud, with a sleek, aerodynamic design.

Other features of Miracle-EarENERGYGO include:

Directional microphones
Bluetooth connectivity
Automatic management of different listening environments
IP68 water resistance

Miracle-EarBLISS

Miracle-Ear’s newest hearing aid, the Miracle-EarBLISS, is a feature-rich and technologically advanced product. The Miracle-EarBLISS uses SmartSense technology to rapidly and automatically adjust the device’s settings, delivering the best listening experience at all times.

The Miracle-EarBLISS is well-suited for hearing aid users on the go. As a rechargeable hearing aid, it has up to 51 hours of battery life. The device is also waterproof, with eight protective layers designed to stand up against sweat, rain, dirt, and more.

Other features of Miracle-EarBLISS include:

Advanced speech understanding
Modes for sensitive hearing environments
Bluetooth connectivity for Apple iOS and Android devices
A discreet and ergonomic design with multiple options (including receiver-in-canal and completely-in-canal)

Miracle-Ear Accessories

Miracle-Ear offers a multi-function Android and iOS smartphone app (note that not all of Miracle-Ear’s products are compatible with this smartphone app). This makes it easier to adjust and care for your hearing aid. The Miracle-Ear app includes features such as:

Raising or lowering the volume
Choosing from custom hearing aid programs in different environments
Editing bass and treble settings
Learning how to clean and care for your hearing aids
Using the Find My Hearing Aid locator to find lost hearing aids
Viewing articles, news, and videos about hearing aids and hearing health
Finding the nearest Miracle-Ear location and booking an appointment

Miracle-Ear also offers accessories such as:

Portable chargers (including an inductive charger for rechargeable hearing aids)
A Bluetooth audio clip for connecting hearing aids to smartphones and other Bluetooth devices
A TV streamer for sending audio to multiple listeners at the same time

Miracle-Ear Pricing

Now that we’ve looked at the various Miracle-Ear products, what do we know about Miracle-Ear hearing aid prices?

Unfortunately, Miracle-Ear doesn’t give prices for the products on its website. Although the Miracle-Ear website has a pricing page, it’s very light on details. The most informative section says only: “It’s no secret: hearing aids are not cheap. The average cost of a hearing aid is $1,000 to $4,000.”

While this gives a clue about the cost of Miracle-Ear hearing aids, it’s still far too vague. For example, budget-conscious shoppers might spend $1,000 (but not $4,000) on their hearing aids.

Some Miracle-Ear reviews suggest customers aren’t happy with the price of Miracle-Ear hearing aids. For example, ConsumerAffairs reviewer Rick C. of Texas writes:

It was about time to get my hearing checked, so I went to Miracle-Ear and had it done. I didn't get the hearing aid because of the cost, but Miracle-Ear's customer service was good.”

Another ConsumerAffairs reviewer, Justin L. of Michigan, writes:

The cost was quite high and I had to pay it all out of pocket. But I like the hearing aids.”

ConsumerAffairs reviewer Kathy G. of New Jersey adds:

My husband went back for a checkup less than a year ago and Miracle-Ear wanted to sell him another set for $6,000. My husband can hear better with the hearing aids, but there was nothing wrong with the ones he has and they wanted to sell us another pair… The cost is too expensive.”

Miracle-Ear Health Insurance and Financing

Miracle-Ear argues that the benefits customers receive justify the higher costs. These advantages include:

Getting help from a dedicated hearing aid professional
Enjoying lifetime aftercare for Miracle-Ear products (including testing, cleaning, fitting, inspection, and repairs)
The advanced level of technology (such as voice recognition, speech isolation, and motion sensors)

You might also offset the cost of Miracle-Ear hearing aids, depending on your situation. Miracle-Ear claims to accept “most major insurance plans,” as well as offering hearing aid financing at many of its locations. Customers on programs such as Medicaid and VA healthcare may also be eligible for support from the Miracle-Ear Foundation.

Miracle-Ear Reviews

We’ve discussed which Miracle-Ear products are on offer, as well as the question of Miracle-Ear pricing. But what do real users have to say in reviews of Miracle-Ear hearing aids?

Miracle-Ear Reviews on ConsumerAffairs

ConsumerAffairs is a platform that provides customer reviews and recommendations. Users give Miracle-Ear hearing aids an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, based on 3,070 reviews. ConsumerAffairs offers a concise summary of their Miracle-Ear hearing aid reviews:

Miracle-Ear has seven hearing aid models, plus customizable choices. Options are available for all hearing levels. Although their pricing isn't clear, Miracle-Ear has many locations with trained representatives who can help.”

The website also summarizes Miracle-Ear pros and cons. Advantages include a 30-day trial and three-year limited warranty. The main disadvantage is the lack of transparency about the devices’ pricing.

Most ConsumerAffairs users report having a positive experience with Miracle-Ear. ConsumerAffairs reviewer Tanya W. of Pennsylvania writes

I am extremely happy with both the Miracle-Ear professional and office staff where I receive my care. My serious hearing deficit has been effectively corrected with their sophisticated, but user-friendly devices. Just as critical, however, are the competency and interpersonal skills of the audiologist… He listens and educates, regularly re-testing and evaluating my hearing acuity to assure I'm getting maximum benefits.”

ConsumerAffairs reviewer Ray M. of California also praises Miracle-Ear’s customer service. However, he notes that the product’s cost is significant:

While they are quite pricey, my 90-year-old dad says that they are the best hearing aids that he has had so far. Nicole in the Roseville, California office, always goes above and beyond to take care of any needs that my father may have.”

Other users warn in their Miracle-Ear reviews about a negative experience with the company. Bruce G. of Texas complains about Miracle-Ear’s quality and customer service:

My first pair died after six months. I had to go two weeks without any hearing aids until a working pair was returned. The Bluetooth frequently dies and you have to go back and shut the hearing aid off and then repair. Miracle-Ear's technicians vary in their knowledge and the person I am now dealing with knows little or nothing. I would not recommend Miracle-Ear to anyone.”

Larry of Connecticut also had issues with Miracle-Ear product quality. He states the devices are too expensive for what they’re worth:

If I'm paying $6,000 for hearing aids and I'm still having problems with them and still asking people, ‘What did you say?’, I don't think they're up to par. Also, I would find out a way that Miracle-Ear can make them cheaper for senior citizens so they can afford it. My mother has difficulty hearing, but she will not go because she doesn't want to spend $6,000 for hearing aids.”

Miracle-Ear Reviews on RetirementLiving

The RetirementLiving website provides its own Miracle-Ear review, giving the company an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The website also breaks down this rating into multiple scores for different aspects of the product:

Ease of purchase: 3.8 out of 5 stars
Warranty: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Price: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Customer service: 4.5 out of 5 stars

The RetirementLiving review of Miracle-Ear concludes: “As one of the oldest hearing aid manufacturers in the business, Miracle-Ear has patented some of the most technologically advanced hearing aids on the market.”

User reviews of Miracle-Ear on RetirementLiving are more mixed, however. James R. in Bakersfield, California is happy with Miracle-Ear’s products and customer service:

My insurance does not cover hearing aids so it was all out of pocket. However, the job I retired from had a deal with them so I was able to receive a discount. The service was great and I purchased a behind-the-ear unit along with a streaming unit for the television… I have had my hearing aid for approximately six months now and have been very pleased with the aid and the service. My local office has been great. They work hard at keeping the customer happy. I would recommend them to anyone.”

Sondra G. of Paducah, Kentucky likes the longevity of Miracle-Ear products. She also appreciates employees’ friendly customer service at her local store:

I have had my hearing aid for several years. I only have one. They have been very good to me. I have upgraded to a rechargeable one because my hands shake. They keep me on a schedule for checkups and are so friendly. There has been an employee change but the new ones are very friendly also. I had another aid before this one and I like this one much better.”

Reviewer Jerry C. in Radcliff, Kentucky, however, is not happy with his Miracle-Ear purchase:

I bought my aids from Miracle-Ear seven years ago for $2,600. They did not perform as the rep said they would. They did not drown out background noise. In a crowded room I couldn't hear somebody next to me. TV was a nightmare because of all the background noise on the movie… I complained several times but nothing was done. The staff was friendly on all my visits for the first three years. Then they wanted to sell me a new pair for $6,000 that would take care of all the problems I was having… In the fourth year I began having more problems with the aids squealing. The one aid in my right ear stopped working, but they were so rude I did not go back in and will not go back in and my plugs need changing.”

Pros and Cons of Miracle-Ear Hearing Aids

Given the Miracle-Ear reviews we’ve looked at, here’s a quick summary of the pros of Miracle-Ear hearing aids:

Feature-rich: With multiple product lines, Miracle-Ear makes it easy to find the hearing aid for you. Whether you want rechargeable hearing aids, Bluetooth hearing aids, or a more discreet hearing aid model, Miracle-Ear has a product that fits.
Excellent customer service: Reviews of Miracle-Ear hearing aids often mention the company’s excellent customer service. Many users say the hearing aid specialists at their local Miracle-Ear store are helpful and friendly.
Lifetime aftercare: Miracle-Ear offers a guarantee of free lifetime service and aftercare. This includes hearing aid cleanings and check-ups (e.g. testing, ear inspections, and battery installations), hearing aid repairs and adjustments, and annual hearing tests. However, this guarantee does not apply to hearing aids purchased utilizing some insurance benefits.
Water-resistant: Miracle-Ear claims that most of its BTE and RIC hearing aids are water-resistant (although not fully waterproof).
Charitable foundation: The Miracle-Ear Foundation helps people with hearing disabilities who are in greater need. Since 1990, the foundation has donated over 21,000 hearing aids to people across the United States.

That said, here are a few of the cons of Miracle-Ear hearing aids:

In-person only: To purchase Miracle-Ear hearing aids, or to get help with your current hearing aids, you first need to visit a Miracle-Ear store in person. However, people who want to buy hearing aids online might not want to make in-person visits. This is challenging for those who live far from the nearest store or don't have reliable transportation.
Opaque pricing model: Miracle-Ear’s pricing model is highly opaque, with only a general range of prices available. In addition, many users complain about what they perceive as the high costs of Miracle-Ear hearing aids. This is especially true since these devices need replacement every 5 or 6 years.
Product quality issues: A few Miracle-Ear hearing aid users report that they have problems with product quality. These difficulties include static, muffled sounds, or technical issues.
Hidden fees: Some customers complain they had to pay hidden restocking fees when they tried to return their Miracle-Ear devices.
Aggressive sales tactics: A few customers report that Miracle-Ear employees repeatedly pushed upgrades to new hearing aid devices. Employees continued to use aggressive sales tactics even when these upgrades were not wanted or necessary.

Miracle-Ear Alternative: Affordable Hearing Aids From MDHearing

Many users seem to be happy with their Miracle-Ear hearing aids. Negative reviews of Miracle-Ear focus on poor product quality, high costs, and inconvenient in-person visits. Given these problems, it’s no surprise that you might want to search for a more affordable alternative to Miracle-Ear hearing aids.

If you’re looking to buy affordable hearing aids online, give MDHearing a try. Founded by an ENT doctor, MDHearing is an affordable hearing aid provider. Over the last decade, MDHearing has helped more than 750,000 customers buy hearing aids and test their hearing for free.

MDHearing devices are FDA-registered and help you save money by cutting out the middleman. You can easily identify the best hearing aids for you and have them delivered right to your doorstep. Unlike Miracle-Ear, MDHearing has a transparent pricing policy so you can find exactly the right device for your budget.

Also unlike Miracle-Ear, MDHearing offers a 45-day risk-free trial and a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty that protects you from any defects in materials or workmanship. If you have any problems or questions, MDHearing offers excellent U.S.-based, lifetime support. MDHearing user Joan P. writes:

The customer service has been outstanding, very helpful. They continue to help solve the problem and give solutions. Out of 5 stars, I would give them 6.”

MDHearing reviewer Jerry G. says:

Great product. Every bit as good as, if not better than, my $4,000 hearing aids that I had been using. One of these expensive aids was damaged, and rather than have it repaired or replaced I opted to try your MDHearing. I would recommend this product to anyone struggling to hear.”

Want to find out if MDHearing is right for you? Take our online hearing test right now and get your results instantly—it’s quick, easy, and free.
TAKE ONLINE HEARING TEST