Audien Review: Our Thoughts on This Affordable Hearing Aid Brand
Starting at $98 per pair, Audien hearing aids are among the most affordable options available today. Read our Audien review to help you decide whether these budget hearing aids are a good fit.
- Based on our testing, Audien hearing aids could be a good option for anyone looking for an affordable hearing aid with basic features.
- Audien hearing aids are available in several different styles and start at $98 per pair, which is less expensive than other similar brands.
- Audien hearing aids offer clear sound and a comfortable, secure fit, but they may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a device with advanced technology or extra features.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. That’s why we test and recommend products we believe can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 5,000 hours researching hearing aids to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best hearing aids, we:
- Consulted with audiologists, hearing instrument specialists, and aging care experts
- Put more than 50 hearing aids through a series of 21 different tests
- Mystery shopped more than 20 brands
- Surveyed hundreds of older adults who use hearing aids
- Interviewed experts on hearing loss
- Sent hearing aids to our friends and family members with hearing loss to provide long-term testing notes
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new hearing aids for the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations.
Read more about our hearing aid review methodology.
High costs and a lack of insurance coverage are some of the main reasons many adults avoid hearing aids. Audien aims to change that by offering over-the-counter (OTC) rechargeable hearing aids starting at just $98 per pair. These devices are designed for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. The low price does mean they lack some features found in more expensive OTC and prescription models. Still, for those looking for a simple and budget-friendly solution, Audien could be one of the best hearing aid options available.
To help you decide if Audien is the right fit, our hearing aid experts have tested several of the brand’s models. In this Audien review, we’ll look closer at Audien hearing aids, highlight key features, discuss the pros and cons, and explain who may benefit the most.
Why we recommend Audien hearing aids
Audien stands out for offering the lowest starting price of any OTC hearing aid on the market. All models are rechargeable and offer a battery life of 24 to 48 hours. Audien hearing aids performed well during testing and can be a good choice for anyone looking for a simple, affordable hearing aid that’s comfortable and easy to use
Audien
- Offers a large range of affordable hearing aids
- In-the-ear and behind-the-ear styles available
- All models are rechargeable—some have Bluetooth
Comparing Audien hearing aids
| Audien Atom One | Audien Atom 2 |
| Audien Ion |
| |
| Hearing aid type | ITC | ITC | ITC | BTE | BTE |
| Battery type | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
| Bluetooth | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Noise reduction | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Understanding Audien hearing aid models
Audien Atom
Starting at $98 per pair, the Audien Atom is the brand’s most affordable and basic hearing aid model. It includes rechargeable batteries but lacks advanced features like Bluetooth streaming, noise reduction, and multiple hearing modes. The Atom hearing aid may be a better fit for those with mild hearing loss who are looking for an affordable option without the bells and whistles found in pricier hearing aids.
Audien Atom
- Type of hearing aid: In-the-canal (ITC)
- Battery type: Rechargeable
- Background noise cancellation: No
- Battery life: 24 hours
- Number of hearing modes: One
- Bluetooth compatible: No
- Trial period: 45 days
Our experience with the Audien Atom
The Audien Atom is an FDA-cleared in-the-canal hearing aid designed for mild to moderate hearing loss. It’s small and lightweight, weighing around 1.9 grams, which is about the weight of a mid-size hoop earring. This is smaller than many other OTC hearing aids.
The Audien Atom uses rechargeable batteries and includes Atom sound technology for clear sound quality. One main drawback is that it only comes with one default hearing mode. The Atom doesn’t have advanced features, like background noise reduction, Bluetooth streaming, or remote control via a smartphone app.
Also, the Atom doesn’t come with a portable charging case. Instead, it includes a charging dock that plugs into the wall, similar to a phone charger.
The Audien Atom has an on/off switch and includes a small screwdriver to adjust the slotted volume dial on each device. So you’ll need to remove the bud from your ear to change the volume. Using the screwdriver may also be difficult for those with dexterity concerns.
The Atom has a relatively long battery life, lasting 20 hours after 4–6 hours of charging. The device’s patented design aims to balance clear sound with a small, comfortable fit.
Like all Audien hearing aids, the Atom has a 45-day money-back guarantee and free shipping.
Audien Atom 2
With a starting price of just $189/pair, the Audien Atom 2 is still a lower-priced hearing aid. It also addresses some of the biggest drawbacks of the original Atom. The main difference between the Atom and Atom 2 is that the Atom 2 offers improved hearing technology designed for clearer sound with an upgraded sound chip and four listening modes. It’s also smaller and has a longer battery life than the original Atom. This model may be a good option if you’re experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss and want a low-cost hearing aid with a long battery life and multiple hearing modes.
Audien Atom 2
- Type of hearing aid: ITC
- Battery type: Rechargeable
- Background noise cancellation: No
- Battery life: 24 hours
- Number of hearing modes: Four
- Bluetooth compatible: No
- Trial period: 45 days
Our experience with the Audien Atom 2
Like the original Atom, the Audien Atom 2 is a rechargeable hearing aid with an ITC design. The Atom 2 is 28% smaller and slightly more advanced, featuring Audien’s new A2 chip for clearer sound. The Atom 2 has a longer battery life than the original Atom, lasting up to 24 hours after a 4–6 hour charge. The hearing aids charge while sitting in a case, though the case is not portable and must be plugged into an outlet for charging.
The Atom 2 has four preset listening programs (Conversation Mode, Noisy Environment Mode, Vehicle Mode, and Outdoor Mode) that are easy to switch between. But the buttons are very small, which may be difficult for people with dexterity issues. We’re happy to note you don’t need a screwdriver to adjust volume in the Atom 2. Instead, you can use the buttons on the device.
The number of beeps will tell you which mode you’re in, which can be confusing until you’re familiar with it. “It takes a second to understand which ‘beeps’ go with each mode. I had to check the instructions a few times to make sure I had it in the right mode,” noted one tester.
As far as sound quality, it was decent but inconsistent at times. “One hearing aid provided clearer audio, while the other sounded more muffled,” another tester mentioned.
These heating aids could be a good affordable option for people needing a little extra boost of sound, especially for hearing and talking.” — Tester
Audien Atom Pro 2
The Audien Atom Pro 2 is a step up from the Atom 2, offering the same core features along with a smaller, more discreet design, background noise cancellation, and a portable charging case with a built-in UV sanitation light.
Audien Atom Pro 2
- Type of hearing aid: ITC
- Battery type: Rechargeable
- Background noise cancellation: Yes
- Battery life: 48+ hours
- Number of hearing modes: Four
- Bluetooth compatible: No
- Trial period: 45 days
Our experience with the Audien Atom Pro 2
The Audien Atom Pro 2 has the same ITC design as the Atom 2 but is 15% smaller. We honestly couldn’t tell the difference in size between the Atom 2 and the Pro 2 at first glance. It includes four listening modes, like the Atom Pro 2, and has the brand’s trademarked A2 sound chip. While the Atom 2 offers notably better sound quality than the Atom, the Atom Pro 2 builds on those advancements. Along with the A2 sound chip, the Atom Pro 2 also has background noise cancellation, which makes a notable difference in its overall sound quality.
We also appreciate the Atom Pro 2’s new portable charging case. Not only can you charge your devices on the go, but it also features a UV light to sanitize your hearing aids. The upgraded charging case allows you to recharge your devices three times before you need to plug it in again.
While the Atom Pro 2 still does not include Bluetooth connectivity, and it does not have an app to make adjustments on your phone, its simple design and affordable price make it a great value for those seeking a hearing aid that’s both budget-friendly and easy to use.
Audien Ion
The Audien Ion comes in a behind-the-ear (BTE) design and features the brand’s most powerful sound technology, including directional microphones, background noise cancellation, and a longer battery life. This model can handle a wider range of sound frequencies and delivers clearer audio, making it a good option for people who need stronger hearing support.
Audien Ion
- Type of hearing aid: Behind the ear (BTE)
- Battery type: Rechargeable
- Background noise cancellation: Yes
- Battery life: 48+ hours
- Number of hearing modes: Four
- Bluetooth compatible: No
- Trial period: 45 days
Our experience with the Audien Ion
The Audien Ion is one of the brand’s two BTE options. It features Audien’s advanced A2 MAX sound chip designed to provide louder and clearer sound with limited background noise. These hearing aids also use directional sound technology, which helps you focus on the sounds in front of you.
The Ion has four hearing modes (Conversation, Noisy Environment, Road/Vehicle, and Outdoor) and offers up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge. It also has a charging case that provides up to 20 hours of extra power.
Despite the Ion’s advanced features, it doesn’t have Bluetooth or smartphone app control. Users can tap the volume button on the hearing aids to make adjustments. Like the Atom 2 and Atom Pro 2, there is a slight learning curve as you learn the different beeps between changing modes and volume on the device.
Audien Ion Pro
The Ion Pro is the most expensive hearing aid offered by Audien. These hearing aids include the advanced listening features found in the Ion but with Bluetooth streaming, app control for sound adjustments, and personalized hearing profiles.
Audien Ion Pro
- Type of hearing aid: BTE
- Battery type: Rechargeable
- Background noise cancellation: Yes
- Battery life: 48+ hours
- Number of hearing modes: Six
- Bluetooth compatible: Yes
- Trial period: 45 days
Our experience with the Audien Ion Pro
Like the Audien Ion, the Ion Pro is available in a BTE design and offers advanced processing features, including directional microphones and noise reduction. It uses the same wireless charging case but delivers a longer battery life, providing up to 48 hours on a single charge.
The Ion Pro is also the only Audien model with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily stream calls and music, adjust volume, and switch between programs using the Ion Pro app. Within the app, you can also choose between six professionally designed hearing profiles by selecting the one that sounds clearest to you. This calibrates the hearing aid to your level of hearing loss. It is different from the environmental modes (Crowd, Conversation, and TV), which are designed to adjust how much and what type of sounds are transmitted through your hearing aids based on your surroundings.
Testers found the Ion Pro easy to set up and comfortable to wear, with a secure fit that stayed in place during movement. Despite being a BTE model, the hearing aid has a discreet design that’s barely noticeable from the front.
Testers also noted the app, which is needed to operate these hearing aids, was simple and user-friendly, though the physical button on the device was difficult to use. “The buttons on the hearing aids are not intuitive. You need to press the button for different lengths of time to turn on, off, pause music, or reset the settings,” one tester noted.
Despite these issues, we are impressed with the Ion Pro’s sound quality, especially considering it costs a fraction of the price of other hearing aids with similar features. The devices also scored well in our Bluetooth streaming range test.
Audien pros and cons
Audien gains the most attention for its affordable pricing. But there are other factors to consider when buying hearing aids.
Here’s a look at the pros and cons of Audien hearing aids to help you decide if they’re the right fit for you.
Pros
- More affordable than other OTC hearing aids for a quality product
- Several options offering different features and prices
- Appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Only one option includes Bluetooth streaming and app controls
- No post-purchase audiology support
- Only one color option
- Some testers report glitches with connectivity and device controls
The Audien customer experience
The Help Center on Audien’s website offers step-by-step instructions and tutorials for using their hearing aids. If you need additional help, you can contact Audien customer service by:
- Phone: Call 205-255-1112, available Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT
- Email: Send a message to support@audienhearing.com (estimated response time is 24 hours)
- Contact form: Fill out an online contact form by clicking on “Contact Us,” located in the top right-hand corner of the Audien homepage. You can also submit a video or audio recording with your question instead of typing it out.
When our team emailed customer service, we received a reply within 24 hours. The agent was kind and able to answer all of our questions.
Warranties
All Audien hearing aids come with a one-year limited warranty that guarantees a free replacement if your hearing aids are defective. The warranty does not cover lost, stolen, or damaged products. A one-year warranty is standard for hearing aids, though some brands, like Jabra Enhance, include loss and damage protection as part of their standard coverage.
For $4 per month, you can add on Audien’s lifetime protection plan, which includes full coverage for defective hearing aids and partial coverage for lost, broken, or water-damaged hearing aids.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’d pay to replace each model under Audien’s protection plan:
- Atom: $24
- Atom Pro: $34
- Atom 2: $39
- Atom Pro 2: $49
The Audien Ion series has a different plan, with a one-time cost of $39 for one year of the protection plan. Under this plan, you’ll pay $89 for replacing the Ion and $129 for the Ion Pro.
Audien offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, which is typical across the industry. As long as you request your return label and drop off your device in working condition at a post office by the 45th day, you’ll receive a full refund. Note that return labels must be printed, so you’ll need access to a printer or someone who can print the label for you.
Audien costs and purchasing options
Audien hearing aids start between $98–$689 per pair. Most insurance plans, including Medicare Part A and Part B, do not cover the full cost of hearing aids. Medicare Advantage (Part C) may cover some of your hearing aid costs. Check with your insurance provider to see what’s covered.
Other ways to pay for your hearing aids include:
- HSA or FSA: You can use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to pay for hearing aids, batteries, and maintenance.
- Financing: Audien offers flexible interest-free payment plans (subject to credit approval) through Klarna and Splitit, which are available at checkout.
- If you are a veteran or active military member, you may qualify for complete or partial hearing assistance through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Compare Audien pricing
| Audien Atom | Audien Atom 2 | Audien Atom Pro 2 | Audien Ion | Audien Ion Pro | |
| Cost | $98 | $249 | $189 | $489 | $689 |
| Model notes | Lowest price | Portable charging case | 24-hour battery life | UV cleaning light in charging case | BTE model |
Audien hearing aids are generally more affordable than other OTC hearing aids because most models, except the Ion Pro, lack advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone app control.
We asked Ron Binkley, a hearing instrument specialist at Charlotte Speech and Hearing, about the large difference in hearing aid prices, and what’s better about more expensive hearing aids.
He explains, “I tell everyone hearing aids are like piano keys. So, with entry-level hearing aids that you can pay a few hundred for, you’re lucky to have four piano keys, ranging from bass tone to high pitch. The entry-level prescription hearing aids start with 10 keys. That’s better because that’s more ‘keys’ that process the sound.”
If cost is your number one concern and you have mild to moderate hearing loss, Audien hearing aids may be worth trying. Those with more severe hearing loss will require the depth of sound provided by prescription hearing aids.
How to buy Audien hearing aids
We recommend purchasing Audien hearing aids directly from the company’s website or through authorized retailers to ensure you get an authentic product. Authorized retailers include:
- Walmart
- Best Buy
- QVC
While it’s not required, the American Academy of Audiology recommends visiting an audiologist for a hearing test before buying an OTC hearing aid. This can help determine your level of hearing loss and rule out other causes that hearing aids can’t treat, such as impacted ear wax.
OTC hearing aids can help with mild to moderate hearing loss. But you’ll need a prescription device if you have severe or profound hearing loss.
Audien setup and daily use
Overall, we feel the Audien hearing aids are a good option for people looking for a basic, budget-friendly hearing aid. The setup process is straightforward, and the device automatically turns on when removed from the charger.
Changing the domes is easy, but the small size may be difficult for people with arthritis or dexterity issues. The buttons are also quite small, and we had to refer to the user manual several times to figure out which hearing mode we were in.
These hearing aids earned high marks from testers for their comfort and fit. Once in place, the devices stay secure and comfortable during everyday movements and light exercise.
Volume adjustments are easy using the buttons, but testers noted frequent feedback noise, especially when the hearing aids were first inserted.
“The hearing aids worked really well comfort-wise. I didn’t need to readjust them after I got them in the correct location in my ear. At first, I did get some feedback, so it just took a minute to get them where they weren’t hitting my hair or incorrectly in position,” one tester commented.
Unlike many other brands, including Jabra Enhance and Audicus, Audien hearing aids are not water resistant so you will want to be careful around moisture, including sweat.
The Audien app
The Audien app is only available for the Audien Ion Pro. It has a user-friendly interface and is very easy to pair with the hearing aid. With the app, you can make volume adjustments and change listening programs. This can be especially helpful since testers mention frustration with the manual buttons on the Ion Pro.
During testing, we experienced some connectivity issues with the app. For example, the app would time out every time our phone went to sleep. Also, we noticed that the hearing aids randomly disconnected and reconnected while in mid-conversation.
At this time, the Audien app does not allow users to connect with a hearing professional for remote adjustments and ongoing support.
Audien accessories
Audien hearing aids come with a charger, wax guards to prevent earwax buildup, a cleaning brush, and a set of ear domes in three sizes. Audien offers three hearing aid accessories for an additional cost: the Audien Hearing Accessory Pack, Audien Ear Cleaner, and additional chargers.
Audien Hearing Accessory Pack
For $12, the Audien Hearing Accessory Pack includes 12 replacement earbuds, a cleaning brush/screwdriver combo, and eight wax guards. It is designed to work with all Audien Atom hearing aids.
Audien Ear Cleaner
This kit costs $29 and includes a tool with a soft silicone tip designed to safely remove wax from your ear. It comes with a cleaning handle, a travel case, and 16 reusable cleaning attachments.
Additional chargers
Audien sells additional chargers, which can be helpful if you prefer to have an extra charger to use when you’re away from home. Here are the prices for the charging accessories for each model:
- Audien Atom Pro Charger + Case: $24
- Audien Atom Charger + Dock: $14
- Audien Atom 2 Charger + Dock: $29
- Audien Pro 2 Charger + Case: $39
- Audien Ion Charger + Case: $69
Are Audien hearing aids right for you?
Audien hearing aids are designed for adults 18 and over with mild to moderate hearing loss. According to the FDA, symptoms of mild to moderate hearing loss include difficulty hearing speech in noisy environments, trouble following conversations in groups, feeling fatigued after listening, and needing to turn the TV volume higher than what others in your household prefer.
During testing, these hearing aids stood out for their fit and comfort while also offering decent sound quality at a reasonable price. Before buying hearing aids, consider the following questions:
- What is your budget? OTC hearing aids can cost up to $2,950 per pair. With prices starting at $98, Audien hearing aids are among the best affordable hearing aids on the market.
- Are you comfortable learning to adjust or use my hearing aids by reading a user manual or watching video tutorials? Audien hearing aids come with a user manual and online videos to help you learn how to adjust them. They also offer phone assistance. But Audien does not offer real-time video appointments with hearing professionals for guidance or remote adjustments. If you’re not comfortable with making your own adjustments, you may consider brands like Jabra Enhance, Eargo, and Audicus, which offer the option to receive ongoing support from hearing professionals.
- What type of batteries do you prefer? Audien hearing aids use rechargeable batteries, which offer 20–24 hours of power on a single charge. Compared to disposable batteries that typically need replacing every three to 10 days, rechargeable batteries can save you money over time.
- Do you want simple or advanced technology? Audien hearing aids lack advanced hearing technology in most models. For example, only the priciest model has Bluetooth streaming. If these features are a priority, you may consider looking at other hearing aid companies, such as Jabra Enhance or Elehear.
Read our Hearing Aid Buyers Guide to learn more.
Frequently asked questions
Audien hearing aids start at $98 a pair for the most basic Atom model. The most expensive Audien hearing aids, the Ion Pro, cost $689 a pair.
Yes. Audien hearing aids are FDA-registered OTC hearing aids designed to treat mild to moderate hearing loss.
Audien offers basic hearing aids at an affordable price, making them a solid option if you're looking to dabble in the world of hearing aids without spending a lot of money. Keep in mind, though, that the technology and features are more limited than those found in higher-end models.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org
Sources
- U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Hearing Aids. Found on the internet at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/hearing-aids
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. What’s A Health Savings Account? Found on the internet at https://www.cms.gov/marketplace/outreach-and-education/health-savings-account.pdf
- Internal Revenue Service. IRS: Healthcare FSA reminder. Found on the internet at https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-healthcare-fsa-reminder-employees-can-contribute-up-to-3300-in-2025-must-elect-every-year
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. About VA Health Benefits. Found on the internet at https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/
- American Academy of Audiology. Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid FAQs. Found on the internet at https://www.audiology.org/advocacy/legislative-and-regulatory-activities/federal-affairs/over-the-counter-hearing-aid-resource-center/over-the-counter-hearing-aid-faqs
- NC Department of Health and Human Services. Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Frequently Asked Questions. Found on the internet at https://www.ncdhhs.gov/frequently-asked-questions-over-counter-otc-hearing-aids/download?attachment