What are flat-behind-the-ear hearing aids?

There are a couple of different styles of flat-behind-the-ear hearing aids. They’re generally referred to as either traditional behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids or receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids, but you might also hear RICs referred to as mini BTE hearing aids. This increasingly popular style features a receiver that sits in the ear and is connected by a small wire to a slim body or shell that houses the microphones and sits behind the ear.

The in-ear receivers are covered by flexible, vented ear domes that help them sit comfortably and securely in many different ear sizes and shapes, which is why they are referred to as open-fit hearing aids. This is different from traditional BTE hearing aid models that use custom earmolds fitted to an individual’s unique ear shape. Many people prefer the mini BTE (or RIC) over the traditional BTE style since it’s less bulky, more discreet and offers more natural sound.¹  

Open-fit vs closed-fit BTE hearing aids

When it comes to BTE hearing aids, there are two different types—open vs closed. Open-fit mini BTE hearing aids feature flexible, vented ear domes; they deliver a more natural listening experience since they do not fully block the opening of the ear and let in more ambient sounds. Closed-fit styles, however, are the traditional BTE models which have a custom earmold. This provides a seal over your ear so that outside noise will interfere less with the sound that the microphone picks up.

There are also different options when it comes to open-fit hearing aids with hearing aid domes — open vs closed. Open domes have small openings which let more air sound through, while closed domes do not have these vents. Ask your hearing specialist about which kind of domes would be right for your particular hearing loss.