Phonak Brio 3: How Does It Work, Complaints & Alternatives

Learn about Phonak Brio 3’s reviews, complaints, and alternatives, including the top features of Nano BTE-type hearing aids.

Jan 27, 2022

Key Takeaways

check_circle_outline   Phonak Brio 3 series, designed for Costco, offered versatility with receiver-in-canal (RIC), behind-the-ear (BTE), and in-the-ear (ITE) options.
check_circle_outline   While Brio 3 aids improve hearing comfort and quality, complaints include high cost, poor call quality, lack of tinnitus-reducing features, and limited accessory compatibility.
check_circle_outline   With FDA registration and a 45-day money-back guarantee, Nano caters to adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss effectively.

About Phonak Hearing Aids and The Phonak Brio 3

Phonak is one of the world’s largest and industry-leading hearing aid companies. Established in 1946 in Zurich, Switzerland, the company has been in business for about 75 years.


The brand has a reputation of being long-lasting and technologically advanced. However, the brand is also somewhat criticized for its higher price range when compared to similar types of hearing aids.


The Brio 3 series by Phonak was exclusively designed for Costco customers and can only be purchased there. There are five types of RIC, two types of BTE, and four types of ITE hearing aids available in the Phonak Brio 3 range.


*Update: Since the time of writing, the Phonak Brio 3 series have been discontinued.

Nano Hearing Aids are FDA-registered, Class I devices. These OTC hearing aids are designed for individuals over 18 years of age with perceived mild to moderate hearing impairment. Nano won the Top ENT Solution Provider 2023, has 24/7 customer care, and has an affordable price compared to others. 

Phonak Brio 3 hearing aid.

Phonak Brio 3 hearing aid.

How Does Phonak Brio 3 Work

Phonak Brio 3 hearing aid.

Phonak Brio 3 hearing aid.

Complaints About Phonak Brio 3

Nano First Ear Plus BTE

Nano First Ear Plus BTE

Best Phonak Brio 3 Alternatives

Nano First Ear Plus BTE

Nano First Ear Plus BTE

Model
Price
Type
Key Features
Battery Life
Additional Notes

Audacity® RIC

$697

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)

Up to 17 hours per charge

Includes multifunction button and app for customizable settings.

First Ear Pro BTE

$497

Behind-the-Ear (BTE)

Omnidirectional microphone, noise reduction

Up to 20 hours per charge

Features a multifunction rocker for easy adjustments.

First Ear Pro CIC

$397

Completely-in-Canal (CIC)

Nearly invisible design, multifunction button

Up to 18 hours per charge.

Discreet design, ideal for users seeking a virtually invisible hearing solution.

First Ear Plus CIC

$297

Completely-in-Canal (CIC)

Noise reduction, two program settings

Up to 18 hours per charge

Offers multiple listening modes for different environments.

First Ear Plus BTE

$297

Behind-the-Ear (BTE)

Omnidirectional microphone, noise reduction

Up to 20 hours per charge

Features a multifunction rocker for user-friendly operation.

First Ear Plus ITE

$347

In-the-Ear (ITE)

Touch switch for adjustments, portable magnetic charging case with a built-in dehumidifier

Up to 38 hours per charge

Long-lasting battery life and convenient charging options for on-the-go users.

Most importantly, all Nano hearing aids are FDA-registered, have a 45-day money back guarantee, 24/7 lifetime support, and are suitable for individuals above 18 years old with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Which Phonak hearing aid is the best?

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One of the newest lines, Phonak Paradise, is considered the best Phonak hearing aid line. These products are rechargeable, let you wirelessly stream, and are Bluetooth compatible. The line of products incorporates the latest technologies Phonak has to offer.

Why are Phonak hearing aids so expensive?
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Phonak is often criticized for being more expensive than the average hearing aid. This is because Phonak uses custom-made technology for each of their lines or series of hearing aids. 

How long do NANO hearing aids last?
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