Key Takeaways
- Unitron, based in Canada, focuses on innovative hearing aids for younger users with features like FLEX:UPGRADE.
- Phonak, from Switzerland, has advanced technology like Binaural VoiceStream™ for severe hearing loss.
- Both brands offer BTE, RIC, ITE, ITC, and CIC designs with noise reduction, tinnitus support, and disposable and rechargeable battery options.
- Starting at just $697, Nano Audacity® RIC have rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming - which makes them an affordable choice for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.
Unitron vs. Phonak: Quick Comparison Table
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.
Unitron vs. Phonak: The Detailed Comparison
Origin & Industry Eminence
Unitron, a Canadian hearing aid company founded in 1964 and owned by Sonova Holding AG, specializes in innovative hearing aids for kids and teenagers.
Unitron is known for excellent performance and design, and it's a trusted name for addressing hearing loss at an early age.
Phonak, founded in 1947 in Switzerland, is also owned by Sonova Holding AG.
Phonak manufactures high-quality hearing aids, cochlear implants, and accessories to improve hearing and communication. With a vast product line for adults and children, Phonak remains one of the leading brands in hearing solutions.
Design Types Available
There are some hearing aid designs available for both Unitron and Phonak brands such as behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC), and completely-in-canal (CIC).
Unique Features
Both Unitron and Phonak hearing aids contain background noise reduction and tinnitus support.
Phonak hearing aids are ideal for people with severe to profound hearing loss. Because of that, the devices are equipped with unique technologies like Binaural VoiceStream Technology™, AutoSense OS™ 3.0, Spheric Speech Clarity, and Direct Streaming so that users can listen to sounds more clearly - no matter the environment.
The ultimate goal for Unitron is to address a hearing disability at a younger age and upgrade and fit the devices gradually. That’s why it has the FLEX:UPGRADE feature that lets users upgrade their hearing aids to higher performance levels without having to buy new devices as they age.
Both Unitron and Phonak have great telehealth functionality that allows for remote adjustments.
Battery Life
Both Unitron and Phonak offer hearing aids with options for disposable batteries or lithium-ion rechargeable batteries.
The disposable batteries are usually of sizes 312, 13, and 675 - and they should last for many days, depending on the usage and streaming activities. The rechargeable hearing aids should last for about 24 hours of use on a full charge without streaming.
Pricing
Hearing aid prices vary due to factors like manufacturer, insurance, and distribution relationships.
At the time of writing, Phonak and Unitron don’t list prices on their websites; you’ll need to contact an audiologist for an evaluation and fitting.
However, based on other online sources, Unitron costs between $1,400 and $3,900 USD while Phonak devices range from $1,600 to $4,200 USD.
The pricing for both these brands is relatively high. So, if you are looking for an alternative that comes with some advanced features, but for a fraction of the cost, you should check out Nano Hearing Aids instead.
Our most premium model - the Nano Audacity® RIC is only $697 and can be paid with installments using ShopPay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do Unitron and Phonak differ in focus?
Unitron focuses on early intervention with upgradable devices, while Phonak specializes in advanced technologies for severe hearing loss.
What battery options are available for Unitron and Phonak?
Both brands offer disposable (sizes 312, 13, 675) and rechargeable batteries, with rechargeable models lasting up to 24 hours per charge.
Are Unitron or Phonak hearing aids good for tinnitus?
Yes, both brands provide tinnitus support across many of their models, helping users manage symptoms effectively.
Why choose Nano over Unitron or Phonak?
Nano offers comparable features at a fraction of the cost, with models like the Nano Audacity® RIC priced at $697 and backed by a 45-day money-back guarantee.