Costco started offering hearing aids in 1994 through the Costco Hearing Aid Centers. Since it is a big box store that requires membership, consumers who want to acquire Costco hearing aids need to be a member to make a purchase.

Costco hearing aids are marketed as affordable, accessible, and come with a free hearing test.

Are you planning on purchasing Costco hearing aids?

The idea of getting a free hearing test and the chance to purchase branded hearing aids at a significantly low price can be a really enticing deal for consumers. The thing is, hearing tests at Costco only measure hearing ability. It does not go beyond, such as examining the causes or exploring other medical conditions that might be causing the hearing problems.

Yes, the hearing aid professionals at Costco are trained to help with hearing aid selection and fitting; however, they may not offer the same level of expertise and experience as an audiologist.

For this reason, it is still recommended to get a comprehensive hearing evaluation from an audiologist before purchasing Costco hearing aids, or any other hearing aid brand.

What Hearing Aids Are Available at Costco?

To date, Costco offers the following hearing aid brands:

Jabra Enhance Pro
Phonak Brio
(some Costco outlets have ceased offering this model since November 2022)
Rexton Core
Philips HearLink 9030
Kirkland Signature

Is Costco a good place to get a hearing aid?

Costco may be a popular destination for purchasing hearing aids, and many customers have had positive experiences with their products and services. However, it is worth noting that Costco hearing aids have their limitations such as:

Level of customization

Compared to audiology clinics or private practices, Costco Hearing Aid Centers do not offer the same level of variety of hearing aids and customization options. Costco offers a limited range of hearing aid brands and models. Additionally, the latest or premium models may also not be available at Costco. Basically, Costco hearing aids may be considered as over-the-counter hearing aids.

Level of Expertise

Costco does not offer the same level of expertise in hearing care as what audiologists does. While Costco Hearing Aid Centers may have hearing aid specialists or hearing care professionals ready to assist consumers, they may not have the same level of experience and training as an audiologist who specializes in the diagnosis of hearing loss as well as in the fitting and programming of hearing devices.

After-sales service

Costco may offer more affordable hearing aids but what most consumers overlook is the fact that they are simply getting what they pay for – a basic device and basic after-sales service. It does not include additional costs of services such as follow-up appointments for adjustments, programming, repairs, and maintenance.

Most audiology clinics offer a device + service package to ensure that you get to enjoy professional, timely, personalized, and comprehensive hearing care.

What to consider when purchasing Costco hearing aids

Before purchasing a hearing aid, it would be wise to weigh the advantages and disadvantages to ensure that you invest in the best device suited for your hearing requirements.

If you are considering purchasing Costco hearing aids, below are some things to take note of:

Price

Price is the strongest factor of Costco hearing aids, attracting consumers who are on a budget or would like to explore affordable hearing solutions before investing on premium ones. Keep in mind that while Costco hearing aids have a cheaper price tag, they do not offer the same level of features and customization as hearing aids available at audiology clinics.

Accessories

Hearing aid accessories are useful in enhancing hearing aid performance and supporting optimal functioning of your hearing aids. A wide range of hearing aid accessories, such as batteries, wax guards, cleaning tools, and carrying cases are available at Costco. However, not all accessories are bundled with Costco hearing aids, so you may need to purchase them separately.

Defeatured or basic hearing aids

Are you familiar with de-featured hearing aids? They are built like premium hearing aids but lack the advanced features and customization to make them more affordable. If you are planning to purchase a high-end or powerful hearing aid that offers the latest features, Costco hearing aids may not satisfy your needs.

Costco hearing aids are not on the same level with the modern and powerful hearing aid brands and models available at audiology clinics. Most Costco hearing aids belong to the category of “basic” hearing aids, which means that they do not have the advanced features that are available in more sophisticated premium devices.

Offering “basic” or de-featured hearing devices makes it possible for Costco to offer their hearing aids at a more affordable price point.

Bottomline: Our take on Costco hearing aids

While Costco hearing aids may come with attractively low price tags, we want you to look at the bigger picture and consider the potential drawbacks and limitations of acquiring your hearing aids from a big-box store.

Hearing aids are not one-size-fits-all. Before purchasing one, you need to consider the level of expertise, customization, and ongoing care and maintenance that you need to efficiently address your hearing loss.

Consulting with an audiologist gives you access to comprehensive and personalized care for your unique hearing requirements.

Audiologist and Hearing Aid Provider in Abilene, TX

Abilene Audiology Co. have audiologists that provides comprehensive hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and other hearing care services in Abilene, TX.

Costco Hearing Aids