Costco is a popular warehouse store known for offering a wide range of products at discounted prices, including hearing aids. Over the years, Costco has built a reputation for selling hearing aids at lower prices than many other places. They provide a selection of hearing aids from well-known brands, like Kirkland Signature, their own brand, as well as other major manufacturers.
Costco also offers hearing tests, fittings, and follow-up services at their in-store hearing centers. Many people appreciate the convenience and savings that Costco offers when it comes to buying hearing aids.
It’s important to note that Costco employs very few Doctors of Audiology (Au.D.), with most hearing-related services being provided by Hearing Instrument Specialists, who have significantly less training than a Doctor of Audiology. Additionally, if you purchase from Costco, it’s unlikely you’ll see the same professional for each visit, which is the norm when working with an audiologist.
Moreover, with a few exceptions, Costco typically doesn’t offer the latest advancements in hearing aid technology—options that are readily available through a licensed audiologist.
However, while Costco hearing aids can be a good option for some, it’s important to know the differences between buying hearing aids at a big store versus getting them from a professional audiologist. The goal is to ensure you get the best hearing experience possible.
What Hearing Aids Are Available at Costco?
Costco sells different types of hearing aids to help people hear better. One of their main brands is Kirkland Signature, which is known for being affordable and offering basic features. They also sell hearing aids from other brands like Phonak, ReSound, Rexton, and Philips. These brands offer various styles, such as hearing aids that sit behind your ear or ones that fit inside your ear. The hearing aids at Costco can have features like Bluetooth, which lets you connect them to your phone or TV.
At Fifth Avenue Hearing, we also offer hearing aids from top brands like Starkey, Signia, Oticon, Phonak, and Widex. These hearing aids have advanced technology, such as rechargeable batteries, that you don’t need to replace, and smart features that can be customized just for you. Unlike Costco, we help you choose the best hearing aid for your specific hearing needs, so you get the best sound possible.
Is Costco a Good Place to Get a Hearing Aid?
Costco is a good place to start if you want to purchase very inexpensive hearing aids.. Costco has fewer models and features to choose from than you would have if you went to an independent audiologist. If you need hearing aids with special features, like blocking out background noise, helping with ringing in your ears, or having custom sound settings, Costco might not have what you need.
However, the staff at Costco are often hearing aid specialists, not licensed audiologists. While they are trained to help you select and fit hearing aids, they may not have the expertise to diagnose more complex hearing problems or to offer a comprehensive hearing care plan. At Fifth Avenue Hearing, we provide thorough hearing evaluations, custom fittings, and follow-up care to ensure your hearing aids work best for you.
Costco In-Store Services
Costco’s hearing centers offer some services like free hearing tests, fitting hearing aids, and cleanings. These services are easy to get, especially if you’re a Costco member. However, there are some important differences between what Costco offers and what you get at a professional hearing center.
At Fifth Avenue Hearing, we do more than just fit you with a hearing aid. Our audiologists use advanced tools to do detailed hearing tests so we understand your hearing needs better. We make sure your hearing aids are fitted just right for your comfort and to help you hear your best. We also give extra support, like follow-up visits, adjustments, and guidance, to make sure your hearing aids work well for you. Costco usually does not provide this level of care.
Things to Consider When Purchasing Costco Hearing Aids
When thinking about getting hearing aids from Costco, there are several factors to consider:
- Price: Costco hearing aids usually cost less, but they might not have as many features as the ones you can get from a hearing center like ours.
- Warranty: Costco gives a basic warranty that covers simple repairs. At our hearing center, we offer longer warranties so you feel safe and protected for a longer time.
- Battery: Many Costco hearing aids use regular batteries that you have to change often. We offer rechargeable hearing aids that are easier to use and better for the environment.
- Accessories: Costco does have some accessories, but we have more choices that are made to fit your specific hearing aids.
- Smartphone App: Some Costco hearing aids come with smartphone apps, but they may not have many features. At our center, the apps we use give you more control over how your hearing aids work.
- Connectivity: Costco hearing aids can connect to Bluetooth, but they might not have as many options. We offer hearing aids that connect smoothly to multiple devices, like your phone or TV.
Hearing Aids in New York
While Costco may seem like a convenient and cost-effective option for hearing aids, choosing an audiologist for your hearing care ensures you get the best possible outcome for your unique needs.
Fifth Avenue Hearing has audiologists providing hearing aids in New York. We offer personalized service, expert care, and a wider range of options to help you hear your best.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive hearing test and learn more about our hearing solutions.
