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OTC Hearing Aids vs. Prescription Devices: Key Differences

Distributors often ask: Should I sell OTC or prescription hearing aids? Heres how they compare across key dimensions.

1. Regulation

OTC: FDA-regulated (for mild/moderate loss, age 18+)

Prescription: Requires audiologist diagnosis and fitting

OTC hearing aids are ideal for online & retail; prescription devices are for clinics

2. Customization

OTC: Limited customization, often instant-fit

Prescription: Fully audiologist-tuned, ideal for complex loss

3. Hearing aid price

OTC: $60~$300

Prescription: $1,000~$6,000 (with services)

4. Market Access

OTC hearing aids are easier to distribute globally, especially online

No need for medical infrastructure

Why This Matters for Hearing Aid Distributors

CADENZA OTC hearing aids allow:

  • Direct sales to customers
  • Faster time-to-market
  • Higher margins and lower compliance costs

OTC and prescription devices serve different markets. For distributors looking for scalable, compliant, easy-to-sell products, OTC hearing aids offer significant advantages.