Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are a new category of hearing devices, made possible by a rule finalized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2022 that allows adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss to purchase hearing aids without a prescription. These devices are available online or in stores—no audiologist or formal hearing test required.
OTC hearing aids are regulated by the FDA, making them a safe and credible option when purchased from reputable providers. Nebroo, a brand of FDA-registered OTC hearing aids, offers devices designed for ease of use, affordability, and quick accessibility—particularly appealing to older adults or first-time users.
Nebroo’s Role in the OTC Market
Nebroo offers a range of fully-in-canal, pre-programmed hearing aids, including the Nebroo PRO 2.0 and the Nebroo Infinity. These models are rechargeable, easy to use (no app required), delivered with a 120-day return policy, and covered by a one-year warranty.
For consumers exploring OTC hearing aids, Nebroo presents a low-risk entry point that balances performance, simplicity, and support
What Are Prescription Hearing Aids?
Prescription hearing aids are medical devices fitted by licensed hearing care professionals. These devices require a complete hearing evaluation (audiogram) and are custom-programmed to address an individual’s precise level and configuration of hearing loss—whether mild, moderate, severe, or profound.
Prescription hearing aids are most appropriate for people who have complex or severe hearing loss, require custom earmolds, or need frequent adjustments and specialized features. These devices typically include ongoing support from an audiologist, including fitting, fine-tuning, cleaning, and device maintenance.
Brands such as Phonak, Oticon, Widex, and ReSound are well established in this category, and pricing often ranges between $3,000 and $7,000 per pair, depending on features and service packages.
Understanding how OTC hearing aids work is important, and our OTC vs prescription guide explains the key differences.
Key Differences: OTC vs Prescription
| Feature | OTC Hearing Aids (e.g. Nebroo) | Prescription Hearing Aids |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $99–$999 | $3,000–$7,000+ |
| Access | Online or retail, no prescription required | Audiologist appointment required |
| Fit & Setup | Pre-programmed, self-fitting | Custom-programmed using audiogram |
| Target Users | Perceived mild to moderate hearing loss | All degrees of hearing loss |
| Support | Email/chat and video guides | Ongoing clinical care |
| Insurance Coverage | Usually not covered | Sometimes covered |
| Examples | Nebroo PRO 2.0, Nebroo Infinity | Phonak Audeo Lumity, Oticon Real |
| Return Policy | 120-day risk-free trial | Varies; some may not be refundable |
Who Should Choose OTC? (and Why Nebroo Makes Sense)
OTC hearing aids are suitable for people who are beginning to notice difficulty hearing in noisy environments, on the phone, or in conversation. They are also ideal for those who want a more affordable option, are comfortable adjusting their own settings, or prefer simplicity over customization.
For these users, Nebroo offers a practical, low-risk introduction to hearing aids. There are no doctor visits or hearing tests required, the devices are ready to use straight out of the box, the fully-in-canal design ensures discreet wear, and each purchase is backed by a 120-day return policy.
If you’re curious about how over the counter hearing aids like Nebroo compare to prescription models, our article explains everything
Who Should Choose Prescription Hearing Aids?
Prescription hearing aids are the best choice for people who have severe or profound hearing loss, require advanced features such as directional microphones, tinnitus masking, or noise-filtering technologies, or need custom molds due to unique ear anatomy.
While OTC options such as Nebroo are appropriate for many adults, they do not address all use cases. If hearing difficulties persist despite using OTC aids—or if hearing loss suddenly worsens—it is important to consult a licensed audiologist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Nebroo hearing aids FDA-approved?
Yes. Nebroo hearing aids are FDA-registered OTC medical devices that comply with the FDA regulations for over-the-counter hearing aids. They are designed for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing difficulties.
Can I return Nebroo hearing aids if they do not work for me?
Yes. Nebroo offers a 120-day risk-free return policy.
Do Nebroo hearing aids require an app or smartphone?
No. There is no need for a smartphone, app, or Bluetooth setup.
Are Nebroo hearing aids covered by insurance or Medicare?
In most cases, OTC hearing aids are not covered. However, with prices starting at $99, they remain affordable.
Are Nebroo hearing aids suitable for seniors?
Yes. Nebroo products are designed with simplicity in mind.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between OTC and prescription hearing aids depends on your hearing loss level, budget, and personal preferences. Choose OTC (like Nebroo) if you have perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, want an affordable option, and prefer no clinical visits. Choose prescription hearing aids if your hearing loss is severe or complex, or you want personalized specialist care.
Nebroo offers an accessible bridge to better hearing—without unnecessary barriers or financial strain. With clear pricing, a generous return policy, and FDA-regulated products, Nebroo is a trusted option for OTC hearing care.
Disclosure: This content contains information about Nebroo products and is published on Nebroo's official website. It is promotional in nature and intended to inform prospective customers about available OTC hearing aid options. Statements about product performance reflect individual experiences and may not be typical. Always consult with a licensed audiologist for any persistent or serious hearing concerns.