If you’re looking for affordable hearing aids, MDHearing is one of the best options out there, with devices available for as low as $300 a pair. In this review, we’ll be taking a closer look at their premium model, the MDHearing Volt hearing aids.
With rechargeable batteries, automatic noise reduction, and dual microphones, the Volt delivers higher-quality performance than other MDHearing models; however, when compared to higher-priced OTC hearing aids, it does leave something to be desired.
FYI: MDHearing is one of our top picks; however, they lack the advanced features of our favorite hearing aids. To find hearing aids with Bluetooth and smartphone compatibility, read our list of the best OTC hearing aids.
MDHearing Volt Pros and Cons
MDHearing Pros
- Low price: MDHearing Volt hearing aids start at $397 for a pair, making them among the most affordable hearing aids out there.
- Long-lasting batteries: In our tests, the Volt rechargeable batteries lasted 19 hours on a single charge, more than enough to make it through the entire day.
- Specialized support: With the VIP Care add-on, Volt users can access remote support from hearing professionals.
MDHearing Cons
- Simple features: Unlike Jabra hearing aids, which have Bluetooth compatibility and smartphone adjustments, Volt hearing aids are comparably limited in terms of features.
- Premium support costs extra: If you want support and fittings from hearing specialists — which we highly recommend — you’ll have to pay an extra $200 for the VIP Care package.
Buying Volt Hearing Aids
Volt hearing aids cost $399.98 for a pair. This price includes two hearing aids, a charging case, and lifetime support. However, for $200 more, MDHearing offers a premium package for Volt hearing aids: VIP Care.
With VIP Care, you’ll get an extended warranty (two years versus one), priority customer support, and unlimited assistance from licensed hearing professionals. Due especially to this last component, we recommend opting for the premium package.
When purchasing OTC hearing aids, we always recommend choosing a company that offers remote assistance from hearing specialists. Only a hearing specialist or audiologist can help you adjust hearing aids to your unique type of hearing loss.
Pro Tip: New to the world of hearing aids? Be sure to check out our updated hearing aid buying guide, which will walk you through everything you need to know about these devices.
What’s Included?
With the purchase of MDHearing Volt hearing aids, you’ll receive the following:
- Two Volt hearing aids
- One charging case
- One charging cable
- One cleaning tool
Design
Similar to MDHearing’s other devices, the Volt hearing aids have a behind-the-ear (BTE) design. On the hearing aid itself, you’ll find buttons that control different programs, as well as a volume wheel. Unlike Eargo hearing aids — which can be controlled through a smartphone — Volt hearing aids must be adjusted with these buttons.
Additionally, Volt hearing aids are slightly larger than other OTC hearing aids. While they fit nicely behind the ear, they’re certainly more noticeable than hearing aids from Jabra or Eargo, the latter of which fits completely inside the user’s ear.
Using My Volt Hearing Aids
Compared to other MDHearing Models, the Volt is the only one to offer what MDHearing calls the VIP Care package. For $200 extra, this add-on gave me access to MDHearing’s team of hearing health specialists.
Since I purchased the VIP Care package, my first step (after charging the hearing aids) was to call MDHearing’s support team. While the basic package includes technical support, the VIP Care package provides support from hearing specialists. In my case, I spoke to an audiologist who was able to walk me through the setup and use of my Volt hearing aids.
Once the hearing aids were fitted, I tested them out in a number of environments
Volt Programs
Volt hearing aids come with four different programs that cater to different types of sound environments. These include:
- Everyday: This default program allows you to hear high- and low-frequency sounds.
- High-frequency: This program emphasizes high-frequency sounds and is recommended for outdoors.
- Restaurant: This program reduces background noise and is designed for one-on-one conversations.
- Groups: This program is designed for group conversations.
To switch between the programs, I pressed the program button on the body of the hearing aid.
Volt Performance
Overall, I was pleased with the performance of my Volt hearing aids. Especially when compared to other hearing aids in this price category, Volt delivered much clearer audio and a much more effective reduction of background noise. In particular, I found myself frequently using the “Groups” setting. Whether I was in a cafe or gathering with my family, I found that this setting effectively reduced background noise and allowed me to hear the person speaking.
I was also pleased with the battery life of these hearing aids. In my day-to-day use of them, I found they lasted between 17 and 19 hours, which is a definite improvement over MDHearing’s other models.
My main gripe with Volt hearing aids would have to be wearing them outdoors. Often, while going for walks, or even while sitting on my patio, I experienced a nauseating whistling noise from the wind. Other hearing aids have features that reduce this type of wind noise, and I would have appreciated that here.
Volt Customer Support
MDHearing’s customer care, especially what’s included with the VIP care package, is among the best. No matter what time of day I contacted their support line, I was connected to a hearing specialist who helped me resolve any issues with my hearing aids.
Volt Warranty
All MDHearing hearing aids come with a standard one-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. With the purchase of the VIP Care package, this warranty gets extended to two years.
Additionally, all MDHearing devices come with a 45-day trial period. During this time, you can return your hearing aids for a full refund.
MDHearing Volt vs. Eargo
Both MDHearing and Eargo sell rechargeable OTC hearing aids; however, the two companies differ greatly in terms of features and price. Overall, Eargo offers much better sound quality, but it comes at a much higher price.
| MDHearing Volt | Eargo Max | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $399 | $1,450 |
| Battery Life | 17 hours | 20 hours |
| Smartphone Compatibility | No | Yes |
To learn more about the Eargo Max, the company’s basic model, read our Eargo review.
Conclusion
Overall, I was incredibly pleased with the performance of my Volt hearing aids. While their sound quality is no match for higher-priced brands like Eargo and Jabra Enhance, these hearing aids certainly punch above their price.
If you’re looking for a pair of hearing aids that won’t cost too much, then I’d recommend giving the Volt a try. If they don’t work for you, you can return them for a full refund within 45 days.
To find more affordable hearing aids, read our guide to the best cheap hearing aids.
