Audien ION Pro vs Jabra Enhance Select 700 - Clinical Comparison

Audien ION Pro

The Audien ION Pro is positioned as an accessible entry point for those curious about hearing devices. Its key strengths are its low cost, small size, and simplicity. It is, in essence, a basic sound amplifier. It makes sounds louder, which can be helpful in quiet, one-on-one settings. However, it lacks the fundamental features of a modern hearing aid, such as digital noise reduction, feedback cancellation, and directional microphones. In our tests, it amplified all sounds equally, meaning background noise was just as loud as the speech users were trying to hear. This made it difficult to use in any environment with ambient sound. While its price is tempting, it does not provide the sophisticated support needed for navigating real-world hearing challenges.

Jabra Enhance Select 700

The Jabra Enhance Select 700 is a formidable entry in the direct-to-consumer hearing aid market. Its main selling point is the integration of telehealth, providing users access to a professional audiology team for remote adjustments. The sound quality is good, and its Bluetooth streaming capabilities for both iOS and Android are reliable. However, the device is not without its drawbacks. The reliance on a smartphone app for full functionality creates a steeper learning curve, and some participants found the number of options overwhelming. Furthermore, its price is significantly higher than many OTC competitors that offer comparable core hearing performance. It's a capable device, but its value proposition is questionable for users who don't need constant remote support.