Digital hearing aids were first introduced in 1987, and there continues to be an explosion in the number of digital aids on the market. Since then, close to two-dozen manufacturers have been producing a multitude of different models for individuals to choose from. And while digital hearing aids have largely replaced analog aids due to their greatly enhanced ability to process sounds, as any audiologist will tell you, all digital hearing aids aren't exactly the same.

While the digital equipment that these hearing aids possess may all utilize the same technology, different units can still be very different in other aspects. The size, design, simplicity, controls, amount of amplification and special features of hearing aids can all widely vary, and although price does play a role in the quality of most hearing aids, choosing between multiple models is also very much a matter of personal preference and individual need. When choosing a hearing aid, there are generally three different design styles to select from.

In-canal hearing aids are available in two different subcategories, both of which fit into the ear canal. In-the-canal aids conform to the size and shape of an individual's ear canal, while completely-in-the-canal aids, the smallest of all hearing aids, fit deeply into the ear canal.

These are generally the smallest in size, often making them the most preferable cosmetic choice. Unfortunately, their small size often also makes them also makes them more difficult to handle, and they often require a higher repair rate. The size of an in-canal aid also has some advantages however, as they are able to produce a very natural sound because of their closeness to the eardrum.

In-the-ear hearing aids fit entirely inside the outer ear, rather than deep in the ear canal. These aids are often similar to in-canal aids in many ways, but are generally less expensive, and, because of their larger size, easier to handle.

Behind-the-ear hearing aids have all, or the majority of their parts housed in a case that fits behind the ear. These hearing aids have often received the most improvement since the coming about of digital technology. Open-fit and receiver-in-canal aids are both recent adaptations of behind-the-ear aids which reduce the size and improve upon the ease and effectiveness of previous models. These types of hearing aids usually deal best with more severe hearing loss than do the others, and make an excellent choice for children because of their safety and ability to adapt to growth of a child's ear.

Nowadays, there are also many different special features available in some hearing aids. Directional microphones that enhances face-to-face conversation are available, as well as units with a setting to make talking on the telephone easier. Some units even come with the ability to plug directly in to a remote microphone to better listen to things such as your TV, computer, CD player, tape player, and radio.

You may be wondering which hearing aid might be right for you. Unfortunately, with all the choices available, this question is not usually an easy one, but a decision made much more easily by consulting with a specialist in the field of audiology. With an audiologists assistance choosing a hearing aid becomes a much less daunting task, and hopefully you'll soon be on your way to improving not only you're hearing, but your quality of life.