- Rechargeable Benefits: These devices use built-in lithium-ion batteries that charge overnight, offering a full day of power without the need to carry spares.
- Disposable Options: Powered by zinc-air batteries (available in four colour-coded sizes), these typically last 3–7 days depending on use and environment.
- Environmental & Usage Factors: Battery life for disposable options can be affected by humidity levels and high-drain features like BluetoothTM streaming.
- Lifestyle Considerations: While disposable batteries suit remote areas with limited power, they can be "fiddly" for those with reduced eyesight or dexterity.
- Consumer Preference: Most users prefer rechargeable models for their simplicity, reliability, and seamless integration into daily life.
Overview
One of the most common questions we hear at Resonate is whether you should choose rechargeable or disposable battery hearing aids.
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer; it simply comes down to your preferences and what works best for your lifestyle.
Rechargeable hearing aids
Rechargeable hearing aids have come a long way since they were first developed. They’re becoming increasingly popular and are available across a wide range of hearing aid styles.
These devices use built-in lithium-ion batteries that you charge like a smartphone. You simply place them in their charging case overnight, and when you wake up, they'll be ready to go with a full day of power.
Many people love rechargeable hearing aids because they’re easy to use, offer long-term reliability and remove the need to carry spare batteries.
Hearing aids with disposable batteries
Some people still use hearing aids powered by zinc-air batteries, which activate when the sticker is removed. They come in four sizes: 10 (yellow), 312 (brown), 13 (orange), 675 (blue)
Most disposable batteries last for around 3–7 days, depending on the battery size, how many hours a day you wear your hearing aids, humidity levels, and how often you use features like Bluetooth streaming.
Battery-powered hearing aids can be a good option if you live in a very remote area with limited power. The downside is that these batteries need to be changed regularly, which can be fiddly, especially if your eyesight or dexterity isn’t what it used to be.
Which hearing aid is better?
Neither hearing aid is "better”. However, after market research and listening to our communities, we’ve found that most people prefer rechargeable hearing aids because they’re easy to use, reliable, and fit seamlessly into everyday life, such as the ReSound Vivia 9TM, which we fit and recommend.
What matters most is finding the option that works best for you, and having the time and support to feel confident in your decision.
If you’d like help choosing what’s right for your lifestyle, please call us on 0800 737 662 or book an appointment at your local Resonate Health studio.
I’m James, a Tassie-born audiologist who moved to Aotearoa six years ago and never looked back.
