You can comfortably wear hearing aids with glasses by choosing slim frames, ensuring a proper fit, and positioning both correctly behind your ears.
Many glasses wearers wonder whether hearing aids will still fit comfortably behind their ears. If you’re about to wear hearing aids for the first time, or you’ve recently started wearing glasses, you may be asking the same question.
Most modern devices, including behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) models, are designed to sit neatly alongside the arms of your glasses without affecting sound quality.
With the right frame style and proper positioning, both your hearing aids and eyewear can work together comfortably. Understanding how to wear hearing aids with glasses can make the adjustment easier and help you feel confident using them every day.
Who is this guide for?
- People wearing glasses and hearing aids
- First-time hearing aid users
- Anyone choosing frames that fit comfortably around the outer ear
- Customers exploring comfortable eyewear for the everyday
Can you wear hearing aids and glasses together?
Yes. Many people wear a pair of glasses alongside hearing aids every day without issues.
Both devices sit around the outer ear, but modern designs allow them to share this space comfortably. The key to learning how to wear hearing aids with glasses comfortably is choosing the right hearing aid and a pair of frames with slim, well-fitted arms — while also ensuring both devices are positioned correctly.
If you’re unsure which hearing device suits your hearing needs, an audiologist or hearing care professional can perform a hearing test and recommend the most appropriate option. They can also advise on the best hearing aids for glasses wearers based on your hearing profile and lifestyle.
Maintaining both hearing health and clear vision is important for daily life, so finding a setup that works comfortably matters.
Types of hearing aids that work with glasses
Several hearing aid designs can be worn alongside glasses. Each style sits slightly differently around the ear.
Behind-the-ear hearing aids
A BTE hearing aid rests behind the ear and connects to an ear mould or ear tip through a small tube.
These devices provide strong amplification and reliable sound quality, making them suitable for all levels of hearing loss, especially moderate to severe hearing loss.
Key features:
- Device sits behind the ear
- Sound travels through tubing into the ear canal
- Often used for stronger amplification levels
- Available in modern rechargeable models
Because the device sits behind the ear, the arm of the glasses and the hearing aid share the same space. Slim glasses frames usually make this more comfortable.
Receiver-in-the-canal hearing aids
RIC hearing aids are among the most popular hearing aids in the UK.
They are similar to BTE devices but use a smaller housing. The receiver sits inside the ear canal while the main unit rests behind the ear.
Benefits:
- Smaller device behind the ear
- Excellent sound quality
- Suitable for mild to severe hearing loss
- Often easier to wear with eyeglass frames
Because the housing is smaller than traditional BTE devices, many users find RIC models more comfortable alongside glasses. These models are often recommended among the best hearing aids for glasses wearers.
In-the-ear hearing aids
ITE hearing aids sit fully inside the ear rather than behind it.
This design avoids competition for space behind the ear, making it useful for people who wear thicker glasses frames. They also work well for individuals who have very small ears or an irregular ear shape.
Key characteristics:
- Custom-made for the ear canal
- Secure and comfortable fit
- No device behind the ear
- Reduced contact with the arms of your glasses
- Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss
Your hearing care provider will recommend whether this type of ear aid suits your hearing profile.
👓🦻Good to know: Some people also explore combination products such as hearing aid glasses or hearing aids on glasses, which integrate hearing technology directly into the frame. While less common, they can be helpful for certain users.
How to put on hearing aids with glasses (step-by-step)
Follow these steps to comfortably wear glasses with a BTE device or RIC hearing aid:
Put your glasses on first
Place your glasses on your face and ensure the arms rest naturally on your ears.
Position the hearing aid
Place the hearing device behind your ear so it sits alongside the arm of the glasses.
Insert the earpiece
Gently place the ear mould or receiver into the ear canal.
Check the fit
Ensure the device rests close to your ear rather than hanging away from it.
Practise removing your glasses
When removing your glasses, slide them forward rather than tilting them upward to avoid dislodging the hearing aid.
💡Key tip: Practising this routine a few times in front of a mirror helps make wearing glasses and hearing aids feel natural.
What are the best glasses to wear with hearing aids?
Many customers ask “what are the best glasses to wear with hearing aids?” In most cases, lightweight frames with slimmer arms provide the most comfort.
Recommended frame features:
- Slim metal or thin acetate arms
- Lightweight eyewear frames for a comfortable fit
- Flexible spring hinges to reduce pressure
- Straight arms, especially for BTE devices
⚠️ Reminder: Thick frame arms may crowd the space behind the ear, especially if you wear a BTE device.
Glasses Direct offers a variety of frame sizes available in lightweight materials designed for everyday comfort. You can also choose to make small adjustments to your glasses yourself, or you can speak to your optician about doing this for you.
Hearing aid clips for glasses and helpful accessories
Some accessories can make wearing glasses and hearing aids together more comfortable and convenient.
For example, hearing aid glasses clips help keep the devices secure. These small attachments connect the hearing aid to the arms of the glasses, reducing the risk of the device slipping or getting lost.
They can be especially useful for people with active lifestyles or those who are still learning how to wear hearing aids with glasses comfortably.
Frames that pair well with hearing aids
Several frames available at Glasses Direct feature slimmer arms that fit comfortably alongside hearing devices.
Our top picks:
Common issues when wearing hearing aids with glasses
Ear wax build-up
Excess ear wax can affect the performance of hearing devices and reduce amplification. Regular ear hygiene helps maintain clear sound.
Frame pressure behind the ear
If glasses feel tight behind the ear, try lighter frames with slimmer arms.
Adjusting to new hearing aids
People using new hearing aids may need a short adjustment period before the combination feels natural.
Why treating hearing loss matters
If you suspect hearing loss, delaying treatment can affect communication and overall wellbeing.
Modern hearing devices are smaller, smarter, and often rechargeable, offering clear sound quality while remaining discreet.
A professional hearing test can help determine the best hearing aids for your situation and ensure they fit comfortably with your glasses.
Looking after your hearing health is just as important as caring for your eyesight.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can hearing aids interfere with glasses?
No. Most hearing aids are designed to sit comfortably alongside glasses without affecting performance.
Which hearing aids are easiest to wear with glasses?
Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) and smaller behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are often considered the best hearing aids for glasses wearers because they take up less space behind the ear.
Can thick glasses frames cause problems?
Thick arms may reduce space behind the ear. Slim metal or acetate frames usually work better.
Do hearing aids affect sound quality when worn with glasses?
No. As long as the device fits correctly and the ear mould is secure; sound quality should remain consistent.
Should I put glasses or hearing aids on first?
Most people find it easier to put glasses on first and then position the hearing aid, especially when learning how to wear hearing aids with glasses for the first time.
