Phonak vs Widex Comparison: Which Brand Is Right for You?
Choosing the right hearing aid brand or manufacturer can make a world of difference in your hearing experience. Therefore, your clinician works with you to decide which hearing aid is most appropriate for your hearing loss, needs, and lifestyle. Phonak and Widex are two trusted names in the hearing industry. Both brands offer advanced technology, sleek designs, and clear sound quality. However, how do they compare when it comes to features, price and performance?
This blog breaks down key differences between the brands’ portfolio and features, so that you better understand why your clinician recommends a specific hearing aid model for you.
Key Takeaways
- Phonak is a strong choice for speech clarity, connectivity, and a wide range of specialized models.
- Widex is ideal for natural sound, tinnitus support, and a sleek, modern design.
- Phonak offers a wide range of models, including unique solutions like CROS, the invisible Lyric, and the Roger microphone.
- Widex offers its stylish SmartRIC, the newest Allure RIC, and highly customizable tinnitus relief features in all models.
- Both brands offer behind-the-ear and in-the-ear options, Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable options, and a companion app.
- Phonak boasts universal connectivity to most cellphones (including some flip phones), tablets, and computers; Widex maintains connectivity with popular iPhone and Android devices to preserve hearing aid battery life.
- Phonak focuses on clarity and exceptional noise reduction, while Widex emphasizes natural sound quality and preserving awareness.
- Consider your lifestyle, hearing needs, and budget when comparing these two premium hearing aid brands.
An Overview of Each Brand
About Phonak
A brand under the Sonova Group, Phonak is one of the world’s most recognized names in hearing care. Founded over 75 years ago in Switzerland, they are committed to creating life-changing hearing solutions that help people reconnect with the sounds that matter most.
At it’s core, Phonak is driven by a clear mission: to ensure that there’s a solution for every type of hearing loss, empowering individuals to enjoy the delight of hearing equally and fully. Trusted by millions of hearing aid users and professionals in over 100 countries, Phonak continues to lead the industry. Their portfolio includes state-of-the-art innovations like the invisible Lyric and CROS systems.
Moreover, they are known for their focus on cutting-edge innovation, continuously developing state-of-the-art technology, including Bluetooth-enabled devices, rechargeable hearing aids, and specialized solutions like CROS systems for single-sided hearing loss and the invisible Lyric.
About Widex
Headquartered in Denmark and part of WS Audiology, Widex has been delivering high-quality hearing solutions since 1956. The brand is especially well-known for its commitment to delivering the most natural sound experience possible, often preferred by those who are highly sensitive to artificial or processed sound.
Widex’s technology is designed to make hearing feel effortless. Their PureSound™ technology significantly reduces processing delay, helping users perceive sound as natural and distortion-free. This focus on organic listening has made Widex a go-to brand for individuals looking for comfort, sound clarity, and tinnitus support.
In addition to innovation, Widex values sustainability. Its Danish headquarters houses the world’s first CO₂-neutral hearing aid production facility, highlighting the brand’s commitment to responsible manufacturing.
Today, Widex hearing aids are available globally and supported by a strong network of hearing healthcare professionals who share the brand’s mission to help people hear naturally and live more connected lives.
Where They Are Made
Where Are Phonak Hearing Aids Made?
Phonak hearing aids are manufactured in Switzerland, maintaining a strong reputation for precision and reliability. Sonova operates globally but retains a European foundation in design and quality assurance.
Where are Widex Hearing Aids Made?
Widex devices are designed and built in Denmark, a country known for its leadership in hearing technology. WS Audiology (the parent company of Widex and Signia) has operations around the world but Widex maintains a clear Danish identity in both innovation and craftsmanship.
Phonak vs Widex: Which One is Right for You?
If you’re trying to decide between Phonak and Widex, here is quick comparison based on what matters most to you:
Choose Phonak if you want:
- Exceptional speech clarity and noise separation.
- Seamless connectivity to almost any Bluetooth-enabled device (including some flip phones).
- A wide range of models, including discreet options like the invisible Lyric and specialized tools like the Roger microphone.
- Strong support for single-sided hearing loss (CROS).
Choose Widex if you want:
- The most natural, immersive sound experience with minimal processing delay.
- Tinnitus relief built into every model (Zen Therapy).
- A sleek, modern design like the new SmartRIC.
- Technology that enhances speech while preserving background sounds for a more immersive, natural awareness of your surroundings.
Model Comparison
Phonak Hearing Aid Models
Phonak offers a wide range of hearing aids designed to support all types of hearing loss, lifestyles, and user preferences. Known for their strong focus on speech clarity, universal connectivity, and personalization, Phonak’s portfolio continues to expand with cutting-edge innovations and specialized models.
Here’s a closer look at some of their key models:
Infinio Series
As the Phonak family’s newest flagship platform, the Infinio series builds on the success of its predecessor, Lumity. It provides exceptional sound quality for everyday listening through responsive, smooth adaptations and enhanced speech and noise separation. It seamlessly connects to 2 active Bluetooth devices, including tablets and computers, and is future Auracast™ ready. The rechargeable Audéo Infinio model boasts water-resistant and sweat-proof protection on the casing and internal electronics.
- Audéo Infinio Sphere: The world’s first hearing aid with an onboard, real-time AI chip: with 7.7 billion operations per second, the Sphere actively de-noises and provides up to 3x more speech clarity in challenging environments.
- Audéo: The popular Audéo is a lightweight and versatile receiver-in-canal (RIC) model, well suited for mild to severe hearing losses. An onboard multi-function button allows for volume control, handsfree calling, and playing and pausing your favourite music or podcast. This model is rechargeable on the newest Infinio platform; a disposable battery option remains available on the Lumity platform.
- Audéo CROS: For individuals with single-sided hearing loss, the Audéo CROS system offers improved sound awareness. It wirelessly transmits sound from the non-hearing ear to a compatible hearing aid on the better ear. As a result, this restores sound awareness from all directions and delivers clear speech, even if conversation partners are speaking from the poorer side.
Lumity Series:
Lumity is succeeded by the Infinio platform. Conversations shine in the midst of noisy environments with its AI-trained SpeechSensor™ technology to accurately identify the speech source and direction. A Find My Hearing Aid feature is available on the app for Bluetooth-compatible Lumity and newer Infinio models.
- Naida: Designed for severe to profound hearing loss, Naída is known as the powerhouse behind-the-ear (BTE) solution. Naída delivers clear, focused speech while preserving awareness of surroundings, so users can confidently navigate everyday conversations. Soft speech and speech from a distance are further boosted with the Speech Enhancer. Naída users can take control of their listening experience with the myPhonak app.
- Lyric: Unlike traditional hearing aids, Lyric is inserted close to the eardrum by a hearing professional and creates a natural sound with each user’s unique ear anatomy. It does not require daily maintenance, offering a truly discreet, hands-off experience. As the Lyric is worn 24/7 for several months before replacement, it is only suitable for specific ear canal shapes and conditions.
Widex Hearing Aid Models
With a focus on delivering a natural sound experience by mimicking how human ears process sound, Widex strives for comfort and clarity with no harsh or sudden changes. Their hearing aids are especially popular among musicians and users with mild-to-moderate hearing loss who prioritize sound preservation. In addition, Widex is well regarded for its innovative and personalized tinnitus management technology.
Key models include:
- The Allure Series: Is the highly-anticipated Allure platform currently houses its flagship rechargeable Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC) hearing aid. Its PureSound™ technology reduces distortion and processing delays, providing comfortable listening to first-time users or those sensitive to “tinny” or artificial-sounding hearing aids. In noisy environments, the hustle and bustle is preserved at a softer level while speech is enhanced, providing a true immersive experience. The Allure series is expected to expand with other models in the future.
- Moment Series: The Widex Moment seeks to capture and reproduce all sounds naturally without restriction. It accounts for each ear’s unique shape through an in-ear acoustic measurement. It automatically classifies users’ listening environments to optimize speech and awareness.
- Moment SmartRIC: The SmartRIC featues a slim, L-shaped rechargeable design with improved directionality and longer battery life. Moreover, its unique angular shape helps capture speech better while reducing wind and touch noise. The compact charger doubles as a power bank, making it ideal for travelers and active users.
- Moment Custom: A custom in-the-ear option, molded to each user’s unique ear shape for a comfortable fit. With its full range of sizes, users preferring discreetness, those prioritizing Bluetooth capabilities, and users with stiffness or arthritis in their hands can all be accommodated.
- Tinnitus Management – Zen Technology: Widex’s tinnitus management technology, Zen Technology, deserves its own paragraph for its innovation and customizability. Zen is available in all Widex models regardless of cost. Tinnitus comes in many forms, from a constant hum to whistles, roars, or rhythmic sounds. Zen tinnitus maskers offer broadband noise, relaxing fractal tones, and can be individualized in terms of pitch, speed, and volume. Multiple programs can be added for users to cycle through depending on their tinnitus condition.
Accessories Comparison
Phonak Roger
The Phonak Roger is a standout wireless microphone system designed to enhance hearing in noisy settings, like restaurants, classrooms, or meetings. Using advanced wireless technology, Roger transmits speech directly to hearing aids, allowing users to focus better on conversations while background noise is reduced.
Lastly, the Roger adapts to 6 microphones based on conversation types – whether single speaker, interviewer, or group discussion.
Widex Sound Assist
To help compliment its hearing aids, Widex offers the versatile all-in-one Widex Sound Assist device. It is a multi-functional accessory that acts as a remote control, Bluetooth streamer, partner microphone, and telecoil connector.
This device improves hearing in difficult situations by capturing sound from distant speakers and transmitting them directly to hearing aids. Furthermore, Sound Assist supports hands-free phone calls and streaming from Bluetooth devices like tablets and computers. Its microphone mode works whether worn by a conversation partner or placed on a table for group discussions.
Cost Comparison
Phonak Hearing Aids Cost
Phonak hearing aids typically range from $3400 to $5972 for two devices (after the ADP grant). Prices depend on the technology level – essential to premium, and include features like Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable options, and access to ongoing care and support.
Widex Hearing Aids Cost
Widex hearing aids range from $2900 to $5900 (after the ADP grant). Known for their natural sound and sleek design, Widex models offer a variety of technology levels and come with personalized support and app-based adjustments.
Prices vary based on technology level (essential, standard, advanced, premium) and customization with accessories and molds, but here are general price ranges in CAD.
*Price for 2 hearing aids, after the ADP government grant has been deducted.
| Essential | Standard | Advanced | Premium | |
|
Phonak
| $3400 – $4100 | $4200 – $4672 | $5400 – $5872 | $5500 – $5972 |
|
Widex
| $2900 | $4000 – $4200 | $5300 – $5800 | $5400 – $5900 |
*Pricing is subject to change. Please speak to your clinician for the most up-to-date information. Last Updated: July 16th, 2025.
It’s important to note that Phonak’s Lyric device is a subscription-based hearing aid with no ADP government grant eligibility. The subscription fee for 2 devices is $3800 annually.
Moreover, pricing includes the cost of hearing aids and an ongoing care package to ensure you hear well beyond the first few appointments.
Reviews of Each Brand
Phonak Hearing Aid Reviews
- Users appreciate clear speech-in-noise performance, Bluetooth connectivity, and a wide variety of model options.
- Common highlights include reliability, comfortable fit, and feature-rich apps.
- While compatible with almost any Bluetooth device (including older flip phones), some users note occasional pairing issues, especially with less common Android phones.
Widex Hearing Aid Reviews
- Known for natural sound quality that feels less “digital” than many competitors.
- Positive feedback on tinnitus relief features and minimal sound processing delay.
- Some users find the app slightly less intuitive than others, but overall user satisfaction is high with its personal sound profile assistant.
Conclusion
Both Phonak and Widex are both industry-leading brands. Ultimately, the better choice depends on your individual needs. If you value strong speech and noise separation, a broad lineup of models including the invisible Lyric, and excellent connectivity, Phonak is a strong contender. On the other hand, if natural sound, immersive listening, and tinnitus relief are more important, Widex might be the better fit.
No matter which you choose, working with a trusted hearing professional ensures you’ll get the right solution for your hearing loss and lifestyle.
How to Purchase or Book a Hearing Test
If you’re considering Phonak or Widex hearing aids, your first step should be a comprehensive hearing test with a registered clinician.
At Hearing Solutions, we’ll walk you through:
- A full hearing assessment
- Personalized product recommendations
- Demos of various hearing aid models
- Guidance on cost, coverage, and ongoing support
We’re here to help you hear better and provide ongoing care, not just sell you a device.
Ready to Get Started?
References:
Phonak (n.d) Hearing Aids and Solutions. https://www.phonak.com/en-us
Phonak (n.d) Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio. https://www.phonak.com/en-ca/hearing-devices/hearing-aids/audeo-sphere
Phonak (n.d) Roger Wireless Microphones. https://www.phonak.com/en-ca/hearing-devices/microphones
WS Audiology (n.d.) About WS Audiology. https://www.wsa.com/about/
Widex (n.d.) Sound Assist. https://www.widex.com/en-ca/hearing-aids/accessories/sound-assist/
Widex (n.d.) Widex Hearing Aids. https://www.widex.com/en-ca/hearing-aids/
Widex (n.d.) Widex Allure. https://www.widex.com/en-ca/hearing-aids/allure/
Widex (n.d.) Widex Moment. https://www.widex.com/en-ca/hearing-aids/moment/
Widex (n.d.) Widex Zen. https://www.widex.com/en-ca/tinnitus/relief/tinnitus-sound-therapy-widex-zen/
Hearing Tracker (2025, Jan 21). Phonak Hearing Aids: Costs, Reviews, and Sound Samples. https://www.hearingtracker.com/hearing-aids/phonak
Hearing Tracker (2025, Apr 22). Widex Hearing Aids: Models, Features, Prices, and Reviews Samples. https://www.hearingtracker.com/hearing-aids/widex
Government of Ontario (2025, Jun 27) Assisted Devices Program. https://www.ontario.ca/page/assistive-devices-program
Hearing Solutions (n.d.) Cost of Hearing Aids. https://www.hearingsolutions.ca/hearing-aids/cost-of-hearing-aids/
