Quick answer. Hearing aids in Singapore come in several styles, from behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-canal (RIC) to small custom in-the-ear and in-the-canal devices. At SGH, one hearing aid costs roughly S$650 to S$7,000 depending on the technology level, so prices vary widely and are quoted per device. Subsidies can substantially reduce the cost: the Seniors’ Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF) supports eligible Singaporeans aged 60 and above (and PRs from January 2026), and the Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) via SG Enable helps persons with disabilities, both means-tested at up to 90 percent. Fitting involves a hearing test, ear impression, programming and follow-up sessions.
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Choosing a hearing aid in Singapore means balancing your degree of hearing loss, lifestyle, dexterity and budget, then understanding the subsidies that can bring the cost down. This guide explains the main types of hearing aids, how to choose, realistic cost ranges, the SMF and ATF subsidy schemes, and what the fitting and aftercare process involves. It is general information about audiology services, not medical advice; an audiologist should assess your hearing before any device is selected.
At a glance
| Style | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Behind-the-ear (BTE) | Mild to profound loss | Easy to handle; often used for children |
| Receiver-in-canal (RIC) | Mild to severe loss | Discreet thin wire to a speaker in the canal |
| In-the-ear (ITE) | Mild to moderately severe loss | Custom-made to fit the outer ear |
| In-the-canal / completely-in-canal | Mild to moderate loss | Very discreet; smaller and harder to handle |
Types of hearing aids
Behind-the-ear (BTE) devices sit behind the ear and connect to a custom ear mould; they suit the widest range of loss, from mild to profound, and are easy to handle, which is why they are often chosen for children. Receiver-in-canal (RIC) and slim-tube BTE models are smaller and more discreet, suited to mild to severe loss. In-the-ear (ITE) devices are custom-made to fill the outer ear, while in-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-canal (CIC) models are smaller still and best for mild to moderate loss. Most modern hearing aids are digital, with features such as noise reduction, feedback cancellation, Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable batteries.
How to choose a hearing aid
The right device depends on four things. Degree of hearing loss comes first, because more severe losses need more powerful styles such as BTE or RIC. Lifestyle matters too: if you are often in noisy places or want phone streaming, higher technology tiers help. Dexterity and eyesight are practical considerations, as the smallest in-canal devices and their tiny batteries can be fiddly, so BTE models are easier for many older users. Finally, cost and technology level shape the choice. A hearing test with an audiologist is essential first. Remember that hearing aids amplify and clarify sound but cannot restore normal hearing or remove background noise completely.
How much hearing aids cost
According to SGH, the cost of one hearing aid ranges from about S$650 to S$7,000 depending on the technology level of the device. Prices are quoted per device, so a pair roughly doubles the figure. Entry-level models cover the basics, while premium devices add advanced noise handling, directional microphones and connectivity. Private clinics vary in price by brand, technology tier and the aftercare package included, so it is worth comparing quotes and asking exactly what follow-up and warranty are bundled in. Treat any single price you see as a guide only and confirm current costs directly with the provider.
Subsidies: the Seniors' Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF)
The Seniors’ Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF), administered by the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC), helps eligible seniors pay for assistive devices including hearing aids. It is for those aged 60 and above who are Singapore Citizens (and, from January 2026, Permanent Residents) and who live at home rather than in a nursing home. It is means-tested: from January 2026 the monthly per capita household income cap rises to S$4,800 (or property annual value up to S$21,000 for households with no income), with subsidies of up to 90 percent on a tiered basis. Hearing aids carry a 48-month blackout before a subsidised replacement. You apply through an audiologist at a restructured hospital ENT clinic; check current details on the AIC and SupportGoWhere websites.
Subsidies: the Assistive Technology Fund (ATF)
The Assistive Technology Fund (ATF), administered by SG Enable, supports persons with disabilities who need assistive devices. For hearing, you generally need moderate hearing loss or worse in the better ear, confirmed on a Disability Verification Form by a registered healthcare professional. It is open to Singapore Citizens and PRs, is means-tested (from January 2026, per capita household income up to S$4,800), and covers up to 90 percent of the equipment cost, subject to a lifetime cap of S$40,000 per person across all assistive devices. Applications are made through a therapist or social worker at a participating touchpoint such as a public hospital. SMF is the route most seniors use, while ATF targets persons with disabilities; you generally use one scheme, not both, for the same device.
Fitting, aftercare and maintenance
Fitting is a process, not a single visit. It starts with a hearing test, then an ear impression for custom or BTE devices, after which the aid is made. At the fitting, the audiologist programs the device to your audiogram and shows you how to insert, remove and clean it; several follow-up sessions over a few weeks fine-tune the settings. For aftercare, wipe the aids daily with a soft dry cloth, clear earwax from vents, and store them overnight in a dry box or dehumidifier, which matters in Singapore’s humidity. Batteries last from a few days (disposable) to about a day per charge (rechargeable). With good care, hearing aids typically last around 3 to 7 years, with manufacturer warranties commonly up to about four years.
Related guides
- Best Hearing & Audiology Clinics in Singapore — our editorial shortlist
- hearing & audiology clinics directory
- Hearing tests
- Noise and hearing
- Children's hearing
Sources
- SGH – Hearing Aid Devices (types, cost, care)
- AIC – Seniors' Mobility and Enabling Fund
- Enabling Guide – Assistive Technology Fund
- MOH – Enhanced support under SMF and ATF
- SupportGoWhere – Seniors' Mobility and Enabling Fund
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