Behind Our Ratings

We score individual features, like a company’s Better Business Bureau rating or phone wait times, and combine them into category grades. Those grades produce an overall rating, and our written commentary explains the score, including both strengths and weaknesses.

How long the company has been in business, any controversies or investigations, and customer feedback on sites like BBB, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews.

Firsthand testing, with comfort, ease of use, and installation each scored on a 1–3 scale. We also consult experts such as audiologists, geriatricians, and professional caregivers.

We mystery-shop each company to measure support options, wait times, hold times, representative friendliness, and how long it takes to buy.

The base price, any additional fees, and whether the company offers a money-back guarantee, warranty, or protection plan. Clear pricing with no hidden fees scores higher.

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