Sony CRE-C20

The Sony CRE-C20 is the best in-ear hearing aid under $1,000 that we’ve reviewed. It’s packed with prescription-grade technology, boasts a 28-hour battery life, and comes with a recharge case that provides an additional 60 hours of charge.

Sony Hearing Aid Background

Sony is a relatively new player in the hearing health market, having partnered with WS Audiology, the world’s second-largest hearing aid manufacturer, to create a branded product and a smartphone app that can replace a visit to the doctor’s office.

Sony hearing aids do not require a doctor’s prescription and are ideal for those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. You can take our hearing test here to determine your hearing loss level. If your hearing test line (audiogram) stay above 65 decibels, this product should provide the volume you need. If you want a second opinion on your hearing loss, feel free to reach out to our team. 

Sony currently offers three hearing aid models:

• CRE-C20 (NEW): The most discreet model, fitting entirely in the ear with a rechargeable battery. It does not stream phone calls.
• CRE-E10: A larger, rechargeable model that streams phone calls via iPhone.
• C10: The older, more affordable model, also fitting entirely in the ear, with a disposable size 10 battery that needs to be changed every 5-7 days. It does not stream phone calls.

What We Like About the Sony CRE-C20

The Sony CRE-C20 is perhaps the most exciting new OTC launch of summer 2024. Based on our lab tests, the product’s upgraded sound processing algorithm has significantly improved. The CRE-C20 is very discreet, with a form factor that virtually disappears in most ears. We also appreciate the comfortable ear tips, which come from the trusted WS Audiology family of products.

One of the most impressive features of the CRE-C20 is its all-day battery life (28 hours) and the case, which provides two additional charges. Packing that much power into such a tiny device is a remarkable achievement, making the Sony CRE-C20 one of the best value options on the market.

It’s also worth noting that the underlying technology in the Sony CRE-C20 is produced in the same facility as Signia Silk, which sells for four to five times the price in local clinics. The key difference is that you’ll program your own Sony devices instead of having a doctor program Signia devices.

How the CRE-C20 Is Programmed

The Sony CRE-C20 is programmed by you using the Sony Hearing Control app, available for both iPhone and Android. The setup is straightforward but takes about 20-30 minutes and requires some technical know-how. If you purchase the Sony CRE-C20 through Soundly, you can access our team for support and schedule a free setup call. Soundly also provides in-depth video tutorials to guide you through the setup process at home.

You may wonder how much customization Sony devices offer compared to prescription devices. The short answer is: a lot. Sony hearing aids are initially programmed using an onboard test that plays tones through the hearing aids. You can then adjust the sound quality through the main app screens and use the “fine tuning” feature to address specific issues like background noise or sudden sounds. Sony has worked hard to replicate much of what you can do with an audiologist within their app.

Of course, there’s real value in the counseling and expertise of a trained professional in a local clinic, but that comes with a significant price increase. It’s worth noting that all Soundly purchases include a free consultation with an audiologist. While you’ll program your devices using the app, we’re here to guide you through the process and answer any questions.

Who Is the Sony CRE-C20 Best For?

The Sony CRE-C20 is best suited for self-directed individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. We recommend this product for anyone who prefers invisible-style, in-ear hearing aids. If you’re comfortable with a guided app setup and want a product built by a leading manufacturer at a lower price, the Sony CRE-C20 could be an excellent option. 

Due to its easy setup and affordability, the CRE-C20 is also a great choice for those looking to wear hearing aids for a few hours a day or seeking a backup pair to their clinic-purchased product.

Note: We recommend behind-the-ear styles for those interested in Bluetooth streaming. Our top-ranked streaming choice at a similar price-range is the Sennheiser All Day Clear.

Sony teamed up with WS Audiology (the second-largest hearing company in the world) to co-create its products. Sony's CRE-C10 devices are nearly invisible and offer prescription-grade sound quality controlled through your smartphone. CRE-C10 does not offer Bluetooth streaming or rechargeable batteries.

CRE-C10 uses a size 10 disposable battery that offers over 70 hours of continuous wear. Size 10 batteries are widely available and commonly used in small devices. Sony's hearing aids were released in mid-October, so there are few reviews of the product, but it's safe to say this will be a leading consideration for those who want an in-the-ear style device.

CRE-C10 comes with a Sony app that allows users to control the volume and sound quality of the devices. No audiologist visit is required.