Sony has entered the OTC hearing aid space with two powerful new devices, the Sony OTC hearing aids CRE-C20 and CRE-E10.
They’re among the most popular FDA-approved OTC hearing aids right now and for good reason.
But are they worth your money? Are they beginner-friendly? Are they really discreet and rechargeable like people claim?
Let’s break it all down. Here’s my honest review of Sony’s CRE-E10 and CRE-C20 hearing aids in 2025.
The Basics: What Are the Sony CRE-E10 and CRE-C20?
Both the CRE-E10 and CRE-C20 are self-fitting OTC hearing aids made by Sony in partnership with WS Audiology (the same people behind Signia, Widex, and Rexton).
CRE-E10 is the more premium model with Bluetooth streaming, app control, rechargeable, and a sleek earbud-style design.
CRE-C20 is the budget-friendly, entry-level option. It’s smaller, battery-powered, and invisible when worn.
Both are designed for people with mild to moderate hearing loss, and both are sold without a prescription. OTC hearing devices are meant only for adults and are not intended for children under 18 years of age.
Features Breakdown (Side by Side)
Feature Sony CRE-E10 and Sony CRE-C20
Fit Type:
Self-fitting OTC | Self-fitting OTC
Style:
Earbud-style, modern | In-the-canal, discreet
Bluetooth Streaming:
✅ Yes (iOS only) | ❌ No
App Control:
✅ Sony Hearing Control App | ✅ Sony Hearing Control App
Rechargeable:
✅ Yes | ❌ No (uses size 10 batteries)
Battery Life:
~26 hours per charge | ~70 hours per battery
Comfort:
Comfortable for most users | Extremely discreet fit
Price Range (2025):
💲💲💲 ($1,000 – $1,300) | 💲💲 ($800 – $1,000)
Sound Quality and Performance
Sony’s hearing aids use some of the same tech found in Signia’s higher-end models, including adaptive directional microphones and feedback suppression.
- The CRE-E10 shines in noisy environments, offering crisp speech clarity with iOS devices.
- The CRE-C20 has decent sound processing, but without Bluetooth, you’re not getting streaming.
For most users, especially iPhone users, the CRE-E10 is clearly the better performer.
App Experience: Sony Hearing Control App
Both models use the Sony Hearing Control App for setup and sound adjustments.
Setup takes about 5–10 minutes and doesn’t require a professional. You just follow the prompts, and the app automatically calibrates to your hearing profile.
The app lets you:
- Adjust volume, bass, and treble
- Switch between environment modes (quiet, noisy, outdoor)
- Check battery levels
CRE-E10 users get a little more control (like streaming EQ), but both models offer enough for day-to-day use.
Comfort & Discretion
The CRE-E10 looks like a standard wireless earbud (like AirPods), while the CRE-C20 is super discreet and almost invisible in-ear.
If cosmetics is one of your top priorities, for example, you don’t want people to know you’re wearing a hearing aid, then the CRE-C20 wins here.
But if you’re okay with the earbud look (and want streaming), the CRE-E10 is more comfortable for long-term wear.
iPhone Compatibility
One major win for the CRE-E10 is its iOS compatibility.
- You can stream phone calls, music, and videos directly from your iPhone.
- It works hands-free for calls.
Sadly, it’s not Android compatible for streaming as of 2025. Android users can still use the app, but no direct streaming.
Sony CRE-C20 vs CRE-E10: Which Should You Buy?
If you:
- Want Bluetooth streaming and hands-free calling → Go with Sony CRE-E10
- Prefer a lower-cost, invisible hearing aid → Go with Sony CRE-C20
- Choose CRE-E10 if you want iPhone streaming, rechargeability, and app control
- Choose CRE-C20 if you want something discreet, simple, and affordable
Both are FDA-approved OTC hearing aids and qualify as some of the best self-fitting hearing aids in 2025.
Final Verdict
Sony has done a solid job with its first OTC hearing aid lineup.
If you’re an iPhone user looking for a sleek, app-controlled hearing aid with Bluetooth, the Sony CRE-E10 is easily one of the best OTC hearing aids in 2025.
If you’re on a tighter budget or want something more discreet, the CRE-C20 is still a great entry-level option.
Either way, you’re getting quality tech from a trusted brand without the need for prescriptions or audiologist visits.
Ready To Hear Better Without The Hassle?
Confused about what to pick?
Well, that’s what happens when you are put in front of 2 flagship OTC hearing aids, but worry not
Whether you want crystal-clear streaming and modern features or a budget-friendly, invisible fit, we at Treble Health offer a free consultation to find your best pair of OTC hearing aids.
Don’t wait to take control of your hearing.
Schedule your free consultation with Treble Health today and let a licensed audiologist help you choose the perfect OTC hearing aid for your lifestyle.
Your better hearing journey starts now.
FAQs
Are the Sony CRE-E10 hearing aids compatible with Android?
No, as of 2025, the CRE-E10 only streams audio on iOS devices. Android users can still use the app for controls.
How long does the CRE-E10 battery last?
Roughly 26 hours per charge with the rechargeable case.
Are Sony OTC hearing aids FDA-approved?
Yes, both CRE-E10 and CRE-C20 are FDA-registered and approved for mild to moderate hearing loss.
Can I return them if they don’t work?
Yes, most retailers (including Sony) offer a 45-day return policy.
Do they have tinnitus features?
No, but you can stream sounds from your phone to help manage tinnitus with the CRE-E10.
