TKING Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier Review

Update: this particular model is no longer available, but has been replaced by a newer model (review coming soon).

You’ll mainly notice the TKING Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier when you’re researching these amplifiers. Once they’re in, they’re pretty hard to spot. These tiny devices fit into your ear canal and amplify the sounds around you straight into your ears. People looking for subtle hearing amplifiers will definitely be interested, but how much amplifier can you fit in such a small device? 

According to TKING, quite a lot. In this review for the TKING Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier, we’ll see how these claims hold up in real life. First, I’ll take you through the key features that make this TKING amplifier unique. Then we’ll see who most benefits from buying this hearing device, before we discuss general specs. Before showing you alternatives and a buying recommendation, I’ll discuss the downsides that you might experience with the TKING Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier. 

At the end of each review, I summarize my findings in a 30-second visual review. To go straight there, click here, and make sure to see the 30-second review for every model I’ve reviewed on the 30-second review page. 

Links in this article pointing to another website might be affiliate links. If you purchase something on those websites, I could receive a small commission. This doesn’t affect your price nor my review. 

Key features

The first key feature of the TKING is right in the name: it’s rechargeable. This means you don’t have to worry about getting batteries at inconvenient times, and it also benefits the environment. With the small size of the TKING (its second key feature), it’s extra convenient that it comes in a charging box. Simply pop the hearing amplifiers in the box, and take them out a few hours later for a full battery. 

A little more about the size: this rechargeable TKING is a CIC model, which stands for completely-in-canal (read more about different models of hearing amplifiers here). This means it’s essentially invisible, and looks more like a spy gadget than anything else. TKING certainly isn’t the only brand with these small devices. Like most model types, there are some fans and some people who prefer a different kind. 

Something that may not be a key feature at first sight, but might be important for some people is that you can still answer the phone normally while wearing the TKING. Considering that calling on a phone is usually a bit of a hassle, this could clinch the TKING for some. 

Who is this hearing amplifier for?

Because the TKING is nearly invisible, it’s especially interesting for people looking for a subtle hearing amplifier. Although it’s small, it still packs quite a bit of power. The charging box is nice and sleek, which makes it easier to gift this amplifier to your (grand)parents.

How well does the TKING Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier work?

With the low price and fancy box, I have to admit I was a little sceptical of how the TKING holds up, but the specs all look great. With 6 channels and 12 bands, the sound quality is completely up to par. The  feedback compression, loud noise reduction, and an intelligent noise reduction system help to further improve your listening experience. 

There are three different listening programs to choose from: normal, high frequency, and low frequency. One volume button allows you to switch between these programs and adjust the amplifier based on your circumstances. 

Aside from all these standard features, there is nothing really to report. But when you have a hearing amplifier that works great and is available for a great price, why mess with it? 

What’s not to like about the TKING Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier?

Although the small size is one of its main selling points, it can also pose a problem for some people. It takes some fine motor skills to put it into the ear and to change the listening program. That means some people are better off with a model that’s easier to operate. 

With only one button and three listening programs, the TKING doesn’t offer as much control as other hearing amplifiers. This is mostly due to the CIC configuration, although there are some hearing amplifiers that found a way to give you the tiny amplifiers with full control. In this price range, such options are a lot harder to find. 

Alternatives for the TKING rechargeable hearing aid

The first alternative is the TKING with tinnitus masker. This model is very comparable to the rechargeable hearing amplifier, but (you guessed it) not rechargeable. As a fourth setting, it offers a built-in tinnitus masker, which allows you to combat the ringing in your ears that often accompanies hearing loss. Since the discussed TKING is no longer available, its successor provides another alternative.

If you prefer more control over your hearing amplifier, the Eargo NEO and Neosonic Smart are good options. The Eargo NEO is the Mercedes Benz of hearing amplifiers and also a CIC model. It comes with all bells and whistles, and has many different extras that give you additional control and service – it’s also about ten times the price as the TKING. The Neosonic MX Smart is a lighter version; it offers a lot of the bells and whistles, but is a lot more affordable. 

An overall great choice is the LAIWEN LP-01. This model offers a great buy. It’s a little bigger than the TKING, but beats it in every other aspect.

Should you buy the TKING Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier?

In short, the TKING Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier is good, but not great. The sound quality exceeded my expectations, but the lack of options means that you could find a better fit if you know what you’re looking for. It’s worth shopping around a bit more, but the price of the TKING is a great plus, and this hearing amplifier is definitely not a bad buy.