With three Costco stores in San Antonio, we are occasionally asked what the difference is between working with a private practice like us compared to purchasing hearing devices from them.

That’s why we have created this article to help you to understand the differences and choose which option is right for you based on your unique circumstances.

But before we share the big differences, there is a fundamental mismatch. That is that we don’t just “sell” hearing aids; we instead focus on delivering the highest level of hearing care.

You could compare it to dentistry – you could buy a teeth whitening kit with some basic support, or you could work with a team of dentists who are passionate about getting the best possible result for you.

This makes the comparison slightly difficult.

However, to give you a side-by-side comparison of the differences, we have developed this chart that shares the benefits of working with Audicles Hearing Services compared to Costco.

We hope it’s helpful.

The first big difference is the repair warranty and loss and damage warranty.

This is the protection that you receive when you invest in your hearing devices, with Costco offering two years for “Loss & Damage” and three years for “Repairs,” compared to Audicles that provide four years on both (on all premium technology).

By partnering with Audicles, you also qualify for our “Guaranteed Promise of Service” – this ensures that you access our 10-step promise that includes complimentary batteries for life, 30-day risk-free guarantee, and instant financing options (plus much more). However, one of the key reasons that many people go to Costco is for low prices.

With good technology from $1,119, it’s the right option for many people that are limited by their budget.

Yet Audicles also has great priced options available and is proud to offer “Better Hearing 4 Life” that allows you to step into better hearing for $99/month without any finance checks, credit, or large out-of-pocket expenses. Both offer strong options. Audicles also have payment plans available and offers “Fully Managed Insurance Benefits,” which means that we’ll be able to contact your insurance company on your behalf and maximize your benefits, reducing or removing your out-of-pocket expense. Another big difference is the Trade-in Value.

This is where Audicles will offer you $1000 off when you upgrade your hearing technology (within 48 months), whereas, with Costco, you have to start again and reinvest in full.

Audicles also offers “Virtual Appointments” and “Remote Support On-Demand,” which means that we’re able to support patients remotely, adjust their devices, and provide on-demand support through a tap of a button from anywhere in the world, Costco does not offer this option.

This means that you don’t have to travel for non-essential appointments and can receive advanced hearing care from the comfort of your own home.

In summary, the most important thing to us is that you address your hearing challenges wherever you decide to do that.

We hope that this article helps highlight some of the key differences between working with a private group of audiologists like us compared to Costco.

If you have any questions or need any further clarification, then we’re here to help. You can call us at 210-820-0525.