What does it mean to be #1 in audiological expertise?

Phonak was recently rated #1 for overall audiological expertise by hearing care professionals in an independent benchmarking study. But what does that actually mean in practice, and why does it matter?

As an audiologist, I have learned that a manufacturer’s audiological expertise isn’t just about having the most advanced tech or a long list of features. It’s about what truly supports us in delivering the best possible care- tools that work the way we do, training that respects our clinical judgement, and innovations that provide real benefits in the real world.

So, when hearing care professionals (HCPs) rated Phonak #1 in audiological expertise, I was not surprised, but I sure was proud. 

What HCPs say matters most

In the benchmarking study*, HCPs evaluated manufacturers across a wide range of factors tied to clinical care.  As it turns out, what we as HCPs value most in a manufacturer isn’t flashy claims and cheeky marketing, it’s partnership, reliability, and the ability to turn research into results, and this is exactly where Phonak shines. Phonak was ranked #1 overall, and rated highest across 10 key dimensions that my fellow HCPs consistently say matter most. These include:

Intuitive fitting software
Navigating new fitting software for the first time is like driving someone else’s car- you know what you’re looking for, but not sure where to find it, and what customizations are available.  Good software makes your life easier. Great software helps you make better decisions and achieve higher client outcomes.  Phonak Target is known for its clean layout and smart workflow, making it easy to achieve accurate first fits while still offering flexibility to personalize fittings.  It is designed to support your expertise, not replace it.

A broad product portfolio
No two clients are exactly alike- and diverse needs require diverse solutions.  From pediatrics to power, invisible to connected, Phonak’s wide range of products help HCPs meet the hearing goals, preferences, and needs of every individual who walks through the door.

Competent clinical trainers
As a former Phonak Clinical Trainer- this one is near and dear to my heart!  Quality training goes beyond feature overviews; it reflects real-world practice. Phonak clinical trainers offer support that is both practical and evidence based, and their insights can help translate the technology into clinical benefits and client outcomes and set you up for success.

Innovation that matters
We don’t innovate for the sake of innovation- we innovate with purpose. Phonak consistently focuses on innovations that solve real problems faced by real people, like understanding speech in complex noise, handling devices with ease, and staying connected to what matters most. 

Beyond expertise, the benchmarking study also showed that:

  • Phonak is rated #1 for innovative technology, in the area of cutting-edge tech like AI.
  • Phonak is the top-ranked brand for developing hearing aids that deliver exceptional speech understanding.
  • Phonak stands out as a leader in sound quality, consistently ranked #1 in streaming quality in music.
  • HCPs recognize Phonak as the clear leader in connectivity.

So, what does this mean for you?

These results reflect how HCPs perceive the clinical value and support they receive. It highlights key areas that contribute to effective, evidence-based care.

  • Confident, successful, efficient fittings
  • Better outcomes in the real world
  • Support you can count on

Ultimately, the recognition reflects a shared commitment to high-quality hearing care, something that benefits both you and the clients you serve.


Want to learn more?
If you’re interested in how Phonak’s #1 rated audiological expertise translates into better care- check out Infinio and see for yourself.


* Sonova proprietary research. (2025). Project ID# 4759 Please contact marketinsight@phonak.com if you are interested in further information.

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