I have moderate to considerable loss in both ears with right being worst. Over the past 12 years I have had Phonak, Widex and now Oticon which is supposed to have the latest technology and what a lot of audiologists in the area seem to be recommending these days. I don't know if they are the best (very pricey) but they are more effective than the widex which were 6 years old and , as you mention the technology is improving among all the brands. I recommend finding an audiologist (as they have more training than a HAS) you trust and follow their advice. All any aid does is amplify the sounds and some of the more advanced brands are better at filtering sounds, background noise and adding features like TV compatibility, clarity. supressing unwanted noise e.g. sirens, dogs barking, etc. My hearing is not severe enough to qualify for cochlear implants