How does the online hearing test work? 

Our online hearing test offers a simple way to get an early indication of your hearing, all from the comfort of your own home. The test works by playing a series of tones at different pitches and volumes through your headphones or earphones. As you listen, you’ll respond when you can hear each sound, helping to build a basic picture of how well you’re hearing across a range of frequencies.

While online tests are a convenient starting point, they are not a substitute for a full hearing test. If your results raise any questions, visiting your local Leightons practice allows our audiologists to carry out a more detailed evaluation, using advanced equipment and providing tailored advice based on your individual needs.

How to get the most from your online hearing test?

Taking your online hearing testthe right way helps give you a clearer, more reliableindicationof your hearing. A few simple steps can make all the difference.

Choose a quiet environment

Background noise can affect what you hear, so it’s best to sit somewhere calm and free from distractions. This helps ensure the tones you hear are part of the test, not your surroundings.

Use headphones or earphones 

For the most accurate result, wear headphones or ear phones rather than using speakers. This allows the test to assess each ear separately and more precisely.

Set your volume carefully

At the start, adjust the volume so you can just hear the tone. During the test, keep it as low as possible while still detecting the sounds. This helps give a more accurate reflection of your hearing.

Take your time 

There’s no rush. Move through the test at a steady pace and focus on each sound as it comes.

Know your next step 

Your results will give you a helpfulindicationof your hearing, but they’re only the starting point. If anything doesn’t feel quite right, or you’d like more clarity, booking a full hearing test with one of our audiologists will give you a complete picture and tailored advice.

What do your hearing test results mean? 

Once you’ve completed your online hearing test, you’ll receive an indication of how well you’re hearing across a range of sounds. This can be a helpful first step, highlighting whether your hearing is within a typical range or if there may be some changes worth exploring further.

In some cases, reduced hearing can be caused by something simple, such as a build-up of ear wax. This is often quick to resolve, but it’s important not to make assumptions without a proper check.

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What should you do next?

An online test is a useful guide, but it cannot give the full picture. A comprehensive hearing test with an audiologist looks in far greater detail at how you hear.

If your results suggest any changes, or if you’ve noticed differences in your hearing, booking a full hearing test is the best way to understand what’s really going on and what support may help you hear comfortably and confidently again.

Book your FREE full hearing test
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Why a full hearing test matters? 

A full hearing test gives you a clear, accurate understanding of your hearing, far beyond what an online check can provide.

During your appointment, our audiologists take the time to assess not just how you hear different sounds, but how your hearing is affecting your day-to-day life. We’ll also check the overall health of your ears, helping to identify anything that may be influencing your hearing, such as ear wax or other underlying factors.

This detailed approach means we can give you advice that’s tailored specifically to you. Whether your hearing is within a healthy range or there are changes to explore, you’ll leave with a clear understanding and confidence in your next steps.

It’s not just about results, it’s about making sure you feel informed, supported, and comfortable with your hearing.

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Book an appointment through our online booking system at any time. Or call us on 0800 40 20 20. Lines open Monday to Saturday 8.30am – 5pm.

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Whether you need optical or hearing care, our 37 independent branches across the South of England ensure our expert, empathetic team is always close to home.

Online hearing test FAQs 

Our online hearing test is a convenient way to check your hearing from home. It’s designed as an initial screening and a helpful first step.

A FREE in-store hearing test at Leightons is far more comprehensive. During your 90-minute appointment, our audiologists carry out a detailed evaluation, talk you through your results, and provide personalised recommendations tailored to you.

You may benefit from taking one if you find yourself asking people to repeat things, turning the volume up more than usual, or finding conversations in busy environments harder to follow. It can also be useful if:

  • You haven’t had your hearing checked recently
  • You’ve noticed subtle changes in hearing clarity
  • You work in noisy environments
  • Friends or family have commented on your hearing

While it’s a convenient first step, an online test is only an indication. If you have any concerns, a full hearing assessment with one of our audiologists will give you a clearer, more personalised understanding of your hearing.

Yes. For the most reliable results, we recommend using good-quality headphones in a quiet environment. This allows the test to assess each ear more accurately.

If your results indicate any changes in your hearing, we’d recommend booking a FREE in-store hearing test. This allows us to explore your hearing in more detail and provide clear, personalised advice on the next steps.

Online hearing tests provide a useful indication of your hearing health, particularly when taken in a quiet setting with headphones.

However, they cannot replace a full clinical assessment. It’s designed to help you decide whether to take the next step and book a comprehensive hearing test with an expert audiologist.

Yes. Tinnitus, often experienced as a ringing or buzzing sound, can sometimes make it more difficult to hear the tones used in an online test.

If you experience tinnitus, it’s best to book an appointment with one of our audiologists and mention this when you attend. They can assess your hearing in more detail and provide tailored support, as your hearing needs may differ from those without tinnitus.