Williams Sound Pocketalker Ultra review

The Pocketalker Ultra is the classic answer for a parent who keeps saying "what?" but will not wear anything in the ear or touch an app. It is a 2.5 ounce box with a plug-in microphone, a volume dial with an on and off switch, and a tone dial for more treble or bass. Williams Sound says it amplifies the sounds closest to the listener while reducing background noise, and suggests it for one-on-one talk, small groups, TV and conversations in the car. The $224 kit includes a mini earbud, a folding headphone and a 12-foot extension cord so the microphone can sit near the TV speaker. Two AAA batteries last up to 200 hours, and the unit carries a 5-year warranty. The version without accessories was listed as temporarily unavailable when we checked, so buy the kit. It is not discreet and does not tune to a hearing test, but nothing here is simpler to use.

Who it is for

Older adults who want a simple amplifier for one-on-one talk, TV and the car, with no phone or app.

Price

$224 with earbud and headphone.

Pocketalker Ultra PKT D1 EH $ 224.00
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 10, 2026.

Key features

• Up to 200 hours of use on two AAA batteries
• Adjustable volume and tone dials
• Includes a mini earbud, a folding headphone and a 12-foot TV extension cord
• Works with neckloops and telecoil-equipped hearing aids
• 5-year warranty, 90 days on accessories

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Large dials and no pairing make it easy for anyone to use
• Strength: Very long battery life on standard AAA cells
• Strength: Can be used with or without hearing aids
• Weakness: Wired earpiece and a body-worn box are not discreet
• Weakness: No hearing test or per-ear tuning
• Weakness: Williams Sound says it is not intended as a hearing aid

Key facts

• Price: $224 with accessories
• Battery: Up to 200 hours on 2 AAA alkaline
• Warranty: 5 years, 90 days on accessories
• Weight: 2.5 oz with batteries and microphone

Where it ranks

Williams Sound Pocketalker Ultra is No. 2 in our Best Personal Sound Amplifiers verdict.