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1MORE E1003 vs TRUTHEAR GATE: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the TRUTHEAR GATE comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: TRUTHEAR GATE - Outstanding overall at around $22.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

TRUTHEAR GATE leads on 3 of 5 measures.

  • 1MORE E1003
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
49
82
Sound
5.8
7.5
Calls
5.8
-
Value
6.0
8.5
Price (USD)
$19
$22

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The TRUTHEAR GATE is 4 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price. For 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • E10032020
  • GATE20244 yr newer

Specifications

E1003GATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$19
$22
HearWiki score
49
82
Released
2020
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
8 mm dynamic
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
8 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
98 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
buttons
Weight
13 g
2.7 g
Detachable cable
No
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
-
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

1MORE E1003

The 1MORE E1003, also known as the Piston Classic, is a budget-friendly wired in-ear model with a single 8mm dynamic driver and a notable bass-forward sound signature. It's easy to power from any device thanks to its 32-ohm impedance, and the build quality plus included ear tips are generally well-regarded. However, the short, thick nozzle may cause discomfort for some, and treble detail is not a strong suit.

  • Pro:Bass-heavy tuning that suits many genres
  • Pro:Solid build quality and finish
  • Pro:Easy to drive from phones or basic players
  • Con:Treble can feel lacking for detail-focused listeners
  • Con:Short, thick nozzle may fit poorly for some ears
  • Con:Microphone sits far from the mouth on the cable

TRUTHEAR GATE

The Truthear GATE is a wired, ultra-budget in-ear monitor that delivers surprisingly mature tuning and solid detail for its low price. It offers a balanced sound with good sub-bass extension, though it has a few tonal quirks and ergonomic compromises. Overall, it's a strong value pick for budget-conscious listeners seeking a natural, no-frills listening experience.

  • Pro:Excellent tuning and clarity for the price
  • Pro:Good sub-bass extension and overall balance
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for most ears
  • Con:Slightly lean and thin lower-midrange
  • Con:Treble can be rough or lacking refinement
  • Con:Ergonomics could be better for some users

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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New comparison1MORE E1003TRUTHEAR GATE