Skip to content
HearWiki

AKG K323XS 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 4 of 4 measures.

  • AKG K323XS
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
52
82
Sound
5.9
7.5
Value
-
8.5
Price (USD)
$39
$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 6 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 6 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • K323XS2018
  • GATE20246 yr newer

Specifications

K323XSGATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$39
$22
HearWiki score
52
82
Released
2018
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
5.8 mm driver
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
-
dynamic
Driver size
5.8 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
-
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
16 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
98 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
98
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
-
buttons
Weight
-
2.7 g
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
-
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

AKG K323XS

The AKG K323XS is a compact and lightweight wired in-ear option that punches above its budget price with a surprisingly wide soundstage and well-defined bass, mids, and highs. It offers strong passive isolation and a comfortable fit, making it a solid value pick for everyday listening despite its small 5.8 mm driver.

  • Pro:Wide soundstage for an inexpensive IEM
  • Pro:Strong, punchy bass with clear mids and highs
  • Pro:Excellent passive noise isolation
  • Con:Lacks premium refinement and top-end detail
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or extra features
  • Con:Small driver may limit extreme bass depth

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.

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonAKG K323XSTRUTHEAR GATE