Skip to content
HearWiki

Apple EarPods (3.5mm Headphone Plug) 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.

  • Apple EarPods (3.5mm Headphone Plug)
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
59
82
Sound
5.8
7.5
Calls
7.8
-
Value
7.4
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 12 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 12 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • EarPods (3.5mm Headphone Plug)2012
  • GATE202412 yr newer

Specifications

EarPods (3.5mm Headphone Plug)GATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$19
$22
HearWiki score
59
82
Released
2012
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
dynamic
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
42.4 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
103 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
buttons
Voice assistant
Siri
-
Weight
10.2 g
2.7 g
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

Apple EarPods (3.5mm Headphone Plug)

Apple's wired EarPods with a 3.5mm plug offer a straightforward, budget-friendly listening solution for devices with a headphone jack. They deliver a balanced, casual sound with decent clarity across vocals and instruments, though they don't aim for audiophile-grade performance. Their lightweight, open design and built-in controls make them a practical everyday choice.

  • Pro:Comfortable and lightweight fit
  • Pro:Balanced midrange with clear vocals
  • Pro:Built-in remote and mic for calls and Siri
  • Con:No noise isolation or cancellation
  • Con:Midrange can sound slightly harsh
  • Con:Not the best value at this price

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 comparisonApple EarPods (3.5mm Headphone Plug)TRUTHEAR GATE