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Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector) 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 (Lightning Connector)
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
57
82
Sound
5.7
7.5
Calls
7.8
-
Value
6.8
8.5
Price (USD)
$20
$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 8 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 8 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • EarPods (Lightning Connector)2016
  • GATE20248 yr newer

Specifications

EarPods (Lightning Connector)GATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$20
$22
HearWiki score
57
82
Released
2016
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
14.2 mm dynamic
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
14.2 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
42 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
105.5 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
119.2
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
buttons
Weight
-
2.7 g
Detachable cable
No
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
Lightning
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector)

These wired Apple earbuds connect via Lightning and feature a 14.2mm dynamic driver with a single-button remote. They deliver a clean midrange and a heavier bass response, making them a serviceable option for casual listening rather than a high-fidelity choice.

  • Pro:Comfortable, universal fit
  • Pro:Convenient inline controls and mic
  • Pro:Clean midrange presentation
  • Con:Bass can feel overpowering
  • Con:Limited detail and dynamics
  • Con:Not for critical listening

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 comparisonApple EarPods (Lightning Connector)TRUTHEAR GATE