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Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector) vs TRUTHEAR HEXA: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the TRUTHEAR HEXA comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 78. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: TRUTHEAR HEXA - Great overall at around $25.

Score breakdown

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

Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector)
Sound5.0
Calls6.0
Value6.0
TRUTHEAR HEXA
Sound7.8
Value8.2

Specifications

Specification comparison of Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector) vs TRUTHEAR HEXA
SpecApple EarPods (Lightning Connector)TRUTHEAR HEXA
TypeWired IEMsWired IEMs
Price (USD)$19$25
HearWiki score58 / 100 · Average78 / 100 · Great
Released20162022
Audio
Driverdynamic1DD+3BA Hybrid
Driver size14.2 mm10 mm
Drivers per side24
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz20Hz-20kHz
Impedance42 Ω20.5 Ω
Sensitivity-120 dB/mW
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsbuttons-
Design
Weight-6 g
Detachable cableNoYes
USB-CNoNo
Calls
Microphones1-

What reviewers said

Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector)

These wired Apple earbuds connect via Lightning and offer a straightforward, hassle-free listening experience. While they avoid harshness and have a clean mid-range, their sound is somewhat flat and bass-heavy, lacking the detail and dynamics that audiophiles might seek. They are a functional, basic option for casual listeners, but not a standout choice for those prioritizing audio quality.

  • Pro:Comfortable, open design fits most ears
  • Pro:No harshness in treble, easy to listen to
  • Pro:Simple, plug-and-play connection for Lightning devices
  • Con:Bass is heavy-handed and can overpower other frequencies
  • Con:Lack of detail, dynamics, and overall insight
  • Con:Sounds flatter than older models with less separation

TRUTHEAR HEXA

The TRUTHEAR HEXA is a hybrid in-ear monitor that combines a single 10mm dynamic driver with three balanced armatures to deliver a balanced, neutral-leaning sound with a slight warmth. Priced around $90, it offers a comfortable fit, solid build, and good passive isolation, making it a strong value pick for critical listening, though its bass response is somewhat restrained and the soundstage feels intimate rather than expansive. Its technical performance is competent for the price, but it's not particularly suited for gaming or high-energy activities.

  • Pro:Comfortable and lightweight design
  • Pro:Excellent passive noise isolation
  • Pro:Balanced, neutral tuning with a touch of warmth
  • Con:Bass is somewhat restrained
  • Con:Soundstage is fairly intimate
  • Con:Not ideal for gaming due to mediocre imaging

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

Compare something else

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New comparisonApple EarPods (Lightning Connector)TRUTHEAR HEXA