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Apple EarPods (USB-C) 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 (USB-C)
Sound5.5
Calls7.0
Value6.5
TRUTHEAR HEXA
Sound7.8
Value8.2

Specifications

Specification comparison of Apple EarPods (USB-C) vs TRUTHEAR HEXA
SpecApple EarPods (USB-C)TRUTHEAR HEXA
TypeWired IEMsWired IEMs
Price (USD)$19$25
HearWiki score62 / 100 · Average78 / 100 · Great
Released20232022
Audio
DriverDynamic1DD+3BA Hybrid
Driver size14.2 mm10 mm
Drivers per side-4
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz20Hz-20kHz
Impedance-20.5 Ω
Sensitivity-120 dB/mW
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsbuttons-
Design
Weight30 g6 g
Water resistanceNone-
Detachable cable-Yes
USB-CYesNo
Calls
Microphones1-

What reviewers said

Apple EarPods (USB-C)

These are a budget-friendly wired earbud option that connects via USB-C, designed for straightforward calls and casual listening. They offer a comfortable open fit and handy inline controls, though their sound quality is merely average and they provide no noise isolation or water resistance. They're a practical, no-frills pick for everyday use rather than an audiophile or feature-packed choice.

  • Pro:Clear call quality with a useful inline volume button
  • Pro:Comfortable open design that avoids ear canal pressure
  • Pro:Simple plug-and-play USB-C connectivity with easy controls
  • Con:Sound is average with bloated bass and slightly muddled treble
  • Con:No noise isolation or cancellation due to open design
  • Con:No water resistance or advanced features like multipoint

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.

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New comparisonApple EarPods (USB-C)TRUTHEAR HEXA