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ASTRO Gaming A03 vs Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red 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 x Crinacle Zero Red - Outstanding overall at around $65.

Score breakdown

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

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red leads on 3 of 5 measures.

  • ASTRO Gaming A03
  • Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
HearWiki score
45
82
Sound
5.7
8.1
Calls
4.9
-
Value
-
8.8
Price (USD)
$50
$65

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 x Crinacle Zero Red is 3 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 3 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • A032020
  • x Crinacle Zero Red20233 yr newer

Specifications

A03x Crinacle Zero Red
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$50
$65
HearWiki score
45
82
Released
2020
2023
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
2-driver hybrid
2DD
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
-
2DD
Driver size
5.8 mm
-
Drivers per side
2
2
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
-
Sound signature
neutral
-
Impedance
16 Ω
17.5 Ω
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Controls
buttons
-
Voice assistant
No
-
Weight
20 g
-
USB-C
No
-
Connector
3.5 mm
-
Microphones
1
-

What reviewers said

ASTRO Gaming A03

The Astro Gaming A03 is a wired in-ear monitor designed for gaming, featuring a dual-driver hybrid setup that delivers a broad, neutral sound across a wide range of devices via its 3.5mm connector. It offers solid build quality and versatile performance for both gaming and music, though its single inline microphone is a notable weak point for competitive use. With a lightweight 20g design and simple button controls, it serves as a practical, budget-friendly alternative to full-sized gaming headsets.

  • Pro:Dual-driver hybrid design provides clear sound separation
  • Pro:Broad compatibility with 3.5mm devices and consoles
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for extended sessions
  • Con:Microphone quality is subpar for competitive play
  • Con:Fit may not suit all ear shapes
  • Con:Music performance is only average compared to dedicated IEMs

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red

This wired in-ear monitor pairs a 10 mm and a 7.8 mm dynamic driver in a dual-driver setup, tuned for a warm, natural sound signature. It’s designed to be comfortable for extended listening, making it a solid pick for those who prefer a relaxed, non-fatiguing presentation. With no ANC, it relies on passive isolation from its fit.

  • Pro:Warm, natural tuning for long sessions
  • Pro:Dual dynamic drivers for rich bass and detail
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for extended wear
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Requires a source with enough power (17.5 ohm impedance)
  • Con:Bulky shell may not suit small ears

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 comparisonASTRO Gaming A03Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red