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FiiO F5 vs Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the FiiO F5 vs Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.

Score breakdown

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

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • FiiO F5
  • Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
HearWiki score
-
82
Sound
-
8.1
Value
-
8.8
Price (USD)
$70
$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 5 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 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • F52018
  • x Crinacle Zero Red20235 yr newer

Specifications

F5x Crinacle Zero Red
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$70
$65
HearWiki score
Not scored
82
Released
2018
2023
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
13.6 mm dynamic
2DD
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver configuration
-
2DD
Driver size
13.6 mm
-
Drivers per side
1
2
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Sound signature
v-shaped
-
Impedance
32 Ω
17.5 Ω
Sensitivity
102 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
ANC type
none
-
Transparency mode
No
-
Companion app
No
-
Custom EQ
No
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
both
-
Weight
21 g
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
-
Connector
MMCX
-
Balanced connection
Yes
-
Microphones
1
-

What reviewers said

FiiO F5

The FiiO F5 is a semi-open in-ear monitor built around a single 13.6mm dynamic driver, delivering a smooth and balanced sound with a notably wide soundstage. Its detachable MMCX cables, including a balanced option in the box, add versatility for wired listeners, though it doesn't chase the ultimate detail retrieval of pricier models. This is a solid, affordable choice for those prioritizing an airy, natural presentation over analytical precision.

  • Pro:Wide, open soundstage for a dynamic driver
  • Pro:Detachable MMCX cables with a balanced cable included
  • Pro:Smooth, non-fatiguing tonal balance
  • Con:Lacks ultimate detail and clarity compared to higher-end IEMs
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or app support
  • Con:Semi-open design may leak sound and let in ambient noise

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.

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonFiiO F5Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red