Skip to content
HearWiki

HiFiMAN RE400 In-Ear Monitor 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.

Neither pulls ahead overall - they trade wins across the measures.

  • HiFiMAN RE400 In-Ear Monitor
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
67
82
Sound
6.9
7.5
Value
9.4
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

Both shipped in 2024. These are 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.

  • RE400 In-Ear Monitor2024
  • GATE2024

Specifications

RE400 In-Ear MonitorGATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$20
$22
HearWiki score
67
82
Released
2024
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
8.5 mm dynamic
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
8.5 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
15 Hz - 22 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
102 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
buttons
Weight
12.9 g
2.7 g
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
-
2-pin 0.78 mm
Model code
RE400 Waterline
-
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

HiFiMAN RE400 In-Ear Monitor

The HiFiMAN RE400 is a compact wired IEM that delivers a neutral, clean, and transparent sound with good control and detail, making it a strong budget option for audiophiles. Its small size and lightweight build ensure a comfortable fit, though the stock ear tips can limit sonic performance and cable noise is noticeable when worn cable-down. Overall, it offers impressive value for its price, with a precise and orderly presentation across the frequency range.

  • Pro:Neutral, transparent sound signature
  • Pro:Compact and lightweight design
  • Pro:Excellent value for budget price
  • Con:Stock ear tips degrade audio quality
  • Con:Cable noise noticeable when worn straight down
  • Con:No active noise cancellation

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.

Compare something else

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

New comparisonHiFiMAN RE400 In-Ear MonitorTRUTHEAR GATE