Wired IEMs
JLab Metal Earbuds
46Weak
$25
Full review dataJLab Metal Earbuds 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.
Wired IEMs
TRUTHEAR GATE
82Outstanding
$22
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
TRUTHEAR GATE leads on 4 of 6 measures.
- JLab Metal Earbuds
- TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
46
82
Sound
5.0
7.5
Battery
2.6
-
Calls
4.7
-
Value
4.2
8.5
Price (USD)
$25
$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
The TRUTHEAR GATE is 7 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 7 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- Metal Earbuds2017
- GATE20247 yr newer
Specifications
Metal EarbudsGATE
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $25
- $22
- HearWiki score
- 46
- 82
- Released
- 2017
- 2024
- Availability
- Discontinued
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 8 mm dynamic
- 10 mm dynamic
- Driver type
- dynamic
- dynamic
- Driver size
- 8 mm
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 1
- 1
- Frequency response
- 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- 10 Hz - 45 kHz
- Impedance
- 16 Ω
- 28 Ω
- Sensitivity
- -
- 122 dB/mW
- Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
- -
- 122
- Bluetooth
- 4.1
- -
- Codecs
- SBC
- -
- Multipoint pairing
- No
- -
- Battery life
- 6 h
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- No
- Controls
- -
- buttons
- Weight
- -
- 2.7 g
- Water resistance
- IP55
- -
- Detachable cable
- -
- Yes
- USB-C
- -
- No
- Connector
- -
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- Microphones
- -
- 1
What reviewers said
JLab Metal Earbuds
These budget-friendly in-ear monitors feature a sturdy metal shell and a straightforward wired connection for reliable everyday use. They deliver a simple, no-frills listening experience with an 8mm dynamic driver and IP55-rated durability against sweat and light splashes. Ideal for users who prioritize toughness and simplicity over advanced wireless features.
- Pro:Durable metal construction
- Pro:Rugged IP55 water and dust resistance
- Pro:Budget-friendly price point
- Con:No wireless or ANC functionality
- Con:Limited SBC codec support
- Con:Short 6-hour battery life for wireless use
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.
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