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KBEAR KS2 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.

TRUTHEAR GATE leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • KBEAR KS2
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
50
82
Sound
5.5
7.5
Value
4.9
8.5
Price (USD)
$24
$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 4 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 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • KS22020
  • GATE20244 yr newer

Specifications

KS2GATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$24
$22
HearWiki score
50
82
Released
2020
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
-
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
-
dynamic
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
-
1
Frequency response
-
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
-
28 Ω
Sensitivity
-
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
-
No
Controls
-
buttons
Weight
-
2.7 g
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
-
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

KBEAR KS2

The KBEAR KS2 is a wallet-friendly wired hybrid earphone that pairs a 10 mm dynamic driver with a single balanced-armature driver for a lively, spacious sound. Its wide soundstage and pronounced low-end make it a versatile pick for both casual music sessions and immersive gaming, though it lacks any active noise cancellation.

  • Pro:Affordable hybrid driver setup
  • Pro:Expansive soundstage for gaming and music
  • Pro:Punchy bass response
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Bass may overpower treble for some listeners
  • Con:Limited accessory package

TRUTHEAR GATE

The Truthear GATE is a wired ultra-budget IEM that punches well above its price class, offering a mature, balanced sound signature with solid sub-bass presence and clear detail. While its build is simple and ergonomics could be improved, its overall tuning and value make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious listeners who want a dependable daily driver. Minor tonal quirks like a slightly forward upper midrange and a touch of treble roughness are the only real trade-offs at this price point.

  • Pro:Outstanding value for the price
  • Pro:Mature and well-balanced tuning
  • Pro:Good sub-bass extension and clarity
  • Con:Slightly shouty upper mids and lean lower-mids
  • Con:Treble can sound a bit rough or lacking in refinement
  • Con:Ergonomics and stock fit could be better

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 comparisonKBEAR KS2TRUTHEAR GATE