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KZ Castor vs TRN CS1: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the KZ Castor vs TRN CS1, 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.

KZ Castor leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • KZ Castor
  • TRN CS1
HearWiki score
73
-
Sound
6.8
-
Value
9.0
-
Price (USD)
$16
$9

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 KZ Castor 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.

  • Castor20234 yr newer
  • CS12019

Specifications

CastorCS1
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$16
$9
HearWiki score
73
Not scored
Released
2023
2019
Availability
Still sold new
Discontinued
Driver
2× 10 mm dynamic
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
2
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Impedance
31 Ω
16 Ω
Sensitivity
105 dB/mW
108 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
No
ANC type
none
-
Transparency mode
No
-
Companion app
No
-
Custom EQ
Yes
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
none
-
Water resistance
-
none
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
-
Connector
3.5 mm
-

What reviewers said

KZ Castor

The KZ Castor is a budget-friendly dual-dynamic-driver IEM that offers surprising sound quality and build for its price. With physical tuning switches for sound customization, it delivers a fun, energetic response that suits gaming and general music listening, though its technical performance remains average and stock accessories are basic. The detachable cable and comfortable fit add to its appeal as an easy recommendation for entry-level listeners.

  • Pro:Excellent value for the price
  • Pro:Tuning switches for sound customization
  • Pro:Dual dynamic drivers deliver strong bass
  • Con:Slight treble sibilance at times
  • Con:Vocals can sound artificial or muddy
  • Con:Stock accessories are weak

TRN CS1

The TRN CS1 is an affordable wired in-ear monitor featuring a single 10mm dynamic driver that delivers a well-balanced audio profile. Its lightweight aluminum build and included foam ear tips provide dependable comfort and strong passive sound isolation, making it a solid everyday option for commuters or those who prioritize clear vocal reproduction.

  • Pro:Balanced, natural sound signature
  • Pro:Excellent passive isolation with included foam tips
  • Pro:Durable aluminum construction
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Not water-resistant
  • Con:Limited bass extension for bass-heavy listeners

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

Compare something else

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New comparisonKZ CastorTRN CS1