Skip to content
HearWiki

KZ Castor 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.

  • KZ Castor
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
73
82
Sound
6.8
7.5
Value
9.0
8.5
Price (USD)
$16
$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

TRUTHEAR GATE (2024) against KZ Castor (2023). 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.

  • Castor2023
  • GATE20241 yr newer

Specifications

CastorGATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$16
$22
HearWiki score
73
82
Released
2023
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
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
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
31 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
105 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
ANC type
none
-
Transparency mode
No
-
Companion app
No
-
Custom EQ
Yes
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
none
buttons
Weight
-
2.7 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

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

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 comparisonKZ CastorTRUTHEAR GATE