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KZ D-Fi 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 2 of 4 measures.

  • KZ D-Fi
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
71
82
Sound
6.8
7.5
Value
8.5
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

The TRUTHEAR GATE is 2 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.

  • D-Fi2022
  • GATE20242 yr newer

Specifications

D-FiGATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$16
$22
HearWiki score
71
82
Released
2022
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
10 mm dynamic
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
7 Hz - 45 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
23.5 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
110 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
buttons
buttons
Weight
-
2.7 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

KZ D-Fi

The KZ D-Fi is a budget-friendly wired IEM featuring a single 10mm dynamic driver and adjustable tuning switches, offering a versatile sound signature for the price. It delivers a balanced, controlled presentation with good detail and easy drivability, though its technical performance and stock accessories are modest. This is a solid pick for listeners seeking an affordable, tunable earphone with a comfortable fit.

  • Pro:Adjustable tuning switches for sound customization
  • Pro:Balanced, non-fatiguing sound with good detail for the price
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for extended listening
  • Con:Average technical performance and soundstage
  • Con:Mid-bass texture and treble extension could be better
  • Con:Stock cable and fit may not suit all users

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 D-FiTRUTHEAR GATE