KZ ESX vs Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red 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 x Crinacle Zero Red - Outstanding overall at around $65.

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red leads on 3 of 4 measures.

KZ ESX
Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red

HearWiki score

Sound

5.9

8.1

Value

3.8

8.8

Price (USD)

$51

$65

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 x Crinacle Zero Red (2023) against KZ ESX (2022). 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.

ESX2022
x Crinacle Zero Red20231 yr newer

Specifications

ESXx Crinacle Zero Red

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $51; $65
HearWiki score: 57; 82
Released: 2022; 2023
Availability: Still sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 12 mm dynamic; 2DD
Driver type: dynamic; dynamic
Driver configuration: -; 2DD
Driver size: 12 mm; -
Drivers per side: 1; 2
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 40 kHz; -
Impedance: 22 Ω; 17.5 Ω
Sensitivity: 111.6 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; -
Controls: buttons; -
Detachable cable: Yes; -
USB-C: No; -
Connector: 3.5 mm; -

Specification comparison of KZ ESX vs Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
Spec	KZ ESX	Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$51	$65
HearWiki score	57 / 100 Average	82 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2022	2023
Audio
Driver	12 mm dynamic	2DD
Driver type	dynamic	dynamic
Driver configuration	-	2DD
Driver size	12 mm	-
Drivers per side	1	2
Frequency response	20 Hz - 40 kHz	-
Impedance	22 Ω	17.5 Ω
Sensitivity	111.6 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	-
Controls	buttons	-
Design
Detachable cable	Yes	-
USB-C	No	-
Connector	3.5 mm	-

What reviewers said

KZ ESX

The KZ ESX is a budget wired IEM built around a single 12mm dynamic driver, offering a straightforward, no-frills listening experience with a detachable cable and inline controls. It prioritizes affordability and solid construction over audiophile-grade refinement, making it a practical choice for casual listeners. While it can sound congested with complex tracks, it delivers acceptable performance for its modest price point.

Pro:Affordable price point
Pro:Durable build quality
Pro:Detachable cable for easy replacement

Con:Lacks resolution and can sound congested with busy music
Con:Not competitive with pricier IEMs on technical performance
Con:No active noise cancellation

Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red

This wired in-ear monitor pairs a 10 mm and a 7.8 mm dynamic driver in a dual-driver setup, tuned for a warm, natural sound signature. It’s designed to be comfortable for extended listening, making it a solid pick for those who prefer a relaxed, non-fatiguing presentation. With no ANC, it relies on passive isolation from its fit.

Pro:Warm, natural tuning for long sessions
Pro:Dual dynamic drivers for rich bass and detail
Pro:Comfortable fit for extended wear

Con:No active noise cancellation
Con:Requires a source with enough power (17.5 ohm impedance)
Con:Bulky shell may not suit small ears

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

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New comparison KZ ESX Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red