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KZ Phantom 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.

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 Phantom
  • Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
HearWiki score
73
82
Sound
7.2
8.1
Value
8.0
8.8
Price (USD)
$48
$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

KZ Phantom (2024) against Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red (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.

  • Phantom20241 yr newer
  • x Crinacle Zero Red2023

Specifications

Phantomx Crinacle Zero Red
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$48
$65
HearWiki score
73
82
Released
2024
2023
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
dynamic
2DD
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver configuration
-
2DD
Drivers per side
1
2
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Impedance
41 Ω
17.5 Ω
Sensitivity
128 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
ANC type
none
-
Transparency mode
No
-
Companion app
No
-
Custom EQ
No
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
none
-
Water resistance
IPX4
-
Foldable
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
Yes
-
Connector
3.5 mm
-
Microphones
2
-

What reviewers said

KZ Phantom

The KZ Phantom is an affordable single dynamic-driver wired IEM that combines a lively, detailed sound with practical extras like a USB-C cable and onboard tuning switches. It's positioned as a versatile option for both music and gaming, with a bright, energetic signature that benefits from precise imaging. The tuning switches allow for noticeable bass and treble adjustments, making it a flexible pick for those who like to tweak their sound.

  • Pro:Strong separation and precise imaging for gaming
  • Pro:Tuning switches offer noticeable sound adjustments
  • Pro:USB-C cable adds convenience and direct connectivity
  • Con:Bright tuning may not suit listeners wanting a relaxed sound
  • Con:No app support or custom EQ
  • Con:Plastic build may feel less premium

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.

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonKZ PhantomTruthear x Crinacle Zero Red