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KZ ZA12 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 ZA12
  • Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
HearWiki score
69
82
Sound
6.8
8.1
Value
7.9
8.8
Price (USD)
$47
$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 ZA12 (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.

  • ZA1220241 yr newer
  • x Crinacle Zero Red2023

Specifications

ZA12x Crinacle Zero Red
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$47
$65
HearWiki score
69
82
Released
2024
2023
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2DD + 4BA hybrid
2DD
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
2DD + 4BA
2DD
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
6
2
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Impedance
45 Ω
17.5 Ω
Sensitivity
103 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Controls
both
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
-
Connector
3.5 mm
-

What reviewers said

KZ ZA12

The KZ ZA12 is a wired hybrid IEM that pairs dual dynamic drivers with four balanced armatures for a clear, analytical sound signature. It offers good detail retrieval and a neutral-leaning tuning, making it a solid budget pick, though its bass output is modest and the treble can occasionally sound sharp. The detachable cable and standard 3.5mm connection add convenience for everyday use.

  • Pro:Clear and natural midrange
  • Pro:Good detail retrieval for the price
  • Pro:Detachable 3.5mm cable
  • Con:Limited sub-bass presence
  • Con:Treble can be peaky or sibilant
  • Con:Sensitive to source impedance

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 ZA12Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red