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KZ ZAX 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 ZAX
  • Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
HearWiki score
62
82
Sound
6.5
8.1
Value
5.0
8.8
Price (USD)
$59
$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

The Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red 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.

  • ZAX2021
  • x Crinacle Zero Red20232 yr newer

Specifications

ZAXx Crinacle Zero Red
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$59
$65
HearWiki score
62
82
Released
2021
2023
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 7BA hybrid
2DD
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
1DD + 7BA
2DD
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
8
2
Frequency response
10 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Impedance
24 Ω
17.5 Ω
Sensitivity
113 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
-
Connector
3.5 mm
-

What reviewers said

KZ ZAX

The KZ ZAX is a budget-friendly hybrid earphone packing an eight-driver setup that delivers impressive technical ability and a wide soundstage for the price. It is easy to drive and offers good imaging, though its tuning leans toward a powerful bass that can occasionally overshadow the lower mids. Overall, it's a solid, incremental upgrade for those seeking a familiar KZ sound with extra driver firepower.

  • Pro:Strong value with eight drivers at a low price
  • Pro:Wide and engaging soundstage with good imaging
  • Pro:Easy to drive from most sources
  • Con:Bass can be slow and overpowering
  • Con:Lower mids feel slightly recessed
  • Con:Not a revolutionary tuning, just an incremental update

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 ZAXTruthear x Crinacle Zero Red