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KZ ZS10 Pro X 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 3 of 4 measures.

  • KZ ZS10 Pro X
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
73
82
Sound
7.8
7.5
Value
8.4
8.5
Price (USD)
$42
$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.

  • ZS10 Pro X2022
  • GATE20242 yr newer

Specifications

ZS10 Pro XGATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$42
$22
HearWiki score
73
82
Released
2022
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 4BA hybrid
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
1DD + 4BA
-
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
5
1
Frequency response
-
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
29 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
-
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
-
No
Controls
-
buttons
Weight
-
2.7 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
-
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

KZ ZS10 Pro X

This wired in-ear monitor packs a hybrid driver array—a single 10mm dynamic driver paired with four balanced-armature drivers per side—to deliver a detailed, multi-layered sound signature. It's designed as an affordable hi-fi option with a detachable cable, making it easy to upgrade or replace the stock wire. No active noise cancellation is included, so it relies on passive isolation from the ear tips.

  • Pro:Detailed hybrid driver setup for clear treble and punchy bass
  • Pro:Detachable cable allows easy aftermarket upgrades
  • Pro:Affordable entry into multi-driver IEM territory
  • Con:No active noise cancellation, only passive isolation
  • Con:May require a good source to fully drive the 29-ohm impedance
  • Con:Stock cable and tips may not suit everyone's preferences

TRUTHEAR GATE

The Truthear GATE is a wired ultra-budget IEM that punches well above its price class, offering a mature, balanced sound signature with solid sub-bass presence and clear detail. While its build is simple and ergonomics could be improved, its overall tuning and value make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious listeners who want a dependable daily driver. Minor tonal quirks like a slightly forward upper midrange and a touch of treble roughness are the only real trade-offs at this price point.

  • Pro:Outstanding value for the price
  • Pro:Mature and well-balanced tuning
  • Pro:Good sub-bass extension and clarity
  • Con:Slightly shouty upper mids and lean lower-mids
  • Con:Treble can sound a bit rough or lacking in refinement
  • Con:Ergonomics and stock fit could be better

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 comparisonKZ ZS10 Pro XTRUTHEAR GATE