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KZ ZS12 Pro X 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 ZS12 Pro X
  • Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
HearWiki score
76
82
Sound
7.7
8.1
Value
8.2
8.8
Price (USD)
$58
$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 ZS12 Pro X (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.

  • ZS12 Pro X20241 yr newer
  • x Crinacle Zero Red2023

Specifications

ZS12 Pro Xx Crinacle Zero Red
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$58
$65
HearWiki score
76
82
Released
2024
2023
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 5BA hybrid
2DD
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
1DD + 5BA
2DD
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
6
2
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Impedance
25 Ω
17.5 Ω
Sensitivity
106 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Controls
buttons
-
USB-C
No
-

What reviewers said

KZ ZS12 Pro X

The KZ ZS12 Pro X is a wired hybrid in-ear monitor combining one dynamic driver with five balanced armatures for a lively, energetic sound signature. It delivers punchy bass, clear mids, and detailed highs while remaining easy to drive, and its four dip-switches allow users to tweak the tuning to their preference.

  • Pro:Punchy, engaging bass response
  • Pro:Easy to drive with most sources
  • Pro:Adjustable tuning via four dip-switches
  • Con:V-shaped tuning may not suit neutral listeners
  • Con:Build quality feels typical for the price
  • Con:Not a class leader in overall technical performance

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 ZS12 Pro XTruthear x Crinacle Zero Red