Skip to content
HearWiki

KZ ZS4 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 4 of 4 measures.

  • KZ ZS4
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
49
82
Sound
5.2
7.5
Value
-
8.5
Price (USD)
$43
$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 KZ ZS4 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.

  • ZS420262 yr newer
  • GATE2024

Specifications

ZS4GATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$43
$22
HearWiki score
49
82
Released
2026
2024
Availability
Sold new
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 1BA hybrid
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
1DD + 1BA
-
Driver size
8 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
2
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
18 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
101 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
ANC type
none
-
Transparency mode
No
-
Companion app
No
-
Custom EQ
No
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
buttons
buttons
Weight
23 g
2.7 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
1
1

What reviewers said

KZ ZS4

The KZ ZS4 is an affordable hybrid IEM pairing an 8mm dynamic driver with a balanced armature to deliver a lively, bass-forward sound. It's built for listeners who enjoy energetic, V-shaped tuning with strong detail retrieval, though its emphasis on lows and highs can overshadow the midrange. With a comfortable fit and low price, it offers impressive value for those seeking a fun, engaging listen rather than a neutral one.

  • Pro:Very affordable for a hybrid configuration
  • Pro:Energetic, bass-forward sound with good detail
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable fit
  • Con:V-shaped tuning may not suit neutral listeners
  • Con:Bass can be overly assertive at times
  • Con:Bright treble can lead to occasional harshness

TRUTHEAR GATE

The Truthear GATE is a wired, ultra-budget in-ear monitor that delivers surprisingly mature tuning and solid detail for its low price. It offers a balanced sound with good sub-bass extension, though it has a few tonal quirks and ergonomic compromises. Overall, it's a strong value pick for budget-conscious listeners seeking a natural, no-frills listening experience.

  • Pro:Excellent tuning and clarity for the price
  • Pro:Good sub-bass extension and overall balance
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for most ears
  • Con:Slightly lean and thin lower-midrange
  • Con:Treble can be rough or lacking refinement
  • Con:Ergonomics could be better for some users

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 ZS4TRUTHEAR GATE