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KZ ZS4 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 ZS4
  • Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red
HearWiki score
49
82
Sound
5.2
8.1
Value
-
8.8
Price (USD)
$43
$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 KZ ZS4 is 3 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. For 3 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • ZS420263 yr newer
  • x Crinacle Zero Red2023

Specifications

ZS4x Crinacle Zero Red
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$43
$65
HearWiki score
49
82
Released
2026
2023
Availability
Sold new
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 1BA hybrid
2DD
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
1DD + 1BA
2DD
Driver size
8 mm
-
Drivers per side
2
2
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Impedance
18 Ω
17.5 Ω
Sensitivity
101 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
ANC type
none
-
Transparency mode
No
-
Companion app
No
-
Custom EQ
No
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
buttons
-
Weight
23 g
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
-
Connector
3.5 mm
-
Microphones
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 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 ZS4Truthear x Crinacle Zero Red