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KZ ZSN 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.

Neither pulls ahead overall - they trade wins across the measures.

  • KZ ZSN Pro X
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
73
82
Sound
7.2
7.5
Value
8.7
8.5
Price (USD)
$21
$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 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.

  • ZSN Pro X2021
  • GATE20243 yr newer

Specifications

ZSN Pro XGATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$21
$22
HearWiki score
73
82
Released
2021
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2-driver hybrid
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
2
1
Frequency response
7 Hz - 40 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
25 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
112 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
-
2.7 g
Water resistance
IPX0
-
Foldable
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
2-pin 0.78 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
1
1
Microphone type
electret
-

What reviewers said

KZ ZSN Pro X

The KZ ZSN Pro X is an affordable hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a dynamic driver with a balanced armature for a lively, energetic sound. It's easy to drive and offers strong value, though its bright, bass-forward tuning is likely to appeal most to treble enthusiasts rather than neutral listeners. Build quality and soundstage are solid for the price, making it a competent budget pick with a divisive character.

  • Pro:Excellent value for money
  • Pro:Easy to drive from most sources
  • Pro:Lively, energetic sound with strong staging
  • Con:Bright treble can be fatiguing
  • Con:Bass-forward tuning is divisive
  • Con:Only a modest upgrade over previous models

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 ZSN Pro XTRUTHEAR GATE