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KZ ZSR vs TRUTHEAR GATE: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the KZ ZSR vs TRUTHEAR GATE, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.

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 ZSR
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
-
82
Sound
-
7.5
Value
-
8.5
Price (USD)
$30
$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 5 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 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • ZSR2019
  • GATE20245 yr newer

Specifications

ZSRGATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$30
$22
HearWiki score
Not scored
82
Released
2019
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 2BA hybrid
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver configuration
1DD + 2BA
-
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
3
1
Frequency response
10 Hz - 40 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
22 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
107 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
buttons
Weight
-
2.7 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
2-pin 0.78 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

KZ ZSR

The KZ ZSR is a budget-friendly wired hybrid IEM that pairs a 10mm dynamic driver with two balanced armatures for a punchy, detailed sound signature. Its detachable 2-pin cable and ergonomic fit offer practical convenience, while the triple-driver setup aims to deliver strong bass and clear treble for the price.

  • Pro:Hybrid driver setup offers good detail and bass punch
  • Pro:Detachable cable allows easy replacement or upgrade
  • Pro:Lightweight and ergonomic for comfortable long listening
  • Con:Wired only, no wireless or ANC options
  • Con:May require a decent source to drive efficiently
  • Con:Build quality feels budget-tier

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

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New comparisonKZ ZSRTRUTHEAR GATE