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KZ ZVX 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 3 of 4 measures.

  • KZ ZVX
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
69
82
Sound
6.6
7.5
Value
5.8
8.5
Price (USD)
$15
$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

Both shipped in 2024. 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.

  • ZVX2024
  • GATE2024

Specifications

ZVXGATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$15
$22
HearWiki score
69
82
Released
2024
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
10 mm dynamic
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
25 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
109 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Companion app
No
-
Custom EQ
No
-
Wear detection
No
-
Controls
buttons
buttons
Weight
-
2.7 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

KZ ZVX

The KZ ZVX is an ultra-affordable wired in-ear monitor built around a single 10mm dynamic driver, delivering surprisingly crisp detail and solid technicalities for its sub-$20 price. It's easy to drive from any source and offers a detachable cable, though its tonal balance leans bright and note decay can feel a bit rushed for purists. Overall, it's a strong budget pick that punches well above its weight in resolution and value.

  • Pro:Excellent resolution and detail for the price
  • Pro:Very easy to drive (25 ohm, 109 dB sensitivity)
  • Pro:Detachable cable for future upgrades
  • Con:Timbre can sound unnatural with fast note decay
  • Con:Bright tuning may not suit all listeners
  • Con:No included case or accessories

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 ZVXTRUTHEAR GATE