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TinHifi C1 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.

  • TinHifi C1
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
66
82
Sound
6.4
7.5
Value
8.6
8.5
Price (USD)
$29
$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

TinHifi C1 (2025) against TRUTHEAR GATE (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.

  • C120251 yr newer
  • GATE2024

Specifications

C1GATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$29
$22
HearWiki score
66
82
Released
2025
2024
Availability
Sold new
Still sold new
Driver
1DD
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver configuration
1DD
-
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
-
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
-
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
-
buttons
Weight
-
2.7 g
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
-
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

TinHifi C1

The Tin HiFi C1 is a budget-friendly wired IEM that delivers a lively, bass-forward sound with decent build quality for its price. While it performs adequately for casual listening, it doesn't excel in detail retrieval or imaging compared to some peers in the same price range. It's a competent but not exceptional option for those seeking an affordable dynamic driver earphone.

  • Pro:Engaging bass response
  • Pro:Solid build quality
  • Pro:Affordable price point
  • Con:Limited detail retrieval
  • Con:Average imaging
  • Con:Bass control can be inconsistent

TRUTHEAR GATE

The Truthear GATE is a wired ultra-budget IEM that punches well above its price class, offering a mature, balanced sound signature with solid sub-bass presence and clear detail. While its build is simple and ergonomics could be improved, its overall tuning and value make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious listeners who want a dependable daily driver. Minor tonal quirks like a slightly forward upper midrange and a touch of treble roughness are the only real trade-offs at this price point.

  • Pro:Outstanding value for the price
  • Pro:Mature and well-balanced tuning
  • Pro:Good sub-bass extension and clarity
  • Con:Slightly shouty upper mids and lean lower-mids
  • Con:Treble can sound a bit rough or lacking in refinement
  • Con:Ergonomics and stock fit could be better

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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New comparisonTinHifi C1TRUTHEAR GATE