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TRN Earphone 2 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.

  • TRN Earphone 2
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
57
82
Sound
6.0
7.5
Value
7.0
8.5
Price (USD)
$12
$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 6 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 6 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Earphone 22018
  • GATE20246 yr newer

Specifications

Earphone 2GATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$12
$22
HearWiki score
57
82
Released
2018
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
14.2 mm dynamic
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver size
14.2 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
32 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
107 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
buttons
Weight
6 g
2.7 g
Water resistance
IPX4
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Model code
TRN EMA
-
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

TRN Earphone 2

The TRN Earphone 2 is a budget-friendly wired in-ear monitor featuring a single 14.2mm dynamic driver, delivering a straightforward listening experience. With a lightweight build, detachable cable, and IPX4 water resistance, it aims for practicality and everyday use. Sound quality leans toward a balanced presentation, though some may find the treble a bit forward.

  • Pro:Very affordable price point
  • Pro:Comfortable and lightweight fit
  • Pro:Detachable cable for easy replacement
  • Con:Treble can sound harsh at times
  • Con:No inline microphone or remote
  • Con:Limited accessory package

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 comparisonTRN Earphone 2TRUTHEAR GATE