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TRN MT1 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 MT1
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
63
82
Sound
6.2
7.5
Value
8.0
8.5
Price (USD)
$11
$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.

  • MT12019
  • GATE20245 yr newer

Specifications

MT1GATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$11
$22
HearWiki score
63
82
Released
2019
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 - 20 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
22 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
106 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
buttons
Weight
8.2 g
2.7 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

TRN MT1

The TRN MT1 is an ultra-affordable wired IEM that offers a generally balanced and detailed sound for its price, though its tuning is somewhat inconsistent with notable peaks in the treble. It is best viewed as a budget compromise rather than a top performer, with opinions ranging from surprisingly good value to tonally flawed depending on the listener's preferences.

  • Pro:Very low price
  • Pro:Good detail and clarity for the cost
  • Pro:Comfortable and lightweight build
  • Con:Inconsistent tonality with peaks and dips
  • Con:Bass can overwhelm mids at times
  • Con:Treble may sound harsh or peaky

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 MT1TRUTHEAR GATE